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Magic, Mirth & Mayhem
She never asked for the title of Guardian. He never wanted to be Sentinel. But destiny doesn’t care what either of them wants.
Starting over at forty wasn’t part of Seraphina Blackthorn’s plan. Divorce papers, a ruined career, and life in limbo—that’s my reality now. So when my grandmother asked me to spend the summer running her yarn shop in Havenwood Cove, I leapt at the chance for a little peace and quiet—and maybe a chance to figure out my life.
Peace and quiet? Not a chance.
From the moment I arrive, I discover this seaside town runs on secrets and magic. The yarn shop has a mind of its own, a snarky bird keeps showing up uninvited, and a white cat with an unsettling stare insists on supervising my every move. Add in a brooding tenant with secrets of his own, and it’s clear this isn’t going to be an ordinary summer. Oh—and apparently, I’m the new Guardian of the Moondragon. (Still not sure what that means, but apparently everyone else does.)
When shadows creep into the streets, tremors shake the town, and the annual Bloom and Moon Festival turns dangerous, the truth is impossible to Havenwood Cove needs me. Trouble is, I’m not sure I’m ready—or that I can keep the town, the shop, and myself from unraveling.
If you love cozy mysteries with seaside charm, magical creatures, and a dash of humor, you’ll feel right at home in Havenwood Cove. Because once you arrive… you may never want to leave.
Perfect for fans of cozy fantasy, magical cats, seaside mysteries, and midlife heroines who refuse to give up
Starting over at forty wasn’t part of Seraphina Blackthorn’s plan. Divorce papers, a ruined career, and life in limbo—that’s my reality now. So when my grandmother asked me to spend the summer running her yarn shop in Havenwood Cove, I leapt at the chance for a little peace and quiet—and maybe a chance to figure out my life.
Peace and quiet? Not a chance.
From the moment I arrive, I discover this seaside town runs on secrets and magic. The yarn shop has a mind of its own, a snarky bird keeps showing up uninvited, and a white cat with an unsettling stare insists on supervising my every move. Add in a brooding tenant with secrets of his own, and it’s clear this isn’t going to be an ordinary summer. Oh—and apparently, I’m the new Guardian of the Moondragon. (Still not sure what that means, but apparently everyone else does.)
When shadows creep into the streets, tremors shake the town, and the annual Bloom and Moon Festival turns dangerous, the truth is impossible to Havenwood Cove needs me. Trouble is, I’m not sure I’m ready—or that I can keep the town, the shop, and myself from unraveling.
If you love cozy mysteries with seaside charm, magical creatures, and a dash of humor, you’ll feel right at home in Havenwood Cove. Because once you arrive… you may never want to leave.
Perfect for fans of cozy fantasy, magical cats, seaside mysteries, and midlife heroines who refuse to give up
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2025
13 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Susie Swenson
3 books8 followersSusie Swenson writes cozy fantasy mysteries where magic weaves through everyday life, seaside towns hide ancient secrets, and courage is found in unexpected places. Her Havenwood Cove series blends heart, humor, and a sense of wonder, inviting readers into a world where talking cats, enchanted houses, and second chances are part of the adventure.
Beyond writing, Susie is a lifelong crafter who knits, crochets, quilts, does machine embroidery and her newest passion: 3d Printing. She finds joy in creating with her hands and her mind. She also keeps a 72 gal planted aquarium—a mini underwater world she calls her "living art." She spends far too much time watching her fish instead of staring at her monitor!
Susie lives in California with her husband, three dogs, five cats (all of whom believe they run the household). Whether she’s writing, crafting, or watching the magic of an aquarium, she’s always dreaming up the next story.
Beyond writing, Susie is a lifelong crafter who knits, crochets, quilts, does machine embroidery and her newest passion: 3d Printing. She finds joy in creating with her hands and her mind. She also keeps a 72 gal planted aquarium—a mini underwater world she calls her "living art." She spends far too much time watching her fish instead of staring at her monitor!
Susie lives in California with her husband, three dogs, five cats (all of whom believe they run the household). Whether she’s writing, crafting, or watching the magic of an aquarium, she’s always dreaming up the next story.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 3, 2026
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem: A Magical Cozy Mystery of Yarn Shops, Secrets, and Second Chances
by Susie Swenson
Published November 14, 2025
Starting over at forty wasn’t part of Seraphina Blackthorn’s plan. Divorce papers, a ruined career, and life in limbo—that was her reality now. So when her grandmother asked to spend the summer running her yarn shop in Havenwood Cove, she leapt at the chance for a little peace and quiet—and maybe a chance to figure out her life.
Peace and quiet? Not a chance. From the moment she arrived, she realized this seaside town ran on secrets and magic. The yarn shop had a mind of its own, a snarky bird keeps showing up uninvited, and a white cat with an unsettling stare insisted on supervising her every move. Add in the typical "brooding tenant" with secrets of his own, and learning she is the new Guardian of the Moondragon.
When shadows creep into the streets, tremors shake the town, and the annual Bloom and Moon Festival turns dangerous, the truth is: Havenwood Cove needs her.
This is a relatable middle-aged woman dealing with things that adults often face, which made the book feel personal and connecting.
The author did such a great job describing the places and people. It felt both fantastical and real at the same time. It wasn't just a magical story — it was a tale of finding yourself, of stepping into your truth, and learning you’re more than you thought you could be.
If you love cozy mysteries with seaside charm, magical creatures and midlife heroines who refuse to give up...and a dash of humor, you’ll feel right at home in Havenwood Cove.
Rating 4.7 /5 ⭐
Thanks to the author who shared it directly 💖
by Susie Swenson
Published November 14, 2025
Starting over at forty wasn’t part of Seraphina Blackthorn’s plan. Divorce papers, a ruined career, and life in limbo—that was her reality now. So when her grandmother asked to spend the summer running her yarn shop in Havenwood Cove, she leapt at the chance for a little peace and quiet—and maybe a chance to figure out her life.
Peace and quiet? Not a chance. From the moment she arrived, she realized this seaside town ran on secrets and magic. The yarn shop had a mind of its own, a snarky bird keeps showing up uninvited, and a white cat with an unsettling stare insisted on supervising her every move. Add in the typical "brooding tenant" with secrets of his own, and learning she is the new Guardian of the Moondragon.
When shadows creep into the streets, tremors shake the town, and the annual Bloom and Moon Festival turns dangerous, the truth is: Havenwood Cove needs her.
This is a relatable middle-aged woman dealing with things that adults often face, which made the book feel personal and connecting.
The author did such a great job describing the places and people. It felt both fantastical and real at the same time. It wasn't just a magical story — it was a tale of finding yourself, of stepping into your truth, and learning you’re more than you thought you could be.
If you love cozy mysteries with seaside charm, magical creatures and midlife heroines who refuse to give up...and a dash of humor, you’ll feel right at home in Havenwood Cove.
Rating 4.7 /5 ⭐
Thanks to the author who shared it directly 💖
September 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
🌟✨🧵🪄
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
Slipping into this book was an easy task — the smooth writing style made it so enjoyable to fall into the story. There were lots of relatable elements throughout, and what really surprised me (in the best way!) was that the main lead isn’t a teen or stuck in high school drama. Instead, we get a more relatable, middle-aged woman dealing with things that many adults often face, which made the book feel so deeply personal and connecting.
I did have a small issue with the pacing — it’s not slow or fast exactly, but that first day felt unusually long, and it threw me off a little. But honestly, that tiny hiccup passed quickly, and I found myself wrapped in heart-stopping magic and a woman’s journey from normal to completely out of this world.
I loved watching the main character learn and try to get a handle on things. I adored the playful nature of some characters and the banter between others. There were moments where I was trying to guess what would happen next and where the story was leading, and I still felt surprised and giddy as I kept reading.
The author did such a fantastic job describing the places and people — my first introduction to Havenwood Cove had me smiling like a fool. It was both interesting and exciting to see someone’s imagination come to life so vividly on the page. This book felt both fantastical and real in its themes.
At its heart, this wasn’t just a magical story — it was a tale of finding yourself, of stepping into your truth, and learning you’re more than you thought you could be. That, to me, made the book completely worth the read.
I did have a few little hiccups with that long first day and had to reread parts once or twice when I lost track, but otherwise, this was such a fantastic read, and I’m really glad I got the chance to dive into it.
Would I recommend it?
💯 In a heartbeat! I already told my daughter she needs to read this. As someone who knits, embroiders, and loves magic — she’s going to fall in love with it.
Would I read it again?
Absolutely! This one’s going on my reread pile for sure.
Final thoughts:
Whimsical and charming — sprinkled with light and shadow, and filled with a deep wave of relatability. A magical, heartfelt read that wraps you in warmth.
🌟✨🧵🪄
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
Slipping into this book was an easy task — the smooth writing style made it so enjoyable to fall into the story. There were lots of relatable elements throughout, and what really surprised me (in the best way!) was that the main lead isn’t a teen or stuck in high school drama. Instead, we get a more relatable, middle-aged woman dealing with things that many adults often face, which made the book feel so deeply personal and connecting.
I did have a small issue with the pacing — it’s not slow or fast exactly, but that first day felt unusually long, and it threw me off a little. But honestly, that tiny hiccup passed quickly, and I found myself wrapped in heart-stopping magic and a woman’s journey from normal to completely out of this world.
I loved watching the main character learn and try to get a handle on things. I adored the playful nature of some characters and the banter between others. There were moments where I was trying to guess what would happen next and where the story was leading, and I still felt surprised and giddy as I kept reading.
The author did such a fantastic job describing the places and people — my first introduction to Havenwood Cove had me smiling like a fool. It was both interesting and exciting to see someone’s imagination come to life so vividly on the page. This book felt both fantastical and real in its themes.
At its heart, this wasn’t just a magical story — it was a tale of finding yourself, of stepping into your truth, and learning you’re more than you thought you could be. That, to me, made the book completely worth the read.
I did have a few little hiccups with that long first day and had to reread parts once or twice when I lost track, but otherwise, this was such a fantastic read, and I’m really glad I got the chance to dive into it.
Would I recommend it?
💯 In a heartbeat! I already told my daughter she needs to read this. As someone who knits, embroiders, and loves magic — she’s going to fall in love with it.
Would I read it again?
Absolutely! This one’s going on my reread pile for sure.
Final thoughts:
Whimsical and charming — sprinkled with light and shadow, and filled with a deep wave of relatability. A magical, heartfelt read that wraps you in warmth.
November 4, 2025
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem is pure cozy fantasy bliss. From the moment Seraphina arrives in Havenwood Cove, you can feel the charm and mystery of the seaside town. I loved how the story blended real-life challenges starting over in midlife, rediscovering yourself with whimsical magic, talking animals, and a yarn shop that almost feels alive! Susie Swenson’s writing is filled with warmth, humor, and imagination. The characters are relatable and quirky in the best way, and Havenwood Cove is a place I didn’t want to leave. I’m already excited for book two, Secrets, Spells & Shadows! Highly recommended for fans of cozy fantasy, magical towns, and strong heroines who find their power when life takes an unexpected turn.
November 10, 2025
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem by Susie Swenson is such a fun surprise a cozy mystery with a whimsical twist that feels fresh and full of heart. The humor, the magic, and the sense of wonder blend perfectly. You can tell the author wrote this with real joy and creativity. A delightful read for anyone who loves fantasy with a touch of mischief and warmth.
December 24, 2025
A magical, heartwarming, and delightfully quirky cozy fantasy! Sera Blackthorn’s journey to Havenwood Cove is filled with humor, mystery, and a touch of witchy wonder. The seaside town, talking house, and cast of magical characters are charmingly immersive. Perfect for readers who love whimsical adventures, small-town intrigue, and women reclaiming their power. Can’t wait for the next installment
November 20, 2025
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem is a charming, warm, and wonderfully magical cozy fantasy. Seraphina Blackthorn is a relatable midlife heroine, and Havenwood Cove with its quirky characters, talking familiars, and mysterious magical yarn shop pulls you in instantly.
A delightful blend of humor, heart, and gentle mystery, this book is the perfect feel-good escape for fans of cozy magic and second chances.
A delightful blend of humor, heart, and gentle mystery, this book is the perfect feel-good escape for fans of cozy magic and second chances.
November 4, 2025
What would you do if you learned at age 40 that you were the only one to save an entire world? Oh, and that you were also a witch and the new Guardian of the Moondragon - whatever that is. Nothing much. Just pack your things and set off to save the magical world at Havenwood Cove, where gnomes, elves, fairies and trolls – oh, no that’s just your human ex-husband - and other magical creatures became your best friends and worst nightmare! Your newly discovered life at Havenwood Cove is filled with intrigue and laughter and friendship and mystery and magic. Lots of magic.
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem had me hooked from the first page and kept me smiling, intrigued, and thoroughly engaged! Joining Sera on her journey and witnessing her magical adventures along with moments of self-discovery was an absolute joy. The lively banter among magical creatures and the perplexing new reality Sera faces make Havenwood Cove burst with life and charm. Her story blends humor and mystery seamlessly, making Havenwood Cove and all its delightful inhabitants feel both enchanting and real.
Loved it!
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem had me hooked from the first page and kept me smiling, intrigued, and thoroughly engaged! Joining Sera on her journey and witnessing her magical adventures along with moments of self-discovery was an absolute joy. The lively banter among magical creatures and the perplexing new reality Sera faces make Havenwood Cove burst with life and charm. Her story blends humor and mystery seamlessly, making Havenwood Cove and all its delightful inhabitants feel both enchanting and real.
Loved it!
January 18, 2026
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem by Susie Swenson is a charming and heartfelt start to The Havenwood Cove Cozy Mysteries, blending cozy fantasy with gentle intrigue and plenty of warmth. After a painful divorce, forty-year-old Seraphina “Sera” Blackthorn is drawn to the enchanting village of Havenwood when a mysterious package awakens both her grandmother’s magic journal and a legacy she never knew existed—one that includes a yarn shop, a hidden magical community, and her unexpected role as Guardian of the Moondragon. Swenson leans into the reluctant-hero trope with sincerity, allowing Sera’s struggle to accept magic and her place in this new world to feel authentic and relatable, even if the opening unfolds a bit slowly. Once the story finds its rhythm, however, the lively cast of characters, sentient surroundings, and looming threat to the town make for an engaging and cozy read. Fans of character-driven stories, light magic, and comforting fantasy will find this a delightful escape and a promising beginning to the series.
January 16, 2026
Magic, Mirth & Mayhem is a charming cozy fantasy that blends magic, mystery, and second chances into a warm and uplifting story of reinvention. Its whimsical setting, lovable characters, and yarn-shop enchantment make it a delightful escape that stays with you long after the final stitch is cast.
February 20, 2026
Charming, magical, and delightfully witty. Magic, Mirth & Mayhem blends seaside coziness with enchanting mystery and a fiercely relatable midlife heroine. A warm, whimsical escape filled with heart and humor.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews