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The Crows #1
The Witching Hours
A haunting murder and kidnapping on the outskirts of Salem, MA sends two people with unique talents hunting for answers from both the past and present in internationally bestselling author Heather Graham’s electrifying new Krewe of Hunters spin off for fans of Stephen King, Jayne Ann Krentz, Riley Sager, and Simone St. James.
280 pages, Hardcover
First published January 27, 2026
About the author
Heather Graham
594 books7,001 followersAlso published as Heather Graham Pozzessere and Shannon Drake.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
February 22, 2026
Pretty average book, I know its classed as mystery/thriller/paranormal but I think I secretly wanted more scary bits with a title like that.
October 2, 2025
I was excited to receive approval for an advanced copy of The Witching Hours. I thought it would be a great read to add to my "spooky season" reading. Also, I grew up near Salem, Massachusetts and know the area and history of this town well. I like the premise of the story and the attempt to interweave the infamous history of the Salem witches into the mystery of the murder and kidnappings Skye and Zach are assigned to investigate. However, I found the writing to be very surface level and the dialogue between characters unnatural. Often times, the author detailed events and conversations that seemed unnecessary (for example, the breakfasts shared by Zach and Skye), over the development of the investigation into the crimes. I also found the relationship between Zach and Skye to be forced and unbelievable due to a lack of chemistry. The references to Salem's historical past, while interesting, were not well connected to the plot, also feeling forced and just added to the story because it seemed an obvious choice based on the setting. Unfortunately, I found this to be a disappointing read that I will not be recommending.
January 16, 2026
The premise of two psychic investigators trying to solve kidnappings and a murder in Salem, MA was a great hook for picking up the book. However, the story didn’t hold up to any expectation. The writing style was weird and felt misplaced. There was no chemistry between characters, especially between Zach and Skye, who were the romantic leads. The best character of the book, Salem, MA, which is why this is a two star read for me instead of a one.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
January 30, 2026
Thank you to Hambright PR for this gifted book!
When I read the description of this book I thought it sounded so interesting, psychics in Salem, MA just sounded so good and I was excited about it. The plot itself could have been amazing, it really does have so much potential to be an amazing story if written well.
While I appreciate the opportunity to have received an electronic copy of this through Hambright PR, this book has a lot of problems. The biggest being, and I don't say this lightly, that this reads like it was pulled from an AI prompt. I know that isn't what any author wants to hear, and I truly hope I'm wrong, but I have never read anything so oddly written. I am truly surprised this made it past an editor.
The amount of punctuation used in this is so over the top. Exclamation points at the end of every other sentence, ellipses at every turn, Em dashes in places that don't make sense, and sentences that just seem to fall off. The exclamation points were honestly the biggest sticking point for me, they are used at just basic conversational endings. Not for anything urgent or exciting, just used in places where a period should have been used. I almost DNF'd because of the punctuation and structure alone, but this book was so short that I pushed through.
The dialogue was also a problem for me, it didn't sound natural or like anything people would actually say conversationally, and I think that really chalks up to the structure/punctuation usage. The characters were incredibly flat resulting from that.
I am normally a very generous reviewer, it takes a lot for me to give a negative review, and it doesn't bring me joy to do so. This isn't written in attack of the author, just my honest opinion about the writing and structure. This is not a book that I will be recommending. Such a bummer!
*This ARC was given by Hambright PR through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
When I read the description of this book I thought it sounded so interesting, psychics in Salem, MA just sounded so good and I was excited about it. The plot itself could have been amazing, it really does have so much potential to be an amazing story if written well.
While I appreciate the opportunity to have received an electronic copy of this through Hambright PR, this book has a lot of problems. The biggest being, and I don't say this lightly, that this reads like it was pulled from an AI prompt. I know that isn't what any author wants to hear, and I truly hope I'm wrong, but I have never read anything so oddly written. I am truly surprised this made it past an editor.
The amount of punctuation used in this is so over the top. Exclamation points at the end of every other sentence, ellipses at every turn, Em dashes in places that don't make sense, and sentences that just seem to fall off. The exclamation points were honestly the biggest sticking point for me, they are used at just basic conversational endings. Not for anything urgent or exciting, just used in places where a period should have been used. I almost DNF'd because of the punctuation and structure alone, but this book was so short that I pushed through.
The dialogue was also a problem for me, it didn't sound natural or like anything people would actually say conversationally, and I think that really chalks up to the structure/punctuation usage. The characters were incredibly flat resulting from that.
I am normally a very generous reviewer, it takes a lot for me to give a negative review, and it doesn't bring me joy to do so. This isn't written in attack of the author, just my honest opinion about the writing and structure. This is not a book that I will be recommending. Such a bummer!
*This ARC was given by Hambright PR through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
March 1, 2026
This book was a solid ok! I was entertained enough to want to see it through. And my favorite aspect is that it ultimately went in a direction that I truly was not expected, and I like that. That being said, I didn’t love the characters and it just felt very average throughout. But average is not bad! And I love the setting of Salem and the history of it woven throughout. It was ok for me, hence the quick review.
Thank you Hambright PR for the free copy! I usually do not share reviews on bookstagram less than 4 stars, so I will not be posting there.
Thank you Hambright PR for the free copy! I usually do not share reviews on bookstagram less than 4 stars, so I will not be posting there.
January 8, 2026
Such a good read! Suspense, mystery, paranormal & witches all in one book. I absolutely loved the characters and hope there are more books to come with them in it! This was such a fun read!
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publication for letting me read this arc.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publication for letting me read this arc.
February 1, 2026
I wish I could give this book a rating less than 1 star. It was awful. I have enjoyed Heather Graham for years. The books that she has written in the last 2 or 3 years have not been worth my time, nor money. I have skipped some of the books. I though that since this one was part of a new series, maybe it would be different. No such luck.
The language seemed to be stilted. The dialogue between characters did not flow. I don't know anyone that actually talks like these characters talk. The use of the exclamation point was ridiculous. There were 4 of them in just 1 paragraph. There were several on each page. If there were 4 on each page, that would be close to 1200 in the whole book. No one talks in exclamation points. It is like the characters were screaming at each other. The author obviously does not feel that way. Example: ""Connie, have faith in the man you work with!" "Skye told her quietly." I don't consider the use of an exclamation point as speaking quietly.
In one instance, Zach is called Skye's 'boy toy.' Does the author know what a boy toy is? Zach is definitely not one.
Several readers said this book read like it was written by AI. I would not know. But I will say it does read rather strangely. Most of the author's recent books read like this one.
I am through with reading any current books by this author. I will stick with her very old ones.
The language seemed to be stilted. The dialogue between characters did not flow. I don't know anyone that actually talks like these characters talk. The use of the exclamation point was ridiculous. There were 4 of them in just 1 paragraph. There were several on each page. If there were 4 on each page, that would be close to 1200 in the whole book. No one talks in exclamation points. It is like the characters were screaming at each other. The author obviously does not feel that way. Example: ""Connie, have faith in the man you work with!" "Skye told her quietly." I don't consider the use of an exclamation point as speaking quietly.
In one instance, Zach is called Skye's 'boy toy.' Does the author know what a boy toy is? Zach is definitely not one.
Several readers said this book read like it was written by AI. I would not know. But I will say it does read rather strangely. Most of the author's recent books read like this one.
I am through with reading any current books by this author. I will stick with her very old ones.
January 21, 2026
Any hint of supernatural in stories and I'm along for the ride. The Witching Hours was a thrilling hunt involving the Wicked Witch of the West in Salem, MA - fitting given the city's witch trial history. I enjoyed uncovering leads and connecting suspects and motivations.
What stood out: This is a spin-off of the author's Krewe of Hunters series featuring investigators with psychic abilities. The main characters are Skye McMahon, who sees the past unravel in her mind, and Zachary Erickson, who has psychic touch. The combination of their abilities adds an edge to what would otherwise be a straightforward murder mystery.
I found this fast-paced, like watching the story on my TV screen. I liked the way the author kept leaving crumbs for readers to follow.
The romance building between Skye and Zach was a much-needed break from the tense investigation. Watching them connect as people beyond their psychic abilities made them more relatable.
I figured out who it was early on, but it's always the howdunnit or whydunnit that kept me reading. The motivation fell flat for me though.
Similar vibes: Fans of the Krewe of Hunters series by Heather Graham would enjoy this spin-off. Also comparable to Kelley Armstrong's paranormal suspense series - A Rip Through Time.
You'll love this if: You like a blend of suspense, mystery, and paranormal elements.
Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for my early ARC access for review.
What stood out: This is a spin-off of the author's Krewe of Hunters series featuring investigators with psychic abilities. The main characters are Skye McMahon, who sees the past unravel in her mind, and Zachary Erickson, who has psychic touch. The combination of their abilities adds an edge to what would otherwise be a straightforward murder mystery.
I found this fast-paced, like watching the story on my TV screen. I liked the way the author kept leaving crumbs for readers to follow.
The romance building between Skye and Zach was a much-needed break from the tense investigation. Watching them connect as people beyond their psychic abilities made them more relatable.
I figured out who it was early on, but it's always the howdunnit or whydunnit that kept me reading. The motivation fell flat for me though.
Similar vibes: Fans of the Krewe of Hunters series by Heather Graham would enjoy this spin-off. Also comparable to Kelley Armstrong's paranormal suspense series - A Rip Through Time.
You'll love this if: You like a blend of suspense, mystery, and paranormal elements.
Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for my early ARC access for review.
March 15, 2026
The Witching Hours by Heather Graham
Crews series #1. Paranormal mystery, romantic suspense. Spin off from the Krewe of Hunter series.
A murder and kidnapping has a new division of the Crew being created in Salem, MA. Skye McMahon is hired to investigate the murder and unusual stories connected with Alicia Bolton’s home. Skye has visions beyond the original Salem trials to see a crone preying on the family. With the help psychic Zackary Erickson, they search for the sinister crone in a town where witches are a common and forgettable sight.
Following the format of the prior series, this story is filled with tension, ghosts, and murder. The newest recruits to the Crew must find the crone before another death.
Hair raising and electrifying.
Crews series #1. Paranormal mystery, romantic suspense. Spin off from the Krewe of Hunter series.
A murder and kidnapping has a new division of the Crew being created in Salem, MA. Skye McMahon is hired to investigate the murder and unusual stories connected with Alicia Bolton’s home. Skye has visions beyond the original Salem trials to see a crone preying on the family. With the help psychic Zackary Erickson, they search for the sinister crone in a town where witches are a common and forgettable sight.
Following the format of the prior series, this story is filled with tension, ghosts, and murder. The newest recruits to the Crew must find the crone before another death.
Hair raising and electrifying.
April 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️💫 (𝟚.𝟝/𝟝)
🏚️ Skye McMahon and Zach Erickson, members of the Krewe, an elite special unit of FBI agents with psychic abilities, investigate a murder/kidnapping in Salem, Massachusetts.
Though I appreciated the connections to the Salem witches, the historical details, and the intriguing, mysterious plot, overall I didn’t love this one. I found the main characters very one dimensional and I didn’t really connect with either of them. Written in third person from dual POV, the dialogue between characters felt disjointed and in my opinion was uninteresting, difficult to follow, and used entirely too many exclamation points. Additionally, there was little to no build-up to the closed door romance so it just seemed unnecessary and forced. I did enjoy the paranormal aspects and delving into Skye and Zach’s respective psychic abilities as well as the twists and turns leading to the conclusion but ultimately that wasn’t enough to make me want to continue with this series.
✅ Check this one out if you like a closed door paranormal mystery featuring determined FBI agents with supernatural abilities and historical elements related to the Salem witch trials. Pairs well with black coffee and greasy diner food.
🏚️ Skye McMahon and Zach Erickson, members of the Krewe, an elite special unit of FBI agents with psychic abilities, investigate a murder/kidnapping in Salem, Massachusetts.
Though I appreciated the connections to the Salem witches, the historical details, and the intriguing, mysterious plot, overall I didn’t love this one. I found the main characters very one dimensional and I didn’t really connect with either of them. Written in third person from dual POV, the dialogue between characters felt disjointed and in my opinion was uninteresting, difficult to follow, and used entirely too many exclamation points. Additionally, there was little to no build-up to the closed door romance so it just seemed unnecessary and forced. I did enjoy the paranormal aspects and delving into Skye and Zach’s respective psychic abilities as well as the twists and turns leading to the conclusion but ultimately that wasn’t enough to make me want to continue with this series.
✅ Check this one out if you like a closed door paranormal mystery featuring determined FBI agents with supernatural abilities and historical elements related to the Salem witch trials. Pairs well with black coffee and greasy diner food.
March 6, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Hambright PR for the ARC!
Set in present-day Salem, Massachusetts, The Witching Hour follows two detectives with psychic abilities, Skye and Zach, as they investigate a string of disappearances involving women and children. With Salem’s eerie history as the backdrop, the case quickly becomes more complicated than it first appears.
This one really gave me Supernatural meets Law & Order vibes. I loved the paranormal twist mixed with the investigative elements, and Skye and Zach made a great team. Their dynamic kept the story moving and made the partnership feel believable.
The book started off strong and pulled me in quickly, and overall it was a fast, easy read that kept the mystery moving at a good pace. If you enjoy crime stories with a supernatural edge, this one will definitely be up your alley.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hambright PR for the ARC!
Set in present-day Salem, Massachusetts, The Witching Hour follows two detectives with psychic abilities, Skye and Zach, as they investigate a string of disappearances involving women and children. With Salem’s eerie history as the backdrop, the case quickly becomes more complicated than it first appears.
This one really gave me Supernatural meets Law & Order vibes. I loved the paranormal twist mixed with the investigative elements, and Skye and Zach made a great team. Their dynamic kept the story moving and made the partnership feel believable.
The book started off strong and pulled me in quickly, and overall it was a fast, easy read that kept the mystery moving at a good pace. If you enjoy crime stories with a supernatural edge, this one will definitely be up your alley.
January 12, 2026
This book had everything I would appeal to me in a book. Set in Salem, Wizard of Oz references, Witches all tied up in a thriller but I just didn’t like characters or the actual storyline.
I don’t know what it was about the main character Skye but I just didn’t like her. She had little to no personality and all she wanted to do was hook up with her Partner.
The ending to the story felt rushed and so did the romance between Skye and Zach.
Genre:
APK: Ebook
Pages: 299
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Standalone: I think it’s going to be a series.
I don’t know what it was about the main character Skye but I just didn’t like her. She had little to no personality and all she wanted to do was hook up with her Partner.
The ending to the story felt rushed and so did the romance between Skye and Zach.
Genre:
APK: Ebook
Pages: 299
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Standalone: I think it’s going to be a series.
January 26, 2026
I was so excited to read this as I am fascinated by the Salem Witch Trials!! 🙌
This started off really well with Skye’s vision of what happened during the witch trials. I was hooked from the start, but then I felt like the pace slowed a bit in spots. I also didn’t understand the why behind the whole murder and kidnapping. This is the start of a new series, and I am little curious what case Skye and Zach take on next. Overall, I’d say it was a decent read! 👏
Thank you to partner Kensington Books for the gifted advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
This started off really well with Skye’s vision of what happened during the witch trials. I was hooked from the start, but then I felt like the pace slowed a bit in spots. I also didn’t understand the why behind the whole murder and kidnapping. This is the start of a new series, and I am little curious what case Skye and Zach take on next. Overall, I’d say it was a decent read! 👏
Thank you to partner Kensington Books for the gifted advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
Did Not Finish
March 18, 2026I struggled from almost page one with both my interest in the story and the quality of the writing. I know that Heather Graham is a popular and extremely prolific author, but this novel in concept was interesting, but in the actual execution of said story, it was far from well-done.
I will not be finishing this novel, and as my copy was an ARC received through NetGalley, I will not be reviewing it at this time either.
I will not be finishing this novel, and as my copy was an ARC received through NetGalley, I will not be reviewing it at this time either.
Did Not Finish
March 18, 2026ARC - I swear I tried to read the whole book, but I got to 35% and couldn't go any further... I delayed writing the review because I was avoiding giving DNF. The only thing that interested me was the mention of historical issues related to crimes. I didn't find the characters interesting and the story's development wasn't captivating me either... unfortunately, I didn't finish the book.
April 23, 2026
What I liked most about this book was the setting in Salem because I’m mad for anything that has to do with Salem.
The tempo of the story was decent and the Krewe or the Crow division is getting more subdivided and specific.
An interesting read.
Thanks NetGalley edelweiss and Kensington for the advance copies.
The tempo of the story was decent and the Krewe or the Crow division is getting more subdivided and specific.
An interesting read.
Thanks NetGalley edelweiss and Kensington for the advance copies.
April 20, 2026
I like Heather Graham books so I wanted to like this. It started off alright, but then it was kind of dull and hard to get through. I almost left this unfinished, but decided plow through. It was not what I expected from a book that takes place in Salem Massachusetts.
February 19, 2026
Reading this felt like coming home. So excited to be back in the Krewe universe.
Ending felt a little rushed but I will never not love this ghost seeing/psychic group of FBI agents.
Ending felt a little rushed but I will never not love this ghost seeing/psychic group of FBI agents.
April 7, 2026
This book dragged and dragged and dragged. I wanted to return it halfway through, but I committed to reading the full thing.
April 19, 2026
Good plot but not enough depth.
Read
January 26, 2026Unfortunately this one just didn't work for me. I LOVED the concept of looking into the past and talking to ghosts to solve crimes, but something about the characters and the dialogue just wasn't working for me.
Also trigger warning that this involves a 5 year old, which was a huge trigger for me.
Also trigger warning that this involves a 5 year old, which was a huge trigger for me.
January 13, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. The book sounded really appealing with its paranormal elements and ties to the Salem witch trials. I truly wanted to like it, but something just felt off. The dialogue often felt unnatural, with an overwhelming number of exclamation points (maybe they are still editing the dialogue?) The story was weighed down by a lot of historical detail. Several plot points were left loose or unexplained, which made the overall experience disappointing.
February 18, 2026
The Witching Hours is a mix of thriller, police procedural, supernatural! It such a great mix of some of my favorite genres. The Krewe of Hunter's are sent to Salem to help solve murders with their unique set of skills. Skye and Zach are newly partnered, each with their own ability. It was so interesting reading how they start to work as a team and we get to learn more about the abilities they have how it can lead them to the Killer. The killer has an interesting way of hiding themselves that plays well to the story! I really enjoyed the plot but at times it felt like it got a little muddy with all the new details, new relationship, and events. I defiantly will reading the next book in the series and seeing how it all melds together. 3.5
Thank You to @hambrightpr , @kensingtonbooks, and @Netgalley for my gifted copy.
Thank You to @hambrightpr , @kensingtonbooks, and @Netgalley for my gifted copy.
February 14, 2026
Overuse of the exclamation point made the 2 main characters sound like sniping 2-year olds. It was extremely annoying and distracting. Took me out of the story multiple times a page. Sadly this is the 4th recent publication of hers that feels like she’s lost her ‘voice’
March 4, 2026
I received this book for review with Hambright. I loved the concept of this story and requested the ARC because the blurb sounded like my next favorite read.
I read just about anything I come across that’s in the “witchy” realm whether fiction or non-fiction. I love historical fiction, and I also enjoy fbi and serial killer thrillers.
The idea of a team of agents using paranormal powers to investigate murders - I honestly don’t know if a better storyline could be written for me.
Sadly it didn’t land. The pacing was off and dialogue was stilted. In the beginning the plot was overwhelmed by a heavy load of historical information that made the story feel clunky. I couldn’t get invested in the characters, and kept wanting the intensity to amp up.
The elements are all there, and I hope the author can work out the kinks for the next book. It has a lot of promise.
I read just about anything I come across that’s in the “witchy” realm whether fiction or non-fiction. I love historical fiction, and I also enjoy fbi and serial killer thrillers.
The idea of a team of agents using paranormal powers to investigate murders - I honestly don’t know if a better storyline could be written for me.
Sadly it didn’t land. The pacing was off and dialogue was stilted. In the beginning the plot was overwhelmed by a heavy load of historical information that made the story feel clunky. I couldn’t get invested in the characters, and kept wanting the intensity to amp up.
The elements are all there, and I hope the author can work out the kinks for the next book. It has a lot of promise.
April 8, 2026
Heather Graham
Kensington, 2026 (Hardcover edition)
280 pages
Full review found here: https://prairiefoxreads.blogspot.com/...
Disclosure: This review is based on the softcover edition provided by the publisher and publicly available bibliographic information. The assessment applies a set of objective criteria—plot coherence, characterization, pacing, prose/style, structure & point of view, thematic depth, originality, and accessibility—for a numeric scoring approach (1–5) with evidence-based justification, followed by an overall appraisal and practical recommendations.
Overview
The Witching Hours launches The Crows, Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters spin-off, with a haunting murder and a chilling kidnapping on the outskirts of Salem, Massachusetts. The novel pairs supernatural-tinged suspense with procedural investigation as two protagonists—each with distinct talents—pursue connections between present danger and occult histories. Graham’s signature blend of atmospheric detail, suspenseful plotting, and interwoven romance will appeal to fans of gothic-inflected thrillers and paranormal romantic suspense.
Objective Criteria and Scores (1 = poor, 5 = excellent)
Plot Coherence: 4/5
Evidence: A tightly plotted premise—murder, kidnapping, and a trail that threads past and present—produces a clear through-line. Some twists lean on genre conventions, but the investigative logic remains solid, with satisfying payoffs toward the final act.
Characterization: 4/5
Evidence: Protagonists are drawn with distinctive strengths and vulnerabilities that drive both investigation and relationship dynamics. Supporting players—colleagues, locals in Salem, and hauntingly memorable figures—provide texture. A few secondary characters could use more dimensionality, but the core cast feels credible within the series framework.
Pacing: 3.5/5
Evidence: The narrative sustains tension through alternating investigative chapters and atmospheric interludes. Occasional lulls exist in setup or exposition, but suspense accelerates as clues converge.
Prose & Style: 3.5/5
Evidence: Graham’s prose is readable and atmospheric, with evocative senses—sound, scent, and setting—contributing to the mood. Some passages lean toward conventional thriller shorthand, but the voice remains accessible and effective for genre readers.
Structure & Point of View: 3.5/5
Evidence: The narrative alternates perspectives to balance investigation with character development and romance. This approach supports a cohesive arc but can impose a familiar cadence for readers who prefer singular or more experimental POVs.
Thematic Depth: 3.5/5
Evidence: Central themes include memory, the permeability of time, and the line between science and the supernatural. The romance subtext reinforces character stakes, though thematic exploration remains more aligned with genre expectations than with groundbreaking theory.
Originality: 3.5/5
Evidence: The Witching Hours sits comfortably within Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters milieu while expanding into a fresh Salem setting and new character dynamics. The blend of mystery, paranormal mood, and romance offers a familiar but inviting formula.
Accessibility & Inclusivity: 4/5
Evidence: The book is welcoming to long-time Graham readers and new entrants to paranormal suspense, with clear pacing and approachable prose. Representation is in line with contemporary romantic suspense norms and supportive of a broad readership.
Additional Practical Criteria
Readability / Engagement: 4/5 — Gripping setup and momentum carry readers, with satisfying payoffs for fans of the series and the subgenre.
Re-readability / Depth: 3.5/5 — Plot and atmosphere reward a re-read, particularly for spotting foreshadowing; romance and character threads may invite revisiting for fans.
Series Potential: 4/5 — Strong foundations for ongoing Krewe of Hunters storytelling, potential spin-offs, and deeper dives into Salem’s lore.
Aggregate and Overall Rating
Mean score across objective criteria (eight categories): 3.88/5
Rounded overall rating: 4 out of 5
Assessment Summary
The Witching Hours delivers a solid entry into The Crows and the Krewe of Hunters universe, balancing a mysterious murder with supernatural mood and romantic tension. Heather Graham’s strengths—immersive setting, steady suspense, and a capable pair of protagonists—anchor the book, while the urban-Salem atmosphere adds a fresh texture to the series. Some aspects lean into familiar thriller tropes, and a few supporting characters could have more development, but the overall experience offers a compelling blend of fear, romance, and investigative grit that should satisfy longtime readers and curious newcomers alike.
How I would describe The Witching Hours:
A haunting murder and a kidnapping set against the eerie backdrop of Salem, weaving past and present in one gripping suspense.
Heather Graham delivers a suspenseful, character-driven thriller that scratches the itch for readers who crave atmospheric creep and smart, shapely storytelling.
A fresh pivot in the Krewe of Hunters universe that combines procedural intrigue with occult suspense and sizzling pairings.
The Witching Hours masterfully wuses the past and present to uncover secrets that terrify and entice in equal measure.
A moody, immersive page-turner that pairs a razor-sharp investigation with a palpable sense of place and history.
Fans of Stephen King and Riley Sager will find familiar heartbreak and uncanny thrills in Heather Graham’s Salem-set mystery.
The novel balances chilling suspense with a tender romantic thread, offering both adrenaline and emotional payoff.
A tightly woven plot that rewards careful reading with foreshadowing, masks, and revelations that land with satisfying impact.
A suspenseful kickoff to The Crows that promises rich mythos, memorable settings, and characters you’ll want to follow.
Gripping, atmospheric, and irresistibly readable—a perfect choice for late-night mystery marathons.
The blend of occult lore and investigative grit creates a new spark in paranormal romantic suspense.
A standout in contemporary gothic suspense, anchored by two compelling leads whose teamwork and trust feel earned.
Salem’s historical texture and eerie landscapes become a character in their own right, amplifying every twist.
A propulsive opener for a new series arc, with plenty of hooks for future installments and fan theories.
The Witching Hours proves Heather Graham’s mastery of mood, pacing, and payoff in a high-stakes paranormal thriller.
A smart, spine-tingling mystery that respects its readers with intricate clues and a satisfying, well-earned conclusion.
This debut in The Crows delivers a pulse-pounding blend of crime, the supernatural, and romance that lingers beyond the final chapter.
A protagonist duo you’ll root for—tenacious, flawed, and deeply human—facing dangers that blur the line between science and the supernatural.
A rich, character-driven mystery that also honors Salem’s haunted charm and regional lore.
A must-read for collectors of atmospheric thrillers who crave a twist that feels both earned and eerie.
A haunting, atmospheric mystery with supernatural undertones that expands Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters universe in fresh Salem-soaked territory.
Salem, secrets, and spine-tingling suspense—The Witching Hours kicks off The Crows with a gripping blend of mystery and paranormal mood.
A moody, character-driven thriller perfect for discussion on place, history, and the ethics of uncovering truths from the past.
Bibliographic Note
The Witching Hours. The Crows #1. Heather Graham. Kensington, 2026. Hardcover edition. 280 pages. Language: English. ISBN: 9781496758446.
Kensington, 2026 (Hardcover edition)
280 pages
Full review found here: https://prairiefoxreads.blogspot.com/...
Disclosure: This review is based on the softcover edition provided by the publisher and publicly available bibliographic information. The assessment applies a set of objective criteria—plot coherence, characterization, pacing, prose/style, structure & point of view, thematic depth, originality, and accessibility—for a numeric scoring approach (1–5) with evidence-based justification, followed by an overall appraisal and practical recommendations.
Overview
The Witching Hours launches The Crows, Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters spin-off, with a haunting murder and a chilling kidnapping on the outskirts of Salem, Massachusetts. The novel pairs supernatural-tinged suspense with procedural investigation as two protagonists—each with distinct talents—pursue connections between present danger and occult histories. Graham’s signature blend of atmospheric detail, suspenseful plotting, and interwoven romance will appeal to fans of gothic-inflected thrillers and paranormal romantic suspense.
Objective Criteria and Scores (1 = poor, 5 = excellent)
Plot Coherence: 4/5
Evidence: A tightly plotted premise—murder, kidnapping, and a trail that threads past and present—produces a clear through-line. Some twists lean on genre conventions, but the investigative logic remains solid, with satisfying payoffs toward the final act.
Characterization: 4/5
Evidence: Protagonists are drawn with distinctive strengths and vulnerabilities that drive both investigation and relationship dynamics. Supporting players—colleagues, locals in Salem, and hauntingly memorable figures—provide texture. A few secondary characters could use more dimensionality, but the core cast feels credible within the series framework.
Pacing: 3.5/5
Evidence: The narrative sustains tension through alternating investigative chapters and atmospheric interludes. Occasional lulls exist in setup or exposition, but suspense accelerates as clues converge.
Prose & Style: 3.5/5
Evidence: Graham’s prose is readable and atmospheric, with evocative senses—sound, scent, and setting—contributing to the mood. Some passages lean toward conventional thriller shorthand, but the voice remains accessible and effective for genre readers.
Structure & Point of View: 3.5/5
Evidence: The narrative alternates perspectives to balance investigation with character development and romance. This approach supports a cohesive arc but can impose a familiar cadence for readers who prefer singular or more experimental POVs.
Thematic Depth: 3.5/5
Evidence: Central themes include memory, the permeability of time, and the line between science and the supernatural. The romance subtext reinforces character stakes, though thematic exploration remains more aligned with genre expectations than with groundbreaking theory.
Originality: 3.5/5
Evidence: The Witching Hours sits comfortably within Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters milieu while expanding into a fresh Salem setting and new character dynamics. The blend of mystery, paranormal mood, and romance offers a familiar but inviting formula.
Accessibility & Inclusivity: 4/5
Evidence: The book is welcoming to long-time Graham readers and new entrants to paranormal suspense, with clear pacing and approachable prose. Representation is in line with contemporary romantic suspense norms and supportive of a broad readership.
Additional Practical Criteria
Readability / Engagement: 4/5 — Gripping setup and momentum carry readers, with satisfying payoffs for fans of the series and the subgenre.
Re-readability / Depth: 3.5/5 — Plot and atmosphere reward a re-read, particularly for spotting foreshadowing; romance and character threads may invite revisiting for fans.
Series Potential: 4/5 — Strong foundations for ongoing Krewe of Hunters storytelling, potential spin-offs, and deeper dives into Salem’s lore.
Aggregate and Overall Rating
Mean score across objective criteria (eight categories): 3.88/5
Rounded overall rating: 4 out of 5
Assessment Summary
The Witching Hours delivers a solid entry into The Crows and the Krewe of Hunters universe, balancing a mysterious murder with supernatural mood and romantic tension. Heather Graham’s strengths—immersive setting, steady suspense, and a capable pair of protagonists—anchor the book, while the urban-Salem atmosphere adds a fresh texture to the series. Some aspects lean into familiar thriller tropes, and a few supporting characters could have more development, but the overall experience offers a compelling blend of fear, romance, and investigative grit that should satisfy longtime readers and curious newcomers alike.
How I would describe The Witching Hours:
A haunting murder and a kidnapping set against the eerie backdrop of Salem, weaving past and present in one gripping suspense.
Heather Graham delivers a suspenseful, character-driven thriller that scratches the itch for readers who crave atmospheric creep and smart, shapely storytelling.
A fresh pivot in the Krewe of Hunters universe that combines procedural intrigue with occult suspense and sizzling pairings.
The Witching Hours masterfully wuses the past and present to uncover secrets that terrify and entice in equal measure.
A moody, immersive page-turner that pairs a razor-sharp investigation with a palpable sense of place and history.
Fans of Stephen King and Riley Sager will find familiar heartbreak and uncanny thrills in Heather Graham’s Salem-set mystery.
The novel balances chilling suspense with a tender romantic thread, offering both adrenaline and emotional payoff.
A tightly woven plot that rewards careful reading with foreshadowing, masks, and revelations that land with satisfying impact.
A suspenseful kickoff to The Crows that promises rich mythos, memorable settings, and characters you’ll want to follow.
Gripping, atmospheric, and irresistibly readable—a perfect choice for late-night mystery marathons.
The blend of occult lore and investigative grit creates a new spark in paranormal romantic suspense.
A standout in contemporary gothic suspense, anchored by two compelling leads whose teamwork and trust feel earned.
Salem’s historical texture and eerie landscapes become a character in their own right, amplifying every twist.
A propulsive opener for a new series arc, with plenty of hooks for future installments and fan theories.
The Witching Hours proves Heather Graham’s mastery of mood, pacing, and payoff in a high-stakes paranormal thriller.
A smart, spine-tingling mystery that respects its readers with intricate clues and a satisfying, well-earned conclusion.
This debut in The Crows delivers a pulse-pounding blend of crime, the supernatural, and romance that lingers beyond the final chapter.
A protagonist duo you’ll root for—tenacious, flawed, and deeply human—facing dangers that blur the line between science and the supernatural.
A rich, character-driven mystery that also honors Salem’s haunted charm and regional lore.
A must-read for collectors of atmospheric thrillers who crave a twist that feels both earned and eerie.
A haunting, atmospheric mystery with supernatural undertones that expands Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters universe in fresh Salem-soaked territory.
Salem, secrets, and spine-tingling suspense—The Witching Hours kicks off The Crows with a gripping blend of mystery and paranormal mood.
A moody, character-driven thriller perfect for discussion on place, history, and the ethics of uncovering truths from the past.
Bibliographic Note
The Witching Hours. The Crows #1. Heather Graham. Kensington, 2026. Hardcover edition. 280 pages. Language: English. ISBN: 9781496758446.
March 4, 2026
This book kept me up long past my bedtime. I could not put it down! Imagine a group of investigators that all have special paranormal talents. Each of these special talents help solve crimes but they must be careful. They must be able to explain how they know what they know, without giving away their talent.
The Witching Hours is a book that broke my heart with the initial kidnapping, it is hard to read about children potentially being hurt or in trouble. But the book was gentle with the children.
I found myself hooked on Zachary and Skye working together. I cheered them on, I followed the clues they gave and still had no idea where I was going to end up. Books like this are my favorite. They keep me guessing and changing my mind as I think I figure out the mystery.
Thank you Hambright PR for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
The Witching Hours is a book that broke my heart with the initial kidnapping, it is hard to read about children potentially being hurt or in trouble. But the book was gentle with the children.
I found myself hooked on Zachary and Skye working together. I cheered them on, I followed the clues they gave and still had no idea where I was going to end up. Books like this are my favorite. They keep me guessing and changing my mind as I think I figure out the mystery.
Thank you Hambright PR for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
March 17, 2026
I really wanted to like this book and honestly I wish I knew how it ended but the writing was too all over the place, disorganized with incomplete thoughts, and it felt honestly a little like AI slop. I wasn't interested enough to suffer past chapter 7 to see how it all played out.
February 12, 2026
This is my first book by this author and it will not be my last! I absolutely loved this book. The writing kept me turning pages and the story was so good! Loved this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Look, if you pitch me Salem, psychic detectives, and a full-blown fairy-tale witch snatching children like it’s The Brothers Grimm meets Criminal Minds, I am gonna show up. Black hoodie on. Pumpkin spice in hand. Vibes cranked to eleven. And for the first few chapters of The Witching Hours, I really thought we were doing something here. A haunting murder. A missing nanny. A toddler found screaming in her playpen like the cold open of every show on Shudder. Yes. Inject that spooky chaos right into my bloodstream.
But then…the book kept talking.
Let’s start with Skye McMahon, who is somehow both a psychic with movie-reel visions and the least interesting person in a haunted house full of plot devices. She's got Big Paranormal Girl energy, but instead of taking names and banishing spirits, she mostly meanders from psychic flash to psychic flash like a confused tourist on a ghost tour. Enter Zachary Erickson, her psychic-sorta-love-interest-partner-dude, whose ability is apparently touching things and knowing stuff and whose personality hovers somewhere between “Hallmark boyfriend template” and “mysterious wallpaper.” Their banter? Stiff. Their romantic chemistry? Like two mannequins awkwardly bumping into each other during a power outage at Macy’s.
And can we talk about the witch? Not the metaphorical witch. Not the tragic misunderstood witch of Salem lore. No, no. Heather Graham said, “Pointy hat. Crone face. Possibly cackling. Deal with it.” I mean, if you're gonna do a literal witch, I respect the audacity to go full cartoon villain. But she never felt scary, just kind of...there. Like the plot needed something spooky to wave around between monologues about 1692 and awkward coffee dates.
There are moments where the book finds its footing. When Skye’s visions kick in and we get those creepy atmospheric flashes of past horrors bleeding into the present, the book wakes up a little. The Salem setting is doing so much heavy lifting, bless her gothic heart. The fog, the woods, the echo of paranoia hanging over everything like old wallpaper in a cursed B&B. And there’s real potential in the bones of the mystery, murdered patriarch, missing nanny and child, cult-ish undertones. But the writing never quite locks it all together. The pacing drags in weird spots (why are we spending this much time on breakfast?) and key emotional beats feel like they were copied and pasted from a ghost-hunting procedural with a tight deadline.
Oh, and the dialogue. My god, the dialogue. Characters don’t talk to each other, they recite. If I had a dollar for every moment where someone quoted a philosopher like they were auditioning for Jeopardy: Paranormal Edition, I could buy a better version of this book. It’s like no one told the characters they weren’t in a college lecture hall. The prose is just clunky enough to yank you out every time things start getting juicy.
That said, I didn’t hate it. I finished it. I wanted to like it. Skye and Zach have potential, in a reboot kind of way. The bones are good, the vibes are set, but the execution is shaky. It felt like a draft of a much cooler story that got lost somewhere between the séance and the sexy subplot. 3 stars, and one side-eye from me and the ghost of a 1690s librarian.
Whodunity Award: For Dressing a Witch Like She Stepped Out of the Dollar Store Halloween Aisle and Still Expecting Me to Be Scared
Big love and sassy thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. I’ll always show up for witches, psychics, and paranormal chaos, even when they need a little editing TLC.
But then…the book kept talking.
Let’s start with Skye McMahon, who is somehow both a psychic with movie-reel visions and the least interesting person in a haunted house full of plot devices. She's got Big Paranormal Girl energy, but instead of taking names and banishing spirits, she mostly meanders from psychic flash to psychic flash like a confused tourist on a ghost tour. Enter Zachary Erickson, her psychic-sorta-love-interest-partner-dude, whose ability is apparently touching things and knowing stuff and whose personality hovers somewhere between “Hallmark boyfriend template” and “mysterious wallpaper.” Their banter? Stiff. Their romantic chemistry? Like two mannequins awkwardly bumping into each other during a power outage at Macy’s.
And can we talk about the witch? Not the metaphorical witch. Not the tragic misunderstood witch of Salem lore. No, no. Heather Graham said, “Pointy hat. Crone face. Possibly cackling. Deal with it.” I mean, if you're gonna do a literal witch, I respect the audacity to go full cartoon villain. But she never felt scary, just kind of...there. Like the plot needed something spooky to wave around between monologues about 1692 and awkward coffee dates.
There are moments where the book finds its footing. When Skye’s visions kick in and we get those creepy atmospheric flashes of past horrors bleeding into the present, the book wakes up a little. The Salem setting is doing so much heavy lifting, bless her gothic heart. The fog, the woods, the echo of paranoia hanging over everything like old wallpaper in a cursed B&B. And there’s real potential in the bones of the mystery, murdered patriarch, missing nanny and child, cult-ish undertones. But the writing never quite locks it all together. The pacing drags in weird spots (why are we spending this much time on breakfast?) and key emotional beats feel like they were copied and pasted from a ghost-hunting procedural with a tight deadline.
Oh, and the dialogue. My god, the dialogue. Characters don’t talk to each other, they recite. If I had a dollar for every moment where someone quoted a philosopher like they were auditioning for Jeopardy: Paranormal Edition, I could buy a better version of this book. It’s like no one told the characters they weren’t in a college lecture hall. The prose is just clunky enough to yank you out every time things start getting juicy.
That said, I didn’t hate it. I finished it. I wanted to like it. Skye and Zach have potential, in a reboot kind of way. The bones are good, the vibes are set, but the execution is shaky. It felt like a draft of a much cooler story that got lost somewhere between the séance and the sexy subplot. 3 stars, and one side-eye from me and the ghost of a 1690s librarian.
Whodunity Award: For Dressing a Witch Like She Stepped Out of the Dollar Store Halloween Aisle and Still Expecting Me to Be Scared
Big love and sassy thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. I’ll always show up for witches, psychics, and paranormal chaos, even when they need a little editing TLC.
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