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Nightshade Detective Agency Cozy Mystery #1
Witches With Benefits
Freya Holmes is unique in an already eccentric city.
New Orleans may be a paranormal mecca but even in a world where every type of shifter and witch is commonplace, a vampire-witch hybrid is something to worship … and fear.
Freya has never been interested in her parents’ opulent world. She finds her power in magic, which is why she formed Nightshade Detective Agency in the first place. She’s interested in helping people … even when that help might come at the cost of her life.
Knox Cullen grew up on the poor side of New Orleans. His shifter genes allowed him to climb out of poverty and embrace a certain lifestyle as a paranormal bounty hunter. He can take a punch and throw one. He’s not ready for Freya, though.
When a local mobster ends up dead and the culprit appears to be a supernatural assassin, both Freya and Knox are on the case. Unfortunately, they have no intention of working together and two hard heads don’t make for a soft landing.
Freya has her hands full. In addition to Knox, who is hiding something big, there’s a paranormal investigation unit seeking a partnership that takes advantage of her hard work and their impressive reach. The Legacy Foundation has quite the reputation, as do the two people—Charlie and Jack—who approach her with an offer she might not be able to refuse. Can she trust them? Can she trust anybody?
The clock is ticking. Freya needs to save the French Quarter. Sadly, she might lose herself in the process.
New Orleans may be a paranormal mecca but even in a world where every type of shifter and witch is commonplace, a vampire-witch hybrid is something to worship … and fear.
Freya has never been interested in her parents’ opulent world. She finds her power in magic, which is why she formed Nightshade Detective Agency in the first place. She’s interested in helping people … even when that help might come at the cost of her life.
Knox Cullen grew up on the poor side of New Orleans. His shifter genes allowed him to climb out of poverty and embrace a certain lifestyle as a paranormal bounty hunter. He can take a punch and throw one. He’s not ready for Freya, though.
When a local mobster ends up dead and the culprit appears to be a supernatural assassin, both Freya and Knox are on the case. Unfortunately, they have no intention of working together and two hard heads don’t make for a soft landing.
Freya has her hands full. In addition to Knox, who is hiding something big, there’s a paranormal investigation unit seeking a partnership that takes advantage of her hard work and their impressive reach. The Legacy Foundation has quite the reputation, as do the two people—Charlie and Jack—who approach her with an offer she might not be able to refuse. Can she trust them? Can she trust anybody?
The clock is ticking. Freya needs to save the French Quarter. Sadly, she might lose herself in the process.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
774 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
290 books2,917 followersWhen I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 6, 2026
This is a good first book but I felt a lot.of.confusion while.reading it expecting Olivia and Sully
The author has set this new series in New Orleans a city she often places.her characters in but there is already one series set there The Supernatural Speakeasy with Olivia and Sully as the main characters. As a result even though I was.really enjoying this story I kept waiting for Freya to run across them, it never happened. This.book has it's own array of interesting side characters but none that cross overcross which strikes the only wrong note. Surely two super strong witches (in Freya's case a witch vampire hybrid) would know of each other.......... That to me didn't make sense. So anyway loved the characters Freya and Knox are not obviously nice, they hide their nicer side and present the world with a hard abrasive personality but it's a front for the most part and the banter between the two is such fun as is Freya's interactions with her family, her parents are so much fun. Suffice to say bring on book two quickly please. Oh and best of all Charlie Rhodes and the Loa's are back... ..........
The author has set this new series in New Orleans a city she often places.her characters in but there is already one series set there The Supernatural Speakeasy with Olivia and Sully as the main characters. As a result even though I was.really enjoying this story I kept waiting for Freya to run across them, it never happened. This.book has it's own array of interesting side characters but none that cross overcross which strikes the only wrong note. Surely two super strong witches (in Freya's case a witch vampire hybrid) would know of each other.......... That to me didn't make sense. So anyway loved the characters Freya and Knox are not obviously nice, they hide their nicer side and present the world with a hard abrasive personality but it's a front for the most part and the banter between the two is such fun as is Freya's interactions with her family, her parents are so much fun. Suffice to say bring on book two quickly please. Oh and best of all Charlie Rhodes and the Loa's are back... ..........
February 9, 2026
um... what?!
I love this authors works, whether under this name or as Lily Harper Hart, and when I saw this was an upcoming release I put it in my KU Wishlist so I would remember to 'borrow' this. And then it was finally time to get it and start reading. I was excited to see that this would be a detective mystery with characters from her other series popping in now and then. I was happy to see Charlie and Jack pop up in the story, but just like the other series she has with characters from her other witchy series (Midlife series with Rowan, Harper, Maddie and Ivy) it fell flat for the most part. I do love Charlie and Jack, I enjoyed their series, and the new characters in this story, Freya, Lex and Knox, had potential. I liked Freya, although her family were a tad annoying, and Lex and his playboy ways. Knox is a bit of a dark horse, and he seems to have a stick shoved up his rear, but his parents are so quirky and fun. This aside though, there was just something about it (especially that misfire of a final confrontation with the antagonist - I mean, wtf?!) that left me feeling a bit let down. So while this wasn't the best first book in a series I've ever read, I will check out the second book just to see whether or not the things that bug me about the other (Midlife) series aren't repeated here.
Has potential.
3 stars
I love this authors works, whether under this name or as Lily Harper Hart, and when I saw this was an upcoming release I put it in my KU Wishlist so I would remember to 'borrow' this. And then it was finally time to get it and start reading. I was excited to see that this would be a detective mystery with characters from her other series popping in now and then. I was happy to see Charlie and Jack pop up in the story, but just like the other series she has with characters from her other witchy series (Midlife series with Rowan, Harper, Maddie and Ivy) it fell flat for the most part. I do love Charlie and Jack, I enjoyed their series, and the new characters in this story, Freya, Lex and Knox, had potential. I liked Freya, although her family were a tad annoying, and Lex and his playboy ways. Knox is a bit of a dark horse, and he seems to have a stick shoved up his rear, but his parents are so quirky and fun. This aside though, there was just something about it (especially that misfire of a final confrontation with the antagonist - I mean, wtf?!) that left me feeling a bit let down. So while this wasn't the best first book in a series I've ever read, I will check out the second book just to see whether or not the things that bug me about the other (Midlife) series aren't repeated here.
Has potential.
3 stars
February 5, 2026
Yes! You need to read this!
Every single line, every single scene was great! If y it have read the previous works by Amanda M. Lee you will be thrilled at the turn of events and the great crossovers set up here.
Freya is a young vampire witch. Typically she calls on her witch nature to deal with paranormal issues. When Knox, a wolf shifter, begins to show up at crimes she is investigating, her world begins to shift as well. Annoyance at first sight doesn’t keep them apart as Freya digs into odd deaths occurring around New Orleans. Can she get to answers before the darkness destroys the city?
Every single line, every single scene was great! If y it have read the previous works by Amanda M. Lee you will be thrilled at the turn of events and the great crossovers set up here.
Freya is a young vampire witch. Typically she calls on her witch nature to deal with paranormal issues. When Knox, a wolf shifter, begins to show up at crimes she is investigating, her world begins to shift as well. Annoyance at first sight doesn’t keep them apart as Freya digs into odd deaths occurring around New Orleans. Can she get to answers before the darkness destroys the city?
February 5, 2026
A new series!
Amanda M. Lee (and her Lily Harper Hart alter ego) has become my favorite cozy paranormal mystery writer. Every month, she releases new titles and the characters become new friends. I was so excited to see book one of a brand new series this month, that still featured a couple from a recently finished book series. Old friends, Charlie and Jack, in a new city New Orleans, making new friends and investigating new mysteries. I loved meeting our new heroine, the born vampire/ witch hybrid Freya and her alligator and wolf shifter friends. This was a great start to a new series for me. Looking forward to reading more of Freya’s adventures.
Amanda M. Lee (and her Lily Harper Hart alter ego) has become my favorite cozy paranormal mystery writer. Every month, she releases new titles and the characters become new friends. I was so excited to see book one of a brand new series this month, that still featured a couple from a recently finished book series. Old friends, Charlie and Jack, in a new city New Orleans, making new friends and investigating new mysteries. I loved meeting our new heroine, the born vampire/ witch hybrid Freya and her alligator and wolf shifter friends. This was a great start to a new series for me. Looking forward to reading more of Freya’s adventures.
February 10, 2026
Fabulous Start To A New Series
I should have known that I would love the first book of this new series, because Amanda M. Lee is an incredible author! She knows her audience well. Freya is a witch/vampire hybrid living in New Orleans, and due to a traumatic experience, when she was 12, she is now a private investigator. I immediately liked Freya and her surly attitude. She is curious, smart, a bit grumpy and she loves her family fiercely. I loved seeing the array of characters (both new and old ones who have been in other series) that popped up, and I absolutely can’t wait to watch how things unfold between Freya and Knox.
I should have known that I would love the first book of this new series, because Amanda M. Lee is an incredible author! She knows her audience well. Freya is a witch/vampire hybrid living in New Orleans, and due to a traumatic experience, when she was 12, she is now a private investigator. I immediately liked Freya and her surly attitude. She is curious, smart, a bit grumpy and she loves her family fiercely. I loved seeing the array of characters (both new and old ones who have been in other series) that popped up, and I absolutely can’t wait to watch how things unfold between Freya and Knox.
February 7, 2026
First book in a new series, was enjoyable and a promising start to a new series.
Fun and kinda cozy, with hints of future romance.
I like this author because while they aren't always the best books or the most well written, they are almost always enjoyable, particularly when you don't want something dark and gloomy that takes itself too seriously. Most her books are in the paranormal mystery vein, and almost always include a sweet romance that continues through the whole series.
I look forward to the next in this series.
Fun and kinda cozy, with hints of future romance.
I like this author because while they aren't always the best books or the most well written, they are almost always enjoyable, particularly when you don't want something dark and gloomy that takes itself too seriously. Most her books are in the paranormal mystery vein, and almost always include a sweet romance that continues through the whole series.
I look forward to the next in this series.
February 11, 2026
nice start to a new series
nice start to a new series, combining new characters with established characters is a great introduction. All the characters are likable in their own ways. New Orleans holds a fascination with Ms Lee. Freya is a strong character with a steel spine, who channels her personal loss, into a need to spare others of what she loss. Charlie has always been a fun character, pairing these two and their associates together looks to be yet another grand adventure.
nice start to a new series, combining new characters with established characters is a great introduction. All the characters are likable in their own ways. New Orleans holds a fascination with Ms Lee. Freya is a strong character with a steel spine, who channels her personal loss, into a need to spare others of what she loss. Charlie has always been a fun character, pairing these two and their associates together looks to be yet another grand adventure.
February 15, 2026
Overall, this was an entertaining start to a new series. It is highly connected to the Charlie Rhodes series by this author which is also connected to all of the other series by her. This can be a bit much if I’m being honest. I have only read the Winchester Witches and Charlie Rhodes series as there are just too many other books in this universe which all seem to have the same snarky heroine lead and the same buff, longhaired male love interest. Don’t get me wrong, these can be fun reads, but my enjoyment would be increased if the books weren’t quite so formulaic.
February 23, 2026
I am giving this 5 stars, because as always, Amanda leaves me wanting more... but, I don't know, the side stories when trying to provide the back story confused me some (and maybe it is just me). Wasn't a big fan of the childish banter between Freya and Knox - they were acting more like brother and sister then potential love interests... we shall see how the series goes as to if my heart opens to them. I did love how she worked Charlie and Jack into the story line and cannot wait to see more of them and the Legacy Foundation.
February 5, 2026
Keep reading, I almost stopped until Charlie Rhodes arrived
It was a slow start and I didn't like any of the characters originally. I was ready to just stop reading when suddenly Charlie arrived ( one of my favs from your books) so I kept reading. The book was still slow to develop the storyline and introduce the characters more fully but worth it by the end. So I'm ready to read book 2!
It was a slow start and I didn't like any of the characters originally. I was ready to just stop reading when suddenly Charlie arrived ( one of my favs from your books) so I kept reading. The book was still slow to develop the storyline and introduce the characters more fully but worth it by the end. So I'm ready to read book 2!
February 7, 2026
Excited for this new series
This new series is exciting. The new lead female character is as special as her paranormal powers. She also has a couple from a past series that has been completed for a bit. Very excited to see how they are progressing. There may even been a romance blossoming for the lead character or was it just a teaser. I guess time will tell. Excited to read the next book in this new series!
This new series is exciting. The new lead female character is as special as her paranormal powers. She also has a couple from a past series that has been completed for a bit. Very excited to see how they are progressing. There may even been a romance blossoming for the lead character or was it just a teaser. I guess time will tell. Excited to read the next book in this new series!
February 8, 2026
Amazing start to a new series
I wasn't sure New Orleans is big enough for 2 series and visitors when I first heard about this new series. However, once I started reading I didn't not want to stop. Amanda M. Lee has started this one with a bang and I can not wait to read more! Old favorites are back and new favorites are starting. Lots of what will happen next thoughts through out!
I wasn't sure New Orleans is big enough for 2 series and visitors when I first heard about this new series. However, once I started reading I didn't not want to stop. Amanda M. Lee has started this one with a bang and I can not wait to read more! Old favorites are back and new favorites are starting. Lots of what will happen next thoughts through out!
February 9, 2026
I had high expectations for this first book in a new series and I wasn’t disappointed at all. I enjoyed the new characters and the setting is interesting as well. Meeting Charlie and Jack again was just a bonus. The story is interesting and has just enough open ends to make it a complete book without cliffhangers, but leaves enough questions for me to look forward to the next one. I loved it. 5 stars.
February 12, 2026
Witches with Benefits
A good start to the series, there is Freya, the Vamp-Witch hybrid her family and the missing family member no one knows what happened to. NOLA is being attacked and things are not what they seem. Freya has been invited to be part of an exclusive group but right she wants to focus on her detective agency. Can wait to read the origin stories for some of the other characters.
A good start to the series, there is Freya, the Vamp-Witch hybrid her family and the missing family member no one knows what happened to. NOLA is being attacked and things are not what they seem. Freya has been invited to be part of an exclusive group but right she wants to focus on her detective agency. Can wait to read the origin stories for some of the other characters.
February 15, 2026
Awesome new series
This was a great start to the new series. I understand we needed to get to know the new characters but I do hope Charlie and Jack are a little more prominent in the series. I absolutely love the chemistry between Freya and Knox. The character are are snarky without being obnoxious. I'm going to enjoy the help out of this series. But then you haven't written a thing I haven't read and loved as Amanda and Lily. Here's to hoping you never get tired of writing!!
This was a great start to the new series. I understand we needed to get to know the new characters but I do hope Charlie and Jack are a little more prominent in the series. I absolutely love the chemistry between Freya and Knox. The character are are snarky without being obnoxious. I'm going to enjoy the help out of this series. But then you haven't written a thing I haven't read and loved as Amanda and Lily. Here's to hoping you never get tired of writing!!
February 16, 2026
A great start to another fun series
So fun to read the start to another mystery series with crossover to multiple of Amanda's other successful series. I loved the banter between Freya and Knox and can't wait to see when that relationship will heat up. Amanda always has the best paranormal stories and this one doesn't disappoint. I'm sad I have to wait until August for the next book but will be reading that as soon as it's available!
So fun to read the start to another mystery series with crossover to multiple of Amanda's other successful series. I loved the banter between Freya and Knox and can't wait to see when that relationship will heat up. Amanda always has the best paranormal stories and this one doesn't disappoint. I'm sad I have to wait until August for the next book but will be reading that as soon as it's available!
February 8, 2026
Excellent new series
It's always exciting when your favourite authors starts a new series, and I loved the first installment. I can't wait to see what Freya and the crew get up to next. To have Charlie and Jack involved as well is fab, I've missed them since Charlie's series ended.
It's always exciting when your favourite authors starts a new series, and I loved the first installment. I can't wait to see what Freya and the crew get up to next. To have Charlie and Jack involved as well is fab, I've missed them since Charlie's series ended.
February 17, 2026
Love books based in New Orleans. It had a good structure for New Orleans lore with a supernatural twist and Love that she brought some characters back from a book series that had ended already, but we get to see how other think of them as they are now secondary characters and no longer main characters in the series. Really fun read as always
February 20, 2026
Interesting To say the least !
I will presume this is the 1st of the series I've never seen it before. Amanda M. Lee is a phenomenal Supernatural mystery writer. I read numerous other series of hers,And thought I would give this one a shot,Did not disappoint. The characters are well developed And the storyline interesting.
Well done. Looking forward to book 2!
I will presume this is the 1st of the series I've never seen it before. Amanda M. Lee is a phenomenal Supernatural mystery writer. I read numerous other series of hers,And thought I would give this one a shot,Did not disappoint. The characters are well developed And the storyline interesting.
Well done. Looking forward to book 2!
February 24, 2026
More great characters in her universe
I choose this book because I enjoy the authors stories. These are many new characters in the world of mystic circus, etc and they are great. The story is good, bringing some other stories to the post credit scene, what comes after and the stories are not over. Definitely worth the read
I choose this book because I enjoy the authors stories. These are many new characters in the world of mystic circus, etc and they are great. The story is good, bringing some other stories to the post credit scene, what comes after and the stories are not over. Definitely worth the read
February 4, 2026
a new series and it is awesome
Amanda has kicked this series off with a bang. Freya is an interesting character and the story was definitely a fun read. Can’t wait till the next book.
Amanda has kicked this series off with a bang. Freya is an interesting character and the story was definitely a fun read. Can’t wait till the next book.
February 6, 2026
Great New Series
It’s been a long time since we got a new series. I’m looking forward to learning more about the characters.
It is great to have Charlie part of this new series as well as other favorites that look like they will be part of future storylines.
It’s been a long time since we got a new series. I’m looking forward to learning more about the characters.
It is great to have Charlie part of this new series as well as other favorites that look like they will be part of future storylines.
February 6, 2026
Great new series
Really enjoyed this book and meeting a new set of characters. It’s going to be so much fun as Freya and Knox’s relationship develops. Lex is fun! Looking forward to the next book.
Really enjoyed this book and meeting a new set of characters. It’s going to be so much fun as Freya and Knox’s relationship develops. Lex is fun! Looking forward to the next book.
February 7, 2026
great start to a new series
A new type of paranormal, old favourites and set in New Orleans. Freya, is a P.I. Investigating the murders of local mob bosses and the worst type of criminals. A vigilante with magic? Really enjoyed the start to this new series
A new type of paranormal, old favourites and set in New Orleans. Freya, is a P.I. Investigating the murders of local mob bosses and the worst type of criminals. A vigilante with magic? Really enjoyed the start to this new series
February 7, 2026
New series!!!!
A great start to a new series. Already loving the cast of characters and it's just the first book. Doesn't hurt it's set in New Orleans!! In looking forward to the next book!!
A great start to a new series. Already loving the cast of characters and it's just the first book. Doesn't hurt it's set in New Orleans!! In looking forward to the next book!!
February 7, 2026
Great Start
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a great start for a new series. I can't wait for the second one. Freya and the rest of the characters are tough, funny, and entertaining to follow.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a great start for a new series. I can't wait for the second one. Freya and the rest of the characters are tough, funny, and entertaining to follow.
February 8, 2026
My new favorite!
I just found my new favorite series and i can’t wait for more. Freya and Knox are going to be explosive once they figure it out. We get some Charlie mixed in and the loa’s what could make it better. Another book. Loved it
I just found my new favorite series and i can’t wait for more. Freya and Knox are going to be explosive once they figure it out. We get some Charlie mixed in and the loa’s what could make it better. Another book. Loved it
February 8, 2026
Great addition
This is a fun read with a new blooming romance possibly and a lot of crossover friends definitely. I really like it when the series intertwines with the characters from the other series. It’s like our friends are still around
This is a fun read with a new blooming romance possibly and a lot of crossover friends definitely. I really like it when the series intertwines with the characters from the other series. It’s like our friends are still around
February 9, 2026
Good read
A new book of a new series with new characters and some old. There are supernatural murders by strange creatures, snarky comments, humor, danger, mysteries, and, possibly, the start of a romance. Highly entertaining.
A new book of a new series with new characters and some old. There are supernatural murders by strange creatures, snarky comments, humor, danger, mysteries, and, possibly, the start of a romance. Highly entertaining.
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February 9, 2026Nightshade book 1
OMG this new series has started off with an amazing story. The new characters are really interesting and it’s awesome that some old favourites are back too. Can’t wait for the next one in this series. Amanda, you write excellent books, thank you
OMG this new series has started off with an amazing story. The new characters are really interesting and it’s awesome that some old favourites are back too. Can’t wait for the next one in this series. Amanda, you write excellent books, thank you
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews