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Cards on the Table
Two witchy sisters find themselves framed for the disappearance of their elderly client’s substantial trust after her sudden death—from the New York Times bestselling author of Payback's a Witch and the critically-acclaimed author of All Dressed Up.
As descendants of one of the original Salem Witch Trial victims, Tori and Cassie Bishop’s occult credentials are strong . . . but a trickle of tarot readings won’t pay the bills, and now they're facing eviction. When they’re offered a massive sum to play “witches in residence” to an elderly widow at her secluded Berkshires mansion, it feels like fate.
But from the minute they arrive at the opulent country estate it’s they’ve been dropped into a far more dangerous game than their smoke and mirrors can save them from.
The widow, Rose, is in her final days and desperate for the sisters to help with her unresolved spiritual needs before she passes. Her skeptical family and staff, however, are less enthusiastic about the sisters’ presence—with the exception of Rose’s nurse and her beloved great-nephew, who find themselves inexplicably drawn to Cassie and Tori.
Thrown into a viper’s nest of competing motives and impenetrable intrigues, the sisters do their best to help Rose. But after Rose’s sudden death, millions of dollars disappear from the estate overnight, and Tori and Cassie quickly become the prime suspects. Someone in the house has framed the Bishop sisters, and in order to clear their names, the two must rely on their powers—magical or otherwise—to unravel the toxic family's tangled web of greed, resentment, and deceit. If they don’t, Rose won’t be the only victim at Berwyn House. . . .
As descendants of one of the original Salem Witch Trial victims, Tori and Cassie Bishop’s occult credentials are strong . . . but a trickle of tarot readings won’t pay the bills, and now they're facing eviction. When they’re offered a massive sum to play “witches in residence” to an elderly widow at her secluded Berkshires mansion, it feels like fate.
But from the minute they arrive at the opulent country estate it’s they’ve been dropped into a far more dangerous game than their smoke and mirrors can save them from.
The widow, Rose, is in her final days and desperate for the sisters to help with her unresolved spiritual needs before she passes. Her skeptical family and staff, however, are less enthusiastic about the sisters’ presence—with the exception of Rose’s nurse and her beloved great-nephew, who find themselves inexplicably drawn to Cassie and Tori.
Thrown into a viper’s nest of competing motives and impenetrable intrigues, the sisters do their best to help Rose. But after Rose’s sudden death, millions of dollars disappear from the estate overnight, and Tori and Cassie quickly become the prime suspects. Someone in the house has framed the Bishop sisters, and in order to clear their names, the two must rely on their powers—magical or otherwise—to unravel the toxic family's tangled web of greed, resentment, and deceit. If they don’t, Rose won’t be the only victim at Berwyn House. . . .
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Lana Harper
10 books1,766 followersLana is the New York Times bestselling author of Payback's A Witch and the forthcoming From Bad to Cursed from Berkley Books. Writing as Lana Popovic, she is also the author of YA novels Wicked Like a Wildfire, Fierce Like a Firestorm, Blood Countess, and Poison Priestess. Lana studied psychology and literature at Yale University, law at Boston University, and is a graduate of the Emerson College publishing and writing master's program. She was born in Serbia and lived in Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania before moving to the United States, where she now lives in Chicago with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
September 25, 2026
**3.5-stars**
Cards on the Table follows two witchy sisters, Tori and Cassie, who find themselves down on their luck when their tarot reading business is no longer able to sustain them. They're late on the rent for their subpar Salem apartment and are on the eve of eviction.
It's in this time of need that an apparent windfall is presented to them. A woman tracks them down and offers them a massive sum of money to travel to the Berkshires and play 'witches in residence' to an elderly widow.
They have mixed feelings, but honestly don't see a lot of other options. This is their chance to get the money they need to finally have stable housing. Therefore they agree to the terms and head to Western Massachusetts.
Upon arrival they're stunned by the opulence of the property. Surely, not just one family owns all of this. Then they meet said family. Oh boy, they're some toxic folks, except for Rose, the widow they're there to help.
She actually seems like a lovely woman, who called upon them because she has some unresolved spiritual needs before she passes, which seems imminent.
The dynamics in the house are complex though, and helping Rose without family intervention proves more difficult than one would expect. Tori and Cassie feel dangers around every corner. The house is a hotbed of competing motives, with everyone seemingly in it for themselves.
One fateful night, it happens. Rose dies. After her death, millions of dollars disappear from the estate overnight, and Tori and Cassie are instantly suspected as the culprits. The sisters were just there to try to help Rose, and get the money offered them for doing so. They wanted nothing else, but someone is clearly using them as the perfect scapegoats.
Can the sisters find out who the real thief is and prove their own innocence, or are they about to go down for a crime they didn't commit?
This is a cute book. I always enjoy the vibes of Lana Harper's books, as well as the character interactions, but unfortunately, the plots tend to feel a tad lackluster. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but I tend to zone out with Harper's writing at different points over the course of the stories.
I know this is cowritten, but honestly, I couldn't tell. It felt very much in-line with The Witches of Thistle Grove series, which I've also enjoyed and continued one with, but never loved, if that makes sense.
The set-up of this was really fun. I did love the down on their luck sisters being offered this incredible opportunity and them taking it. The setting of the Berkshires and the atmosphere of this mansion were also very well done.
Some of the family drama got a little confusing and overused for me. I know that part of the story was important for where the plot was going, but it was almost too drawn out, causing my attention to wax and wane.
After Rose's death, that's when I became locked in, as that was when Tori and Cassie were put to the test. There were suddenly heavier stakes and that was the bit I found the most interesting.
I didn't care for the romance aspects of the story, and feel like it would have been better without those bits. Let's just have the family drama and the mystery. The romance to me felt forced and in no way enhanced my enjoyment.
This is a solid story though, and if you're someone who enjoys romance in your mysteries, that part may be a win for you. Overall, it was a fun way to kick off my Spooky Season reading, and I'm glad I gave it a shot.
Thank you to the publisher, Bantam, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I would recommend this as a fun witchy story. Bonus points if you enjoy tarot included in your Paranormal Mysteries.
Cards on the Table follows two witchy sisters, Tori and Cassie, who find themselves down on their luck when their tarot reading business is no longer able to sustain them. They're late on the rent for their subpar Salem apartment and are on the eve of eviction.
It's in this time of need that an apparent windfall is presented to them. A woman tracks them down and offers them a massive sum of money to travel to the Berkshires and play 'witches in residence' to an elderly widow.
They have mixed feelings, but honestly don't see a lot of other options. This is their chance to get the money they need to finally have stable housing. Therefore they agree to the terms and head to Western Massachusetts.
Upon arrival they're stunned by the opulence of the property. Surely, not just one family owns all of this. Then they meet said family. Oh boy, they're some toxic folks, except for Rose, the widow they're there to help.
She actually seems like a lovely woman, who called upon them because she has some unresolved spiritual needs before she passes, which seems imminent.
The dynamics in the house are complex though, and helping Rose without family intervention proves more difficult than one would expect. Tori and Cassie feel dangers around every corner. The house is a hotbed of competing motives, with everyone seemingly in it for themselves.
One fateful night, it happens. Rose dies. After her death, millions of dollars disappear from the estate overnight, and Tori and Cassie are instantly suspected as the culprits. The sisters were just there to try to help Rose, and get the money offered them for doing so. They wanted nothing else, but someone is clearly using them as the perfect scapegoats.
Can the sisters find out who the real thief is and prove their own innocence, or are they about to go down for a crime they didn't commit?
This is a cute book. I always enjoy the vibes of Lana Harper's books, as well as the character interactions, but unfortunately, the plots tend to feel a tad lackluster. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but I tend to zone out with Harper's writing at different points over the course of the stories.
I know this is cowritten, but honestly, I couldn't tell. It felt very much in-line with The Witches of Thistle Grove series, which I've also enjoyed and continued one with, but never loved, if that makes sense.
The set-up of this was really fun. I did love the down on their luck sisters being offered this incredible opportunity and them taking it. The setting of the Berkshires and the atmosphere of this mansion were also very well done.
Some of the family drama got a little confusing and overused for me. I know that part of the story was important for where the plot was going, but it was almost too drawn out, causing my attention to wax and wane.
After Rose's death, that's when I became locked in, as that was when Tori and Cassie were put to the test. There were suddenly heavier stakes and that was the bit I found the most interesting.
I didn't care for the romance aspects of the story, and feel like it would have been better without those bits. Let's just have the family drama and the mystery. The romance to me felt forced and in no way enhanced my enjoyment.
This is a solid story though, and if you're someone who enjoys romance in your mysteries, that part may be a win for you. Overall, it was a fun way to kick off my Spooky Season reading, and I'm glad I gave it a shot.
Thank you to the publisher, Bantam, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I would recommend this as a fun witchy story. Bonus points if you enjoy tarot included in your Paranormal Mysteries.
October 2, 2026
Fun premise, poor execution, frustrating ending
September 30, 2026
I didn’t care much for Payback’s a Witch, and the problems I had with that book can still be found here. The writing wasn’t for me, the pacing was way too slow, and everyone was annoying. I also thought the whole thing with Callum, Cassie, and Victoria with the paper under the mattress was a bit ridiculous. “House arrest” for circumstantial evidence that proves nothing? And the cop being like “don’t obstruct the investigation” and the “chain of command.” Do we even know what we’re writing?
There’s also hardly any supernatural elements in the book. Cassie and Tori spent more time talking about literally anything else than doing magic.
There’s also hardly any supernatural elements in the book. Cassie and Tori spent more time talking about literally anything else than doing magic.
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August 28, 2026Every Spooky Season I try to read a few paranormal book and this was one of my picks. Thanks to Bantam for sending an advance copy for review!
It was definitely a change from my usual twisty and suspenseful reads, but that's not a terrible thing!
Sisters Victoria "Tori" and Cassandra "Cassie" Bishop live in Salem and are descended from a witch who was burned at the stake. The sisters are opposites in personality, with the younger Cassie sweet and trusting and the older Tori more cynical and prickly. The two read tarot cards at local fairs to make ends meet, but are always short of money. One evening at their booth, an attractive woman named Brynn approaches them. She's a caregiver for Rose, an elderly woman in poor health who wants to contact her son, who passed away.
The money Brynn offers is hard to refuse, so they head to Rose's mansion. Rose, who has an interest in all things magical and occult, welcomes them. Rose's family is much less welcoming. As the sisters notice strange things around the house, they begin to wonder why they were really brought here.
Just a warning: Cards on the Table is NOT a fast paced book. It's more about the sisters' relationship and the spooky atmosphere of Rose's house. The mystery is more of a cozy one, though the resolution is clever.
I'd pick this up if you want a cozy mystery with a hint of the paranormal and some Practical Magic vibes.
It was definitely a change from my usual twisty and suspenseful reads, but that's not a terrible thing!
Sisters Victoria "Tori" and Cassandra "Cassie" Bishop live in Salem and are descended from a witch who was burned at the stake. The sisters are opposites in personality, with the younger Cassie sweet and trusting and the older Tori more cynical and prickly. The two read tarot cards at local fairs to make ends meet, but are always short of money. One evening at their booth, an attractive woman named Brynn approaches them. She's a caregiver for Rose, an elderly woman in poor health who wants to contact her son, who passed away.
The money Brynn offers is hard to refuse, so they head to Rose's mansion. Rose, who has an interest in all things magical and occult, welcomes them. Rose's family is much less welcoming. As the sisters notice strange things around the house, they begin to wonder why they were really brought here.
Just a warning: Cards on the Table is NOT a fast paced book. It's more about the sisters' relationship and the spooky atmosphere of Rose's house. The mystery is more of a cozy one, though the resolution is clever.
I'd pick this up if you want a cozy mystery with a hint of the paranormal and some Practical Magic vibes.
August 28, 2026
3.5 stars. The book is very slow to start but when the action gets going it gets GOING.
The character work is the standout: Tori and Cassie are realistic, with good and bad qualities, and a sisterly bond (that borders on trauma bond) that I can strongly relate to. Yes, my sister and I are similarly trauma bonded lol.
I really enjoyed the “mystery” but it honestly started too late in the story. It felt like the book was divided into parts that didn’t wholly connect. There were a lot of unexplained things written off as “magical” - not entirely relevant but enough to be mildly annoying.
Overall though I really loved this story. Both writers have a great balance of serious and fun, so it’s an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon, and Bantam for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The character work is the standout: Tori and Cassie are realistic, with good and bad qualities, and a sisterly bond (that borders on trauma bond) that I can strongly relate to. Yes, my sister and I are similarly trauma bonded lol.
I really enjoyed the “mystery” but it honestly started too late in the story. It felt like the book was divided into parts that didn’t wholly connect. There were a lot of unexplained things written off as “magical” - not entirely relevant but enough to be mildly annoying.
Overall though I really loved this story. Both writers have a great balance of serious and fun, so it’s an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon, and Bantam for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2026
📚 Cards on the Table
✍️ Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon
🎧 Narrated by Jess Moran & Helen Laser
📖 Dual ARC Read + Listen
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
This was such a unique read, and I absolutely loved it!
Two witchy sisters are hired by a wealthy older woman nearing the end of her life to figure out who in her family can actually be trusted. Seems simple enough... except absolutely no one feels trustworthy.
There’s extended family, hired help, police, hidden safes, rotting pumpkins, secret cameras, and plenty more. But the biggest questions remain: Who is playing the long con? Who is just a deplorable human being? And who, if anyone, can actually be trusted?
At any given point, I was pointing the finger at someone different, and that’s exactly what made this so much fun.
The sisters are incredibly different, each dealing with memories of their mother, their belief in their craft, complicated love interests, and their own baggage. Despite their differences, I found them both relatable in completely different ways.
The first half (and then some) really takes its time developing the characters, their relationships, and all the family dynamics surrounding Rose, the matriarch. Then Rose dies mid-séance, her money disappears, and suddenly the finger is pointed firmly at the sisters.
From there, we get a slow unraveling of what really happened, with suspicions shifting as more secrets come to light. I loved that the answers weren’t dumped on us all at once. Everything was revealed piece by piece, keeping me guessing along the way.
The narration by Jess Moran and Helen Laser was great and worked especially well for two sisters with such distinct personalities.
Definitely one for readers who enjoy witchy mysteries, dysfunctional families, suspicious characters, and trying to figure out who is conning whom.
✍️ Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon
🎧 Narrated by Jess Moran & Helen Laser
📖 Dual ARC Read + Listen
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
This was such a unique read, and I absolutely loved it!
Two witchy sisters are hired by a wealthy older woman nearing the end of her life to figure out who in her family can actually be trusted. Seems simple enough... except absolutely no one feels trustworthy.
There’s extended family, hired help, police, hidden safes, rotting pumpkins, secret cameras, and plenty more. But the biggest questions remain: Who is playing the long con? Who is just a deplorable human being? And who, if anyone, can actually be trusted?
At any given point, I was pointing the finger at someone different, and that’s exactly what made this so much fun.
The sisters are incredibly different, each dealing with memories of their mother, their belief in their craft, complicated love interests, and their own baggage. Despite their differences, I found them both relatable in completely different ways.
The first half (and then some) really takes its time developing the characters, their relationships, and all the family dynamics surrounding Rose, the matriarch. Then Rose dies mid-séance, her money disappears, and suddenly the finger is pointed firmly at the sisters.
From there, we get a slow unraveling of what really happened, with suspicions shifting as more secrets come to light. I loved that the answers weren’t dumped on us all at once. Everything was revealed piece by piece, keeping me guessing along the way.
The narration by Jess Moran and Helen Laser was great and worked especially well for two sisters with such distinct personalities.
Definitely one for readers who enjoy witchy mysteries, dysfunctional families, suspicious characters, and trying to figure out who is conning whom.
Read
September 17, 2026Couldn't get into this one. DNF 70 pages in.
September 11, 2026
The Cards On the table was Intriguing… But the story was still missing a little something...
There was so much about Cards on the Table that drew me in. The title, the premise, the witches, the tarot cards, the eerie atmosphere… I was IN. And honestly, the beginning hooked me right away.
Written by Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon, this story follows two sisters who are true witches with a family history tied to Salem, Oregon. They’re down on their luck and barely scraping by with their tarot and palm-reading tent when they’re given what seems like the perfect lifeline: an opportunity to move in with Rose, an eccentric older woman who is absolutely fascinated by witches and the occult plus a large compensation for doing what Rose wants. And at first, things seem pretty great.
Which, of course, is when the little alarm bells start going off.
Because things begin not to add up, and the sisters get the distinct feeling that something isn't quite right. Then Rose dies, they’re accused of stealing money, and suddenly they’re not only trying to clear their names but also trying to figure out whether those uneasy feelings they’ve been having are warning them that something much bigger is coming.
There’s a lot to like here. The mystery was fun, the atmosphere had that slightly eerie, spooky feeling that makes this a perfect fall read, and I absolutely loved the sisters. Their relationship was complicated, messy, and felt like there was a lot of history between them. Watching them navigate all of that while dealing with everything happening around them was one of my favorite parts of the story.
And let’s talk about that family… because WOW. They were absolutely miserable, and I had thoughts.
The premise really is fantastic, and there were moments when I was completely invested and dying to know what was going to happen next. But somewhere along the way, I felt myself starting to lose that connection with the story. The further I got, the more I felt like something was missing for me. I can't even put my finger on exactly what it was, which honestly makes it even more frustrating because there were so many pieces here that I SHOULD have loved.
The ending was…well, kind of happy, but also not really......? And while I appreciated where things ultimately landed, I was left with that feeling of “Okay… but I think I needed just a little MORE.”
That’s the hardest part about this one for me. I genuinely enjoyed so much of what was here, but the story just didn't completely come together for me the way I wanted it to.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you love witches, family secrets, mysteries, a little bit of creepiness, and books with a strong fall atmosphere.
For me, though, Cards on the Table was a case of loving the ingredients but never quite getting the finished dish I was craving. Still, give me witches, tarot cards, secrets, and an eerie old house in the fall and apparently I’m going to show up every single time.
There was so much about Cards on the Table that drew me in. The title, the premise, the witches, the tarot cards, the eerie atmosphere… I was IN. And honestly, the beginning hooked me right away.
Written by Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon, this story follows two sisters who are true witches with a family history tied to Salem, Oregon. They’re down on their luck and barely scraping by with their tarot and palm-reading tent when they’re given what seems like the perfect lifeline: an opportunity to move in with Rose, an eccentric older woman who is absolutely fascinated by witches and the occult plus a large compensation for doing what Rose wants. And at first, things seem pretty great.
Which, of course, is when the little alarm bells start going off.
Because things begin not to add up, and the sisters get the distinct feeling that something isn't quite right. Then Rose dies, they’re accused of stealing money, and suddenly they’re not only trying to clear their names but also trying to figure out whether those uneasy feelings they’ve been having are warning them that something much bigger is coming.
There’s a lot to like here. The mystery was fun, the atmosphere had that slightly eerie, spooky feeling that makes this a perfect fall read, and I absolutely loved the sisters. Their relationship was complicated, messy, and felt like there was a lot of history between them. Watching them navigate all of that while dealing with everything happening around them was one of my favorite parts of the story.
And let’s talk about that family… because WOW. They were absolutely miserable, and I had thoughts.
The premise really is fantastic, and there were moments when I was completely invested and dying to know what was going to happen next. But somewhere along the way, I felt myself starting to lose that connection with the story. The further I got, the more I felt like something was missing for me. I can't even put my finger on exactly what it was, which honestly makes it even more frustrating because there were so many pieces here that I SHOULD have loved.
The ending was…well, kind of happy, but also not really......? And while I appreciated where things ultimately landed, I was left with that feeling of “Okay… but I think I needed just a little MORE.”
That’s the hardest part about this one for me. I genuinely enjoyed so much of what was here, but the story just didn't completely come together for me the way I wanted it to.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you love witches, family secrets, mysteries, a little bit of creepiness, and books with a strong fall atmosphere.
For me, though, Cards on the Table was a case of loving the ingredients but never quite getting the finished dish I was craving. Still, give me witches, tarot cards, secrets, and an eerie old house in the fall and apparently I’m going to show up every single time.
October 24, 2026
I am such a fan of witchy books and layered sister relationships, so this was one I was excited for! Cassie and Tori are witches descended from one of the first Salem witches to be persecuted, and one of them wholeheartedly believes in their gifts while the other is a lot more skeptical. Regardless though, they are on the brink of eviction, and they accept the patronage of an elderly woman who is nearing the end of her life.
The book feels a bit like a locked room mystery, as each sister witnesses a variety of actions from the old woman’s relatives and staff, and they must use their gifts (both natural and supernatural) to figure out who may have committed a crime.
I enjoyed the sister dynamic, as well as the wild behaviors coming from the dysfunctional relatives as the old woman creeps closer to the end of her life. The push and pull between their natural gifts (like their empathic skills or abilities to spot micro-expressions) and their supernatural ones (tarot readings, crystal pendulum interpretations, and even seances) was fascinating to watch, as each sister tried to get the other to see their perspective. And the wild accusations coming from the others in the house, while being caught out for their own indiscretions, was ridiculous and dramatic in such a fun way.
I didn’t so much love some of the romantic entanglements or that I guessed the “whodunnit” so close to the beginning. (Though I’ll be the first to say I’m not a romance reader, and if you love some romance in your mystery stories, you’ll likely enjoy this aspect more than I did!) Overall though, I thought this was a fun read and it was perfect for spooky/witchy season!
Thanks to Bantam for the gifted copy of the book!
The book feels a bit like a locked room mystery, as each sister witnesses a variety of actions from the old woman’s relatives and staff, and they must use their gifts (both natural and supernatural) to figure out who may have committed a crime.
I enjoyed the sister dynamic, as well as the wild behaviors coming from the dysfunctional relatives as the old woman creeps closer to the end of her life. The push and pull between their natural gifts (like their empathic skills or abilities to spot micro-expressions) and their supernatural ones (tarot readings, crystal pendulum interpretations, and even seances) was fascinating to watch, as each sister tried to get the other to see their perspective. And the wild accusations coming from the others in the house, while being caught out for their own indiscretions, was ridiculous and dramatic in such a fun way.
I didn’t so much love some of the romantic entanglements or that I guessed the “whodunnit” so close to the beginning. (Though I’ll be the first to say I’m not a romance reader, and if you love some romance in your mystery stories, you’ll likely enjoy this aspect more than I did!) Overall though, I thought this was a fun read and it was perfect for spooky/witchy season!
Thanks to Bantam for the gifted copy of the book!
October 2, 2026
A really enjoyable, witchy mystery with two sisters, a complicated family, and plenty of secrets.
Regarding the main characters, I enjoyed getting to know Tori and Cassie. They have very different personalities, and I really liked seeing their relationship and the way they each approached tarot and everything happening around them. Their sisterly dynamic felt believable. They both had their own flaws and baggage.
The mystery was captivating, with plenty of suspicious characters and shifting secrets that kept me guessing about who could actually be trusted. I liked that the answers were revealed gradually rather than all at once.
My main issue was the pacing. It took a while for the story to really get going, and I did find the first half a little slow at times. I enjoyed the character development, but I believe the story could have moved a bit faster.
I also expected a little more tarot since it’s such a big part of the premise, but this felt more like a family mystery with tarot readers at the centre rather than a story really focused on tarot.
Overall, I had a good time with this book. It was an easy, entertaining read with interesting characters and an interesting premise.
Regarding the main characters, I enjoyed getting to know Tori and Cassie. They have very different personalities, and I really liked seeing their relationship and the way they each approached tarot and everything happening around them. Their sisterly dynamic felt believable. They both had their own flaws and baggage.
The mystery was captivating, with plenty of suspicious characters and shifting secrets that kept me guessing about who could actually be trusted. I liked that the answers were revealed gradually rather than all at once.
My main issue was the pacing. It took a while for the story to really get going, and I did find the first half a little slow at times. I enjoyed the character development, but I believe the story could have moved a bit faster.
I also expected a little more tarot since it’s such a big part of the premise, but this felt more like a family mystery with tarot readers at the centre rather than a story really focused on tarot.
Overall, I had a good time with this book. It was an easy, entertaining read with interesting characters and an interesting premise.
September 7, 2026
A really enjoyable and light Mystery.
Lana Harper has previously written some fun witchy books that I enjoyed, so I was eager to try this one. And it doesn’t disappoint.
Two sisters who are tarot readers find themselves mixed up in an inheritance mystery with a truly awful family in this cozy-ish mystery.
This is a dual POV novel, and each of the sisters is a distinct and well-rendered voice. There’s some nuance to their relationship and certainly to how they approach their profession, all of which plays into the mystery that is the focus of the plot.
There’s less detail about tarot here than I would have hoped for given the way the book advertises itself as centering on that theme, but what tarot content we do get is interesting and well crafted.
To that end this is more a mystery than a book about tarot readers, which makes the publishers summary a bit misleading but doesn’t mean it isn’t a good book.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Lana Harper has previously written some fun witchy books that I enjoyed, so I was eager to try this one. And it doesn’t disappoint.
Two sisters who are tarot readers find themselves mixed up in an inheritance mystery with a truly awful family in this cozy-ish mystery.
This is a dual POV novel, and each of the sisters is a distinct and well-rendered voice. There’s some nuance to their relationship and certainly to how they approach their profession, all of which plays into the mystery that is the focus of the plot.
There’s less detail about tarot here than I would have hoped for given the way the book advertises itself as centering on that theme, but what tarot content we do get is interesting and well crafted.
To that end this is more a mystery than a book about tarot readers, which makes the publishers summary a bit misleading but doesn’t mean it isn’t a good book.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
September 3, 2026
Thank you to Ballentine for this eARC. This was an interesting read. It's a little different than something I would normally pick up. A witchy whodone it kind of. It kind of skims along the surface of the witchy aspects, dancing on the line of if even the characters believe in what they are doing or if they are just in it for the money. I think I was a little thrown off, expecting a heavier romance aspect but still a very solid read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 12, 2026Review of advanced copy received from Netgalley
A cute short read. It started off a bit slow and the mystery behind it didn’t start until half way through the book. There is a lottttt of family drama. But it was a cute read with a twist at the end.
Big thanks to Netgalley & the Author for providing this advanced reader copy in exchange for my review. All thoughts and honest opinions are my own.
A cute short read. It started off a bit slow and the mystery behind it didn’t start until half way through the book. There is a lottttt of family drama. But it was a cute read with a twist at the end.
Big thanks to Netgalley & the Author for providing this advanced reader copy in exchange for my review. All thoughts and honest opinions are my own.
August 24, 2026
This was such a fun book to get and review!
It for sure put me in the spooky mood for this season!
Lana Harper is one of my all time favorite authors! And she once again delivered on this book!
It has twist and turns! It surprised me in the perfect Lana Harper type of way!
I would recommend this to enter into spooky season when it drops!
Writing 4⭐️
Vibes 5⭐️
It for sure put me in the spooky mood for this season!
Lana Harper is one of my all time favorite authors! And she once again delivered on this book!
It has twist and turns! It surprised me in the perfect Lana Harper type of way!
I would recommend this to enter into spooky season when it drops!
Writing 4⭐️
Vibes 5⭐️
September 12, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the authors for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest feedback.
House of Cards is a closed door, witchy mystery that feels a lot like the game of Clue. I loved the cozy witchy magic and the “whodunnit” mystery of this book. There are some spooky elements which were perfect for a rainy fall weekend. I really enjoyed this book, overall.
House of Cards is a closed door, witchy mystery that feels a lot like the game of Clue. I loved the cozy witchy magic and the “whodunnit” mystery of this book. There are some spooky elements which were perfect for a rainy fall weekend. I really enjoyed this book, overall.
September 23, 2026
Reminded me of Knives Out but instead of Detective Blanc on the case it was two witchy sisters! Kind of predicted what would happen but it was fun and I really enjoyed it!
September 18, 2026
Read for B&N book club, 2.5 to 3 stars!! Im surprised this book isn't YA because it was very mild. I like a cozy mystery, but listening on audio the first 70% were honestly kind of slow imo. The mystery in the last 30% unfolds slowly, nothing too interesting or crazy tbh, and then the ending is basically roses lol. At the end they've made peace with everyone and are more successful than ever - YAY?
September 22, 2026
I would say this book lost the plot but that would require this book to have a plot to lose. I got to a little past 50% and I have no idea what the mystery is and I have no idea what the overall plot of this book is. All I know is these sisters have never once spoken to each other, somehow, given the way they fight and the author decided a plot mattered less than the romance.
I went into this hoping for spooky and mystery and was wildly disappointed on both fronts.
I went into this hoping for spooky and mystery and was wildly disappointed on both fronts.
September 8, 2026
thanks to netgalley & ballantine | bantam for the arc!!
cards on the table had me in the first half but then completely lost me unfortunately.
the book starts off with our two main characters, sisters of course, struggling and trying to make a living. they get the chance to stay at a gothic manor for a wealthy widow, rose, in the berkshires. but when rose dies and her money goes missing, the sisters realize they're in for much more than what they bargained for.
this all sounded so interesting to me and i was on the edge of my seat. the setting? spooky. the vibes? immaculate. everything was great until the climax. the climax and therefore the resolution didn't pay off anything at all. i read through until the end and i just kept asking myself if that was actually it.
overall, i was very disappointed with this book :/
cards on the table had me in the first half but then completely lost me unfortunately.
the book starts off with our two main characters, sisters of course, struggling and trying to make a living. they get the chance to stay at a gothic manor for a wealthy widow, rose, in the berkshires. but when rose dies and her money goes missing, the sisters realize they're in for much more than what they bargained for.
this all sounded so interesting to me and i was on the edge of my seat. the setting? spooky. the vibes? immaculate. everything was great until the climax. the climax and therefore the resolution didn't pay off anything at all. i read through until the end and i just kept asking myself if that was actually it.
overall, i was very disappointed with this book :/
October 14, 2026
I’m sorry it has a lot of potential with its atmosphere and premise but it’s literally so boring and I found out the mystery doesn’t really start until about 2/3 through the book so like what could possibly entertain me between then and now it can’t be the characters and their abrupt weird little love stories
September 8, 2026
This was just meh for me. The dynamic between Tori and Cassie was uncomfortable throughout the book. Neither of them had any real redeeming qualities. The plot was predictable from the start but the ending still felt like a let down. After all thst complaining and whining this is the choice they make? Plus I’m sorry but keeping that item and selling it later was also sketchy and well…theft.
October 6, 2026
This book couldn't end soon enough.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✦⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆✦
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
★★★ ¼
THANK YOU NETGALLEY AND LANA HARPER & JILLY GAGNON!
🔮💜🪄🌕🕯️
It wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing either. I definitely think this is one of those books where the timing has to be right because it has a very specific vibe. If you're in the mood for something cozy, atmospheric, and a little quirky, I could see it being a much better experience.
The first chapter was very slow, and the jump in pacing from chapter one to chapter two gave me a bit of whiplash. Once things got moving, I found myself having a good time. It didn't completely wow me but it was entertaining enough to keep me reading. And honestly...a witchy mystery plot? Yessss please.
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
★★★ ¼
THANK YOU NETGALLEY AND LANA HARPER & JILLY GAGNON!
🔮💜🪄🌕🕯️
It wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing either. I definitely think this is one of those books where the timing has to be right because it has a very specific vibe. If you're in the mood for something cozy, atmospheric, and a little quirky, I could see it being a much better experience.
The first chapter was very slow, and the jump in pacing from chapter one to chapter two gave me a bit of whiplash. Once things got moving, I found myself having a good time. It didn't completely wow me but it was entertaining enough to keep me reading. And honestly...a witchy mystery plot? Yessss please.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Cards on the Table
~Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon
Cards on the Table by Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon doesn't just shuffle the deck, it deals you a hand full of secrets, then dares you to call the bluff.
It's fall in Salem, and sisters Tori and Cassie are working their booth at the Faire of Darkness, reading tarot, creating spell jars and sachets, and providing whatever else tourists request. The two are direct descendants of Bridget Bishop, one of the first women persecuted during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Frustration runs deep as business isn't as fruitful as they'd hoped, but when a stranger shows up offering them a "witches-in-residence" gig for her client, Mrs. Rose Berwyn, Tori vehemently expresses her disapproval of the idea, while Cassie reluctantly goes along with her sister.
But after a run-in with their landlady, Mrs. DiRenza, and an eviction notice, Tori reconsiders the offer. Soon, she and Cassie are on their way to the Berkshires to meet Mrs. Berwyn. Once they arrive, however, they discover that far more is at stake than they were led to believe. Prickly family members abound, the staff deserves a second look, and secrets are stacked like tightly packed tarot decks. The Bishop sisters soon realize they are more than just a magic act for a lonely old woman. Something far darker is lurking beneath this family's estate, and their only way out is to utilize their magic as it was destined to be used, along with a healthy dose of street smarts.
I am really enjoying these dual-authorship novels. Having two points of view and two authors writing the characters gives the story additional depth and likability. Tori and Cassie are the beating heart of this book. Both experienced trauma at a young age after being abandoned by their mother. Tori shielded Cassie from the ugliness of what happened, giving her good memories of their mom while carrying the weight of the painful truth herself.
The sisters are as different as orange and black socks, yet they mesh surprisingly well, creating a team that functions with all the messy, protective, hilarious energy of a true sisterly unit. Readers are immersed in their banter, real emotions, and protectiveness that extends far beyond their occasional animosity.
Rose, the widow nearing the end of her life, is another important focal point of the story. She's witty, intelligent, and sharp for a woman approaching 90 while battling congestive heart failure. Her grief feels genuine, and her journey toward salvation is clear. The supporting characters do more than simply hand out candy for Halloween. Their roles are well defined, giving them a sense of necessity rather than making them feel like characters dropped in simply to add definition to the story.
Harper and Gagnon do not short-change readers when it comes to atmosphere. From the shadows cast by skeletal trees to ancient, warped windows that feel like narrow eyes watching from the darkness, the setting practically breathes around the characters. There are eyes that seem to trap others in their clutches, secrets hiding behind every corner, and a sense that something is always watching.
This is a slow-burn paranormal thriller with a touch of romance that checks all the boxes if you're looking for your next fall read. Cards on the Table is scheduled for release on September 1, 2026, and I highly suggest adding this one to your TBR now in preparation for its release in less than two weeks!
Finally, how amazing would it be to create a sister-bond like Lana and Jilly have, writing together with the kind of passion and friendship that bleeds through the pages? To Lana and Jilly, if you ever need a third Musketeer, I'm just saying, I'm available. 😉
I would like to thank NetGalley, Penguin Random House, and authors Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon for the opportunity to preview Cards on the Table. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. Karen Brooks aka The Tx Lit Chic I have not been promised any compensation, current or future, by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review of Cards on the Table.
~Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon
Cards on the Table by Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon doesn't just shuffle the deck, it deals you a hand full of secrets, then dares you to call the bluff.
It's fall in Salem, and sisters Tori and Cassie are working their booth at the Faire of Darkness, reading tarot, creating spell jars and sachets, and providing whatever else tourists request. The two are direct descendants of Bridget Bishop, one of the first women persecuted during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Frustration runs deep as business isn't as fruitful as they'd hoped, but when a stranger shows up offering them a "witches-in-residence" gig for her client, Mrs. Rose Berwyn, Tori vehemently expresses her disapproval of the idea, while Cassie reluctantly goes along with her sister.
But after a run-in with their landlady, Mrs. DiRenza, and an eviction notice, Tori reconsiders the offer. Soon, she and Cassie are on their way to the Berkshires to meet Mrs. Berwyn. Once they arrive, however, they discover that far more is at stake than they were led to believe. Prickly family members abound, the staff deserves a second look, and secrets are stacked like tightly packed tarot decks. The Bishop sisters soon realize they are more than just a magic act for a lonely old woman. Something far darker is lurking beneath this family's estate, and their only way out is to utilize their magic as it was destined to be used, along with a healthy dose of street smarts.
I am really enjoying these dual-authorship novels. Having two points of view and two authors writing the characters gives the story additional depth and likability. Tori and Cassie are the beating heart of this book. Both experienced trauma at a young age after being abandoned by their mother. Tori shielded Cassie from the ugliness of what happened, giving her good memories of their mom while carrying the weight of the painful truth herself.
The sisters are as different as orange and black socks, yet they mesh surprisingly well, creating a team that functions with all the messy, protective, hilarious energy of a true sisterly unit. Readers are immersed in their banter, real emotions, and protectiveness that extends far beyond their occasional animosity.
Rose, the widow nearing the end of her life, is another important focal point of the story. She's witty, intelligent, and sharp for a woman approaching 90 while battling congestive heart failure. Her grief feels genuine, and her journey toward salvation is clear. The supporting characters do more than simply hand out candy for Halloween. Their roles are well defined, giving them a sense of necessity rather than making them feel like characters dropped in simply to add definition to the story.
Harper and Gagnon do not short-change readers when it comes to atmosphere. From the shadows cast by skeletal trees to ancient, warped windows that feel like narrow eyes watching from the darkness, the setting practically breathes around the characters. There are eyes that seem to trap others in their clutches, secrets hiding behind every corner, and a sense that something is always watching.
This is a slow-burn paranormal thriller with a touch of romance that checks all the boxes if you're looking for your next fall read. Cards on the Table is scheduled for release on September 1, 2026, and I highly suggest adding this one to your TBR now in preparation for its release in less than two weeks!
Finally, how amazing would it be to create a sister-bond like Lana and Jilly have, writing together with the kind of passion and friendship that bleeds through the pages? To Lana and Jilly, if you ever need a third Musketeer, I'm just saying, I'm available. 😉
I would like to thank NetGalley, Penguin Random House, and authors Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon for the opportunity to preview Cards on the Table. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. Karen Brooks aka The Tx Lit Chic I have not been promised any compensation, current or future, by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review of Cards on the Table.
October 24, 2026
Two very different sisters, a suspicious household and enough family drama to keep me happily minding everyone's business.
What a delightful little cosy mystery!
Cards on the Table gave me Practical Magic vibes, although the magic is more understated and there aren't quite the same problems involving dead bodies. It's atmospheric, entertaining and full of family secrets, but what really made this book enjoyable for me was the relationship between Cassie and Tori.
Grumpy Tori and sunshine Cassie couldn't be more different on the surface. They have contrasting personalities and approaches to life, but beneath those differences is a wonderful sense of loyalty. Their mother abandoned them when they were young, and I loved seeing how that shared history shaped their relationship. They may not always agree, but they genuinely want the best for each other.
I especially appreciated how Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon handled the alternating perspectives. Cassie and Tori have such distinct voices that I never found myself wondering whose chapter I was reading. I've read enough dual-POV novels where the characters sound practically identical to appreciate when authors get this right!
The mystery unfolds at a fairly relaxed pace initially, allowing us to become involved in the sisters' lives and their relationship with Rose before everything begins to unravel.
And there is quite a lot to unravel!
Family secrets, questionable motives, complicated relationships and a household where practically everyone seems to have something to hide. I thoroughly enjoyed being a fly on the wall while the different layers were gradually revealed.
The action picks up considerably towards the final chapters, but I didn't mind the slower build-up. It gave me time to become invested in the characters rather than simply follow a trail of clues.
There's also a romantic subplot, which I appreciated precisely because it wasn't given disproportionate attention. It complemented the story without distracting from the relationship between the sisters or the mystery itself.
I particularly liked how the authors handled the sapphic representation. One of the sisters is sapphic, but that isn't made her entire personality. She's allowed to have complicated family relationships, ambitions, flaws and concerns that have nothing to do with her sexuality. I appreciate representation that feels like a natural part of a fully realised character rather than the entirety of her characterisation.
As for the whodunnit? The authors certainly make an effort to keep everyone looking suspicious! I had my theories, and some of the revelations were fairly predictable, but not in a way that made the story feel ridiculous or spoiled my enjoyment.
Sometimes it's satisfying to have your suspicions confirmed, especially when you've enjoyed the journey getting there.
Ultimately, I don't think Cards on the Table needs to be a particularly intricate mystery to succeed. Its charm lies in the characters, their relationships and the entertaining family drama surrounding them.
It was an easy, engaging read with an interesting premise, plenty of secrets and just enough witchiness to make things interesting.
I had a thoroughly good time with this one, and sometimes that's exactly what I want from a book.
Disclosure: I was gifted a copy by the authors. All opinions are my own.
What a delightful little cosy mystery!
Cards on the Table gave me Practical Magic vibes, although the magic is more understated and there aren't quite the same problems involving dead bodies. It's atmospheric, entertaining and full of family secrets, but what really made this book enjoyable for me was the relationship between Cassie and Tori.
Grumpy Tori and sunshine Cassie couldn't be more different on the surface. They have contrasting personalities and approaches to life, but beneath those differences is a wonderful sense of loyalty. Their mother abandoned them when they were young, and I loved seeing how that shared history shaped their relationship. They may not always agree, but they genuinely want the best for each other.
I especially appreciated how Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon handled the alternating perspectives. Cassie and Tori have such distinct voices that I never found myself wondering whose chapter I was reading. I've read enough dual-POV novels where the characters sound practically identical to appreciate when authors get this right!
The mystery unfolds at a fairly relaxed pace initially, allowing us to become involved in the sisters' lives and their relationship with Rose before everything begins to unravel.
And there is quite a lot to unravel!
Family secrets, questionable motives, complicated relationships and a household where practically everyone seems to have something to hide. I thoroughly enjoyed being a fly on the wall while the different layers were gradually revealed.
The action picks up considerably towards the final chapters, but I didn't mind the slower build-up. It gave me time to become invested in the characters rather than simply follow a trail of clues.
There's also a romantic subplot, which I appreciated precisely because it wasn't given disproportionate attention. It complemented the story without distracting from the relationship between the sisters or the mystery itself.
I particularly liked how the authors handled the sapphic representation. One of the sisters is sapphic, but that isn't made her entire personality. She's allowed to have complicated family relationships, ambitions, flaws and concerns that have nothing to do with her sexuality. I appreciate representation that feels like a natural part of a fully realised character rather than the entirety of her characterisation.
As for the whodunnit? The authors certainly make an effort to keep everyone looking suspicious! I had my theories, and some of the revelations were fairly predictable, but not in a way that made the story feel ridiculous or spoiled my enjoyment.
Sometimes it's satisfying to have your suspicions confirmed, especially when you've enjoyed the journey getting there.
Ultimately, I don't think Cards on the Table needs to be a particularly intricate mystery to succeed. Its charm lies in the characters, their relationships and the entertaining family drama surrounding them.
It was an easy, engaging read with an interesting premise, plenty of secrets and just enough witchiness to make things interesting.
I had a thoroughly good time with this one, and sometimes that's exactly what I want from a book.
Disclosure: I was gifted a copy by the authors. All opinions are my own.
September 3, 2026
When a too-good-to-be-true opportunity to make some real money falls in their lap, Tori and Cassie Bishop are skeptical…until circumstances leave them little choice. Carpe Diem. Though they were recruited to entertain a sick old woman with an interest in the occult, they quickly realize all is not as it seems. The creepy mansion is full of suspicious characters, and events quickly spiral out of control.
What a deeply ironic title; literally no one has their cards on the table. This book is a guessing game of who to suspect most…without knowing entirely what to suspect them of. There are several reasonable options. Think Knives Out, but with witches.
This book is difficult to quantify. On one hand, the plot largely follows a known plot pattern, but does so reasonably well. On the other, there was a twist, well-seeded so an engaged reader could make a few cunning deductions, that livened things up considerably. Emotionally, some parts were genuinely stressful—evocative, but not entirely pleasant. I’m torn on the ending. I like one part and not the other.
Tori—I may be biased; I identified with her more—showed definite growth. Cassie attempted to grow, but switched naivete for cynicism until her sister corrected her mindset. The desire to grow is admirable; to struggle with it, human. This started as a criticism, but now I’m coming around to it. There is deep friction between Cassie’s rose-colored perspective and Tori’s more informed acquaintance with reality.
Brynn was fun; Rose was both delightful and irritating by turns. I haven’t made up my mind about Parker. Linda and Callum—well, there’s one (or more) in every family. Detective Hillary was, to be honest, a wasted opportunity. He could have brought a bit of comedy, competence, or a fresher version of the bumbling, puffed-up detective. Instead, he was a bit standard, though his role was brief.
The two areas where the story truly shines are style and emotional impact. It reads as a fairly straight narrative, not poetic and not too puzzling, but there is a subtlety I very much admire. It’s a risk; it requires attentive reading, but once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
Again, emotionally, I needed a breath here and there. The Bishop sisters’ history is not an easy one. Almost everyone in the story has some degree of trauma—well, people do, don’t they? The biases that betray themselves, the sibling drama, the struggle to survive all feel heavy. I’d advise reading this when you’re already in a good mood; if you're already dealing with a few things, read at your own risk. Maybe have some Twizzlers near at hand—something to gnaw on a bit.
Cards on the Table will have fairly wide appeal in the contemporary fantasy genre—there’s mystery, personal growth, and a light whiff of romance. The setup is familiar, but it does take a few risks.
Thank you, Ballantine/Bantam, for the opportunity to read Cards on the Table. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am voluntarily writing this review.
What a deeply ironic title; literally no one has their cards on the table. This book is a guessing game of who to suspect most…without knowing entirely what to suspect them of. There are several reasonable options. Think Knives Out, but with witches.
This book is difficult to quantify. On one hand, the plot largely follows a known plot pattern, but does so reasonably well. On the other, there was a twist, well-seeded so an engaged reader could make a few cunning deductions, that livened things up considerably. Emotionally, some parts were genuinely stressful—evocative, but not entirely pleasant. I’m torn on the ending. I like one part and not the other.
Tori—I may be biased; I identified with her more—showed definite growth. Cassie attempted to grow, but switched naivete for cynicism until her sister corrected her mindset. The desire to grow is admirable; to struggle with it, human. This started as a criticism, but now I’m coming around to it. There is deep friction between Cassie’s rose-colored perspective and Tori’s more informed acquaintance with reality.
Brynn was fun; Rose was both delightful and irritating by turns. I haven’t made up my mind about Parker. Linda and Callum—well, there’s one (or more) in every family. Detective Hillary was, to be honest, a wasted opportunity. He could have brought a bit of comedy, competence, or a fresher version of the bumbling, puffed-up detective. Instead, he was a bit standard, though his role was brief.
The two areas where the story truly shines are style and emotional impact. It reads as a fairly straight narrative, not poetic and not too puzzling, but there is a subtlety I very much admire. It’s a risk; it requires attentive reading, but once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
Again, emotionally, I needed a breath here and there. The Bishop sisters’ history is not an easy one. Almost everyone in the story has some degree of trauma—well, people do, don’t they? The biases that betray themselves, the sibling drama, the struggle to survive all feel heavy. I’d advise reading this when you’re already in a good mood; if you're already dealing with a few things, read at your own risk. Maybe have some Twizzlers near at hand—something to gnaw on a bit.
Cards on the Table will have fairly wide appeal in the contemporary fantasy genre—there’s mystery, personal growth, and a light whiff of romance. The setup is familiar, but it does take a few risks.
Thank you, Ballantine/Bantam, for the opportunity to read Cards on the Table. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am voluntarily writing this review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Bishop Sisters, Victoria (Tori) and Cassandra (Cassie), are descendants of Bridget Bishop, the first woman to be executed for witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials. Using their lineage in order to make a living, they are modern day practicing witches. When they are offered the job of a lifetime, with enough pay in order to live their frugal lives, they cannot pass it up. But little do they know that accepting this job will quickly turn their lives upside down.
Tori Bishop is the more practical sister. While she plays the role well, she doesn't fully believe in the magic they spew. As the older sister, and having to take care of Cassie on her own since she was 12 years old after their mother abandoned them, she needed to be more motherly, more practical, thinking of everything they needed to do in order to live and survive. On the other hand, Cassie Bishop is more of a free-spirit, believing wholeheartedly in her abilities, in the magic that was descended down to them over many generations, and even holding onto the idea of her mother being more saintly than Tori remembers despite being well aware of the abandonment.
Throughout the novel, Cassie is quite frankly, for lack of a better word, annoying. At 26 years old, you would think she would act more like an adult instead of a lower-age teenager, but this is not the case through about 80% of the novel. While I think she wants to see the best in people, her ability to overlook what is clearly in front of her face makes you want to smack her. Tori being the actual head on their shoulders helped, allowing us to see that she did what needed to be done in order to get by.
Like any other mystery novel, it comes with a slew of shady characters, going back and forth of getting along with our sisters or completely tossing them to the side. The most enigmatic of this is Rose, the overall "matriarch" of the family, who hires the sisters herself to indulge in her love for the occult. But like any other 90 year old woman (or man), she comes off as crotchety, only caring for herself and those she deems worthy of her love and affection.
Overall, I'm giving this one 3 stars. I loved the story - the massive estate, the witchy vibes (sort of wish I could have read this one in October, full on fall going on outside, but alas, I made due), the book starting and ending in Salem, where many woman had lost their lives over supposed witchcraft. However, I knocked two stars off of the book because of the ending. The Sisters spend the entire time bashing their mother (or at least one of the sisters does), only to decide to end up just like her. I figured a novel where they spent the entirety of it having to prove their worth would end up enjoying their newfound money, allowing them to actually work a decent job for a living.
Thank you to Netgalley, authors Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon and Penguin Random House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tori Bishop is the more practical sister. While she plays the role well, she doesn't fully believe in the magic they spew. As the older sister, and having to take care of Cassie on her own since she was 12 years old after their mother abandoned them, she needed to be more motherly, more practical, thinking of everything they needed to do in order to live and survive. On the other hand, Cassie Bishop is more of a free-spirit, believing wholeheartedly in her abilities, in the magic that was descended down to them over many generations, and even holding onto the idea of her mother being more saintly than Tori remembers despite being well aware of the abandonment.
Throughout the novel, Cassie is quite frankly, for lack of a better word, annoying. At 26 years old, you would think she would act more like an adult instead of a lower-age teenager, but this is not the case through about 80% of the novel. While I think she wants to see the best in people, her ability to overlook what is clearly in front of her face makes you want to smack her. Tori being the actual head on their shoulders helped, allowing us to see that she did what needed to be done in order to get by.
Like any other mystery novel, it comes with a slew of shady characters, going back and forth of getting along with our sisters or completely tossing them to the side. The most enigmatic of this is Rose, the overall "matriarch" of the family, who hires the sisters herself to indulge in her love for the occult. But like any other 90 year old woman (or man), she comes off as crotchety, only caring for herself and those she deems worthy of her love and affection.
Overall, I'm giving this one 3 stars. I loved the story - the massive estate, the witchy vibes (sort of wish I could have read this one in October, full on fall going on outside, but alas, I made due), the book starting and ending in Salem, where many woman had lost their lives over supposed witchcraft. However, I knocked two stars off of the book because of the ending. The Sisters spend the entire time bashing their mother (or at least one of the sisters does), only to decide to end up just like her. I figured a novel where they spent the entirety of it having to prove their worth would end up enjoying their newfound money, allowing them to actually work a decent job for a living.
Thank you to Netgalley, authors Lana Harper and Jilly Gagnon and Penguin Random House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy received from NetGalley
Cards on the Table
By: Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon
Publisher: Ballantine
Pub Date: September 2026
Mystery
Thriller
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A little witchcraft, a lot of family secrets, and enough chaos to hook you from the start!
This was such a fun blend of witchcraft, cozy mystery, family secrets, and fall atmosphere—basically everything I want in an autumn read.
Tori and Cassie Bishop are sisters, descendants of a Salem witch, and struggling to make ends meet with their tarot readings. So when they’re offered a chance to become “witches in residence” at a secluded Berkshires mansion for the fall, they jump at the opportunity.
Before long, Rose, the wealthy widow who hired them, is dead after a séance, her fortune has disappeared, and Tori and Cassie are caught in the middle of a locked-room mystery filled with greed, deception, family secrets, and more than a little skulduggery. Someone is running a dangerous con, and the sisters may be the perfect people to take the blame.
What I loved:
* The fall atmosphere was absolutely perfect. An old gothic mansion, dead leaves, seclusion, séances, secrets… pass me the pumpkin spice and let me move into Berwyn House!
* The sister dynamic was definitely the highlight. Watching Tori and Cassie reflect on their past and present, work through their differences, and realize how much stronger they are together was beautifully done.
* There was a great cast of characters—some intriguing, some questionable, and some downright suspicious. Let’s just say trust was in short supply!
* Family secrets, hidden agendas, scams, surprises, and a hint of romance kept things moving.
* And of course, there was plenty of great banter and chaos along the way.
I especially enjoyed watching the sisters’ character development. Beneath all the witchy fun was a really sweet story about family, forgiveness, growth, and realizing that sometimes the person who understands you best is the one standing right beside you.
Cards on the table: this is a cozy, atmospheric mystery with a secluded mansion, a séance, a suspicious death, missing millions, family drama, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing.
Some characters worked better for me than others, but Rose’s story and her desire to make amends added another emotional layer that I appreciated.
Overall, this was a fun, entertaining, witchy mystery with serious fall vibes and a wonderful sister relationship at its heart. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with a little magic, family secrets, twists, and plenty of autumn atmosphere, add this one to your fall TBR!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for an advanced ARC copy in exchange for a review.
#CardsontheTable, #LanaHarper, #JillyGagnon, #BallantinePublishing, #NetGalley, #Mystery, #Thriller,
Cards on the Table
By: Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon
Publisher: Ballantine
Pub Date: September 2026
Mystery
Thriller
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A little witchcraft, a lot of family secrets, and enough chaos to hook you from the start!
This was such a fun blend of witchcraft, cozy mystery, family secrets, and fall atmosphere—basically everything I want in an autumn read.
Tori and Cassie Bishop are sisters, descendants of a Salem witch, and struggling to make ends meet with their tarot readings. So when they’re offered a chance to become “witches in residence” at a secluded Berkshires mansion for the fall, they jump at the opportunity.
Before long, Rose, the wealthy widow who hired them, is dead after a séance, her fortune has disappeared, and Tori and Cassie are caught in the middle of a locked-room mystery filled with greed, deception, family secrets, and more than a little skulduggery. Someone is running a dangerous con, and the sisters may be the perfect people to take the blame.
What I loved:
* The fall atmosphere was absolutely perfect. An old gothic mansion, dead leaves, seclusion, séances, secrets… pass me the pumpkin spice and let me move into Berwyn House!
* The sister dynamic was definitely the highlight. Watching Tori and Cassie reflect on their past and present, work through their differences, and realize how much stronger they are together was beautifully done.
* There was a great cast of characters—some intriguing, some questionable, and some downright suspicious. Let’s just say trust was in short supply!
* Family secrets, hidden agendas, scams, surprises, and a hint of romance kept things moving.
* And of course, there was plenty of great banter and chaos along the way.
I especially enjoyed watching the sisters’ character development. Beneath all the witchy fun was a really sweet story about family, forgiveness, growth, and realizing that sometimes the person who understands you best is the one standing right beside you.
Cards on the table: this is a cozy, atmospheric mystery with a secluded mansion, a séance, a suspicious death, missing millions, family drama, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing.
Some characters worked better for me than others, but Rose’s story and her desire to make amends added another emotional layer that I appreciated.
Overall, this was a fun, entertaining, witchy mystery with serious fall vibes and a wonderful sister relationship at its heart. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with a little magic, family secrets, twists, and plenty of autumn atmosphere, add this one to your fall TBR!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for an advanced ARC copy in exchange for a review.
#CardsontheTable, #LanaHarper, #JillyGagnon, #BallantinePublishing, #NetGalley, #Mystery, #Thriller,
October 4, 2026
I love cozy, witchy vibes for a good fall read, and I loved the Witches of Thistle Grove series, so I was very excited for this book.
The good: I loved the “magical sisters descended from witches who run a magic business in a touristy town” concept, which felt reminiscent of The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling. Lana Harper always writes fun main characters with wit and humor, and that was definitely present here. The premise of a witchy whodunnit had me hooked right away. Another thing I loved was that the sisters’ magical self-identities were evolving in the book. One sister, Cassie, 100% believes magic is real and is very dedicated to her craft, but finds herself doubting and questioning. The other sister, Tori, believes they are essentially honorable swindlers until she experiences magic for herself.
The not-as-good: 3/4 of the book is not really a whodunnit. It’s more about the sisters going to a creepy mansion, being stressed about finances, fighting amongst themselves, and having suspicious interactions with a rich woman’s awful family. I kept thinking that we surely were going to get to a murder-y mystery soon, but that portion of the book was short and, unfortunately, predictable.
I gave it 3.5 stars rounded up because I love the fall, witchy vibes and Lana Harper’s witty writing style. See below for in-depth critiques on particular plot points, with spoilers.
*big spoiler alert, do not read further if you haven’t read or don’t want big spoilers* From the synopsis, I was under the (perhaps misguided) idea that Rose would be murdered and have her bank account drained by somebody eager to get her inheritance. But Rose wasn’t murdered at all, and it was immediately obvious that Brynn had absconded with the money. So instead of a whodunnit, the book was mostly just about the stress to see if the sisters would survive their financial situation and the awful cast of supporting characters. I didn’t really feel that the “Rose connecting with son” aspect was satisfactory, either, but I don’t have any real reason for that, only that I thought it wasn’t explored deeply enough.
And I was extremely disappointed that Tori and Cassie would agree to team up with Brynn at the end. I had a feeling Brynn would reappear, but I thought it would be more of a wink and nod situation. Instead, to me it was unclear whether Tori and Cassie were agreeing to help Brynn by offering legitimate witch services, or were they essentially agreeing to help her run more scams? Even if Rose gave her the money, Brynn admitted to being a legitimate fraudster, exactly the type of person I couldn’t imagine Tori and Cassie bringing into their business.
The good: I loved the “magical sisters descended from witches who run a magic business in a touristy town” concept, which felt reminiscent of The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling. Lana Harper always writes fun main characters with wit and humor, and that was definitely present here. The premise of a witchy whodunnit had me hooked right away. Another thing I loved was that the sisters’ magical self-identities were evolving in the book. One sister, Cassie, 100% believes magic is real and is very dedicated to her craft, but finds herself doubting and questioning. The other sister, Tori, believes they are essentially honorable swindlers until she experiences magic for herself.
The not-as-good: 3/4 of the book is not really a whodunnit. It’s more about the sisters going to a creepy mansion, being stressed about finances, fighting amongst themselves, and having suspicious interactions with a rich woman’s awful family. I kept thinking that we surely were going to get to a murder-y mystery soon, but that portion of the book was short and, unfortunately, predictable.
I gave it 3.5 stars rounded up because I love the fall, witchy vibes and Lana Harper’s witty writing style. See below for in-depth critiques on particular plot points, with spoilers.
*big spoiler alert, do not read further if you haven’t read or don’t want big spoilers* From the synopsis, I was under the (perhaps misguided) idea that Rose would be murdered and have her bank account drained by somebody eager to get her inheritance. But Rose wasn’t murdered at all, and it was immediately obvious that Brynn had absconded with the money. So instead of a whodunnit, the book was mostly just about the stress to see if the sisters would survive their financial situation and the awful cast of supporting characters. I didn’t really feel that the “Rose connecting with son” aspect was satisfactory, either, but I don’t have any real reason for that, only that I thought it wasn’t explored deeply enough.
And I was extremely disappointed that Tori and Cassie would agree to team up with Brynn at the end. I had a feeling Brynn would reappear, but I thought it would be more of a wink and nod situation. Instead, to me it was unclear whether Tori and Cassie were agreeing to help Brynn by offering legitimate witch services, or were they essentially agreeing to help her run more scams? Even if Rose gave her the money, Brynn admitted to being a legitimate fraudster, exactly the type of person I couldn’t imagine Tori and Cassie bringing into their business.
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