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Wicked Witches of Cauldron Hollow #1
If the Hat Fits
Welcome to Cauldron Hollow!
Sometimes the worst day of your life is just the beginning.
Blythe Fairfield has officially failed at adulthood. Divorced. Fired. Broke. When she inherits Gallows Gate House in the small town of Cauldron Hollow from her allegedly unhinged great-aunt, she decides it’s a temporary stop. Renovate. Sell. Leave.
Then her cat starts talking.
Cauldron Hollow isn’t just quaint. It was founded by two rival witch families. The Stoneharts stayed. The Tallowmeres were driven out.
Guess which family Blythe belongs to.
Between a house that hums with old magic, a violet streak suddenly appearing in her hair, and a snarky familiar named Pippin who keeps saying “Obviously,” Blythe barely has time to process her new reality before she stumbles over a dead body behind Merlin’s Diner.
The victim made enemies. Unfortunately, Blythe just made the suspect list.
With the town’s frustratingly handsome sheriff watching her every move and a killer determined to protect their secrets, Blythe must decide whether she’s still running from her inheritance or finally ready to claim it.
Turns out, if the hat fits… you might have to wear it.
If the Hat Fits is the first book in the Wicked Witches of Cauldron Hollow cozy mystery series. Expect humor, heart, magic, and a clean read with no swearing or explicit content.
Cauldron Hollow is an alternate universe to Coventry. You'll see hints and shadows of our origonal wicked witches, but This book and series can be read and enjoyed on their own.
Sometimes the worst day of your life is just the beginning.
Blythe Fairfield has officially failed at adulthood. Divorced. Fired. Broke. When she inherits Gallows Gate House in the small town of Cauldron Hollow from her allegedly unhinged great-aunt, she decides it’s a temporary stop. Renovate. Sell. Leave.
Then her cat starts talking.
Cauldron Hollow isn’t just quaint. It was founded by two rival witch families. The Stoneharts stayed. The Tallowmeres were driven out.
Guess which family Blythe belongs to.
Between a house that hums with old magic, a violet streak suddenly appearing in her hair, and a snarky familiar named Pippin who keeps saying “Obviously,” Blythe barely has time to process her new reality before she stumbles over a dead body behind Merlin’s Diner.
The victim made enemies. Unfortunately, Blythe just made the suspect list.
With the town’s frustratingly handsome sheriff watching her every move and a killer determined to protect their secrets, Blythe must decide whether she’s still running from her inheritance or finally ready to claim it.
Turns out, if the hat fits… you might have to wear it.
If the Hat Fits is the first book in the Wicked Witches of Cauldron Hollow cozy mystery series. Expect humor, heart, magic, and a clean read with no swearing or explicit content.
Cauldron Hollow is an alternate universe to Coventry. You'll see hints and shadows of our origonal wicked witches, but This book and series can be read and enjoyed on their own.
- GenresParanormalContemporary
207 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2026
About the author
Sara Bourgeois
304 books364 followersSara Bourgeois is a Midwesterner through and through. She spends her time writing, reading, herding cats, and standing in her driveway during tornado warnings. (You can't see them from the basement.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 27, 2026
If The Hat Fits.
This is an entertaining introduction to this new paranormal cozy mystery! The setting, characters and relationships all look promising and fun. The paranormal elements, including those related to Gallows Gate House, add a nice spin to the story.
This is an entertaining introduction to this new paranormal cozy mystery! The setting, characters and relationships all look promising and fun. The paranormal elements, including those related to Gallows Gate House, add a nice spin to the story.
May 4, 2026
a great read with characters who are really engaging
Rating: 4⭐️
I love this author’s Haunted Ranch Mysteries series, so while I was waiting on the next book in that series to be released, I noticed that she had started another series, different location and perspective on a similar type of female character.
The author has a real fondness for older women starting over. I can get behind this.
The Haunted Ranch Mysteries series has the beauty of the Arizona desert and the unique nature that enhances the atmosphere and fantastic storytelling.
I’ve yet to find a similar surrounding landscape here that has the same feel or that is so striking that it acts as a compelling backdrop.
So it’s a nondescript setting that depends heavily on character development and storytelling. Luckily, it delivers on both accounts.
Where certain characters in other series are stereotypical personalities, here Bourgeous takes them outside of the usual configuration into something interesting.
The sheriff and townspeople all have characters that surprise the reader with their depth of personality and the growth they exhibit during the story. This continues throughout the series.
The overall magic system is one that is slowly evolving and being defined as each situation arises, and it’s an unusual one that envelops the entire town.
There’s an ancient witch family feud, a cat familiar, and of course, a sentient house, to go along with the main character of Blythe Fairfield, a woman who is restarting her life after divorce.
The language is one of someone quietly reviewing their past and present options, no panic but a sense of resolve to make things work. You immediately understand Blythe, the circumstances that brought her to Caldron Hollow, and the thought processes as each event comes her way. However, increasing wild each one is.
It ends with Blythe staying true to her values, at the beginning of her journey and a long way to understanding what’s ahead. The author has started to set much in motion but there is so much more that’s needs a foundation or exploration, especially with regard to the town and witch families.
I’m definitely going forward with the series. And recommending this. Great read!
Wicked Witches of Cauldron Hollow (4 book series)
If the Hat Fits #1
Under The Hat #2
Hat Out of Spell #3
Hat Trick #4
Rating: 4⭐️
I love this author’s Haunted Ranch Mysteries series, so while I was waiting on the next book in that series to be released, I noticed that she had started another series, different location and perspective on a similar type of female character.
The author has a real fondness for older women starting over. I can get behind this.
The Haunted Ranch Mysteries series has the beauty of the Arizona desert and the unique nature that enhances the atmosphere and fantastic storytelling.
I’ve yet to find a similar surrounding landscape here that has the same feel or that is so striking that it acts as a compelling backdrop.
So it’s a nondescript setting that depends heavily on character development and storytelling. Luckily, it delivers on both accounts.
Where certain characters in other series are stereotypical personalities, here Bourgeous takes them outside of the usual configuration into something interesting.
The sheriff and townspeople all have characters that surprise the reader with their depth of personality and the growth they exhibit during the story. This continues throughout the series.
The overall magic system is one that is slowly evolving and being defined as each situation arises, and it’s an unusual one that envelops the entire town.
There’s an ancient witch family feud, a cat familiar, and of course, a sentient house, to go along with the main character of Blythe Fairfield, a woman who is restarting her life after divorce.
The language is one of someone quietly reviewing their past and present options, no panic but a sense of resolve to make things work. You immediately understand Blythe, the circumstances that brought her to Caldron Hollow, and the thought processes as each event comes her way. However, increasing wild each one is.
It ends with Blythe staying true to her values, at the beginning of her journey and a long way to understanding what’s ahead. The author has started to set much in motion but there is so much more that’s needs a foundation or exploration, especially with regard to the town and witch families.
I’m definitely going forward with the series. And recommending this. Great read!
Wicked Witches of Cauldron Hollow (4 book series)
If the Hat Fits #1
Under The Hat #2
Hat Out of Spell #3
Hat Trick #4
April 27, 2026
good
Blythe arrives in Cauldron Hollow recently divorced, newly unemployed, and with every intention of selling off the house she has inherited.
It’s the magical and odd things that start happening that cause her to rethink- the cat that appears and talks to her, the house that seems sentient, the odd happening around town- and the murder of ghost hunting podcast host.
Blythe knows that only those in the magical know, will be able to solve that particular crime, and so she begins to investigate with the aide of her newly acquired familiar.
This is an enjoyable start to a paranormal mystery series, with a cosy small town setting, and an intriguing magical world.
There’s a hint of a potential romance, plenty of magical shenanigans, and the beginning of a new life for our heroine. It makes for an entertaining read, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for Blythe.
This is a fun read for paranormal mystery lovers, and those who enjoy magical stories of new beginnings with sentient buildings, and chatty cats.
Blythe arrives in Cauldron Hollow recently divorced, newly unemployed, and with every intention of selling off the house she has inherited.
It’s the magical and odd things that start happening that cause her to rethink- the cat that appears and talks to her, the house that seems sentient, the odd happening around town- and the murder of ghost hunting podcast host.
Blythe knows that only those in the magical know, will be able to solve that particular crime, and so she begins to investigate with the aide of her newly acquired familiar.
This is an enjoyable start to a paranormal mystery series, with a cosy small town setting, and an intriguing magical world.
There’s a hint of a potential romance, plenty of magical shenanigans, and the beginning of a new life for our heroine. It makes for an entertaining read, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for Blythe.
This is a fun read for paranormal mystery lovers, and those who enjoy magical stories of new beginnings with sentient buildings, and chatty cats.
March 12, 2026
I have read several books by this author, and she has been consistently good with her story telling. This book was no exception. This series is very promising and I am very much looking forward to the next book. The characters are flawless, the tension is real, and the plot is easily followed. The premise is finding out who killed the loud and obnoxious pod caster and why. This great niece of the witch who had last lived in the house has fantastic potential and I am looking forward to seeing more of her.
May 29, 2026
Blythe and Pippin
Magic use has consequences, unpleasant consequences. New witch Blythe has lessons to learn. Lessons that are hard-earned. Her familiar Pippin the cat is her teacher and he believes in painful on the job training. The cozy mystery is well crafted. The townspeople are friendly--for the most part. A possible romance may or may not work out. A villain is scared. An entertaining first book in the series. On to book two.
Magic use has consequences, unpleasant consequences. New witch Blythe has lessons to learn. Lessons that are hard-earned. Her familiar Pippin the cat is her teacher and he believes in painful on the job training. The cozy mystery is well crafted. The townspeople are friendly--for the most part. A possible romance may or may not work out. A villain is scared. An entertaining first book in the series. On to book two.
May 30, 2026
Deserves more than 5 stars!!!
That was truly fantastic! A great beginning to this series! Everything I've read by this author has been phenomenal and definitely ranks in my top 5. This storyline captured my attention right from the git-go and held it to the very end. Pippin is a fascinating character and I fell in love with him from the first "obviously"! Can't wait to get into the second book. Hope Blythe and the sheriff make up!!
That was truly fantastic! A great beginning to this series! Everything I've read by this author has been phenomenal and definitely ranks in my top 5. This storyline captured my attention right from the git-go and held it to the very end. Pippin is a fascinating character and I fell in love with him from the first "obviously"! Can't wait to get into the second book. Hope Blythe and the sheriff make up!!
May 30, 2026
I stumbled across this when it popped up on my KU recommendations list, thought it sounded interesting, so gave it a go. Am happy I did. This was a nice fun paranormal cozy to curl up with. I found the characters interesting and likeable, and I just can't resist a paranormal cozy with talking cats! Fast paced enough that I sped through this in no time. Will be picking up the second book.
3.75 stars
3.75 stars
June 3, 2026
Blythe is out of options when she moves to Cauldron Hollow to fix and sell her great aunt's house. Things are different, to say the least, and talking to Pippin, a cat, is a big clue. Blythe's powers awaken and things really become quite different. She makes friends, stirs up things, and might be interested in the sheriff - if he decides he can trust her. This book is short and is the first in a series; it was a fast and entertaining read.
Why are all of the book cat familiars snarky?
Why are all of the book cat familiars snarky?
April 16, 2026
A Hat, a big grey Cat and lots of Msgic.
Blythe moves into what was supposed to bevher get- away from her troubles. Instead she finds herself in feep unexplainable troubles. Her new-found cat TALKS.
Unusual story of magic, murder and a big strange tree.
I think i liked it... might hsve to read the next story to sort MY head out!!
Blythe moves into what was supposed to bevher get- away from her troubles. Instead she finds herself in feep unexplainable troubles. Her new-found cat TALKS.
Unusual story of magic, murder and a big strange tree.
I think i liked it... might hsve to read the next story to sort MY head out!!
May 5, 2026
love this series!
Second times the charm. Got off track the first time I read these so decided to start over. So very glad I have. Well written, clean and engaging characters. Mysteries, new friends, very old houses and one dramatic cat….so much fun entertainment! A tree that protects….how perfect is that? Murder mystery to boot!
Second times the charm. Got off track the first time I read these so decided to start over. So very glad I have. Well written, clean and engaging characters. Mysteries, new friends, very old houses and one dramatic cat….so much fun entertainment! A tree that protects….how perfect is that? Murder mystery to boot!
May 5, 2026
A house with a murderous hanging tree, a cat familiar, and a woman who recently found out she’s from a witch lineage. I appreciated the way some understandings in the novel aren’t spoken. Jayne Austin used this to tremendous effect, and it really works here, just more subtly. The writing was excellent. I can’t wait to read more by the author.
March 28, 2026
Great first book in a new series.
This is a great introductory story that has a good balance between self discovery and a snarky tale that works. The characters are interesting without be too hard to believe.
This is a great introductory story that has a good balance between self discovery and a snarky tale that works. The characters are interesting without be too hard to believe.
April 5, 2026
good beginning
This was a good start to this series. Strong female main character in a totally new environment to her. Loved the cat familiar and the bond they built. Sorry to see it end the way it did, but know it will change in future books
This was a good start to this series. Strong female main character in a totally new environment to her. Loved the cat familiar and the bond they built. Sorry to see it end the way it did, but know it will change in future books
April 8, 2026
Not a smarmy "cozy" story
The protagonist is tough and smart without being offensive. The cat is... a cat. The handsome guy isn't a cliché. The new girlfriend is cool. And the magical town's citizens are clueless. I liked it.
The protagonist is tough and smart without being offensive. The cat is... a cat. The handsome guy isn't a cliché. The new girlfriend is cool. And the magical town's citizens are clueless. I liked it.
April 8, 2026
Good
I like it when an often used trope is injected with some real difference. I gave it only four stars, because at times it felt choppy to me. Definitely moving on to the next book.
I like it when an often used trope is injected with some real difference. I gave it only four stars, because at times it felt choppy to me. Definitely moving on to the next book.
April 12, 2026
Fast paced, different take on witch magic
I liked it well enough to immediately start book 2. It's a start and will either get better as characters develop more or I'll stop reading the series. That's what reading a series is always about.
I liked it well enough to immediately start book 2. It's a start and will either get better as characters develop more or I'll stop reading the series. That's what reading a series is always about.
April 28, 2026
Fun Read
I read a lot of fantasy and hard science fiction, and needed a "palate cleanse." Kindle recommended this book--I'm so glad it did! Great story and leading characters that anyone would like to hang out with. Looking forward to the next in the series.
I read a lot of fantasy and hard science fiction, and needed a "palate cleanse." Kindle recommended this book--I'm so glad it did! Great story and leading characters that anyone would like to hang out with. Looking forward to the next in the series.
May 7, 2026
Paranormal Cozy Mystery
Very cute! Pippin (the cat) cracked me up several times. The antagonist was easy to spot early, but it didn't detract from the story. Will continue the series.
Very cute! Pippin (the cat) cracked me up several times. The antagonist was easy to spot early, but it didn't detract from the story. Will continue the series.
May 19, 2026
Obviously - Whatever
A fun book to read. My only disappointment is that it is pretty much a copy of Meri. The names and a few details have changed. I loved Meri so I’ll keep reading this series for now to see where it goes
A fun book to read. My only disappointment is that it is pretty much a copy of Meri. The names and a few details have changed. I loved Meri so I’ll keep reading this series for now to see where it goes
May 25, 2026
Witch
Excellent writing and a flowing story line. Captivates the imagination without being childish or ridiculous, which makes it gripping with a desire to read more. Something I intend on doing since I bought the whole series. Highly recommend
Excellent writing and a flowing story line. Captivates the imagination without being childish or ridiculous, which makes it gripping with a desire to read more. Something I intend on doing since I bought the whole series. Highly recommend
March 30, 2026
enjoyed
April 11, 2026
Really liked this book. Pippin the talking cat how awesome is that.
April 11, 2026
You gotta like books with talking cats.
April 13, 2026
Fun book
The plot lines came together well, with anxiety and suspense occurring. I did not expect the ending. The characters are realistic and interesting.
The plot lines came together well, with anxiety and suspense occurring. I did not expect the ending. The characters are realistic and interesting.
April 20, 2026
great book🥰enjoyed a book of fantasy,
Great reading! I enjoyed not being dragged into a tension situation! Looking forward to the next book! Hope there are several!
Great reading! I enjoyed not being dragged into a tension situation! Looking forward to the next book! Hope there are several!
April 29, 2026
Witchy mystery: a genre I did not know I needed in my life!
Sara did an amazing job writing a thrilling story with heartfelt and distinctive characters. This story had me on the edge of my seat!
Sara did an amazing job writing a thrilling story with heartfelt and distinctive characters. This story had me on the edge of my seat!
April 30, 2026
This book had so many elements that I have seen in so, so many books. But in this book, they work! Glad to find another kindle unlimited gem. Can hardly wait for the rest of the series.
May 23, 2026
It was enjoyable and easy to read. A few hiccups based on unfinished information but overall I liked the characters and the setting. I plan to read more of the series.
May 26, 2026
Fun
A fun book with witches, magic, a talking cat and a very scary tree. What more could you ask for?
A fun book with witches, magic, a talking cat and a very scary tree. What more could you ask for?
June 1, 2026
Reluctantly magical
I really like this story. It was refreshing and the killer's motivation was not "obvious" which was suspenseful. Of course I loved the cat with catitude.
I really like this story. It was refreshing and the killer's motivation was not "obvious" which was suspenseful. Of course I loved the cat with catitude.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews