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Retired Witches Mystery #3
Putting on the Witch
In the latest mystery from the bestselling authors of Looking for Mr. Good Witch , the retired witches of Wilmington, North Carolina, are ready to kick up their heels...
With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge, especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun.
The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks...
With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge, especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun.
The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks...
292 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 4, 2016
28 people are currently reading
970 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Lavene
78 books646 followersaka Elyssa Henry and Joye Ames, J.J. Cook, and Ellie Grant
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 24, 2016
If you want me to watch a fantasy series on TV or at the movies, the Retired Witches Mystery series by authors Joyce and Jim Lavene needs to be picked up for that option!
If you are expecting to read your typical para-cozy when you read PUTTING ON THE WITCH, you are truly in for a major surprise. I suggest you plan plenty of time to read this story, because once you pick it up, you’re not going to want to put it down.
PUTTING ON THE WITCH, book three in the amazing Retired Witches Mysteries, is so much more than a cozy/para-cozy mystery. Contained between the covers of this book is an epic, magical adventure that carried me away in a mystical cloud of reading. I marvel that the written word could transport me in such a way. Each sight, each sound, each smell described, were as real to me as those in my everyday life. Not until the last word did I realize I had been sitting in my living room the entire time, and my magical journey had been a stunningly written fantasy.
Joyce and Jim Lavene will always wear the crowns of Queen and King of the para-cozies (Their regular cozies are just at sensational and memorable, and in no way regular at all). There have never been, and never will be again two authors who have changed my concept of reading the way the authors Lavene have, and I offer them my sincerest Thank You for that. RIP
If you are expecting to read your typical para-cozy when you read PUTTING ON THE WITCH, you are truly in for a major surprise. I suggest you plan plenty of time to read this story, because once you pick it up, you’re not going to want to put it down.
PUTTING ON THE WITCH, book three in the amazing Retired Witches Mysteries, is so much more than a cozy/para-cozy mystery. Contained between the covers of this book is an epic, magical adventure that carried me away in a mystical cloud of reading. I marvel that the written word could transport me in such a way. Each sight, each sound, each smell described, were as real to me as those in my everyday life. Not until the last word did I realize I had been sitting in my living room the entire time, and my magical journey had been a stunningly written fantasy.
Joyce and Jim Lavene will always wear the crowns of Queen and King of the para-cozies (Their regular cozies are just at sensational and memorable, and in no way regular at all). There have never been, and never will be again two authors who have changed my concept of reading the way the authors Lavene have, and I offer them my sincerest Thank You for that. RIP
September 25, 2016
The third book in the paranormal cozy Retired Witches Mystery series is an exciting, spellbinding example of the talent of the late husband and wife writing team, Joyce and Jim Lavene. Their imagination soars to new heights as witches Molly, Elsie and Olivia (now a ghost), are joined by Dorothy and Brian (apprentices) as they travel to a Witches Ball where powerful magic, mayhem and murder take center stage. Their loyalty to their families and coven is tested, and they must see through the deceit of members of the Witches Council to escape and find happiness, plus retrieve their stolen spell book. The story plot is indeed magical, fun and glitzy, and sure to please para-cozy readers!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2016
The Lavenes' "Putting on the Witch (Retired Witches Mystery #3)" is one of the reasons I like the cozy genre. Unlike many other genres, there is a lot of variety here. This book was a real fun read, especially with Halloween coming up shortly. I also like the cover because, well - kitties!
Molly, Dorothy, Olivia, Elsie, and Brian are all likable characters and the plot was engaging, well-written and rather unique; I have never read a book quite like this one. I will definitely look into purchasing the previous two books in this series. I would also recommend it to other cozy mystery readers, especially this time of year.
I obtained my copy of this book from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
Molly, Dorothy, Olivia, Elsie, and Brian are all likable characters and the plot was engaging, well-written and rather unique; I have never read a book quite like this one. I will definitely look into purchasing the previous two books in this series. I would also recommend it to other cozy mystery readers, especially this time of year.
I obtained my copy of this book from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
October 3, 2016
Epic. One word to describe this book.
From the first book in this series I was spell bound.
This series has taken me for an intriguing and enchanting ride with clever and well written plots, and engaging and colourful characters.
This third in the series grabbed me from the first page and did not let me go. I read it in one sitting and was transfixed.
I was thrilled to read and meet the often mentioned witches council and loved the set up and setting of this book. The witches ball and the library were exciting settings and events.
All of my favourite characters are in this book, along with some intriguing new ones.
Thoroughly exciting and satisfying, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
I was provided an ARC of this book from Netgalley for my honest opinion.
From the first book in this series I was spell bound.
This series has taken me for an intriguing and enchanting ride with clever and well written plots, and engaging and colourful characters.
This third in the series grabbed me from the first page and did not let me go. I read it in one sitting and was transfixed.
I was thrilled to read and meet the often mentioned witches council and loved the set up and setting of this book. The witches ball and the library were exciting settings and events.
All of my favourite characters are in this book, along with some intriguing new ones.
Thoroughly exciting and satisfying, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
I was provided an ARC of this book from Netgalley for my honest opinion.
August 21, 2018
3.5 Stars. I liked all three of the Retired Witches Mysteries. The stories were entertaining and the characters were very likable.
December 27, 2016
I have enjoyed this series by Joyce and Jim Lavene and am very sorry to hear that the authors have both passed away. I shall miss the Retired Witches series and may well check out some of their other works.
Putting on the Witch is a sprightly entry in the cozy mystery genre with a supernatural twist. Molly and Elsie have been joined in their coven by Dorothy and Brian, and their powers have strengthened. They are invited to a birthday party for Brian at the mysterious castle of his grandfather, Abdon, a member of the domineering witches’ council. One of the council members is murdered and the rest of the tale takes place at the castle, where the partygoers are on lockdown until the whodunit is solved.
As ever, the interactions of the coven characters (including the ghost of Olivia, who died in the first book) are entertaining. The Lavenes had a lively gift for dialogue and keep things light throughout the bloodshed, as befits a cozy mystery. The magic happens more or less nonstop in this story—as you might expect considering the setting, in a magical castle full of witches—and the nonmagical characters such as Molly’s husband and son have only a negligible role. I liked the magical elements a lot, though it seemed at times as if people’s powers came and went arbitrarily at the behest of the plot.
The plot, unfortunately, was the weak point. It meandered and had various inconsistencies, especially at the end, when too much happened in too little page time. Some events remained unexplained and others weren’t credible even within the context, leading to the three-star rating. If you haven’t read this series, start at the beginning and this book will make an enjoyable coda so long as you don’t examine it too closely. If you haven’t read the series, don’t start here.
I purchased this ebook.
Putting on the Witch is a sprightly entry in the cozy mystery genre with a supernatural twist. Molly and Elsie have been joined in their coven by Dorothy and Brian, and their powers have strengthened. They are invited to a birthday party for Brian at the mysterious castle of his grandfather, Abdon, a member of the domineering witches’ council. One of the council members is murdered and the rest of the tale takes place at the castle, where the partygoers are on lockdown until the whodunit is solved.
As ever, the interactions of the coven characters (including the ghost of Olivia, who died in the first book) are entertaining. The Lavenes had a lively gift for dialogue and keep things light throughout the bloodshed, as befits a cozy mystery. The magic happens more or less nonstop in this story—as you might expect considering the setting, in a magical castle full of witches—and the nonmagical characters such as Molly’s husband and son have only a negligible role. I liked the magical elements a lot, though it seemed at times as if people’s powers came and went arbitrarily at the behest of the plot.
The plot, unfortunately, was the weak point. It meandered and had various inconsistencies, especially at the end, when too much happened in too little page time. Some events remained unexplained and others weren’t credible even within the context, leading to the three-star rating. If you haven’t read this series, start at the beginning and this book will make an enjoyable coda so long as you don’t examine it too closely. If you haven’t read the series, don’t start here.
I purchased this ebook.
October 5, 2016
Review: PUTTING ON THE WITCH by Joyce and Jim Lavene
[Retired Witches Mystery #3]
Don't be alarmed, if like me, you are new to this series. Just jump right in and enjoy! The authors gently interweave backstory throughout, so readers fit right in. This tale of a coven of (mostly) older witches, who had given up practice of magic, then taken it up again, is endearing, delightful, and as we expect from the Lavenes, excellent. Warm up to this wonderful group of women who must fit their magical lives around non-magic using spouses and offspring. Dorothy, a younger witch, had not been trained in youth, and has to cope with her Mother's death and ghostly input, and her allegedly evil, thousand year old father's arrival. Elsie dates a werewolf; Dorothy's fiance's grandfather is head of the very strict Grand Council. Add all this to the scenic backdrop of Wilmington, North Carolina; stir to taste, and enjoy.
[Retired Witches Mystery #3]
Don't be alarmed, if like me, you are new to this series. Just jump right in and enjoy! The authors gently interweave backstory throughout, so readers fit right in. This tale of a coven of (mostly) older witches, who had given up practice of magic, then taken it up again, is endearing, delightful, and as we expect from the Lavenes, excellent. Warm up to this wonderful group of women who must fit their magical lives around non-magic using spouses and offspring. Dorothy, a younger witch, had not been trained in youth, and has to cope with her Mother's death and ghostly input, and her allegedly evil, thousand year old father's arrival. Elsie dates a werewolf; Dorothy's fiance's grandfather is head of the very strict Grand Council. Add all this to the scenic backdrop of Wilmington, North Carolina; stir to taste, and enjoy.
September 25, 2016
Putting on the Witch, was a whirlwind of a book, I honestly found myself dizzy at times. Fun to picture the setting and the characters, the murder, the mystery and the chaos that Putting on the Witch offers readers. I could see vividly the scenes described as only Joyce and Jim could write. With out giving too much away I was thrilled to have some much loved characters return from the previous books in the most unlikely of situations. This book was filled with fun and very imaginative scenarios for the witches to find themselves in and trouble to get themselves out of. I wish that I had just a little of the magic these witches have in this book, even when they are bumbling they are truly the best!
October 5, 2016
Putting on the Witch is a part urban fantasy, and part cozy mystery. I’ve read (and enjoyed) other paranormal cozies, but Putting on the Witch is in a class of its own. The fantasy element and magical world building was wonderfully done. The mystery is well-written, the characters are likable (at least most of them are!), and I loved every word of it.
NOTE: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
NOTE: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/pu...
Putting on the Witch
A Retired Witches Mystery, Book #3
By Joyce and Jim Lavene
ISBN#9780425268278
Author’s website: www.joyceandjimlavene.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge; especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun.
The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks.
Review:
Putting on the Witch is the fantastic third book in the Retired Witches Mystery series by the prolific storytellers Joyce and Jim Lavene, and it is a whimsical, closed room-esque mystery that is sure to please readers who enjoy both a good whodunit and magic.
Molly, Elsie, and Olivia, who is now a ghost, are beginning to rethink their retirement plans because their magical powers are growing stronger since they welcomed Brian and Dorothy into their coven. And, of course, they are still looking for their spell book that went missing when Olivia was murdered (see book one, Spell Booked). The whole coven is taken off guard when Dorothy’s father Drago appears, and Olivia is greatly concerned since she made every effort over the years to keep Dorothy’s existence a secret from Drago. Having been outcast by the Grand Witch Council, he is bad news, and everyone is worried that he has nefarious reasons for coming to see Dorothy. It is also Brian’s birthday, and the coven members are excited to receive invitations from Brian’s family for a grand birthday ball. Brian does all he can to avoid his parents and grandfather, but he concedes to attend with his witchy friends. Everyone is caught up in the glitz and glamour of the occasion until one of the Grand Witch Council Members is murdered, and the Council summons the Witch Finder (a former witch persecutor during the Spanish Inquisition who is now cursed to do the Council’s bidding) to find the killer. Molly is tops on his list of suspects until he is assured that she did not kill Makaleigh, and they agree to help each other uncover the truth before the twenty-four-hour lockdown spell on the castle expires.
One of the things that I really like about this series is that the main characters are older than the typical cozy mystery protagonists. However, even though their magic is passed its prime, they never come across as too old for the adventures they face. Their wisdom and experience just adds to the enjoyment of reading, and the infusion of youth from Dorothy and Brian adds a nice balance. Joyce and Jim Lavene masterfully build a believable world where witches, ghosts, dragons, and werewolves live side by side with mortals. I love that Molly’s husband and son are not magical and that Molly used to be a school teacher. These little touches of reality make everything seem perfectly plausible. The characters are all relatable, even the nasty ones, and I feel like I am one of the coven and totally immersed in the mystery right along with the cast of characters. In this installment, I particularly enjoyed the Witch Finder Antonio. His old fashioned manners are charming, and his willingness to change his ways is endearing. I love that Molly and gang convince him that technology and questions are much better than torture in ferreting out the truth. As much as I like the cast of this series, I do admit that I find Olivia whiny this time around.
There is quite a bit going on in this book, but it never feels out of control or that any of the subplots are superfluous. There is the murder, Brian’s new familiar’s strange behavior, the hunt for the missing spell book, questions surrounding Drago’s motives, and Brian’s grandfather’s insistence that Brian fill the now vacant spot on the Council. Everything does eventually weave together providing a mystery that I was stumped to figure out. It is pretty rare for me not to figure out whodunit, and I definitely feel like I got my money’s worth when I do not have it all figured out. The lockdown spell on the castle gives the whole book a feeling reminiscent of the locked room and weekend holiday settings of the Golden Age of Mystery. I love it.
Putting on the Witch is great fun, and I highly recommend it to fans of the Lavene’s other writings and those who like a big dollop of magic in their cozy mysteries. Sadly, both Joyce and Jim passed away this year, and their presence will be greatly missed by the cozy mystery community. I keep hoping that there are more works that were written yet thus far unpublished. If not, they will continue to live on forever in their many wonderful tales.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Putting on the Witch
A Retired Witches Mystery, Book #3
By Joyce and Jim Lavene
ISBN#9780425268278
Author’s website: www.joyceandjimlavene.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge; especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun.
The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks.
Review:
Putting on the Witch is the fantastic third book in the Retired Witches Mystery series by the prolific storytellers Joyce and Jim Lavene, and it is a whimsical, closed room-esque mystery that is sure to please readers who enjoy both a good whodunit and magic.
Molly, Elsie, and Olivia, who is now a ghost, are beginning to rethink their retirement plans because their magical powers are growing stronger since they welcomed Brian and Dorothy into their coven. And, of course, they are still looking for their spell book that went missing when Olivia was murdered (see book one, Spell Booked). The whole coven is taken off guard when Dorothy’s father Drago appears, and Olivia is greatly concerned since she made every effort over the years to keep Dorothy’s existence a secret from Drago. Having been outcast by the Grand Witch Council, he is bad news, and everyone is worried that he has nefarious reasons for coming to see Dorothy. It is also Brian’s birthday, and the coven members are excited to receive invitations from Brian’s family for a grand birthday ball. Brian does all he can to avoid his parents and grandfather, but he concedes to attend with his witchy friends. Everyone is caught up in the glitz and glamour of the occasion until one of the Grand Witch Council Members is murdered, and the Council summons the Witch Finder (a former witch persecutor during the Spanish Inquisition who is now cursed to do the Council’s bidding) to find the killer. Molly is tops on his list of suspects until he is assured that she did not kill Makaleigh, and they agree to help each other uncover the truth before the twenty-four-hour lockdown spell on the castle expires.
One of the things that I really like about this series is that the main characters are older than the typical cozy mystery protagonists. However, even though their magic is passed its prime, they never come across as too old for the adventures they face. Their wisdom and experience just adds to the enjoyment of reading, and the infusion of youth from Dorothy and Brian adds a nice balance. Joyce and Jim Lavene masterfully build a believable world where witches, ghosts, dragons, and werewolves live side by side with mortals. I love that Molly’s husband and son are not magical and that Molly used to be a school teacher. These little touches of reality make everything seem perfectly plausible. The characters are all relatable, even the nasty ones, and I feel like I am one of the coven and totally immersed in the mystery right along with the cast of characters. In this installment, I particularly enjoyed the Witch Finder Antonio. His old fashioned manners are charming, and his willingness to change his ways is endearing. I love that Molly and gang convince him that technology and questions are much better than torture in ferreting out the truth. As much as I like the cast of this series, I do admit that I find Olivia whiny this time around.
There is quite a bit going on in this book, but it never feels out of control or that any of the subplots are superfluous. There is the murder, Brian’s new familiar’s strange behavior, the hunt for the missing spell book, questions surrounding Drago’s motives, and Brian’s grandfather’s insistence that Brian fill the now vacant spot on the Council. Everything does eventually weave together providing a mystery that I was stumped to figure out. It is pretty rare for me not to figure out whodunit, and I definitely feel like I got my money’s worth when I do not have it all figured out. The lockdown spell on the castle gives the whole book a feeling reminiscent of the locked room and weekend holiday settings of the Golden Age of Mystery. I love it.
Putting on the Witch is great fun, and I highly recommend it to fans of the Lavene’s other writings and those who like a big dollop of magic in their cozy mysteries. Sadly, both Joyce and Jim passed away this year, and their presence will be greatly missed by the cozy mystery community. I keep hoping that there are more works that were written yet thus far unpublished. If not, they will continue to live on forever in their many wonderful tales.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
October 13, 2016
**I voluntarily reviewed this ARC**
This was an absolutely magical book. I haven't read the first two, yet I was immediately swept up into their world and never felt lost. They give just enough information that you understand the characters, but never so much that it spoils previous books. The characters were beautifully written. I loved that the elderly characters were nontraditional yet still felt like real people. The magical twist on a locked room mystery was a nice change from typical books.
This was an absolutely magical book. I haven't read the first two, yet I was immediately swept up into their world and never felt lost. They give just enough information that you understand the characters, but never so much that it spoils previous books. The characters were beautifully written. I loved that the elderly characters were nontraditional yet still felt like real people. The magical twist on a locked room mystery was a nice change from typical books.
October 17, 2016
Putting on the Witch by Jim and Joyce Lavene is the third book in A Retired Witches Mystery series. Molly, Elsie, and Olivia (who is a ghost) are upset when Dorothy’s father, Drago Rasmun shows up. They were hoping he would not find out about Dorothy until they had given her more training. Dorothy Lane is a librarian and only recently discovered her witchy background and legacy. The three elder witches are afraid that Drago will lure Dorothy to the dark side. Brian Fuller, Dorothy’s boyfriend, is having a birthday. His parents are throwing a ball in his honor. Brian does not wish to attend (he prefers to avoid his parents). Unfortunately, Brian is outvoted. The ladies are dying for a chance to dress up and see the Fuller home (which is in a secret location). Olivia is a bit miffed. The others tell her that she cannot attend (I do not think this will stop her). The Witches Council is against ghosts and would not hesitate to banish her for good. The others get glammed up (magically) and wait for the car to take them to the secret location. They are having a good time until they discover the body of Makaleigh Veazy, a witches’ council member, stabbed in the back. The council locks down the house for twenty-four hours and calls forth Antonio de Santiago, the witchfinder. Antonio was an original member of the Spanish inquisition and has been kept a prisoner (in a wall) by the council all these years. Antonio is very old school (he believes in intense questioning in a dungeon). Molly (and the others) decide to teach Antonio modern forensics and investigative techniques. Will they be able to find the killer before the guests are allowed to leave? The witches are in for a busy twenty-four hours and the murder is just the beginning of their troubles.
Putting on the Witch was an entertaining story. I did feel that there was a bit too much going on in the book. We have murder, a troublesome ghost, a familiar with its own agenda, Dorothy’s father returning and up to mischief, and an old school witchfinder (this is not all). I just felt that it was overwhelming for one novel. The characters (for the most part) are interesting and likeable. I did find Olivia a little too whiny and annoying (I was not amused by her). While this is the third book in A Retired Witches Mystery series, it can be read alone. The readers are given all the information needed to enjoy the novel (in case you have not read the first two books). I give Putting on the Witch 4 out of 5 stars. The book moves along at a good pace (neither fast nor slow). The mystery was complex with some twists along the way. My favorite character is Antonio, the witchfinder. I hope we will see him again in the future (if there are any more books in the series). This was a good final book from writers Jim and Joyce Lavene. They will be missed.
Putting on the Witch was an entertaining story. I did feel that there was a bit too much going on in the book. We have murder, a troublesome ghost, a familiar with its own agenda, Dorothy’s father returning and up to mischief, and an old school witchfinder (this is not all). I just felt that it was overwhelming for one novel. The characters (for the most part) are interesting and likeable. I did find Olivia a little too whiny and annoying (I was not amused by her). While this is the third book in A Retired Witches Mystery series, it can be read alone. The readers are given all the information needed to enjoy the novel (in case you have not read the first two books). I give Putting on the Witch 4 out of 5 stars. The book moves along at a good pace (neither fast nor slow). The mystery was complex with some twists along the way. My favorite character is Antonio, the witchfinder. I hope we will see him again in the future (if there are any more books in the series). This was a good final book from writers Jim and Joyce Lavene. They will be missed.
October 9, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Joyce and Jim Lavene had imaginations that were truly out of this world and it was in full force in this 3rd installment of the Retired Witch Mysteries.
Molly, Elsie, Dorothy, Brian and Olivia are all back and we meet Drago, Dorothy’s father. The coven is invited to Brian’s birthday party, a party even Brian doesn’t usually attend but the other witches all convince him to go. They all need a little fun especially with the wicked Drago lurking around. The event is at a very special castle and the whole Grand Council of Witches are in attendance. In fact, one of the council ends up dead and it gets crazy…
This was a book I truly escaped right into, a world of make believe had me leave reality in the dust within seconds after opening the cover.
The castle setting was both enchanting and eerie – an immense space where stairs and hallways appear and disappear, filled with hidden rooms and spaces, a wonderful library and more. The drinks were flowing and there was fine food to eat. The place was packed with witches of all kinds, water witches, fire witches, air and earth witches. It would have been a fabulous party if that darn murder hadn’t occurred.
I have loved the main characters from the moment we met, just 3 witches wanting to retire and hand their spellbook off to a new set of witches and since then so much has happened. Retiring is always a huge change but for these witches it is no simple feat and we were allowed to travel with them all along the way.
This story is so much more than a cozy mystery. It is about friendship and family and all the dedication and devotion that goes along with that. Each character is unique. Every place from their shop, Smuggler’s Arcane, to the enormous castle is vividly described. The plots and subplots are more than well written, they are MAGICAL times infinity.
I believe Jim finished this story on his own, something he hadn’t done since they started writing together. He dedicates the book to Joyce and you can tell he worked hard to get everything just right. I could feel his heart beating in these words, he may have had a little spiritual assistance too, but I know it was probably one of the hardest things to do after she passed away. The cozy community was truly blessed by their presence and they will always live on through their stories. I hope they are looking down upon us and see the joy their writing has brought to so many.
Joyce and Jim Lavene had imaginations that were truly out of this world and it was in full force in this 3rd installment of the Retired Witch Mysteries.
Molly, Elsie, Dorothy, Brian and Olivia are all back and we meet Drago, Dorothy’s father. The coven is invited to Brian’s birthday party, a party even Brian doesn’t usually attend but the other witches all convince him to go. They all need a little fun especially with the wicked Drago lurking around. The event is at a very special castle and the whole Grand Council of Witches are in attendance. In fact, one of the council ends up dead and it gets crazy…
This was a book I truly escaped right into, a world of make believe had me leave reality in the dust within seconds after opening the cover.
The castle setting was both enchanting and eerie – an immense space where stairs and hallways appear and disappear, filled with hidden rooms and spaces, a wonderful library and more. The drinks were flowing and there was fine food to eat. The place was packed with witches of all kinds, water witches, fire witches, air and earth witches. It would have been a fabulous party if that darn murder hadn’t occurred.
I have loved the main characters from the moment we met, just 3 witches wanting to retire and hand their spellbook off to a new set of witches and since then so much has happened. Retiring is always a huge change but for these witches it is no simple feat and we were allowed to travel with them all along the way.
This story is so much more than a cozy mystery. It is about friendship and family and all the dedication and devotion that goes along with that. Each character is unique. Every place from their shop, Smuggler’s Arcane, to the enormous castle is vividly described. The plots and subplots are more than well written, they are MAGICAL times infinity.
I believe Jim finished this story on his own, something he hadn’t done since they started writing together. He dedicates the book to Joyce and you can tell he worked hard to get everything just right. I could feel his heart beating in these words, he may have had a little spiritual assistance too, but I know it was probably one of the hardest things to do after she passed away. The cozy community was truly blessed by their presence and they will always live on through their stories. I hope they are looking down upon us and see the joy their writing has brought to so many.
October 3, 2016
I received a free ebook of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review and to participate in the book tour hosted by Escape with Dollycas . This is the third in the A Retired Witches Mystery Series written by the prolific team of Joyce and Jim Lavene, who have both recently passed away and are missed greatly by the cozy mystery community. Their website, which includes all their series is found here.
In this book the coven is still missing their spellbook and feeling the effects of its loss. Molly and Elsie, along with their ghostly friend Olivia and her daughter Dorothy jump at the chance to attend the Witches Ball, even with Dorothy’s “wicked witch” father back in the picture. The ball opens at a fantastical castle location and all and sundry are swept along with the festivities, until a murder occurs. Molly and coven find themselves trying to solve a murder and retrieve their missing spell book.
So much more than the average paranormal cozy, the story sweeps you along into a whole new world of magic and a little mayhem. Fun, exciting and intriguing, it is really a great read! As so much of Joyce and Jim’s work, this book provides an escape from the every day monotony and troubles, but to perceive the work as “just a cozy” would be to do it a disservice. After all, Margery Allingham famously said, “light reading is not light writing.”
In this book the coven is still missing their spellbook and feeling the effects of its loss. Molly and Elsie, along with their ghostly friend Olivia and her daughter Dorothy jump at the chance to attend the Witches Ball, even with Dorothy’s “wicked witch” father back in the picture. The ball opens at a fantastical castle location and all and sundry are swept along with the festivities, until a murder occurs. Molly and coven find themselves trying to solve a murder and retrieve their missing spell book.
So much more than the average paranormal cozy, the story sweeps you along into a whole new world of magic and a little mayhem. Fun, exciting and intriguing, it is really a great read! As so much of Joyce and Jim’s work, this book provides an escape from the every day monotony and troubles, but to perceive the work as “just a cozy” would be to do it a disservice. After all, Margery Allingham famously said, “light reading is not light writing.”
October 16, 2016
Where do witches go when they retire? Wilmington, NC of course!
Putting on the Witch is the 3rd book in the Retired Witches Mystery series. Unfortunately, it will also be the last, as co-authors Joyce and Jim Levene both passed away recently. Their wonderful, funny, quirky stories will be sorely missed!!
This book is a magical, fun, adventure! For me, this was a perfect Fall read. I curled up on the couch with my chihuahuas and a cup of tea, and read this book in one sitting. It definitely ignited my Halloween spirit!
The basics: Witches Elsie and Molly with their ghost pal Olivia and apprentices, Dorothy and Brian are looking for their coven's missing spell book. Receiving an invitation to the Witches Ball, they are excited to attend the grand event. The festivities are cut a bit short though when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. This leaves the coven scrambling to find its missing book and solve a murder.
Joyce and Jim Levene wrote books together for 20 years. They wrote many cozy mystery series including the Christmas Tree Valley, Pumpkin Patch and Sharyn Howard Mystery series. They also wrote under the pseudonyms J.J. Cook and Ellie Grant. Their imagination, humor and creativity will truly be missed.
Thank you so much Joyce & Jim for the hours of enjoyment that cozy readers have gotten from your books. RIP.
Putting on the Witch is the 3rd book in the Retired Witches Mystery series. Unfortunately, it will also be the last, as co-authors Joyce and Jim Levene both passed away recently. Their wonderful, funny, quirky stories will be sorely missed!!
This book is a magical, fun, adventure! For me, this was a perfect Fall read. I curled up on the couch with my chihuahuas and a cup of tea, and read this book in one sitting. It definitely ignited my Halloween spirit!
The basics: Witches Elsie and Molly with their ghost pal Olivia and apprentices, Dorothy and Brian are looking for their coven's missing spell book. Receiving an invitation to the Witches Ball, they are excited to attend the grand event. The festivities are cut a bit short though when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. This leaves the coven scrambling to find its missing book and solve a murder.
Joyce and Jim Levene wrote books together for 20 years. They wrote many cozy mystery series including the Christmas Tree Valley, Pumpkin Patch and Sharyn Howard Mystery series. They also wrote under the pseudonyms J.J. Cook and Ellie Grant. Their imagination, humor and creativity will truly be missed.
Thank you so much Joyce & Jim for the hours of enjoyment that cozy readers have gotten from your books. RIP.
October 13, 2016
This is the saddest blog tour that I have ever been a part of. Joyce passed away October 20, 2015 and Jim passed on May 5, 2016.
I never met Jim and Joyce Lavene but I respected their abilities as authors. And as storytellers. Great storytellers. Putting on the Witch is the third book in the Retired Witches Mystery series. Let your imagination run wild and escape into this fascinating world of witches and spells. Even if you are not a fan of paranormal cozy mysteries I think you will find Putting on the Witch a delight.
All the regular characters are back but Putting on the Witch introduces us to a new character, Dorothy's father Drago. The setting of the castle is truly fascinating. It was wonderful to escape into this mystical and magical realm.
The mystery involves the killing of one of the Grand Council of Witches who is present at the castle for the big party. After the murder no one can leave until the murder is solved.
Fans of cozies and paranormal cozies will enjoy Putting on the Witch. Free your mind and slip into this amazing magical world.
I never met Jim and Joyce Lavene but I respected their abilities as authors. And as storytellers. Great storytellers. Putting on the Witch is the third book in the Retired Witches Mystery series. Let your imagination run wild and escape into this fascinating world of witches and spells. Even if you are not a fan of paranormal cozy mysteries I think you will find Putting on the Witch a delight.
All the regular characters are back but Putting on the Witch introduces us to a new character, Dorothy's father Drago. The setting of the castle is truly fascinating. It was wonderful to escape into this mystical and magical realm.
The mystery involves the killing of one of the Grand Council of Witches who is present at the castle for the big party. After the murder no one can leave until the murder is solved.
Fans of cozies and paranormal cozies will enjoy Putting on the Witch. Free your mind and slip into this amazing magical world.
October 6, 2016
The third book in the Retired Witches mysteries we find the Coven preparing to attend Brian's birthday party at the Castle of his parents. This true fantasy as magic is everywhere. We find a shapesetter, Dragon magic, the Sea God, a ghost and the witchfinder all presented in the story.
Molly, Elsie, and Dorothy visited the Witches dressmaker to select gowns for the party. Arriving at the party, they are in awe of the glamour and beauty of the Castle, the Coven learns that Olivia is present in Dorothy's bracelet. Ghosts are not allowed in the Castle be a degree of the Council. The group finds a member of Council dying and Molly hears her last words. A spell locks all those present in the Castle until the Killer is found. At this point, the story begins the turns and twists so it was difficult to put the book down. The ending will surprise and a fitting end to the series.
Molly, Elsie, and Dorothy visited the Witches dressmaker to select gowns for the party. Arriving at the party, they are in awe of the glamour and beauty of the Castle, the Coven learns that Olivia is present in Dorothy's bracelet. Ghosts are not allowed in the Castle be a degree of the Council. The group finds a member of Council dying and Molly hears her last words. A spell locks all those present in the Castle until the Killer is found. At this point, the story begins the turns and twists so it was difficult to put the book down. The ending will surprise and a fitting end to the series.
October 6, 2016
This is my favorite Lavene series! I love the paranormal aspect, as well as the close friendships, the humor, and the love.
In this book we are introduced to Dorothy's father, Drago...which has everyone's nerves in an uproar. When invitations to a Witches Ball arrive from Brian's family, they all look forward to the chance to dress up and have a good time.
Unfortunately, a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered during the party, so the castle is put on lockdown, a witch hunter is called in, and things get very complicated for the coven.
I loved the way this all played out, and was totally surprised to discover the identity of the murderer. I hope this series will be continued in the future, as I will miss the coven if it isn't.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, and voluntarily chose to review it.**
In this book we are introduced to Dorothy's father, Drago...which has everyone's nerves in an uproar. When invitations to a Witches Ball arrive from Brian's family, they all look forward to the chance to dress up and have a good time.
Unfortunately, a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered during the party, so the castle is put on lockdown, a witch hunter is called in, and things get very complicated for the coven.
I loved the way this all played out, and was totally surprised to discover the identity of the murderer. I hope this series will be continued in the future, as I will miss the coven if it isn't.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, and voluntarily chose to review it.**
October 20, 2016
This is the third book in the Retired Witches series by Joyce and Jim Lavene and it was as wonderful as the others! I really enjoy this series and hope that it will continue.
Brian's birthday is coming up and Dorothy, Elise and Molly have been invited to his family estate for the party. Even Olivia sneaks in, unwilling to be left behind just because she is a ghost. The party is not really their kind of thing but, they go for Dorothy and Brian. Once there though, things start to get out of control. A member of the Witches Council is murdered and Molly is the one to find her. The castle is on lock down until the witchfinder can determine who the killer is. And his means are those of The Inquisition. With Molly being the witch to find the council member, will she and her friends make it out of the castle safely? Or will there be more than one murder to solve?
Brian's birthday is coming up and Dorothy, Elise and Molly have been invited to his family estate for the party. Even Olivia sneaks in, unwilling to be left behind just because she is a ghost. The party is not really their kind of thing but, they go for Dorothy and Brian. Once there though, things start to get out of control. A member of the Witches Council is murdered and Molly is the one to find her. The castle is on lock down until the witchfinder can determine who the killer is. And his means are those of The Inquisition. With Molly being the witch to find the council member, will she and her friends make it out of the castle safely? Or will there be more than one murder to solve?
October 23, 2016
I was concerned with the death of the authors how this series would go. I am very pleased that most of the story lines wrapped up, and made it feel like the series was a trilogy. Though I am very sad that these authors have passed on, I am blessed to have their body of work to read. This book can be read alone, but I recommend reading the others to get full character backgrounds. I do not expect more unless they had others already written or someone else takes over, but this series is worth reading.
December 14, 2016
This is the third book In the Retired Witch series. This book was just ok for me. I really enjoyed the first book and liked the second book. This book did not hold my interest as the first book did even though there was a lot going on. I do like the personalities of the characters. This book did not have the humor element of the first two. I do hope they get their chance to retire someday in Boca Raton. I pre-ordered the book so I was a fan of the series and thought I would enjoy it more than I did.
September 30, 2016
Review coming up in October!
October 3, 2017
Typically, I haven’t read the first installments of this series (something I intend to fix ASAP), so I was a bit adrift in the opening chapter. That didn’t keep me from being sucked in to the story immediately. The story centers around Molly, Elsie and Olivia, three witches who were hoping to retire and pass on their coven and spell book to a new generation of witches. Of course things don’t always work out as planned. Having made their lives in the non magic community through marriage, the witches had lost their edge on magic. Along the way to this book, they had had also had their spell book stolen and Olivia had been killed, leaving her a ghostly apparition, that is just as frowned upon in the witch community as is non magic users knowing about real magic. The books picks up with Dorothy, Olivia’s daughter, meeting her powerful witch father for the first time. He seems intent only on knowing the daughter her mother had never told him about, however we soon find out that having magical powers doesn’t make it any easier to know when things aren’t always what they seem and this very powerful, renegade witch could be at the heart of all that is wrong. This story takes the reader on a journey exploring the darkest parts of witch history where we see that powerful magic is not immune to fluctuating alliances, political infighting and maneuvering for more power and anyone can get caught in webs of deceit.
The strength of this book as with all the books by these authors, lies in the depth of each character. There are no small parts from the lowliest of servants to the most rich and powerful. The main characters, those of the Wilmington Coven, are delightful. The three retired witches squabble like they must have been doing since they were teens. Each is a strong ego with a colorful story. Olivia’s ghostly handicap doesn’t stop her from getting her own way, to her own detriment at times, death hasn’t mellowed her at all. Molly finds herself the focal point of a murder investigation that could have a profound impact on the magic community and Elsie is realizing that she can finally have all that she wants, even if it isn’t exactly what she thought that would be. Even without reading the previous books, it obvious that each of the women has gone on her own journey and have grown as women and witches. Younger witches Dorothy and Brian seem a bit minor at first, but both manage to make their mark on the story and leave the reader with hope for their future. The true color is reserved for Brian’s rich powerful family and the witch council they serve. The Ewings and The Carringtons got nothing on this back biting conniving group.
This is not typical paranormal or not typical cozy and definitely not typical paranormal cozy. I found it to be loads of fun with plenty of suspense, hilarious humor, and clever plot twists. You won’t know until the last page where all the details settle, but you will be sorry to not be spending more time with these witches when you get there.
5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The strength of this book as with all the books by these authors, lies in the depth of each character. There are no small parts from the lowliest of servants to the most rich and powerful. The main characters, those of the Wilmington Coven, are delightful. The three retired witches squabble like they must have been doing since they were teens. Each is a strong ego with a colorful story. Olivia’s ghostly handicap doesn’t stop her from getting her own way, to her own detriment at times, death hasn’t mellowed her at all. Molly finds herself the focal point of a murder investigation that could have a profound impact on the magic community and Elsie is realizing that she can finally have all that she wants, even if it isn’t exactly what she thought that would be. Even without reading the previous books, it obvious that each of the women has gone on her own journey and have grown as women and witches. Younger witches Dorothy and Brian seem a bit minor at first, but both manage to make their mark on the story and leave the reader with hope for their future. The true color is reserved for Brian’s rich powerful family and the witch council they serve. The Ewings and The Carringtons got nothing on this back biting conniving group.
This is not typical paranormal or not typical cozy and definitely not typical paranormal cozy. I found it to be loads of fun with plenty of suspense, hilarious humor, and clever plot twists. You won’t know until the last page where all the details settle, but you will be sorry to not be spending more time with these witches when you get there.
5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 12, 2017
Molly, Elsie, Dorothy, Brian, and Olivia are back at it in Putting on the Witch. Dorothy's evil father, Drago, shows up and claims he just wants to spend time with his little girl, much to Olivia's protests. Brian's birthday is coming up and his parents are holding a fancy ball at the castle and the coven is invited.
But when they get there, they discover that a prominent member of the Council has been murdered. With the help of a terrifying 1500's witchhunter and Molly's own sleuthing skills, they must figure out Drago's motives for reappearing in Dorothy's life while trying to solve the murder before time is up.
Another fun read, Putting on the Witch has a lot more going on and a lot more fun. The pacing seems to be better in this one, as compared to the first, but there are still some areas that are rough - for instance, they start out doing CSI type investigations to find the fingerprints of the murderer, but end up dropping that to solve the murder a completely different way, which sort of made me wonder what the point was other than a gag that took up 1/3 of the book. Then there's the reactions.
One of my big peeves in books is when there's a big hint and the characters just never follow up on it. For instance, a character will be knocked out because she discovered something in a book, but the other characters conveniently forget to, you know, read the book to find out what it was. It feels a little forced. Any normal person would be sprinting to read that damn book and figure out what the character had learned that was so dangerous.
But overall, it was a fun read, with a lot of big changes at the end. I can't wait for the next one!
But when they get there, they discover that a prominent member of the Council has been murdered. With the help of a terrifying 1500's witchhunter and Molly's own sleuthing skills, they must figure out Drago's motives for reappearing in Dorothy's life while trying to solve the murder before time is up.
Another fun read, Putting on the Witch has a lot more going on and a lot more fun. The pacing seems to be better in this one, as compared to the first, but there are still some areas that are rough - for instance, they start out doing CSI type investigations to find the fingerprints of the murderer, but end up dropping that to solve the murder a completely different way, which sort of made me wonder what the point was other than a gag that took up 1/3 of the book. Then there's the reactions.
One of my big peeves in books is when there's a big hint and the characters just never follow up on it. For instance, a character will be knocked out because she discovered something in a book, but the other characters conveniently forget to, you know, read the book to find out what it was. It feels a little forced. Any normal person would be sprinting to read that damn book and figure out what the character had learned that was so dangerous.
But overall, it was a fun read, with a lot of big changes at the end. I can't wait for the next one!
December 14, 2016
This is the thirds book in the Retired Witches Mystery and it's a twist on the classic mystery where a group of people are stranded in a place and a murder occurs. I do love this series! I hope it continues since half of the writing team, Joyce Lavene, passed away.
Molly and Elsie, along with their late friend Olive's daughter Dorothy, are invited to a Witch's Ball at the castle of the enormously powerful witch family of Dorothy's boyfriend, Brian. The party is to celebrate Brian's birthday but his family has an ulterior motive: they want Brian to sit on the Witch's Council. The castle is spectacular- until a powerful old witch is found murdered. The castle is on lock down. Molly immediately goes into sleuth mode but she has to be careful. To complicate things, their ghost friend Olive sneaked into the castle with them- witches abhor ghosts- so they must hide her. And worse yet, Dorothy's biological father, an enormously powerful and wicked witch, appears secretly in the castle. Olive had hidden Dorothy away at birth to keep her away from her father. This is an original series with quirky characters.
Molly and Elsie, along with their late friend Olive's daughter Dorothy, are invited to a Witch's Ball at the castle of the enormously powerful witch family of Dorothy's boyfriend, Brian. The party is to celebrate Brian's birthday but his family has an ulterior motive: they want Brian to sit on the Witch's Council. The castle is spectacular- until a powerful old witch is found murdered. The castle is on lock down. Molly immediately goes into sleuth mode but she has to be careful. To complicate things, their ghost friend Olive sneaked into the castle with them- witches abhor ghosts- so they must hide her. And worse yet, Dorothy's biological father, an enormously powerful and wicked witch, appears secretly in the castle. Olive had hidden Dorothy away at birth to keep her away from her father. This is an original series with quirky characters.
July 7, 2017
From the cover: With their coven’s spell book still missing, Molly and Elsie—along with their ghostly friend Olivia, her daughter Dorothy, and her boyfriend Brian—are all on edge, especially now that Dorothy’s infamously wicked father is back in the picture. So when they receive an invitation to an exclusive Witches Ball, the ladies jump at the chance to dress up and have some fun. The castle locale is spectacular and the party is hopping, but the festivities come to a swift end when a member of the Grand Council of Witches is murdered. With the whole place on lock down, the coven is determined to find the cunning killer, even with an angry council and a real Spanish Inquisitor breathing down their necks...
I have enjoyed the books in this series that I have read and I did enjoy this one also. I just read that the authors have died and there will not be any more books in this series. I love the characters in this series and was glad to read many returned in the third book. I enjoyed the story, mystery and all the twists and turns in the book.
I have enjoyed the books in this series that I have read and I did enjoy this one also. I just read that the authors have died and there will not be any more books in this series. I love the characters in this series and was glad to read many returned in the third book. I enjoyed the story, mystery and all the twists and turns in the book.
October 9, 2017
I think my expectations were too high since I really enjoy the Peggy Lee and Renaissance Faire mysteries. If I could give half star ratings, this book would get a 2.5.
While the story was engaging, I found it to be almost laughably ridiculous at times and boy, oh boy, did it drag on and on. Dorothy and her mother were an odd pair. Olivia often spoke to her as if she were a young child as opposed to a young woman. Dorothy's impetuous behavior made me wonder why a witch with a lineage like Brian would even be interested in her romantically and I found their relationship dubious. Molly is a good character but is a bit boring.
So if the murder hadn't been solved before the locked door enchantment broke, what would have happened? Would they have had to stay longer? And how is it that a thousands of years old witch is suddenly murdered by a simple stab wound even with reduced magical abilities?
I feel as though this could have been written for teenagers with a few modifications.
While the story was engaging, I found it to be almost laughably ridiculous at times and boy, oh boy, did it drag on and on. Dorothy and her mother were an odd pair. Olivia often spoke to her as if she were a young child as opposed to a young woman. Dorothy's impetuous behavior made me wonder why a witch with a lineage like Brian would even be interested in her romantically and I found their relationship dubious. Molly is a good character but is a bit boring.
So if the murder hadn't been solved before the locked door enchantment broke, what would have happened? Would they have had to stay longer? And how is it that a thousands of years old witch is suddenly murdered by a simple stab wound even with reduced magical abilities?
I feel as though this could have been written for teenagers with a few modifications.
February 19, 2017
First of all, very sorry to hear that both members of this writing team have passed on. I really enjoyed their Renassiance series.
This is the 3rd book in the Retired Witches series. Molly and her coven are invited to the castle for Brian's birthday. While there, one of the council members is murdered. Everyone is imprisoned in the castle for 24 hours, while the investigation is going on. I felt like several items were brought to an end in this book. Dorothy and Brian will get married, Elsie will marry the werewolf Jerry. Although Olivia remains a ghost, she is learning new powers. The lost spell book is found and Molly and family are safe because of her amulet.
This is the 3rd book in the Retired Witches series. Molly and her coven are invited to the castle for Brian's birthday. While there, one of the council members is murdered. Everyone is imprisoned in the castle for 24 hours, while the investigation is going on. I felt like several items were brought to an end in this book. Dorothy and Brian will get married, Elsie will marry the werewolf Jerry. Although Olivia remains a ghost, she is learning new powers. The lost spell book is found and Molly and family are safe because of her amulet.
July 19, 2021
I loved this entire series. This one was a bit slower in the middle than I thought the first two books were, but the storyline was still interesting. We saw all our old, familiar favorites, and met a few new characters that I really enjoyed meeting.
I have to admit that I'm sad that this series is over, and that there will never be more books with these characters. I am very glad, though, to have read this series, and I could see myself revisiting it. I'm also glad that it introduced me to the idea of witch-themed cozies for future book searches!
I highly recommend this entire series!
I have to admit that I'm sad that this series is over, and that there will never be more books with these characters. I am very glad, though, to have read this series, and I could see myself revisiting it. I'm also glad that it introduced me to the idea of witch-themed cozies for future book searches!
I highly recommend this entire series!
July 26, 2017
Olivia, Dorothy's Mother, is now a ghost that hangs out with the retirees of her former coven. When Dorothy's father, the most evil & powerful witch, comes to meet Dorothy all hell breaks loose as Olivia, her friends, & Dorothy's boyfriend to keep her & her father apart.
I HATED this book:
1. The dialog was trite
2. The characters were cardboard
3. The occult information was Incorrect & Misleading (Either put it in w/ a blind or leave it out completely: Seriously, don't make shit up or be ridiculous)
I HATED this book:
1. The dialog was trite
2. The characters were cardboard
3. The occult information was Incorrect & Misleading (Either put it in w/ a blind or leave it out completely: Seriously, don't make shit up or be ridiculous)
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