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Shady Spirits #4
Certain Chaos
Mirrors show reflections. Some are desperate to get out.
What does the magic mirror and Bloody Mary have in common? A cursed soul without a body to inhabit. When Enid’s astral travels leave her body free for the taking, she finds herself in a supernatural game of musical chairs. If she doesn’t find the cursed soul a new host, she might become its permanent address.
The trouble is, time is short. An assassin has Enid squarely in his sights, the GBI is asking for special favors, and the Spirit Body is moving pieces in a dangerous new game.
Being a soul witch comes with a certain chaos, but if Enid doesn’t pull off the job of her life, she’ll find herself checking her reflection from the wrong side of the glass.
What does the magic mirror and Bloody Mary have in common? A cursed soul without a body to inhabit. When Enid’s astral travels leave her body free for the taking, she finds herself in a supernatural game of musical chairs. If she doesn’t find the cursed soul a new host, she might become its permanent address.
The trouble is, time is short. An assassin has Enid squarely in his sights, the GBI is asking for special favors, and the Spirit Body is moving pieces in a dangerous new game.
Being a soul witch comes with a certain chaos, but if Enid doesn’t pull off the job of her life, she’ll find herself checking her reflection from the wrong side of the glass.
- GenresMagic
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
57 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 22, 2025
‧₊˚✧ 4.25 ✧˚₊‧
I was expecting to have fun with another book in the Shady Spirits series, and yet again it did deliver. I have so much to say about this book, but I first have to let out my general hype. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS SERIES. It's chef's kiss, it's funny, has an amazing plot, the twist are twisting and I can't stress enough that you need to read this.
I want to touch onto our main character first. She is so amazingly balanced. Enid isn't some Mary Sue she makes mistakes, doubts herself sometimes and needs help from those around her. She seems to be in constant danger this book too. No breaks for our main character in this book series. I was so happy for her when she finally could get a break.
This book was also perfect for fall. There was obviously an autumn theme in the book this time, which went along perfectly with the time of the year. The banter in this book four was top notch again. I laughed out loud several times while reading and that's goals while reading to be honest. Randall was back for this book too, which I absolutely loved. I now want character art of Randall, can we make that happen, please? There was a moment with Waffles that was so fun to read, you'll know when you get there. And the hurt at the end. I was clutching my heart and my pearls for a bit. The suspense was palpable.
Some of my favorite quotes in this book: ‘A leprechaun-werewolf.’, “Trust me, I will never forget she’s a potato, loved by everyone in one form or another.” and last but not least: “I need you to help me die.” Excuse me what?!
Conclusion: this was so much fun again. The gang was back, there were shenanigans, we got some more lore and insight in the paranormal world and so on. So Jen: when can we have the next book? Because I needed it yesterday.
I was expecting to have fun with another book in the Shady Spirits series, and yet again it did deliver. I have so much to say about this book, but I first have to let out my general hype. DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS SERIES. It's chef's kiss, it's funny, has an amazing plot, the twist are twisting and I can't stress enough that you need to read this.
I want to touch onto our main character first. She is so amazingly balanced. Enid isn't some Mary Sue she makes mistakes, doubts herself sometimes and needs help from those around her. She seems to be in constant danger this book too. No breaks for our main character in this book series. I was so happy for her when she finally could get a break.
This book was also perfect for fall. There was obviously an autumn theme in the book this time, which went along perfectly with the time of the year. The banter in this book four was top notch again. I laughed out loud several times while reading and that's goals while reading to be honest. Randall was back for this book too, which I absolutely loved. I now want character art of Randall, can we make that happen, please? There was a moment with Waffles that was so fun to read, you'll know when you get there. And the hurt at the end. I was clutching my heart and my pearls for a bit. The suspense was palpable.
Some of my favorite quotes in this book: ‘A leprechaun-werewolf.’, “Trust me, I will never forget she’s a potato, loved by everyone in one form or another.” and last but not least: “I need you to help me die.” Excuse me what?!
Conclusion: this was so much fun again. The gang was back, there were shenanigans, we got some more lore and insight in the paranormal world and so on. So Jen: when can we have the next book? Because I needed it yesterday.
November 27, 2025
When I read Bad Beginnings, I was hooked right away by Enid and her ghost-sighting abilities. Since then, she’s grown so much: stronger, sharper, and honestly way better at dealing with people. Jen Bair’s writing is effortless to sink into, and the reflections sprinkled through the story—either from Enid herself or in her conversations (especially that final one with Silva!)—are some of my favorite parts.
Bad Beginnings has been my top pick so far, but Certain Chaos is now tied with it. The plot in this one hits exactly what I love: more layers, more complications, more fun. Book 2 felt a little too simple for me (still enjoyable!), book 3 was a step up, but this one? Oh man. This one nailed it. Adventure, danger, humor, romance… everything I want in one place. I had a blast.
Can't talk much about the plot to avoid spoilers but it is good! If you've enjoyed the series, you'll love this one.
Characters
Randall is still a favorite of mine. I loved seeing more of him here, but I wish he were a permanent fixture. It doesn’t look like that’s where the series is going, and I’m mourning when he's not on the page. Team Randall all the way.
Frank is another standout for me. He barely shows up, but whenever he does, he owns the scene.
And Ollie… he’s adorable. Almost too adorable. Cinnamon-roll boyfriend material, even if he’s a ghost. But for my personal taste, he’s just a little too sweet to really catch my attention. (Cue Randall. Why is he not the love interest? Why?? OK I think I must let go of my Randall obsession!)
Silva is growing on me. I’m hoping we’ve only scratched the surface with him because I'd certainly like to know more.
And Enid? Obviously my favorite. She’s messy, conflicted, good at heart, and a whole lot grumpy (my favorite kind). Jen Bair knows exactly how to craft a compelling lead, and I’ll follow Enid anywhere.
My only tiny gripe: there are so many minor characters popping in and out. Half the time I forget who’s who. Some of them feel unnecessary, and I usually just skim when they show up, but that might just be me.
Overall, this series keeps getting better, and this fourth book absolutely delivered. I’m already counting down to book 5!
Bad Beginnings has been my top pick so far, but Certain Chaos is now tied with it. The plot in this one hits exactly what I love: more layers, more complications, more fun. Book 2 felt a little too simple for me (still enjoyable!), book 3 was a step up, but this one? Oh man. This one nailed it. Adventure, danger, humor, romance… everything I want in one place. I had a blast.
Can't talk much about the plot to avoid spoilers but it is good! If you've enjoyed the series, you'll love this one.
Characters
Randall is still a favorite of mine. I loved seeing more of him here, but I wish he were a permanent fixture. It doesn’t look like that’s where the series is going, and I’m mourning when he's not on the page. Team Randall all the way.
Frank is another standout for me. He barely shows up, but whenever he does, he owns the scene.
And Ollie… he’s adorable. Almost too adorable. Cinnamon-roll boyfriend material, even if he’s a ghost. But for my personal taste, he’s just a little too sweet to really catch my attention. (Cue Randall. Why is he not the love interest? Why?? OK I think I must let go of my Randall obsession!)
Silva is growing on me. I’m hoping we’ve only scratched the surface with him because I'd certainly like to know more.
And Enid? Obviously my favorite. She’s messy, conflicted, good at heart, and a whole lot grumpy (my favorite kind). Jen Bair knows exactly how to craft a compelling lead, and I’ll follow Enid anywhere.
My only tiny gripe: there are so many minor characters popping in and out. Half the time I forget who’s who. Some of them feel unnecessary, and I usually just skim when they show up, but that might just be me.
Overall, this series keeps getting better, and this fourth book absolutely delivered. I’m already counting down to book 5!
October 22, 2025
Another stellar book in the Shady Spirit series!!! Now Enid finds herself fighting against a whole new type of problem. Along with the trusty and ever faithful Waffled, Ollie, Frank and Randall, and the shady yet watchful Silva, Enid goes on yet another adventure against a shady phantom that can't hurt the living and the dead. When one she loves life hangs in the balance, what will the outcome be? Full of suspense, page turning adventure, and white knuckle moments, this book keeps you guessing to the very end. Who is friend and who is foe... Who to trust and who to not... And when ties are tested who do you rely on the most? This book is like the rest of the series. Highly enjoyable and a book I enjoyed reading every page. Definitely pick up this series. It's one of the best I've ever read. Jen is a talented author who is weaving a beautiful series. I love Enid and waffles and Ollie.. but my favorite is Silva. I finished this book in 2 days because I couldn't put it down.
October 30, 2025
Another good one from the series! I really love how the author has managed to balance out everything. The FMC isn't a Mary Sue, she's more well-rounded and authentic. She has fears, qualities and blunders. She makes mistakes, questions herself and changes with time. The story is also quite entertaining with the light banter. The other characters all have their own personalities and it didn't take me a lot of time to replace them.
I had a feeling this book was more of a bridge, kind of setting things up for what's coming up next. The plot wasn't as great as the other books, but I still enjoyed learning more about how the author has organized her world and Enid's magic. She clearly has done her reasearch on where she wants her world to go. The romance is light-hearted and not to omnipresent. There's plenty of action and things happening that you stay hooked throughout the story.
I'm already eager for the next one!
I had a feeling this book was more of a bridge, kind of setting things up for what's coming up next. The plot wasn't as great as the other books, but I still enjoyed learning more about how the author has organized her world and Enid's magic. She clearly has done her reasearch on where she wants her world to go. The romance is light-hearted and not to omnipresent. There's plenty of action and things happening that you stay hooked throughout the story.
I'm already eager for the next one!
November 23, 2025
Hanging out with Enid, Ollie, Waffles, and the rest of Jen Bair’s cast in her Shady Spirits series feels like sitting down with a gaggle of friends.
That’s why I grabbed Certain Chaos, book four in the series, as soon as I could. These are characters I want to hang out with again and again.
In Certain Chaos, Bair brings—wait for it—absolute chaos as the lore of the world expands to include djinn. And one has her eyes on Enid.
Of course, the Spirit Body is also keeping close tabs on our quirky ghost whisperer, and the assassin Enid believes they’ve sent after her is hot on her trail.
She’ll need her trusty ghostly Belgian Malinois and best friend turned boyfriend Ollie now more than ever. Thankfully our trio has a team of humans, spirits, and fae ready to assist them.
Bair weaves the conflicts together into one high-stakes story that's impossible to put down. If you love past-paced urban fantasy, Bair’s Shady Spirts series is for you.
That’s why I grabbed Certain Chaos, book four in the series, as soon as I could. These are characters I want to hang out with again and again.
In Certain Chaos, Bair brings—wait for it—absolute chaos as the lore of the world expands to include djinn. And one has her eyes on Enid.
Of course, the Spirit Body is also keeping close tabs on our quirky ghost whisperer, and the assassin Enid believes they’ve sent after her is hot on her trail.
She’ll need her trusty ghostly Belgian Malinois and best friend turned boyfriend Ollie now more than ever. Thankfully our trio has a team of humans, spirits, and fae ready to assist them.
Bair weaves the conflicts together into one high-stakes story that's impossible to put down. If you love past-paced urban fantasy, Bair’s Shady Spirts series is for you.
October 24, 2025
This series is so much darned fun, and this latest is not an exception. Enid continues to delight with her quirky and lovable nature, Frank with his snark, Ollie with his steadfastness…and every other single character including Waffles. I’m also hoping that there is a new character in the mix, but I’m not going to say much about that. This is such a delightful series, and there are no signs that it’s slowing down. I can’t wait for the next book because I know it’ll be as great as the rest have been including this one. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
October 28, 2025
"Mirrors show reflections. Some are desperate to get out.
What does the magic mirror and Bloody Mary have in common? A cursed soul without a body to inhabit. When Enid’s astral travels leave her body free for the taking, she finds herself in a supernatural game of musical chairs. If she doesn’t find the cursed soul a new host, she might become its permanent address.
The trouble is, time is short. An assassin has Enid squarely in his sights, the GBI is asking for special favors, and the Spirit Body is moving pieces in a dangerous new game.
Being a soul witch comes with a certain chaos, but if Enid doesn’t pull off the job of her life, she’ll find herself checking her reflection from the wrong side of the glass."
Enid, Ollie, Waffles & crew are back with our fourth instalment of Shady Spirits...... & what an instalment book four is!! I nearly needed a lie down with all the excitement trapped within those pages!!
Our plucky heroine who just so happens to be an introverted, ghost seeing waitress, soul witch with a ghost Malinois guardian/familiar. Has no idea what's coming when she astral projects to chase down a mysterious assassin. but in the wise words of one character "We all made one choice, and now we have to live with the consequences. Like going down a slide, you can turn back until the moment you let go. After that, you have to endure the drops and turns. Life comes with certain chaos. There’s no escaping it.”
This book has it all Adventure ✅️ Action ✅️ A kickass FMC ✅️Banter ✅️ Malinois madness ✅️ Supernatural shenanigans ✅️ Humour ✅️ Found family ✅️ Mysteries ✅️ & a whole lot of heart ❤️ 💙 💜
If you enjoy a good story, like an intelligent tale & want want to feel all the feels, then look no further. Jen Bair is an amazing read 📚
What does the magic mirror and Bloody Mary have in common? A cursed soul without a body to inhabit. When Enid’s astral travels leave her body free for the taking, she finds herself in a supernatural game of musical chairs. If she doesn’t find the cursed soul a new host, she might become its permanent address.
The trouble is, time is short. An assassin has Enid squarely in his sights, the GBI is asking for special favors, and the Spirit Body is moving pieces in a dangerous new game.
Being a soul witch comes with a certain chaos, but if Enid doesn’t pull off the job of her life, she’ll find herself checking her reflection from the wrong side of the glass."
Enid, Ollie, Waffles & crew are back with our fourth instalment of Shady Spirits...... & what an instalment book four is!! I nearly needed a lie down with all the excitement trapped within those pages!!
Our plucky heroine who just so happens to be an introverted, ghost seeing waitress, soul witch with a ghost Malinois guardian/familiar. Has no idea what's coming when she astral projects to chase down a mysterious assassin. but in the wise words of one character "We all made one choice, and now we have to live with the consequences. Like going down a slide, you can turn back until the moment you let go. After that, you have to endure the drops and turns. Life comes with certain chaos. There’s no escaping it.”
This book has it all Adventure ✅️ Action ✅️ A kickass FMC ✅️Banter ✅️ Malinois madness ✅️ Supernatural shenanigans ✅️ Humour ✅️ Found family ✅️ Mysteries ✅️ & a whole lot of heart ❤️ 💙 💜
If you enjoy a good story, like an intelligent tale & want want to feel all the feels, then look no further. Jen Bair is an amazing read 📚
November 3, 2025
My favourite so far.
For me they’ve just been okay. But this one I enjoyed and from the blurb I nearly skipped it.
For me they’ve just been okay. But this one I enjoyed and from the blurb I nearly skipped it.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews