Is this the scoop of a lifetime, or something far deadlier?
Starting over in Ravens Hollow was meant to be simple - a chance to adjust to my new, nocturnal existence. No men. No complications. Just a bit of light investigative journalism in a quaint magical town by the sea.
Then Pongo the pup trotted into my life, and normalcy bled away faster than my resistance to a fresh pint of blood. I’d barely set up my desk at the Ravens Hollow Oracle before a renowned sculptor turned up dead at the town’s annual art exhibition.
What better way to get to know a place than by investigating its most suspicious residents? The only snag was Chief Whip - the infuriatingly handsome local lawman who’d rather I kept my fangs and my nose out of his murder investigation.
Too bad. The body count is rising, and whether he likes it or not, he needs me. My instincts are razor-sharp. My fangs? Even sharper.
Perfect for fans of resourceful heroines, cute animal sidekicks, and exhilarating urban fantasy, Fangs and Front Pages delivers action, mystery, and supernatural surprises. Series stand-alone mysteries, snarky humour, and a slow-burn romance.
Ravens Hollow Investigations Bylines and Bloodsuckers - a prequel story Fangs and Front Pages - Book 1 Hexes and Headlines - Book 2 Demons and Deadlines - Book 3
I am an author of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Fiction. I'm passionate about my family, reading, writing and cats. The order of which can change on a day to day basis.
I can’t tell if the author is British or American because some of the phrasing is British, which would be fine if the character using the term “across the pond” was British, but he’s not. But then most of the rest is very American, including the FMC, who’s supposed to be a Brit. I’ve said this numerous times in reviews, if you have a character or book set in a certain locale, you need to not just tell the reader that, it needs to be shown through phrasing, slang etc. If one specific character is from Wales, I expect Welsh terminology to be used.
These people live on an island off the coast of California but the FMCs boss speaks like he’s from the South even though he was “born and raised” on the island. Then tea drinking? Americans don’t really do hot tea and very few would actually have a kettle. These details matter.
The first few chapters were so uncomfortably cringe.
Who in their right mind wants a vintage mini?! They had zero sound proofing, no heating/cooling, you were basically sitting on the ground, and lucky if you could get to 30mph. And no, they cost next to nothing because NO ONE WANTS ONE!
The FMC should definitely not have a dog. She clearly knows nothing of discipline and training or really anything about dogs.
Smelt is not interchangeable with smell or smelled 🤦♀️ This book needs a decent edit.
The FMC is supposed to be a 10+ year investigative journalist but that is not shown here. She is an absolutely horrendous journalist, taking only part of the information to form her ideas and going off half cocked. I think this story would’ve worked better if she was a novice PI rather than an experienced journalist.
The plot is somewhat unique but it’s been executed so poorly that I won’t continue with this series.
I was very, very excited to see this book, and I immediately dived in. I just love how tenacious, unstoppable, and determined Elodie is, and I wish I could be her. I’m also intrigued by Whip, Nyrah, Alex, Bobby, and really all the other characters, too. Besides the characters, this book was well-written, entertaining, and so much fun. I think there’s something up with Pongo, I want to see where Elodie’s romance is going to go, and I want to see who it was that…well, read the book to find out! Can’t wait for more! Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series. I was familiar with the author from her Witchlight series and this one has an even more charming protagonist. I really like Elodie and it was fun to watch her attempt to adapt to her new life and her new surroundings. Her love interest Whip is tall, dark, and mysterious. The other secondary characters seem like they will add some interesting elements to the future storylines. And there is an ongoing storyline that began with Elodie’s being turned into a vampire. I’m really looking forward to the next book and am glad it’s not too long a wait!
Wow this book was good. Like really really good. I especially love the sizzling between Whip and Elodie mixed with investigations and danger. That’s really all a story needs if you’re asking me. But of course it has to be well written. But that’s no problem with this book.
I Absolutely loved this book. The characters are great, huge personalities and unique places in the storyline. Perfect book for urban fantasy, paranormal and fantasy fans. Loaded with mystery and suspense. I can't wait for the next book!!!
I like how this is written. A little reminiscent of Nancy Drew with more paranormal activity. Slow romance makes it sweet but the fun is reading about the dog and Elodie's curiosity and determination.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I started out thinking maybe this would become another of my go- to authors, but as it progressed, I felt less enthusiasm. It just felt a little flat. It seemed a bit weird that Elodie is a vampire, but there's never any mention of drinking from people, like not even a desire to do it. She gets her blood from bags, not sure how that is sourced. All of that kind of needed explaining. She rescues a puppy that's not in good shape but doesn't even consider taking it to a vet. There's never a mention of taking said puppy for bathroom breaks, I dunno, I guess it's unnecessary information, but it just felt a bit odd. I'm not a huge fan of love triangles and this one seemed like one of those that end up with her with both guys, which I'm also not a fan of, but I could be off the mark there. I DO want to know what the deal is with Elodie. Obviously she has some kind of para blood she doesn't know about. I am also interested to know what the deal with her dog is. It seems like it's going to turn out to be more than an ordinary dog. Dilemmas ahead, do I or don't I continue with the series? The jury is out.
This book was even more delightful than the prequel! I started giggling almost immediately and by the time I got to the end of chapter I, I was hooting! And it was all to do with a basilisk egg and a certain onesie...
Elodie, a journalist, turned into a vamp, against her will, is starting a new life in Ravens Hollow, far away from London, far away from anyone she knows, because, well, how does she explain WHAT she's become? Thankfully, her bff Donna, surprisingly a supernatural herself, arranged it all. Ravens Hollow is less, and more, than what she expected, many eccentric folks, and.... Inspector Whip...who is yumminess on 2 legs. Oh my word, I love how she can't even think around him, well she can...but what she's thinking is kind of X -rated, even though she's sworn off men since the fiasco with her ex. Her mouth runs off in a direction she has no control over... Whip is quite confusing though, he has this no nonsense exterior, seems to annoyed and dismissive one minute, flirty the next, impossible to get a read on him. As Elodie herself says "He was like a sauna-plunge pool combo. Constantly hot and cold" It was great fun reading the back and forth between them and Elodie's thoughts were so comical yet so real, she had after all lost all confidence in herself, her worth, who and what she is. Yes, THAT was firmly on idiot Andy's shoulders but she's broken free, she's herself again. And this is what Ms Stone excels at, easy banter, amusing thoughts and bringing much attention to healing of the soul. Which Elodie does, putting the past firmly behind her and grabbing the future with both hands. She's an extremely likeable character, a bit out of her depth being "new" to the para world but she's a heck of an investigative journalist. I loved how real Ella made her, giving her spunk and sass and determination in everything she undertakes.
So, when, on her first day in Ravens Hollow she's faced with a murder, yep, her journalist juices come out in full force! What a winding route the author took me on, I was astounded at who the perpetrator was, like, NO WAY! But it definitely was WAY.... And then another 2 bodies pop up, yes, quite the excitement in a few days. But the excitement was the unfolding of the story for me, the wonderfully fast paced and quick read was littered with loads of interesting characters, besides the awesome evolving plot of course. A plot steeped in not only mystery but also in coming to terms with the newness of a new town, coming to understand the new abilities Elodie has, which she uses to the max, even though they threaten to overwhelm her. And oh boy, the THING she feels for Whip takes a dramatic turn when she discovers what he is...my word did I feel every ounce of sympathy for Whip. This went beyond "here's a girl who's met a guy". An added complication is Alex, see, she FEELS something for him too. Yes, very convoluted, shrouded expertly, propelling me onwards like a a car without a brake, I HAD to find out what was at the bottom of the hill, which was, surprisingly, not as I assumed it to be. Instead, I was confronted with a whole new dimension and, hell was it scary!
I really enjoyed the characters, so very much, I loved their distinguishing characteristics, the ease with which Ella penned them, I got a sense of who is who, with little tidbits added along the way. Oh my heavens am I totally in love with Pongo! I couldn't help the awwww that escaped my lips. This is a puppy Elodie "found" and just by the way this author so effectively portrays his coolness, I know his role will expand. So here you have it, a fabulous plot with a strong resourceful FMC, one very sexy cop, an adorable puppy, a new beginning with all the action, drama and suspense rolled into a fabulous read. Lots of heart and coolness with more intrigue to come, bring it on Ms Stone!
Alright, y’all. I sat down with this book thinking, “Just one chapter before bed.” Cut to 3AM: I’m caffeinated on chaos, cuddling my dog like he’s Pongo, and threatening to bite anyone who interrupts me before I finish. That’s the energy Fangs and Front Pages gave me. And I loved every bite. Our heroine? She’s everything. Newly undead, freshly moved to the magically moody seaside town of Ravens Hollow, and absolutely done with men and drama. (Same, girl. Same.) All she wants is a chill gig at the local paper and maybe a pint of something red now and then. But life—or death, in this case—laughs in her face and serves her a murder mystery instead. Enter Pongo, the adorable furball who basically hijacks her life and my heart. And then, of course, there’s Chief Whip. Ohhh, Chief Whip. Grumpy, brooding, stubborn—and so very deliciously annoyed that our girl won’t stay in her lane. Naturally, I ship them with my whole cold, vampire heart. That slow-burn chemistry? Chef’s kiss with fangs. The mystery? Twisty enough to keep me guessing, but not so tangled I needed a map. There’s art, murder, magical weirdness, and more than one shady character lurking in the shadows. And the worldbuilding? Genuinely charming and fresh. Ravens Hollow feels like one of those coastal towns you’d want to vacation in… if you weren’t dodging murderers and sipping on O-negative cocktails. Spice level: Low, but that tension? Yesss. The slow burn between our vampy heroine and Chief Grump is simmering. Mood: Cozy mystery meets paranormal sass, with a side of snark and bite. Best part? Every time she ignored the chief’s orders and did her own thing—with style, of course. If you like your mysteries magical, your heroines mouthy but lovable, and your romances slow-burn with a big payoff brewing… Fangs and Front Pages is for you. I didn’t just read this book—I moved into it. And I’m not leaving Ravens Hollow anytime soon. Ella Stone, take my blood and my heart. I’m all in for this series.
Elodie is a kick-butt journalist with a knack for getting to the bottom of a story. For years, she’s worked shoulder-to-shoulder with her best friend and editor, Donna, who’s always supported her and encouraged her to follow her leads. Or she did before she arranged for Elodie to ship off to the US to the small island town of Raven’s Hollow.
Journalism is Elodie’s lifeblood; it’s where she gets her kicks. No need for Route 66! And with her ex-fiancé left back on the British Isles, it’s a whole new world for this fledgling vamp she’s going to be getting her kicks all over the island.
When bodies start dropping during and after the community art extravaganza and the first victim being the ex-wife of the Don of the Mermaid Mafia (yeah, it’s funny, I know), the stories and interviews that Elodie and her new boss, Bobby are digging up just aren’t adding up. Alongside her new bestest boi Pongo the wonder-pup and despite the wishes of the Island’s Chief Inspector of Police and total hottie, Whip, Elodie’s on the case ready to break her first story in her new life on Raven’s Hollow!
“Fangs and Frontpages” is the first novel of the new “Raven’s Hollow Investigation” series by author Ella Stone. It’s the first solo series of hers that I’ve been a part of since the beginning, and I can’t WAIT for the next book! Having enjoyed her work in partnership with Heather G. Harris on the “Witchlight Magical Mysteries” series, I was confident it was going to be good, but man-oh-man did my expectations undersell the reality. I give this a very confident 10/10 and highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a strong female lead over the age of 20 with a career, a solid head on their shoulders, and a curiosity that just won’t stop. This has the makings of a Dresden-esque series, if I do say so myself!
I received a free copy of this ebook/audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked Fangs and Frontpages, the first book in a new series by Ella Stone. Investigative journalist Elodie Evergreen is a newly minted vampire hiding from a cartel of vampires running a human trafficking ring. With the help of her former boss, she moves from London to live a quiet life in a small paranormal town on an island off the coast of Florida. But nothing stays quiet when Elodie is involved! From the minute she moves into town, murders start happening.
Investigating the mysterious deaths, Elodie keeps stepping on the toes of hunky Chief Whip as she meets and interviews the residents of the island. Her new boss Bobby, a colorful grandpa type, acts as her local guide and introduces Elodie to all the quirky characters on the island. Meanwhile, Elodie is finding out the residents aren’t the only unique ones in town. As she settles into being a vampire, it quickly becomes apparent there is nothing typical about her turning. She has strange attributes that no normal vampire exhibits.
Elodie and Whip are lots of fun as the main characters. Their interactions have so many sparks as they battle it out on the way to solving both the mysterious death and reconciling their budding attraction. As Elodie settles into town and enjoys the perks of island life vs her old city life (cute new car, anyone? New puppy?), she builds a network of friends that I would love to have as my own. I quickly fell in love with the citizens of Ravens Hollow. The supporting characters are varied and so engaging.
The core mystery is very well done and unique. I did not see the twists and turns coming. I definitely recommend this book to all mystery and paranormal romance fans. It is clean, fun and full of great characters. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elodie has boarded a plane and headed across the pond. After a quick stop and a wardrobe change, she makes it to Raven's Hollow. She has barely even touched down when a famous artist, Wren, is murdered in a warded tent. Never one to let a story get away from her, she begins investigating immediately. And she finally gets to realize her dream of owning a dog after finding a stray puppy! Now she is caught up in a complicated investigation while taking care of an adorable but not well trained Pongo. Chief Inspector Whip complicates things when he can't make up his mind as to whether he wants her help or not and whether he can stand her or not as well. Elodie is an absolute go-getter. Once she puts her mind to something, she is determined to get it done or solve the problem. Now that she has her sights set on solving the murder, she won't let anything stop her -not even the fact that she knows almost nothing about paras. It was fun discovering the para world right alongside her. And there were some interesting takes on the usual species. We got to meet quite a few of the townfolk, including all the staff at The Oracle and of course Chief Whip. I think it will be fun to guess along with Elodie what kind of para all the other characters are. This was a fun murder mystery. A lot of investigating and wading through clues to get to the heart of the matter. And it was such a plot twist! (I love plot twists!) Of course, there is the nerve-wracking scene towards the end once she figures it out and it was amazing! What a great way to introduce yet another interesting take on the characteristics of a common supernatural. This was another easy, quick read and I already can't wait for the next book (which I just got!)
Moving to a Raven’s Hollow, a paranormal island off of the coast of California, was supposed to be Elodie Evergreen’s new start.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t start off so well. First she has to deliver a basilisk egg, then there was the humiliation of having to wear a lion onesie/costume on the plane, and when she does arrive in town, it’s marred by a murder on her first night there!
Of course, no investigative report will leave a murder alone, and it’s not long before Elodie finds herself butting heads with Chief Whip, the local head of the police, and running around looking for answers that might lead to a killer.
Apart from the author’s mistake of putting the UK some 8 hours behind the West Coast instead of 8 hours ahead (believe me, I have to figure it out for my own family often enough to know it well!), this was a good story.
Elodie is an intriguing character, and though she’s a bit clueless as far as the para world is concerned (not to mention sometimes a little slow), she’s a great reporter. There’s definitely more to her than meets the eye (and probably more than she knows), and her interactions with Chief Whip hint at a romance on the horizon.
The other island residents are interesting too, from Chip Whip and his investigator Alex, to her boss Bobby, and the varied paras she meets in the course of her investigation, it makes for an interesting and diverse cast of characters.
It’s a fun, fast paced story, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Elodie takes us next.
From beginning to ending this story had me happily flipping pages, enjoying time spent with Elodie and her new friends.
I loved the cleverly constructed story refresher at the beginning of the book. These can be tedious and something I skip over but this author did a great job, keeping her's concise and free of anything irrelevant so that I was engaged from page 1 and raring to get reading.
The mystery arc was original, intriguing and well plotted, and kept me guessing until the big reveal. The pace really picked up as the climax approached and Ms Stone filled those final chapters with brilliantly visual writing, snappy back and forth between characters and some tense action scenes. I just could not read those concluding scenes quickly enough.
The very slow burn romance was fun to watch over the course of this book. The author revealed feelings and worries in a subtle way that made for believability and good progression. Where it's going to go and the obstacles these two have in front of them just adds to the appeal of future books for me but the MMC is already a stand out in my opinion because "...he was charming and well mannered. And he had brought me dog gifts for crying out loud.". Yes - as the cover shows, there's a dog!!
I delighted in the prequel for this series and book 1, Fangs And Front Pages, was a refreshing and engaging follow up. Looking forward to book 2.
Elodie (still LOVE that name) was turned vamp in the prequel novella and is now dealing with her new life as a supernatural creature. After moving to Ravens Hollow, a town full of different magical beings, Elodie jumps right in to her life (or un-life?) as an investigative journalist when a famous artist turns up dead at the art festival.
I wish that there was more on what different beings lived in Ravens Hollow - Elodie received a book about this but didn’t actually look into it, so we don’t know much about them either. I just know there’s a Mermaid Mafia, which made me chuckle a little. I want to learn more about Ravens Hollow’s inhabitants and what kinds of magical beings they are, so I hope more light is shed on this in the upcoming books. I did like the resident ghost at the police station; she was very helpful but also very nosey.
We get glimpses of Elodie being more than just a common newly-changed vamp - I personally believe she’s got some Druid or dryad in her. I guess we’ll learn more.
Oh! There’s a dog and he’s cute and fluffy and not very obedient because he’s a puppy. Dogs really are a girl’s best friend. 10/10 would pet.
Anyhow, this book was action packed and introduced a lot of characters. I had no idea what was going on with the investigation and was delightfully surprised by the turns this book takes.
Elodie Evergreen is a newly turned vampire. She's an investigative journalist and her best friend talked her into taking a basilick egg to an island and settle it into a clear water. Then she heads back to the plane and heads to her new job at Ravens Hollow, wherever that is. She is met by her new boss and learns that Ravens Hollow is an island. Bobby is the editor of the Oracle, the Ravens Hollow paper. He picks up Elodie and they head to the town. Elodie is getting a crash course in Ravens Hollow life. Then Bobby drops the bomb that he's the investigative reporter. She counters with she's been doing it for years she won't change. Hee! Way to go vampire!!! Whip, six feet four of pure lust, at least to Elodie. As she settles in and starts to learn about the different supes in town, things begin to happen and danger runs amok. But is it for her for staking a trafficker? Or someone else? And how did whoever does a blog for the town get photos of her in her lion onsie???? And what is Whip? And why does she go stupid when she's near him? Well the story does not lack action, mystery or stupidity on our vampire's part.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Action packed with fun moments that will not allow you to put it down. Elodie is definitely going to be one of my fav characters. Newly turned vampire, newly single and out of her normal depths, still trying out her abilities, but tenacious and fearless with a sharp mind. Barely landed in her new environment in Ravens Hollow and there's a gruesome murder at the Art Festival. Chief of the Editor, Bobby, has no choice but to include her in his investigation for The Oracle. The victim is well known artist, Wren Belkin, ex wife of Mermaid Mafia boss. Pongo, the stray she rescued, I surmise, might just have a future surprise element. Without revealing too much, there's the drool worthy hunk of a police chief inspector Whip and romance might be on the table, Josephine, the ghost who plays YouTube. The epilogue pointed to a hence man/woman of the Guardians getting close to Elodie, so fasten those belts, seems like it's going to be quite a ride next. This is going to be a very interesting community on the island hidden from the Tips.. I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you Ella
This book starts right where the prequel ended. Elodie, a journalist who became a vampire against her will, is relocating to Ravens Hollow. Before she gets there, she is dropping off a basilisk egg as a favour, due to circumstances beyond her control, she ends up arriving wearing a lion onesie - great first impression. Met by Bobby, her new editor, she is barely in town when there is a murder. The sheriff, Whip, draw her attention immediately especially when she advises him that she is an investigative journalist so will be getting involved. After getting what information she can, Elodie heads home only to find a puppy, Pongo, on her way there. Because her disgusting ex wouldn’t allow dogs, Elodie immediately adopts him. This book is full of interesting characters, Bobby, Whip, Alex, Chloe, Diego and Nyrah, all different paranormals but who knows what type. Pongo is an unusual dog, seems to understand everything and growing amazingly fast. There is some action, magical wards, mermaid mafia, mystery, surprises, suspense and humour – the lion onesie follows her around, somehow everyone knows about it. I really enjoyed the prequel and this is a great follow up.
Elodie Evergreen is starting her new life as a vampire in Ravens Hollow. She’s sworn off men, looking to get her life together and a dog while continuing her investigative journalism career at the Oracle. She finds Pongo, her new lovable dog, right away. Blowing into town on the night of an art festival should be fun but a deadly twist brings the centerstage artist brutally murdered. Getting the scoop has always been Elodie’s passion but can she work out the mystery in time to save herself from the same fate?
I love the mantra’s in Elodie’s head about swearing off men but at the same time drooling over Chief Whip and Alex. Lots of action, just the right amount of snarky humor and the love between a woman and her dog. Interesting characters with depth! I can’t wait to find out more about Elodie’s backstory, Pongo, and the new town! Elodie has a lot of trouble learning to hone her new vampire skills and it’s wonderful to see her character develop as she overcomes obstacles. Hard to put this down especially at the end!
Fangs and Front Pages is the first book in the Ravens Hallow Investigations series. Elodie Evergreen has begun her new life in Raven's Hallow and learning what it means to be a vampire. She moved there thinking it would be slow paced and perhaps not much happening to use her investigative journalism skills. Not in the least bit true as she finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation on day one. She also finds her rhythm in Raven's Hallow as she becomes attracted to a very mysterious and compelling Chief Inspector Whip and meets a host of other shifters and paranormal beings who quickly become her tribe.
Fangs and Front Pages is a very easy reading and entertaining book. The characters are endearing and the storyline has drama, humor, a cute puppy who is more than he appears to be, a slow building romance, paranormal-supernatural action, a little suspense, and a mystery; all keeping you well engaged in the story.
Hexes and Headlines is the next book in the series. I can hardly wait to read it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first full book of this series starts off at a good pace and just keeps going.
Elodie is a strong and determined character, well suited to the role of investigative journalist. She makes her mark on Ravens Hollow right from her first day, when a murder provides plenty of mystery and several potential lines of investigation.
We are introduced to several important characters, all of which I look forward to getting to know better. There is slow burn romance potential with Chief Whip and then, of course, there is Elodie’s new canine sidekick, Pongo, who I strongly suspect to be much more than he appears! There are also hints that Elodie could learn more about herself in upcoming books in the series.
Interesting and intriguing characters and a storyline that keeps you guessing, danger, slow burn romance and laughter too - there is something for everyone and I’m looking forward to the next book.
This was such a fun, fast paced read with the perfect blend of paranormal mystery and snarky humor! I loved the quirky small town vibes of Ravens Hollow, the slow-burn tension between our heroine and the grumpy-but-charming Chief Whip, and of course, Pongo, the real MVP.
The story strikes a nice balance between lighthearted supernatural antics and a murder mystery that kept me curious without getting too dark. Our main character is sharp, funny, and easy to root for, even when she’s poking her nose (and fangs) where they don’t belong.
It’s not without a few pacing hiccups, and I wish a couple of side characters had a bit more depth, but overall, this is a solid start (or continuation, depending on how you look at it) to a cozy UF series I’ll definitely be returning to.
Recommended for fans of magical small towns, bite-sized mysteries, and heroines who take no nonsense—except maybe from their dog.
I want to thank Ella Stone, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBookk Kindl copy of Fangs and Front Pages ~ Ravens Hollow Investigations ~ Book 1 that I won in the Giveaway.
Elodie Evergreen, newly turned vampire leaves London for Ravens Hollow to start a new life as a paranormal being. This starts her adventure with a whole cast of new types of para, with each type having a new set of social expectations and she has to fingure out what they are and how to deal with them without saying or doing the wrong thing.
Four murders, lots of hidden agendas, several lies as clues to deadends and Elodie goes to work and jumps into being an investigative reporter in a mixed up case that she solves and catches the head of the Mofia Mermaid Society too.
Some humor, many interesting characters and a strong main character the continues with determination to get her front page story and solve the case.
I thoroughly enjoyed this urban fantasy mystery romp. It had twists and turns I did not see coming, and there is a romantic sub-plot that I am so there for!
Meet Elodie, a resourceful journalist turned accidental vampire. I also recommend reading the prequel too, which I absolutely loved! Elodie is tenacious and nosy, which is the perfect combination for an investigative journalist. When there's a gruesome murder in her new sleepy paranormal town, you can bet she's digging in!
Besides, Elodie, we have Pongo, an adorable puppy to adore, and police chief Whip - with secrets of his own - which makes for an excellent romantic subplot. There's a full cast of supporting characters too, and I can see the Found Family forming before my eyes, which makes me very happy as I adore Found Family as a trope.
This is a brilliant start to a fantastic new series, and I recommend it without hesitation. And, as bonus, it's even in Kindle Unlimited!
This book is a great fantasy book with lots of different creatures. Elodie just turned a vampire (read Bylines and Bloodsuckers for more information on this) and she is moving to Raven’s Hollow. She is working as an investigative journalist at the Oracle in Raven’s Hollow. She is still getting used to being a vampire and when she arrives meets Whip. Whip and Elodie are an interesting duo and can’t wait to read more on them (slow burn?). This book is packed with action when a murder happens her first night there. She is investigating and learning lots. She also finds Pongo her first night, which I love! This book is fantasy with the start of a slow burn romance but nothing spicy yet. It has vampires, werewolves, merpeople, sirens, witches, etc… Honestly, this book was great and I can’t wait for the next one!
So I loved the prequel where we met Elodie and learned how she Changed and now we embark on an incredible journey with her as we travel to Ravens Hollow, a small supernatural town set by the sea. In true Elodie fashion, her arrival is not quite as she planned but she receives a warm welcome at the Ravens Hollow Oracle and has a wonderful house and car already set up for her. But with hours of her arrival, she has a dog and then there’s a dead body and a whole who dunnit investigation. We meet some fantastic characters in this first book and I look forward to learning more about them, a delicious slow burn with the local sheriff and an intriguing mystery to solve. Brimming with vampires, werewolves, merpeople, sirens and witches, there are many kinds of paranormal beings on this island, it’s quirky, it’s quaint and there are twists and turns galore to keep you guessing and I loved it!
Elodie Evergreen, recent unwillingly turned Vampire, takes a job in Ravens Hollow, California ~ as far from London as she can get. Unfortunately, arriving in a lion costume onesie is not the best way to establish your journalistic credentials! With an undercurrent of humor, Elodie meets her boss Bobby and coworker Chloe during a local art fair. Screams announce a murder, a supernatural sculpter and a mystery Elodie wants to investigate. Sexy-as-sin Chief Whip is in charge? Is Whip his name or his favorite toy? LOL. Naughty thoughts interfere with her research as she meets denizens of the town. So many suspects and so little time. Whimpers in the muddy bushes lead her to a delightfully dirty puppy she names Pongo and her BFF Donna gifts her with a Mini!! It looks like Ravens Hollow will be an awesome place to live if she can get the STORY!! 5 stars
You will love this funny, and Exciting series. The characters are awesome and unique. Elodie had been working as an investigative reporter. Till she was turned into a vampire. This was due to a missing persons story she was investigating. Afterwards Elodie moved across country to an Island for paranormals. There she got a job at the local newspaper. Afterwards she also adopted a smart little puppy. She named Pongo, and he became her closest companion. Elodie also developed a huge crush on the local Chief Inspector Whip. She is thrilled but nervous when he asks her out. Before their relationship can even start. Two of Elodie's Co-workers become Hexed! Now she may have to choose between the man she is falling for, or her job she loves. This is a five star plus story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this and it was a fun easy read. Elodie, newly made vampire and investigative journalist, is starting a new life in the US. I did find the journalistic attitude of the story coming first a little irritating but think that’s more my personal view of journalists overriding respect for privacy and I can’t empathise with the viewpoint. Apart from that little niggle, it did actually make an interesting change to the usual police procedural. I loved where she lived, the characters, the budding romance and even the crime she was investigating was interesting. Plus a doggie sidekick always goes down well with me.
Definitely worth a read and I’ll 100% be reading the rest of the series.
I enjoyed this book. This follows Elodie a newly turned vampire as she struggles to find her place in her new world. It’s how you expect one who is new to paranormal life would be, totally clueless. Nevertheless, she is determined and quite brave. She loves her job and it shows. Along the way she meets other paranormal beings including a man named Whip. There’s tension between the two. There’s also crimes to solve.
I liked the dynamic of all the characters. It wasn’t some insta connection and it all just works but actually learning who everyone is and how Elodie fits. I recommend this book if you like paranormal stories with a whole lot of the supernatural world to it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.