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Mystic Caravan Mystery #21
Freaky Shadows
Poet Parker and Mystic Caravan Circus are back for another crazy adventure.
Full blurb coming soon!
Full blurb coming soon!
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2026
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
568 books3,015 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 40 reviews
August 4, 2026
I enjoyed revisiting Mystic Caravan; however, I do feel that the magic, mystery adventure part of these stories are getting overlaid with too much psychoanalysis, which I personally find, detracts from the stories.
I also find Scout a very annoying person and not very likeable. Characters from other story arcs are now crossing over constantly - so much so that it is at times, difficult to identify just whose world the action is set in.
Mystic Caravan has a huge cast of Paranormals, whose role now seems to have been reduced to who is having a relationship with whom and not so much about how their various gifts compliment and support, grow and develop, in order to overcome whatever situation they are facing.
I also find Scout a very annoying person and not very likeable. Characters from other story arcs are now crossing over constantly - so much so that it is at times, difficult to identify just whose world the action is set in.
Mystic Caravan has a huge cast of Paranormals, whose role now seems to have been reduced to who is having a relationship with whom and not so much about how their various gifts compliment and support, grow and develop, in order to overcome whatever situation they are facing.
July 12, 2026
Great story
I read every episode. You make each set of characters distinctive awhile using familiar catch phrases as in inside joke (That is the meanest thing that anyone has ever said to me),the tomato juice. I enjoy the way the different sets of characters are connected and their individual stories. They have different perspectives. Usually when a series is this long it can be like reading the same story over and over, no problem with boredom here. Thanks for sharing you imagination with us. I am a Michigander so I appreciate the locales.
I read every episode. You make each set of characters distinctive awhile using familiar catch phrases as in inside joke (That is the meanest thing that anyone has ever said to me),the tomato juice. I enjoy the way the different sets of characters are connected and their individual stories. They have different perspectives. Usually when a series is this long it can be like reading the same story over and over, no problem with boredom here. Thanks for sharing you imagination with us. I am a Michigander so I appreciate the locales.
July 12, 2026
Thank you!
I so enjoy these characters and their interactions.
I also appreciate that the author has gotten much better at writing without the annoying, repetitive words and phrases that were almost a hallmark. No hip-wiggling, very little smirking, and only a couple of neck rolls. She has even toned down Luke’s inane tirades.
I would like to read a novel with Raven as the main character. Think about it.
I so enjoy these characters and their interactions.
I also appreciate that the author has gotten much better at writing without the annoying, repetitive words and phrases that were almost a hallmark. No hip-wiggling, very little smirking, and only a couple of neck rolls. She has even toned down Luke’s inane tirades.
I would like to read a novel with Raven as the main character. Think about it.
August 26, 2026
I started this series on July 30. I didn’t even realize it took me nearly a month to finish it, but it makes sense since it’s a 21 book series.
So, onto my thoughts:
Does anyone else wonder how Poet and her crew afford eating out all the time? Just how much do they make with the circus?! I can see how Poet would have a good amount because she gets $25 or $50 a reading and she can see an average of 50 people per day, but I’m sure a portion of that money is paid to the moving crew, the lights, the janitors, the maintenance crew, etc.
In fact, I often wonder just how much money characters in books make. They never seem to act as though they’re lacking unless the book was specifically written on a poor character. Ya, I know it’s ridiculous. I can’t even enjoy the full depth of books because I’m thinking in the back of my mind that they’re spending an awful lot of coin.
Something cool I noticed and I’d like if I ever wrote books is making not only places, but people, food dishes, drinks, and restaurant names. That must really be fun for Amanda. I’m sure some makes are already in existence, so when we hear a town name and then a restaurant name in that town that is really, it brings us closer to the characters and makes them more tangible. Neat!
This is the last book until next year, but I’m glad because I could really use a break. Plus, Poet was beginning to get on my nerves. As the Grinch once said, “Bleeding hearts of the world unite!”
Scout was also in this book. She is ok, but in small doses. Same with Luke. Luke is so whiny and Scout is too bold for my taste. I don’t think I’ll be reading Scout’s series any time soon.
Well, I’ll see you next time. I’m heading over to read the Ivy Clark series by K Dixon - no magic involved.
Deuces to your cabooses! ✨👏🏼✨
So, onto my thoughts:
Does anyone else wonder how Poet and her crew afford eating out all the time? Just how much do they make with the circus?! I can see how Poet would have a good amount because she gets $25 or $50 a reading and she can see an average of 50 people per day, but I’m sure a portion of that money is paid to the moving crew, the lights, the janitors, the maintenance crew, etc.
In fact, I often wonder just how much money characters in books make. They never seem to act as though they’re lacking unless the book was specifically written on a poor character. Ya, I know it’s ridiculous. I can’t even enjoy the full depth of books because I’m thinking in the back of my mind that they’re spending an awful lot of coin.
Something cool I noticed and I’d like if I ever wrote books is making not only places, but people, food dishes, drinks, and restaurant names. That must really be fun for Amanda. I’m sure some makes are already in existence, so when we hear a town name and then a restaurant name in that town that is really, it brings us closer to the characters and makes them more tangible. Neat!
This is the last book until next year, but I’m glad because I could really use a break. Plus, Poet was beginning to get on my nerves. As the Grinch once said, “Bleeding hearts of the world unite!”
Scout was also in this book. She is ok, but in small doses. Same with Luke. Luke is so whiny and Scout is too bold for my taste. I don’t think I’ll be reading Scout’s series any time soon.
Well, I’ll see you next time. I’m heading over to read the Ivy Clark series by K Dixon - no magic involved.
Deuces to your cabooses! ✨👏🏼✨
July 16, 2026
This is actually my favorite series from Lee. However, my least favorite FMC of her series list is Scout. This cross over with the snark and snipping between Luke and Scout was just too much. It's just not funny to me. Scout is way over the top and mean - I don't care how "caring" she actually is. There is a long crossover with Scout and Gunnar with a cameo from Bay (Winchester Witches). Baron and Brigette are also in play. Most of the team is involved and Kade finally seems to come to agreement with his abilities. THAT has taken way too much time. As usual the storyline has a decent degree of creepiness - possessed children that dress like the cover? Ick..... Poet draws some hard moral lines in this one and it turns out better than expected. It's also very interesting to see how each character is handling the upcoming move to Moonstone Bay. I look forward to future stories.
July 9, 2026
Love It!
This story was a bit creepy as I saw the cover and anytime the children were front and center I imagined them all looking like cover. There was a
lot of snark and sarcasm which fit right into a family being together all the time. Once a friend of Poet's arrived the rolling on the ground laughing began. Even though there was creepy children it was a fun story. Loved it!
This story was a bit creepy as I saw the cover and anytime the children were front and center I imagined them all looking like cover. There was a
lot of snark and sarcasm which fit right into a family being together all the time. Once a friend of Poet's arrived the rolling on the ground laughing began. Even though there was creepy children it was a fun story. Loved it!
July 11, 2026
Another Great Book
I love the cast of characters in this series. I love how quirky they are and how they are all so loyal to each other. I'm looking forward to their move to the island but will admit I'm nervous too. Can't wait until the next book. I highly recommend this book and any other book by this author. You'll love every second of her books. Enjoy!!
I love the cast of characters in this series. I love how quirky they are and how they are all so loyal to each other. I'm looking forward to their move to the island but will admit I'm nervous too. Can't wait until the next book. I highly recommend this book and any other book by this author. You'll love every second of her books. Enjoy!!
July 11, 2026
OMG! Totally loved this book 😎
I’m a native Oregonian. Born in Portland. You nailed it! Although we do have lots of sun to go with our gloom. Adding so much of our history was wonderful. I had actually forgotten about Vanport. Before my time. Thank you for the stroll down memory lane.
Btw, chapter 29 is still not my fave! 😎
I’m a native Oregonian. Born in Portland. You nailed it! Although we do have lots of sun to go with our gloom. Adding so much of our history was wonderful. I had actually forgotten about Vanport. Before my time. Thank you for the stroll down memory lane.
Btw, chapter 29 is still not my fave! 😎
July 12, 2026
I've read everything this author has written under her various pseudonyms - this is the best
The author's heroines are feisty and all unique. Having 2 of them in this book really lifted it above the others. Even Luke became background noise. So if you like magical detective stories with a feel good ending this is one of the best.
The author's heroines are feisty and all unique. Having 2 of them in this book really lifted it above the others. Even Luke became background noise. So if you like magical detective stories with a feel good ending this is one of the best.
July 19, 2026
Loved it!
Just when you wonder if the Mystic Caravan Circus can have another adventure that is mind blowing, it happens.
Portland presents like so many cities the circus visits. Full of its own quirks and stories. But when Poet has a bad feeling, the little stories may hide a big truth.
Not your average ending…happy ending as always but excellent character growth
Just when you wonder if the Mystic Caravan Circus can have another adventure that is mind blowing, it happens.
Portland presents like so many cities the circus visits. Full of its own quirks and stories. But when Poet has a bad feeling, the little stories may hide a big truth.
Not your average ending…happy ending as always but excellent character growth
August 24, 2026
saving the day
Another great story from the Mystic Caravan. I love when other characters come to help out. I do wish we had the story continue to the next day to see how people felt about the changes that happened and the news reports. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Another great story from the Mystic Caravan. I love when other characters come to help out. I do wish we had the story continue to the next day to see how people felt about the changes that happened and the news reports. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy
A good addition to this series.
Not my favorite series by this author, but still entertaining. This one also includes a couple characters from another series of hers, I enjoy when she does that.
Ebook has not been released yet, but audiobook has.
Not my favorite series by this author, but still entertaining. This one also includes a couple characters from another series of hers, I enjoy when she does that.
Ebook has not been released yet, but audiobook has.
July 8, 2026
Oh Thank the Loa!
Just when I was about to rant about Kade still being afraid of his magic….. he steps up. This is a book worth reading. I like the way the characters evolve, the truths they face, and the actions they take regarding those truths. Enjoy!
Just when I was about to rant about Kade still being afraid of his magic….. he steps up. This is a book worth reading. I like the way the characters evolve, the truths they face, and the actions they take regarding those truths. Enjoy!
July 12, 2026
Freaky Shadows #21-Mystic Circus
Another great story in the series. I love how the author has intermingled her various series characters in a crossover way that seems flawless. Storytelling at its best.
Another great story in the series. I love how the author has intermingled her various series characters in a crossover way that seems flawless. Storytelling at its best.
July 22, 2026
Freaky Shadows
Creepy children and missing women. Soon Mystic Caravan will be going to their island. But on this last tour of the west coast evil children are playing deadly games. No cliffhanger and hea. Love this series.
Creepy children and missing women. Soon Mystic Caravan will be going to their island. But on this last tour of the west coast evil children are playing deadly games. No cliffhanger and hea. Love this series.
July 23, 2026
Happy with things turned out, even was surprised with one unexpected twist... the bickering between Scout and Luke was a bit obnoxious but thats who Scout is and I love her for that. On to the next adventure.
July 30, 2026
Love the Mystic Caravan
I love Amanda M Lee's books. They are filled with quirky characters and magic. Poet and her merry gang are coming to the end of their travels. I hope the books continue after they settle on the island.
I love Amanda M Lee's books. They are filled with quirky characters and magic. Poet and her merry gang are coming to the end of their travels. I hope the books continue after they settle on the island.
August 1, 2026
great story. as always
A thoroughly enjoyable episode in the life of Poet Parker and her magical friends. Great story. If you havent started the freaky caravan series and you love magical people with sharp tongues and repartee. Dont hesitate get stuck in to the series.
A thoroughly enjoyable episode in the life of Poet Parker and her magical friends. Great story. If you havent started the freaky caravan series and you love magical people with sharp tongues and repartee. Dont hesitate get stuck in to the series.
September 2, 2026
The circus, creepy kids and missing women
Mystic Carvan circus goes to Portland. The circus gets told about creepy children and missing women by the paranormal police. What is the reason for the creepy children and the missing women.
Mystic Carvan circus goes to Portland. The circus gets told about creepy children and missing women by the paranormal police. What is the reason for the creepy children and the missing women.
September 24, 2026
I liked the story in this book and of course I absolutely love the characters. Scout popping up more and more is an interesting development and I’m curious what’s coming next. Five stars as expected and a favourite on my list.
July 8, 2026
I have always enjoyed the mystical caravan especially when other characters from other series are included in the storyline. Can't wait to see the circus settle down on Moonstone Bay.
July 9, 2026
Another winner!
So happy to read about Poet and Kade again and the crew! Missed getting to see Nellie in action, but the storyline was fascinating! Loved it!
So happy to read about Poet and Kade again and the crew! Missed getting to see Nellie in action, but the storyline was fascinating! Loved it!
July 12, 2026
Love this series!!!!!
Kade and Poet are amazing together. Scout and Gunner show up to help. The whole circus is involved in the rescue. Great story!!!
Kade and Poet are amazing together. Scout and Gunner show up to help. The whole circus is involved in the rescue. Great story!!!
July 13, 2026
Great characters and a wonderful series—I love this author.
July 13, 2026
Great story
The plot lines come together well with some anxiety and suspense. The characters are realistic and its fun to see the interactions between different stories. By by
The plot lines come together well with some anxiety and suspense. The characters are realistic and its fun to see the interactions between different stories. By by
July 13, 2026
Child monsters
Awesome read, great characters and plenty of snarky humor but Poet and company with Scout and Gunner, must save kids from demons possessing them.
Awesome read, great characters and plenty of snarky humor but Poet and company with Scout and Gunner, must save kids from demons possessing them.
July 16, 2026
Absolutely fantastic
I love the freaky circus and love it even more with Poet and Scout with a quick glimpse of Bay. Loved it
I love the freaky circus and love it even more with Poet and Scout with a quick glimpse of Bay. Loved it
July 17, 2026
Good adventure. Not too much whining going on. Some of the characters are coming into their own.
July 21, 2026
Great 👍
Another great one!! I really enjoy these books. If the next one is the last I will be extremely sad not to be able to meet up with these characters again.
Another great one!! I really enjoy these books. If the next one is the last I will be extremely sad not to be able to meet up with these characters again.
July 24, 2026
Enjoyable
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was great with the crossover with Scout and the brief cameo of Bay. Looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was great with the crossover with Scout and the brief cameo of Bay. Looking forward to the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews