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Witches of Crystal Cove #1
Murder Most Horrid
Dip into the world of The Witches of Crystal Cove. A charming cozy mystery set in an idyllic small town off the coast of Maine. Mount Crystal Island is already shrouded in mystery and rumors of witches but now things are about to get really crazy. When this idyllic town is shaken to the core by a murder, Jane Summers and her two sisters must race against time to discover who the killer is before they strike again. That might be easy, if her childhood crush, Max Wayland hadn't returned to Crystal Cove and taken a position with the local Police Department and her father wasn't on her case about using spells in public. Now she must navigate her way around obstacles, mixed feelings, secrets, lies and twists before her friend is charged with the murder. She will need to use more than her charm, wits and sisters to solve this case. She's going to be forced to use a touch of magic.
248 pages, Paperback
First published January 9, 2016
320 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 30, 2018
I could have done without the prologue. This was okay. Everything wraps up nice and neat. I assume Jane's mother's death will be dealt with at some point in time; it sounds suspicious. It would have been nice for the characters to be a little more fleshed out. Jane has an epiphany and very easily, quickly solves the mystery. It was over and done with very quickly. One thing that was good- no cliffhanger!
There were some things that did take me out of the story. There was the occasional, weird (IMO) phrasing, a few examples: "A gentle amount of snow was coming down." and "Jane pulled up in front of the low-income housing." There was a moment that goes from 3rd person, to 1st, and right back to 3rd. Then some inconsistencies; it's snowing heavily, then the sun is blinding. It's below zero outside, and a tire gets stuck in mud.
There were some things that did take me out of the story. There was the occasional, weird (IMO) phrasing, a few examples: "A gentle amount of snow was coming down." and "Jane pulled up in front of the low-income housing." There was a moment that goes from 3rd person, to 1st, and right back to 3rd. Then some inconsistencies; it's snowing heavily, then the sun is blinding. It's below zero outside, and a tire gets stuck in mud.
December 30, 2017
When I first started this book I thought I had already read it because the story was so like another. First, the witches best friend is the prime suspect in a murder. My question is why? There were many more people with motive. Second, like the previously mentioned book there are three sister witches and a handsome detective. Third, the investigation was very mild. Fourth, it just came to her who did it. So sorry this is not a great mystery book or paranormal book.
May 10, 2018
Wonderful read!
Jane and her family live in Crystal Cove.....and they are all witches! A mysterious murder downtown and their Father saying to stay out of it, won't get in the way of their investigation. After all, they are stronger together! Many novellas in this series is a real bonus!
Jane and her family live in Crystal Cove.....and they are all witches! A mysterious murder downtown and their Father saying to stay out of it, won't get in the way of their investigation. After all, they are stronger together! Many novellas in this series is a real bonus!
June 30, 2018
Good book
I liked this book because unlike a lot of the cozy mystery paranormal books I have read. Lately this one actually has some of the witches using magic. That is part of the fun of reading this type of book and many do not have magic as part of the story. They just mention they are witches so this was enjoyable.
I liked this book because unlike a lot of the cozy mystery paranormal books I have read. Lately this one actually has some of the witches using magic. That is part of the fun of reading this type of book and many do not have magic as part of the story. They just mention they are witches so this was enjoyable.
October 2, 2019
A murder in a town that used to be a safe haven for witches. Keeping the fact that her whole family is witches is stressful enough without having her best friend charged with the murder of her cheating boyfriend. She is determined to solve the case so her friend doesn't end up in jail for a crime she didn't commit
February 23, 2023
Jane is from a family of witches, she runs the family coffee shop, her mother is dead but she still has her dad and 2 sister's Agatha and Lizzy. When Jane best friend boyfriend is murdered and her friend Charlotte is under arrest it's up to Jane to prove she didn't do it, put will the new detective and old flame Max have other ideas
June 25, 2017
Great story
Liked the book, but I read this on a kindle and since the covers are so much alike with each book's title in smaller font, it is difficult to read them in sequence by trying to find the next book. the titles are often red on a black background and difficult to read.
Liked the book, but I read this on a kindle and since the covers are so much alike with each book's title in smaller font, it is difficult to read them in sequence by trying to find the next book. the titles are often red on a black background and difficult to read.
May 30, 2020
This book will keep you reading and the pages turning. There are however spots where it is so slow that you want to tell the author to get on with it. Thankfully these are few and far between and does not detract from the story and characters. A Good Read Everyone!
September 12, 2017
Fantastic!
I love books like this. Great story, really good characters, and easy to read. I love the mix of mystery and humor. I highly recommend the Witches of Crystal Cove!
I love books like this. Great story, really good characters, and easy to read. I love the mix of mystery and humor. I highly recommend the Witches of Crystal Cove!
October 2, 2017
Good Read
I enjoyed the story but it was a bit over detailed for me. I looking forward to the series it over all is a fun read
I enjoyed the story but it was a bit over detailed for me. I looking forward to the series it over all is a fun read
December 30, 2017
good story
January 11, 2018
Cute story
Cute read. I chose this on a whim and this book turned out to be a cute story, so now it's on to book number two in this series.
Cute read. I chose this on a whim and this book turned out to be a cute story, so now it's on to book number two in this series.
January 31, 2018
A very fun read and of course I love when the setting is someplace like ME. Nice cozy witch mystery with an easy plot and of course interesting characters.
March 11, 2018
Great Book
I love this series. Jane seems to be really sharp in figuring out the murders and using barely any magic.
I love this series. Jane seems to be really sharp in figuring out the murders and using barely any magic.
March 14, 2018
Good story.
I review the author. Good story but you need to tighten up your story. Well written. Very clear .great dialogue.
I review the author. Good story but you need to tighten up your story. Well written. Very clear .great dialogue.
July 1, 2018
Entertaining story
Captivating characters and story line. I can't wait the next book in the series! I am an avid reader of the supernatural.
Captivating characters and story line. I can't wait the next book in the series! I am an avid reader of the supernatural.
May 7, 2025
Was this written by AI?
The writing was so incredibly bad I couldn’t finish it.
The writing was so incredibly bad I couldn’t finish it.
November 28, 2016
Liking this series
September 9, 2016
Magic and Murder
There are several writers who use this formula to varying degrees. Magical maiden with an attraction to local police member. This particular heroine is more. She is a hereditary witch and her family is a very careful coven. Their home is an island with a picturesque village. It once was a refuge for witches, but now has been integrated with non-magical residents.
The story is entertaining, and the positive characters are fun. So far the murder victims are nasty types that few people miss once they are killed, that is a bit to pat. Almost everyone has someone who mourns their demise.
The police force is small and they are eager to maintain order. A murder is rare so when it happens everyone is on high alert, including the coven. They appreciate the tourist trade in the Spring through Fall, but not negative attention that might draw close scrutiny to the island. Jane, our main character and her sisters have been warned, "No spell casting in public". Jane and her sisters work together to avoid getting caught involving themselves in the criminal investigation by the police or caught casting spells by the eye in the sky. What witch wants to risk losing their powers? Sometimes a witch has to do what it takes to help solve a Murder.
I will read on to see how the characters develop, if romance can bloom between Jane and her detective, and will she ever find out what happened to her mother?
There are several writers who use this formula to varying degrees. Magical maiden with an attraction to local police member. This particular heroine is more. She is a hereditary witch and her family is a very careful coven. Their home is an island with a picturesque village. It once was a refuge for witches, but now has been integrated with non-magical residents.
The story is entertaining, and the positive characters are fun. So far the murder victims are nasty types that few people miss once they are killed, that is a bit to pat. Almost everyone has someone who mourns their demise.
The police force is small and they are eager to maintain order. A murder is rare so when it happens everyone is on high alert, including the coven. They appreciate the tourist trade in the Spring through Fall, but not negative attention that might draw close scrutiny to the island. Jane, our main character and her sisters have been warned, "No spell casting in public". Jane and her sisters work together to avoid getting caught involving themselves in the criminal investigation by the police or caught casting spells by the eye in the sky. What witch wants to risk losing their powers? Sometimes a witch has to do what it takes to help solve a Murder.
I will read on to see how the characters develop, if romance can bloom between Jane and her detective, and will she ever find out what happened to her mother?
September 15, 2016
Fun & quick read!
This is a fun and quick read for those who are readers on the go. An adult Trixie Belden type of read.
This is a fun and quick read for those who are readers on the go. An adult Trixie Belden type of read.
December 16, 2016
Ok story.
I'm not sure if I care for this story. I love reading about witches, but this story was kind of korney.
I'm not sure if I care for this story. I love reading about witches, but this story was kind of korney.
May 3, 2021
I didn't like it. It felt very formulaic. Like the author was going down a list of what this sort of book should have and just ticking them off. I made it to about the 4th chapter and was done. Blergh.
My main issues were the poorly developed characters. I don't like when I'm a good portion of the way through a book and still have no idea what makes the character tick. Also, the desperate need of a good proofreading is off-putting and throws you out of the moment.
DNF.
I feel bad leaving a 1-star rating. However, according to the Good Reads rating system that means I don't like the book. Since I didn't like it enough to finish it? Anyways, others love it so give it a try. This is just my opinion.
My main issues were the poorly developed characters. I don't like when I'm a good portion of the way through a book and still have no idea what makes the character tick. Also, the desperate need of a good proofreading is off-putting and throws you out of the moment.
DNF.
I feel bad leaving a 1-star rating. However, according to the Good Reads rating system that means I don't like the book. Since I didn't like it enough to finish it? Anyways, others love it so give it a try. This is just my opinion.
February 28, 2016
This book needs an editor and a lesson in witchcraft.
I really wanted to like this book. It looked charming. But unfortunately, there are so many poorly crafted sentences, plot inaccuracies, and two dimensional characters, that it just wasn't possible. I like the idea of the town, the family, all great ideas that the author simply doesn't pull off. She also could use some practical research into running a business, investigating, and most importantly the craft. I actually downloaded this series in anticipation of liking it, and wanting to read the rest. But I am returning them for something else. I wish Ms. Watts much luck in her future endeavors.
I really wanted to like this book. It looked charming. But unfortunately, there are so many poorly crafted sentences, plot inaccuracies, and two dimensional characters, that it just wasn't possible. I like the idea of the town, the family, all great ideas that the author simply doesn't pull off. She also could use some practical research into running a business, investigating, and most importantly the craft. I actually downloaded this series in anticipation of liking it, and wanting to read the rest. But I am returning them for something else. I wish Ms. Watts much luck in her future endeavors.
April 21, 2016
A cozy Mystery
With life being busy I have been enjoying many of these cozy mysteries. The one thing that stands out to me is that many of these books have the same premises. Almost as if the authors all attended the same writer's retreat and wrote a series from an exercise given to them.
I am not saying this is a bad thing, just an observation. Actually I have found it entertaining to read each authors slant and I found Emma Watts version quite entertaining. A little rough around the edges but a great start!
So if you enjoy cozy mysteries and are not overly critical, I am sure you will find this book a delightful read.
With life being busy I have been enjoying many of these cozy mysteries. The one thing that stands out to me is that many of these books have the same premises. Almost as if the authors all attended the same writer's retreat and wrote a series from an exercise given to them.
I am not saying this is a bad thing, just an observation. Actually I have found it entertaining to read each authors slant and I found Emma Watts version quite entertaining. A little rough around the edges but a great start!
So if you enjoy cozy mysteries and are not overly critical, I am sure you will find this book a delightful read.
December 2, 2016
where to begin...
I really hate giving poor reviews, and usually I just don't comment at all. This book... the author has used the word prologue instead of synopsis. While condensing her plot line into this "prologue", she has destroyed the mystery aspect.
Her style of writing is very contrived, as though she wants to be a great storyteller, but isn't skilled enough to pull it off. I barely made it into the first chapter where the tenses kept changing within the sentences. Add to that the wrong spellings (i.e. peak instead of peek) and I just can't keep reading.
I really hate giving poor reviews, and usually I just don't comment at all. This book... the author has used the word prologue instead of synopsis. While condensing her plot line into this "prologue", she has destroyed the mystery aspect.
Her style of writing is very contrived, as though she wants to be a great storyteller, but isn't skilled enough to pull it off. I barely made it into the first chapter where the tenses kept changing within the sentences. Add to that the wrong spellings (i.e. peak instead of peek) and I just can't keep reading.
March 6, 2016
Sister witches
I give this book five stars because it kept me wanting to know what's going to happen next, try and figure out who is the murder based off the clues, and curious to learn exactly what happened to Jane's mother. If you like paranormal and witch craft then this fetus the book for you. Three sisters, add a murder, sprinkle in a few here and there and WHAM!! you have a page Turner that you can't put down
I give this book five stars because it kept me wanting to know what's going to happen next, try and figure out who is the murder based off the clues, and curious to learn exactly what happened to Jane's mother. If you like paranormal and witch craft then this fetus the book for you. Three sisters, add a murder, sprinkle in a few here and there and WHAM!! you have a page Turner that you can't put down
February 21, 2016
Disappointed
I really wanted to like this book. However, it is the same small town, witch has bakery/ coffee shop, flame moved away years ago came back to small town and is a cop story line as "The Enchanted Bay Witches" by Amelia Morgan. It seems as if only the names were changed.
I really wanted to like this book. However, it is the same small town, witch has bakery/ coffee shop, flame moved away years ago came back to small town and is a cop story line as "The Enchanted Bay Witches" by Amelia Morgan. It seems as if only the names were changed.
July 24, 2016
I liked the story but felt it could have been expanded. There was no filler - it went from the murder to Jane poking around and finding the killer in a matter of 2 days. There isn't a whole lot of character development and there are significant editing issues. If you can get past those, it is an enjoyable story.
December 11, 2016
I kept trying...
This book caught my interest with a good teaser. It seemed like a good premise and good characters, but the writing was knotty, inconsistent, and often redundant. It felt like a first effort by a promising amateur. I will start the next to see if it is any better.
This book caught my interest with a good teaser. It seemed like a good premise and good characters, but the writing was knotty, inconsistent, and often redundant. It felt like a first effort by a promising amateur. I will start the next to see if it is any better.
March 22, 2016
Nice cozy witch murder, light
I look forward to reading more in this series. It is a somewhat romantic, cozy witch mystery. The island in Maine setting is quite nice, and the editing is very good.
I look forward to reading more in this series. It is a somewhat romantic, cozy witch mystery. The island in Maine setting is quite nice, and the editing is very good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews