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Moonlight, Magic, and Murder

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When a welcome party ends in murder, midlife witch Boo Boudreaux and her talking cat are on the case—because nothing ruins a family reunion like a body in the backyard.
Boo was braced for tension when her formidable ex-mother-in-law swept into Laguna Bay, putting a damper on Boo’s long-overdue reunion with her estranged daughter, Lila. Awkward hugs? Absolutely. Passive-aggressive comments? Guaranteed.
Murder? Not on the guest list.
Evangeline Duval isn’t just a difficult relative. She’s a high-ranking New Orleans supernatural elder with strong opinions about Laguna Bay’s magical leadership. One bad report from her could strip the town of its charter and shatter the safe haven Boo has fought hard to protect.
So when Evangeline collapses mid-celebration, whispers of poison, old grudges, and council infighting spread faster than gossip at the local hair salon. And before long, suspicion starts pointing straight at Boo’s own household.
With her sharp-tongued talking cat Kheppy, her fiercely loyal sister Delphine, and longtime friend Merle Foster by her side, Boo must untangle old loyalties, hidden guilt, and dangerous politics before fear tears her community apart.
Moonlight, Magic, and Murder is Book Three in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery series—a charming paranormal cozy packed determined midlife witch sleuthA magical small-town councilA clever talking feline sidekickFound familyClean, cozy suspense
Includes a recipe inspired by the book!

Perfect for fans of witchy whodunits, small-town secrets, a talking cat companion, slow-burn second-chance romance, and amateur sleuths with plenty of sass and heart.

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 13, 2026

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About the author

DeAnna Drake

12 books326 followers
DeAnna Drake writes charming, magic-touched cozy mysteries filled with small-town secrets, heart, humor, and feline companions who always know more than they let on. Her interconnected series—Purr-fect Relic and Laguna Bay Midlife Witch—blend twisty mysteries with enchanted relics, family bonds, and talking cats with centuries of history. If you love cozy escapes with found family, a touch of danger, and a whole lot of magic, you’ll feel right at home in the Magical Cats Universe.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Ferne (Enthusiastic Reader).
1,520 reviews52 followers
May 13, 2026
Boo Boudreaux's excitement was tinged with unease, lingering from the question her daughter Lila had asked during their phone call earlier that day. Of course, Boo had said yes—what else could a mother in California say to a daughter in New Orleans, especially when this visit would be their first face-to-face meeting in ten years? Don't ask for details; it's complicated. Boo will fill you in eventually. For now, just know that Boo is a bit off-kilter. By agreeing, she's allowed Lila's grandmother, Evangeline Duval—Boo's ex-mother-in-law, or as Boo calls her, my ex-monster-in-law—to come along for the visit. No one could have imagined what would transpire at the welcome party in the first hours of their arrival.

It's so much fun visiting Laguna Bay! Boo, her adorable feline sidekick Kheppy, her sister Delphine, and their circle of gardening friends—including the ever-resourceful Merle Foster—make up a cast that's anything but ordinary. Their unconventional natures are part of their charm, but it's their magical abilities, each uniquely manifested, that truly set them apart.

Picture the fenced-in backyard: twinkling string lights, laughter mingling with the scent of lavender, and everyone gathered for a welcome party that feels both intimate and enchanted. Here, magic is as natural as the ocean breeze—sometimes it's a spontaneous spell, sometimes a cat who seems to know more than she lets on.

With so much wonder in the air, a locked room mystery unfolding in this setting feels not just possible, but inevitable. Solving the crime seemed like it would be a cinch, but even the most seasoned reader-sleuth shouldn't be too quick to dismiss their first hunch.

I love the author's descriptive writing—it engages all the senses and paints vivid scenes in your mind. Keep an eye out for the clever nod to a beloved mystery program playing on TV in one scene; that reference delighted me, as it's one of my favorites too.
A few scene-setting favorites:
"…keyboards clattering like impatient rain…"
"Plush ivory chairs crowded the waiting area, looking like a flock of fancy marshmallows..."
"…where morning sunlight pooled across the linoleum like honey."
The recipe for "Delphine's Apple Strudel Muffins" is included at the end of the book.

Thank you to DeAnna Drake and Booksprout for the opportunity to read an eARC of the novel.

Reviewer's Note: Deanna Cameron writes Historical Romance set in the Victorian and Edwardian eras and Contemporary Romance. The author uses the pseudonym D.D. Croix authoring YA Fantasy Fiction and DeAnna Drake for Cozy Mystery series and "Mouse in the House: A Magical Mouse Caper Novella."
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,731 reviews19 followers
May 19, 2026
Great story! I love the adventures of Boo, Kheppy and the rest of their crew. This mystery is quite personal as Boo’s daughter is suspect number one. So once again she sets out to find the truth except secrets are everywhere and the clock is ticking.
If you’re looking for a light read with a lot of laughs and plenty of wackiness this is your book. I mean a cat who was once at Cleopatra’s court as a lovable yet snarky sidekick? Who would not love this? Twisty enough to keep you guessing and fully engaged and light enough to bring plenty of joy to the read. Wonderful story!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
173 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 12, 2026
Moonlight Magic and Murder by Deanna Drake Book Review

Supernatural forces at play, terrible in-laws , a vendetta and a talking cat. This is going to be interesting.

Someone is coming back but will their guest be pleasant?

“Twinkle lights like soldiers waiting inspection.” The pressure and tension is on but at least the decorations look the part. The body? That bit is the mystery.

“Despite the easy chatter and the comfortable glow, I couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't quite right.” The foreshadowing here is brilliant. I can feel the tension in the way they act: Uncomfortable.

Our detective quickly becomes a suspect in the murderer of her step mother! She couldn't have, could she? If not her then who else?

A fight to save her daughter from going down for murder! It's beautiful how far Boo goes for her daughter in solving the mystery.

Hints of romance that really add to the story. The soft moments shared in between gives us and Boo hope to find the killer, hope that Merle will find answers.

Shout out to Kheepy the cat for her abilities in helping to solve the case. I love her and her nature. She provides a sense of comfort and comedy to the story.

The past can leave a person so remorseful and I really feel Boo's loss in this book. It's so powerfully written and the details surrounding their love were so harrowing.

Secrets revealed. A confrontation. An Argument. This book will keep you guessing. Deanna has done an amazing job pointing out suspects and suspicions. It could be anyone. It will have you questioning everyone. I felt every emotion.

The references to Celopatra are very interesting.

“You aren't responsible for the choices other people make.” This is so true and powerful.

Secrets are uncovered.

A threat. A burden.

But how does it all tie to the murder and whoodunnit?

“Was I really giving safety advice to a tiger?” This book is full of surprises you don't want to miss it.

The relationship between Khepy and Saphira gives the story a sense of clarity in a sad, powerful, yet heartwarming way. I loved seeing their bond after all saphira has been through.

The ending? It's shocking. A very sad ending.
Twist after twist. A hostage. There is so much going on I fear for our main character's and others safety. Trust no one.

Shout out to Pickles the dog. His relationship with Khepy is so comical. They have to tolerate each other in situations. It brings a light sense for readers in the midst of murder.

I have so many questions at the end of this book, the story is far from over and I am here for the journey they will navigate together.
Profile Image for DianaRaven.
1,364 reviews9 followers
May 17, 2026
"MOONLIGHT, MAGIC, AND MURDER" is the third book in DeAnna Drake's "Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery" series. It's another well-written, satisfying mystery with lots of surprises and unexpected twists.

We get to meet Boo Boudreaux's daughter, Lila, and find out a bit about why they've been estranged. Now, after ten years apart, Lila wants to bring her grandma with her to Thanksgiving Dinner. There goes Boo’s long-awaited reunion with her daughter. Boo braces herself as her ex-mother-in-law, Evangeline Duval, sweeps into Laguna Bay like royalty, with plenty of passive-aggressive and cutting remarks. Lila seems totally submissive, even as Evangeline suddenly falls down dead. The Laguna Bay magical community steps in to figure out what happened and why. They also have to keep the non-magical police in the dark about magic.

There are so many suspects, and everyone wants to protect each other, even to the point of keeping their secrets to themselves.

Boo and Merle’s relationship gets stronger as he gives Boo space while supporting her.

Even though you can read this book on its own, reading the previous books first would give you some background and probably make it more enjoyable.

The only thing I didn't like... it ended way too soon!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
25 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 7, 2026
Book #3 in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery series did not disappoint.
Deanna Drake does a lovely job of weaving a bit of mystery, a bit of clean romance and a bit of paranormal fantasy into one delightful tale.
Boo Boudreaux, garden-witch and owner of the only year-round Halloween boutique in Laguna Bay, is looking forward to a visit from her estranged daughter Lila even if the visit includes Boo's contrary ex-MIL Evangeline Duval.
Evangeline is also a supernatural, and a Council Elder whose aim is to have Laguna's Bay's charter as a haven for supernaturals removed.
In a display of begrudging hospitality, Boo arranges a backyard welcome party for the old witch, attended by local supernaturals, but things go horribly wrong when Evangeline literally drops dead in the middle of the event and Lila is taken in for questioning by the police.
Boo knows in her heart Lila is innocent and she is determined to prove it with the help of Kheppy her immortal feline; her sister Delphine; and her boyfriend Merle, who is also a supernatural.
Will our heroine uncover the truth?
You'll have to read the book for the answer.

I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
893 reviews30 followers
May 14, 2026
Boo’s joy at the long awaited reunion with daughter, Lila, is tainted by the arrival of her ex-mother-in-law, Evangeline. With Laguna Bay’s sanctuary status in jeopardy due to the vindictive woman, tensions are already at a high. As Boo notices friends and family acting strangely, the company is shocked when Evangeline falls dead. The police focus on Lila who refuses to talk, and Boo is determined to save her daughter. But who among the gathered guests was desperate enough to kill?

In Moonlight, Magic, & Murder, we finally meet Boo’s daughter, Lila, and learn a bit more about their complicated family dynamics. Their desires to protect each other form the emotional core of the mystery. Boo and Merle’s relationship grows stronger and I really liked the gentle support he provides to Boo. There’s some tension among the high council and the supernatural community in general regarding the werewolves that will hopefully be addressed more fully in a future story. The mystery keeps you guessing with past secrets revealed. The addition of ghost cat Sapphira also opens up future storylines. And I’m excited to see Luna learning the truth about her heritage as well.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ruth McDaniel.
315 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 21, 2026
In this third installment of Laguna Bay Midlife Witch mysteries, DeAnna Drake spins a tale like only she can.
Boo is expecting to see her daughter Lila, whom she hasn't seen in a long time, but unfortunately, Lila isn't coming alone. She's bring her grandmother (Evangeline) who is Boo's ex-MIL and the relationship between the two of them isn't exactly great. Evangeline is also a witch on the High Council and wants Laguna Bay removed from the map as a sanctuary town for supernaturals. She is not anyone's favorite person, but when she ends up dead at a get-together at Boo's, Boo is the one who is surprised the most. Was it her daughter Luna, who had a strained relationship w her grandmother? Was it a werewolf, because they wanted a seat on the council, but Evangeline was dead set against it? Or was it someone else? Boo, Kheppy, Merle and Howard must work to find out who the killer is before the wrong person goes down for it.
This is a great addition to the story series as there is mystery, twists, tense moments, poignant moments, and joy as well. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
I was given an ARC of this story and am leaving my voluntary review.
Profile Image for kathy.
1,545 reviews
May 15, 2026
This is turning out to be a really fun series. I like the magical elements and how it’s set in Laguna Bay, a magical community. Interesting characters, including a vampire at the newspaper, and a group of witches. Boo is our midlife witch with a full grown daughter that she has not seen in a long time. Her mother-in-law visits and ends up poisoned. Her daughter Lila is a suspect and will not talk about anything. This makes solving the mystery a bit difficult. There is family tension which adds to the dynamics of sleuthing. Fortunately, Boo has a nice support system with fellow witches and a male friend called Merle. Her sister lives with her too.

It’s nice meeting the characters again after the last book. The writing is very easy to get into and very clean. The book does a nice job looking at difficult family relationships. Add in supportive friends, a bit of magic and of course, solving the murder! The setting is enjoyable. A really nice series to escape into! I also like that the main character is midlife and more relatable for me as a reader. And how could I forget the talking cat! The best part!

I received an advanced readers copy to read before publication.
12 reviews
May 18, 2026
Evangeline Spills the Tea

My return trip to Laguna Bay was so enjoyable!
When Boo Boudreaux hears of her estranged daughter’s upcoming visit to Laguna Bay, she hopes that they might mend past hurts and move toward a more involved, loving relationship. Boo’s ex-mother-in-law, Evangeline, has other plans, though. The supernatural elder has low views of the town’s magical leaders and could influence whether it can keep its charter that protects the beings that reside there. So when Evangeline collapses during the welcome party, it’s up to Boo, her immortal cat, Kheppy, and all her friends to discover just who dislikes the supernatural elder the most.

I thoroughly enjoyed this latest Laguna Bay mystery. I was kept guessing throughout—had no idea who to trust. DeAnna Drake’s world-building skills are superb and Laguna Bay is a place I never want to leave! Looking forward to the next adventure!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
510 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 9, 2026
Boo Boudreaux is less than thrilled when she hears that her former mother-in-law Evangeline Duval a powerful supernatural council leader from New Orleans is coming to visit. One word from her and the town charter could be stripped and shatter the haven Boo and others in her magical community have fought hard to protect. The only joy from this visit is that Boo’s daughter will be coming too. When Evangeline collapses there are whispers of poison, old grudges and infighting within the council. Boo, along with her loyal talking cat Kheppy, sister Delphine and special friend Merle Foster must find who wanted Evangeline gone. With so many potential suspects it may take a while to unravel this mess. A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
34 reviews
Review of advance copy
May 12, 2026
Wow!! This is a perfect paranormal cozy mystery. There is a terrific amount of suspects. (I had no idea who the murderer was.) The showdown with the murderer couldn't have been better. You'll love how it's resolved! The relationship between Boo and Merle is so sweet and tender. While the relationship between Boo and her grown daughter, Lila, is complicated, I could really feel the love and protectiveness Boo feels towards her. And Kheppy! If you haven't meet this supernatural cat yet, get ready to fall in love! Just the right amount of sassy and sweet. I loved how she kept mentioning Cleopatra and Boo was getting tired of it. And there's another cat in this one, but you'll have to read the book to find out her story.

This is a well-written, well-thought out, satisfying mystery that I very highly recommend!
Profile Image for Merry Chapman.
2,741 reviews32 followers
May 14, 2026
This is the third book in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery and it is a great addition! Midlife witch Boo Boudreaux is having a reunion party, happy that her estranged daughter, Lila came. But what puts a damper on the situation is that her ex-mother-in-law, a high-ranking New Orleans supernatural elder who has her eye set on Laguna Bay is there too. When she drops dead there, there are so many potential suspects including Boo's daughter. So of course, Boo, with her incredible feline, sassy, familiar, Kheppy, her sister Delphine, and close friend Merle Foster, the investigation has begun! Can Boo untangle all the secrets, and dangers to find a murderer? This is a fast paced, unputdownable book that keeps you totally guessing what will happen until the end. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Kay Cobbold.
294 reviews11 followers
May 19, 2026
“Moonlight, Magic and Murder” is the third book in the “Laguna Bay Midlife Witch” cozy mystery series, and it was wonderful to be back, even if that meant more murder and mayhem for Boo.
This time, the crime hits especially close to home. Boo’s daughter, Lila, arrives for a visit, and brings along Boo’s formidable ex-mother-in-law, a woman who seems universally hated and whose life’s work is making others miserable.
At the welcome party, the dreaded matriarch is murdered. With no shortage of suspects, Boo finds herself unraveling the mystery when Lila becomes the prime suspect.
Once again, I delighted in the garden witches; Merle’s steadfastness; Delphine’s unwavering veganism, and of course, the ever-charming Kheppy. Deanna Drake masterfully weaves the threads of her mystery together into a story I simply couldn’t put down.
31 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 26, 2026
This is my favorite Boo book so far. It was really heartfelt and pulled me in right away. It had me nervous and really rooting for Boo and her daughter Lila. It had me guessing whodunit till the very end and a surprising perpetrator. Merle and Boo's relationship is evolving and I'm definitely on team Merle for the win. It broadened the scope of the different supernatural factions in Laguna Bay and showed more sides to our favorite feline Kheppy. We should all have a kitty like Kheppy. Overall a very satisfying read and like all DeAnna's books it left me chomping at the bit for the next chapter in Boo and Kheppy's life in Laguna Bay.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for April Flach.
164 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 8, 2026
I wasn't sure how much I would like this book, since I wasn't a big fan of the MC in the previous books. I didn't like the way she let others bully her. However, I did enjoy this book more than I thought I would. I appreciated the MC's growth. The story is well written, with some twists along the way. Although, I wasn't surprised when the killer was revealed. Their attitude gave them away. Not a big romance reader anymore, but I do like the romance between Boo and Merle. I'm rooting for them. Kheppy is so sweet. I do wish there was more suspense, and more sluthing. Still enjoyable, and looking forward to Boo and Kheppy's next adventure.

I received a free ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
587 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 10, 2026
Moonlight, Magic and Murder is a Superb story and series about Boo Boudreaux a Halloween Boutique Owner and a Garden Witch and looks after Kheppy an Ancient Talking Cat and Sissy her Assistant. Boo and her Sister Delphine a Garden Witch host a gathering as Lila who is Boo's Daughter and her Ex-Mother-in-law Evangeline were coming. Unfortunately Evangeline collapses and dies. Detective Ernie Platt comes to investigate and Lila is a suspect. So Boo and the other Garden Witches work together to find the clues. There are many twists and turns throughout this story and some surprising events. But can they uncover the truth?
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I highly recommend that you read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,331 reviews23 followers
May 13, 2026
DeAnna Drake has written another great story with Boo and her talking cat, Moonlight, Magic, and Murder. When Boo’s dreadful ex-mother-in-law dies at Boo’s home. All are suspect. As Boo tries to solve this murder it seems that the world will be a better place without the dead woman. While it is true that murder is wrong but they’re not sorry that she’s gone kind of story. A tale of secrets, revenge and misguided help but all is solved in the end. I especially love Kheppy’s role in helping to keep Boo safe as well. This cat steals every scene she is in.

I haven’t read the entire series yet, but it did not hinder me from enjoying Moonlight, Magic, and Murder. It just makes me want to read the two I have missed.
1,671 reviews25 followers
May 14, 2026
Boo Boudreaux is thrilled to be getting a visit from her estranged daughter, Lila, but less than thrilled to find out that her ex-mother-in-law, Evangeline Duval, is also coming along. Boo puts her feelings for the woman aside and plans a welcome celebration. When Evangeline collapses and dies at the party, it’s determined to be murder and that there are many people who are happy to see the woman gone. When suspicions turn toward Lila and several of Boo’s friends, she’s determined to solve the crime and clear their names. With help from her talking cat, Kheppy, her sister, Delphine, and friend, Merle, Boo sets out to find the real killer.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Catherine.
496 reviews
May 16, 2026
Witch Wars

As always, it's a treat to return to Laguna Bay and Boo Boudreaux. Boo's excited that her estranged daughter, Luna is coming to visit. But when Evangeline, a highly placed witch in the High Council and former mother in law to, you guessed it, Boo. There is no love lost between them. However, when Evangeline drops dead at Boo's party, suspicion falls on Luna when foxglove is found as the poison in the victim. Boo will stop at nothing to clear her daughter of a murder charge. Many twists and turns and a spectral cat add to the obstacles in Boo's way.
I really didn't expect the murderer to be who it was. Also I hope Saphira, ghost cat, shows up again. Quite an exciting adventure!
1,060 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 19, 2026
Boo’s former mother-in-law is coming to Laguna Bay and no one is happy about it. She’s hateful and domineering and holds the fate of the town as a supernatural sanctuary. However, no one expected her to die at the welcoming feast! Boo and her fellow garden witches want to help quickly identify the murderer and clear Boo’s daughter of the crime.
The story is full of interesting characters and warm friendships. I love Kheppy, the cat who originally belonged to Cleopatra. The town keeps its supernaturals underwraps around the ‘normies’ so magic is actually low-key in the story. This was a very enjoyable cozy mystery and I am already looking forward to the next book in this series!
1,250 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy
May 13, 2026
So who killed Boo’s ex mother-in-law?

These stories with the cats who were once Cleopatra’s companions are all fantastic! The cats are something else, both Kheppy and Aneksi, but this series deals with Kheppy and her current companion Boo. The stories are all very well written and just pull me into them and the plots keep me there. They’re all interesting and I never see the ending coming. One of these days I’ll figure it out before I get to the end of the story. Maybe. They’re also about love, hope and friendship and community and what could be better than that?

I received an advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Renee Marski.
Author 75 books83 followers
May 14, 2026
Kheppy and Boo are back!

When Boo's ex-MIL comes to town, tensions are high. Evangaline Duval is a tough cookie and she has her sights set on Laguna Bay. When she drops dead at her welcome dinner, things get interesting.

The suspect list is long and includes Boo's daughter, Lila. Lila is keeping a secret and wont even tell the cops. Then there's the ghost pet whisperer, who seems to have a troubled past. And Boo's friends are hiding something.

When Boo finally confronts the killer, everything she thought she knew about her quiet little town almost unravels. Almost.

Another great cozy mystery in the books! Always love Kheppys wise words.
Profile Image for Johanna.
4,903 reviews80 followers
May 14, 2026
Book 3 of Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery. For maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.

'Blending magic, mystery, and heart, this installment explores family tensions, hidden pasts, and the cost of protecting those you love—all wrapped in a cozy, atmospheric whodunit.'

The characters remain appealing and likeable and quirky. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ingrid Gail.
202 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 2, 2026
I love the writing style of this author in both series I've read.
Kheppy is a great character and I love reading about her and her history. In this installment I feel she is a little less prominent, which was a shame in my opinion.

The mystery is well presented and the solving is well embedded in the daily lives of all involved, which make the pages fly by.

The friendship and romance between Boo and Merle is so sweet to see evolve, I'm rooting for them!

I loved this new installment of the series and am looking forward to the next one!
592 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 5, 2026
This is book 3 in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch cozy mystery series. I enjoyed this cute, non-spicy fantasy murder mystery, which had a few twists and turns.
Boo, the FMC, is expecting a visit from her estranged daughter. Her daughter Lila arrives, accompanied by Boo’s ex-MIL, who besides being an awful person, is a supernatural who is a Council Elder who Boo’s friends feel is determined to cause trouble. When a murder occurs, Boo has to figure out who the culprit is before Lila is implicated.
I received an eARC from the author; all opinions are my own.
48 reviews2 followers
May 13, 2026
This book offers us so much: conflicting family matters, close bond of friends, a little romance and a murder! This is a fast paced mystery tied so close to Boo!

Boo really grows in this book as she has to really look at how she feels about her family and friends and to put it aside to solve the mystery.

The author has put a lot of twists and turns in the book to keep you guessing who the murderer is and why.

I really enjoyed this third book in the series! I am looking forward to reading a lot more books in this series!

I read this book in advance and I am giving an honest review.
Profile Image for Lcr.
919 reviews7 followers
May 14, 2026
Moonlight, Magic and Murder is the third book in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery series. It can be read as a stand-alone or as part of the series. Boo and her delightful familiar Kheppy find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation again and this time it’s close to home.

This book has everything you want from a paranormal cosy. Magic, murder, a touch of romance and a talking cat. Wonderful characters and good writing are this a delightful easy read book that I thoroughly recommend to all fans of this genre.
Profile Image for Larry.
3,233 reviews19 followers
May 14, 2026
This has been a good series. With each adventure, the main characters become just a little more important to this reader. In this adventure, the ex-Mother-in-Law to Boo Boudreau has decided she will join her granddaughter and Boo's daughter, Lila to Boo's Thanksgiving dinner. The ex-Mother-in-Law, Evangeline Duval has been a thorn in Boo's side for years and Boo is wondering what the woman has up her sleeve this time. I definitely recommend this book and the rest of the series. ALL have been good stories.
4,715 reviews39 followers
May 14, 2026
Moonlight, Magic, and Murder is an well plotted, intriguing, twisted, cozy mystery. Boo has her hands full when her nasty mother-in-law drops dead at her Boo hosted welcome party and Boo's mostly estranged daughter Lila is taken in for questioning. I love the recurring cast of this series and the character interaction - Boo and her sister, Boo and Merle, Boo and Kheppy. It is all hands on deck to solve this murder because there are suspects and red herrings galore! Impossible to put this book down!
Profile Image for Tina.
261 reviews10 followers
May 21, 2026
This is my first foray in the Laguna Bay Midlife Witch series, but I will be reading the first two. I read this book because I really enjoyed Ms. Drake’s A Purr-fect Relic series, and the cat in that series is the sister to Khepeset, the cat in this series. Interesting premise to have a town with a charter as a safe haven for magical beings. Boo Boudreaux’s ex-mother-in-law, Evangeline, is a high-ranking magical elder who decides to visit Laguna Bay with Boo’s daughter. She has the power to remove the town’s charter, which is concerning. Unfortunately, Evangeline meets her demise at Boo’s house. Boo, her family, friends, and cat Khepeset investigate to determine what happened and why. Intriguing story. I voluntarily read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews