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Wisteria Witches #4
Watchful Wisteria
Zara Riddle is a thirty-something woman trying to balance her career and motherhood. Scratch that. Career, motherhood, and being a novice witch.
When someone from her past shows up in the most dramatic fashion (i.e. bleeding and nearly dead), this sassy single mother gains a whole new set of relationship problems to juggle.
And now there's a new ghost haunting Zara, making her do the strangest things, like gardening.
Zara's back yard is starting to resemble the lush lawns of a stately manor, yet not all is calm and serene in Wisteria. There's been an unexplained death, and someone close to the Riddle family is the prime suspect. It's time for Zara to put down her garden spade and trade it for a sharper weapon. Or, at the very least, a bigger shovel.
When someone from her past shows up in the most dramatic fashion (i.e. bleeding and nearly dead), this sassy single mother gains a whole new set of relationship problems to juggle.
And now there's a new ghost haunting Zara, making her do the strangest things, like gardening.
Zara's back yard is starting to resemble the lush lawns of a stately manor, yet not all is calm and serene in Wisteria. There's been an unexplained death, and someone close to the Riddle family is the prime suspect. It's time for Zara to put down her garden spade and trade it for a sharper weapon. Or, at the very least, a bigger shovel.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2017
1130 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Angela Pepper
60 books593 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Angela Pepper lives with her family in the rainy Pacific Northwest, surrounded by spoiled kitties, deer, raccoons, and the biggest woodpeckers you've ever seen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
May 7, 2021
Can someone make a TV series out of these books? Pretty please?
Another briliant read in Wisteria Witches series. Hilarious and quirky all the way.
Another briliant read in Wisteria Witches series. Hilarious and quirky all the way.
February 10, 2019
Watchful Wisteria by Angela Pepper and narrated by Tiffany Williams is an Audible book I requested and the review is voluntary. This is another awesome paranormal adventure in the supernatural town of Wisteria. This time there are life and death struggles, family members popping in unexpected, a murder to solve, getting possessed by a ghost, and other zany things in the life of a witch! I love these fun characters, it's fun to see how they grow and change. Always a fun and interesting plot, unpredictable situations, and intriguing stories! Creatures, magic, and shifters are only part of the fun in this crazy town! Love it!
The narrator is too notch! She is truly amazing! Makes the book flow so well! Can't wait for the next one!
The narrator is too notch! She is truly amazing! Makes the book flow so well! Can't wait for the next one!
January 23, 2023
This is the first break off in the Wisteria Witches series. The author comes on at the end of the third book to explain that Zinnia is the character who will lead in this and the next book. The subtitle is “City Hall” for these 2 book. I very much enjoyed this book and upped to 5 from 4 stars which is what I rated the first 3. Very good plot, page turning read- well for me— I bumped up the speaking time to 1x2 so I could find out what happens faster!
May 16, 2025
another silly and cute installment. it was great entertaining fun for a plane ride
July 25, 2017
Talk about a roller coaster ride, love it. I admit this is the first book in the series I have read. I didn’t feel like I was lost but I will say I will be reading the other books now.
From a page 1 until the end I was turning the pages quickly to find out what was going to happy. Zara is funny to read about still learning how to be a witch and Zoey is still waiting her turn.
Zara a librarian to boot runs into some situations that leave you wondering but in a good way.
A fun series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this box set
From a page 1 until the end I was turning the pages quickly to find out what was going to happy. Zara is funny to read about still learning how to be a witch and Zoey is still waiting her turn.
Zara a librarian to boot runs into some situations that leave you wondering but in a good way.
A fun series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this box set
December 21, 2020
2020 bk 377. When an injured fox appears in front of Zara, she takes it to the vet. It is soon after that when she learns the fox isn't just a fox, but her shapeshifter, shifty as all get up, on and off again father. AND he not only wants to, he moves in and builds a quick relationship with his granddaughter - leaving Zara out of the mix. She was right not to trust him, first he convinces the house to change its shape, leaving little room for Zara, er leaving her bedroom as a little tiny room so small that she can't enter it, then he starts nosing around her aunts friends, finally, he endangers her life, with little care of concern for her before he disappears again, leaving her with a daughter, who isn't a witch after all, but a .... that would be telling.
July 16, 2017
Cliffhanger
Normally I don't like cliffhangers in mysteries, but I still enjoyed this book. Am hoping the next in the series isn't the last!
Normally I don't like cliffhangers in mysteries, but I still enjoyed this book. Am hoping the next in the series isn't the last!
July 21, 2017
Unique
Each book in the series is better than the last. Magic and mystery with a whimsical twist makes them unusual. What makes this author's writing unique and refreshing is the spontaneity and creative thinking of the characters. Nothing cliche or stale here. Patterns are broken, responses / dialogue is unpredictable. The characters think, learn, grow while you read and experience with them. So rare a gem in the series realm full of clones and recycled regurgitated plot/character/dialogue. Full of surprises.
Each book in the series is better than the last. Magic and mystery with a whimsical twist makes them unusual. What makes this author's writing unique and refreshing is the spontaneity and creative thinking of the characters. Nothing cliche or stale here. Patterns are broken, responses / dialogue is unpredictable. The characters think, learn, grow while you read and experience with them. So rare a gem in the series realm full of clones and recycled regurgitated plot/character/dialogue. Full of surprises.
February 23, 2018
Enjoyed this book as much as the first three. I'm really getting into the fun of it all and like all the little interesting "creatures" Angela Pepper puts into her stories.
January 29, 2024
I loved this one so much! I did not like Rhys at all because how are you going to be absent and then just come into a persons life and expect them to accept you. I love that her father was a shifter though and of course it was a fox. I love that Zoey finally has a grandfather and that she feels more accepted now that she has more family. I hated how he left her again in the end. He should have helped at the very least since he caused a lot of the issues.
July 18, 2017
More witchy fun!
This book takes my breath away! It gallops along at a cracking pace, making your eyes widen in surprise with every turn of the page. Who knew that being a librarian was this much fun? Surpassing my expectations, and more than worth the wait, this latest adventure is not to be missed. Highly recommended reading, for everyone! And perhaps, a film version? Yes, please!
This book takes my breath away! It gallops along at a cracking pace, making your eyes widen in surprise with every turn of the page. Who knew that being a librarian was this much fun? Surpassing my expectations, and more than worth the wait, this latest adventure is not to be missed. Highly recommended reading, for everyone! And perhaps, a film version? Yes, please!
March 3, 2019
WATCHFUL WISTERIA is the fourth book in the Wisteria Witches series. These do need to be read in the order of release.
Settle in dear reader (listener). This story lets you know that this is not going to be a short series. We are getting to know more and more about who Zara Riddle is. Who are her parents? What are they?
The first half of the book is about Zara’s past with her father. In fact, this book could be dedicated to anyone who has an odd relationship with his or her parents – dysfunctional, distant, or non-existent – for whatever reason. Zara’s reasons are brought out, examined, and left for the reader to mull over.
The ghost for this story is introduced in the second half. I love her! Tansy is a genius with plants (something I will never be); she loves her dogs, her chickens, and her reclusive lifestyle.
Once again, Angela Pepper has provided a giggle-fest of zany antics and snarky comments. Don’t try to predict what will happen next; you can’t!
I love this world of surprises and fun. The characters and stories are entertaining from beginning to end every time.
At the end of WISTERIA WONDERS, I speculated about the man with the Aussie accent… well I was wrong about the origin of the accent. Wrong continent, but I suppose I can be forgiven since it was only a few words. The end of this book is even more of a shocker! I cannot wait for more info on the newest drop-in in Zara’s life!
Narration: Tiffany Williams is an amazing narrator. She is a rock star of narrators! She is whom other narrators want to be when they grow up! I’ve told you before that my boyfriend teaches voice acting. He speaks often about something called “theater of the mind.” Tiffany Williams embodies this concept. She provides emotion, feeling, suspense, depth, and nuance to each character and scene. She is a professional.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: WATCHFUL WISTERIA
Series: Wisteria Witches #4
Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
Settle in dear reader (listener). This story lets you know that this is not going to be a short series. We are getting to know more and more about who Zara Riddle is. Who are her parents? What are they?
The first half of the book is about Zara’s past with her father. In fact, this book could be dedicated to anyone who has an odd relationship with his or her parents – dysfunctional, distant, or non-existent – for whatever reason. Zara’s reasons are brought out, examined, and left for the reader to mull over.
The ghost for this story is introduced in the second half. I love her! Tansy is a genius with plants (something I will never be); she loves her dogs, her chickens, and her reclusive lifestyle.
Once again, Angela Pepper has provided a giggle-fest of zany antics and snarky comments. Don’t try to predict what will happen next; you can’t!
I love this world of surprises and fun. The characters and stories are entertaining from beginning to end every time.
At the end of WISTERIA WONDERS, I speculated about the man with the Aussie accent… well I was wrong about the origin of the accent. Wrong continent, but I suppose I can be forgiven since it was only a few words. The end of this book is even more of a shocker! I cannot wait for more info on the newest drop-in in Zara’s life!
Narration: Tiffany Williams is an amazing narrator. She is a rock star of narrators! She is whom other narrators want to be when they grow up! I’ve told you before that my boyfriend teaches voice acting. He speaks often about something called “theater of the mind.” Tiffany Williams embodies this concept. She provides emotion, feeling, suspense, depth, and nuance to each character and scene. She is a professional.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: WATCHFUL WISTERIA
Series: Wisteria Witches #4
Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
March 13, 2019
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
The utterly delightful Wisteria Witch Mysteries continues with our favorite small town redheaded magical librarian. The story picks up right where the last one left off with the introduction of an important character. This novel focuses on Zara’s family’s past including her parents. It shed a new light on her relationship with her aunt ad daughter. Zoey has a big moment and I look forward to see how it impacts her character and role in the series going forward.
The characters remain loveable and witty. We learn more about another townperson. It seems nearly every character in the town has a mysterious past or secret that can only be unraveled through a supernatural adventure – and I could not love it more. My only minor quibble in this one was a lack of Chet but we still got some great scenes with Corvin and a certain steely detective.
I am really enjoying my time in Wisteria. If you checked out the first three then keep plunging ahead. It’s only getting better. Angela Pepper is consistently writing light, fun, engaging characters and mysteries with bizarrely grandiose climaxes that hit all the right buttons. Looking forward to more.
The narrator handled more voices and accents this time around and did so with great skill. She has a knack for it. I could listen to her tell stories about playing mini golf or library research forever.
Regarding the final scene: book 5 can’t get here soon enough.
The utterly delightful Wisteria Witch Mysteries continues with our favorite small town redheaded magical librarian. The story picks up right where the last one left off with the introduction of an important character. This novel focuses on Zara’s family’s past including her parents. It shed a new light on her relationship with her aunt ad daughter. Zoey has a big moment and I look forward to see how it impacts her character and role in the series going forward.
The characters remain loveable and witty. We learn more about another townperson. It seems nearly every character in the town has a mysterious past or secret that can only be unraveled through a supernatural adventure – and I could not love it more. My only minor quibble in this one was a lack of Chet but we still got some great scenes with Corvin and a certain steely detective.
I am really enjoying my time in Wisteria. If you checked out the first three then keep plunging ahead. It’s only getting better. Angela Pepper is consistently writing light, fun, engaging characters and mysteries with bizarrely grandiose climaxes that hit all the right buttons. Looking forward to more.
The narrator handled more voices and accents this time around and did so with great skill. She has a knack for it. I could listen to her tell stories about playing mini golf or library research forever.
Regarding the final scene: book 5 can’t get here soon enough.
July 11, 2017
A roller coaster rider you can't put down from the first page to the end! If you love witch cozies, you will Adore this one!
This is book 4 in the series and each one gets better and better! If you like witch cozies with a little murder, a lot of snarkiness, some colorful characters, a intelligent teenage wit, shifters and crazy family relations all living in the strange town of Wisteria, you have found the right book for you. The main characters are novice witch Zara, her teenage daughter Zoey and her mentor witvh Aunt Zinnia. Throw in the sudden appearance of Zara's estranged father, who only shows up when he needs something and always causes trouble. And of course, Zoey is enamored of her grandfather and he dotes on her so Zara has to swallow her dislike but keeps a watchful eye on him. Throw in the disappearance of her Aunt Zinnia's friend and herbal supplier. Was she murdered? Throw in ghosts and a straight-laced handsome detective who feels there is something strange about a town where everything seems to be so perfect and everyone so nice who vows to find the truth and you have the craziest, zaniest mystery that you just can't put down! And to make you want the next book in the series as soon as possible is that the author leaves you with an incredible cliff hanger. No spoiler here! Loved this book and can't wait for more. I received and ARC from the author but the opinons expressed here is clearly my own.
This is book 4 in the series and each one gets better and better! If you like witch cozies with a little murder, a lot of snarkiness, some colorful characters, a intelligent teenage wit, shifters and crazy family relations all living in the strange town of Wisteria, you have found the right book for you. The main characters are novice witch Zara, her teenage daughter Zoey and her mentor witvh Aunt Zinnia. Throw in the sudden appearance of Zara's estranged father, who only shows up when he needs something and always causes trouble. And of course, Zoey is enamored of her grandfather and he dotes on her so Zara has to swallow her dislike but keeps a watchful eye on him. Throw in the disappearance of her Aunt Zinnia's friend and herbal supplier. Was she murdered? Throw in ghosts and a straight-laced handsome detective who feels there is something strange about a town where everything seems to be so perfect and everyone so nice who vows to find the truth and you have the craziest, zaniest mystery that you just can't put down! And to make you want the next book in the series as soon as possible is that the author leaves you with an incredible cliff hanger. No spoiler here! Loved this book and can't wait for more. I received and ARC from the author but the opinons expressed here is clearly my own.
July 22, 2017
I love this series but I am still thinking about the rating and I may adjust the review. why? after the last book which was fantastic, this one is not as good but I can't explain it yet. I think I need time to process and maybe read some parts over.
**ARC book so I want to be very honest***
that's why I slowly read the book, digested it -hah, and really want to be honest for the public.
with that being said, this series as a whole is great. every book is a stand a lone book. the characters are well written and each book they grow and become more lovable! thanks Angela for a great book. more later
** I took time to digest (he he) the book & think about this review so here goes. Very good overall, I love the wit, charm ( ha ha), and the realness of every character in the book. I can relate to the main characters overall outlook on life and family trust issues. My only criticism is I think that the author spent to much time on the ending. I will NOT spoil it for anyone but I was tempted to skip the last few chapters and just have it be over with. I consider this a minor issue just like typos. I don't understand typos in modern day editing & printing but then again this is a developing author. Overall, this is a great series that I would highly recommend to everyone!!
Thanks to the author & her assistant for the advanced review copy. I look forward to the next book...keep them coming!!!!
**ARC book so I want to be very honest***
that's why I slowly read the book, digested it -hah, and really want to be honest for the public.
with that being said, this series as a whole is great. every book is a stand a lone book. the characters are well written and each book they grow and become more lovable! thanks Angela for a great book. more later
** I took time to digest (he he) the book & think about this review so here goes. Very good overall, I love the wit, charm ( ha ha), and the realness of every character in the book. I can relate to the main characters overall outlook on life and family trust issues. My only criticism is I think that the author spent to much time on the ending. I will NOT spoil it for anyone but I was tempted to skip the last few chapters and just have it be over with. I consider this a minor issue just like typos. I don't understand typos in modern day editing & printing but then again this is a developing author. Overall, this is a great series that I would highly recommend to everyone!!
Thanks to the author & her assistant for the advanced review copy. I look forward to the next book...keep them coming!!!!
July 23, 2017
Kindle Unlimited {pretty sure, the rest are, though usually ARC/review copy on her books, read all of them 1-3 and now 4. {Avaiable single and 3 pack for first 3}.
Zara Riddle is a thirty-something woman trying to balance her career and motherhood. Scratch that. Career, motherhood, and being a novice witch. When someone from her past shows up in the most dramatic fashion (i.e. bleeding and nearly dead), this sassy single mother gains a whole new set of relationship problems to juggle. And now there's a new ghost haunting Zara, making her do the strangest things, like gardening. Zara's back yard is starting to resemble the lush lawns of a stately manor, yet not all is calm and serene in Wisteria. There's been an unexplained death, and someone close to the Riddle family is the prime suspect. It's time for Zara to put down her garden spade and trade it for a sharper weapon. Or, at the very least, a bigger shovel.
{Suggested reading order, for best results, is in order}
Wisteria Witches - Witch Cozy Mysteries / Light Urban Fantasy
#1 - Wisteria Witches
#2 - Wicked Wisteria
#3 - Wisteria Wonders
#4 - Watchful Wisteria
#5 - coming soon!
Zara Riddle is a thirty-something woman trying to balance her career and motherhood. Scratch that. Career, motherhood, and being a novice witch. When someone from her past shows up in the most dramatic fashion (i.e. bleeding and nearly dead), this sassy single mother gains a whole new set of relationship problems to juggle. And now there's a new ghost haunting Zara, making her do the strangest things, like gardening. Zara's back yard is starting to resemble the lush lawns of a stately manor, yet not all is calm and serene in Wisteria. There's been an unexplained death, and someone close to the Riddle family is the prime suspect. It's time for Zara to put down her garden spade and trade it for a sharper weapon. Or, at the very least, a bigger shovel.
{Suggested reading order, for best results, is in order}
Wisteria Witches - Witch Cozy Mysteries / Light Urban Fantasy
#1 - Wisteria Witches
#2 - Wicked Wisteria
#3 - Wisteria Wonders
#4 - Watchful Wisteria
#5 - coming soon!
June 30, 2019
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
Fun with Zara continues in the 4th book in the series.
Zara is still her old self - not taking life too seriously, ready to throw fun facts on the strangest of subjects out of the blue and as loyal to her family and friends as ever. This time she has to deal not only with a new ghost, a new villain and a new murder case but... with her own house, too:) And the new characters that appear bring new secrets and surprises to the fantastic magical town of Wisteria...
The plot, as in the previous books, is fast-paced, intriguing and definitely funny. There are quite a few good twists and turns, and the final chapters will make you keep your fingers crossed for Zara.
Narration by Ms Williams is fantastic. She adds so much life to the story that you just don't want to stop listening. And she does voices really well, making the personalities of each character in the book just shine.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Fun with Zara continues in the 4th book in the series.
Zara is still her old self - not taking life too seriously, ready to throw fun facts on the strangest of subjects out of the blue and as loyal to her family and friends as ever. This time she has to deal not only with a new ghost, a new villain and a new murder case but... with her own house, too:) And the new characters that appear bring new secrets and surprises to the fantastic magical town of Wisteria...
The plot, as in the previous books, is fast-paced, intriguing and definitely funny. There are quite a few good twists and turns, and the final chapters will make you keep your fingers crossed for Zara.
Narration by Ms Williams is fantastic. She adds so much life to the story that you just don't want to stop listening. And she does voices really well, making the personalities of each character in the book just shine.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 23, 2024
It took four books in this series before I stopped rolling my eyes at all the characters. Mid-way through book three, the characters annoyed me less and by book four, I either stopped noticing or was even less annoyed. Though I still wish Zarah acted/spoke her age (and the surrounding characters treated her as if she was an adult), we see deeper character development moving from three to four. I'm not sure how I feel about Zarah's and Chet's current situation, but I'm hoping the author doesn't do us dirty in the long-run.
I feel bad for Zarah throughout this series so far because she's surrounded by people who want her help and pull at her emotions, but who are also unwilling to give of themselves, help her or tell her things she has a right to know. Her aunt and Chet, and even Zarah's daughter at a few points in this book all act as if Zarah is disposable.
We shall see how this series progresses and I am hopeful that the story ends with everything making sense and all the people happy.
I feel bad for Zarah throughout this series so far because she's surrounded by people who want her help and pull at her emotions, but who are also unwilling to give of themselves, help her or tell her things she has a right to know. Her aunt and Chet, and even Zarah's daughter at a few points in this book all act as if Zarah is disposable.
We shall see how this series progresses and I am hopeful that the story ends with everything making sense and all the people happy.
June 22, 2019
Best one, yet. I like this series. Each book in the series is better than the last. Zara Riddle seems a little more mature than she did in the first three books.
We learn Detective Bentley’s first name, more about Zara’s parents, and there is a mystery to solve.
Rhys is introduced to us via an injured fox. He bonds with Zoey. Can this only lead to disappointment and abandonment? Will Zoey ever realize her magic?
Zara is inhabited (spirit charmed, ghosted) by a missing (presumed dead by Zara) friend of Zinnia. Tansy is a recluse, gardener, and emotionally charged.
I found myself laughing out loud so often, I gave myself a good workout. Don’t try to anticipate what comes next, you can’t. Just know it will be zany and amusing.
There are a few surprises in this story. Bring it on. I’m ready for the next installment.
I was given an audio copy of the book and am not required to leave a positive review.
We learn Detective Bentley’s first name, more about Zara’s parents, and there is a mystery to solve.
Rhys is introduced to us via an injured fox. He bonds with Zoey. Can this only lead to disappointment and abandonment? Will Zoey ever realize her magic?
Zara is inhabited (spirit charmed, ghosted) by a missing (presumed dead by Zara) friend of Zinnia. Tansy is a recluse, gardener, and emotionally charged.
I found myself laughing out loud so often, I gave myself a good workout. Don’t try to anticipate what comes next, you can’t. Just know it will be zany and amusing.
There are a few surprises in this story. Bring it on. I’m ready for the next installment.
I was given an audio copy of the book and am not required to leave a positive review.
September 21, 2019
My love for this series only grows bigger with each book. I love Zara and Zoey's relationship, I love the quirky dialogues and the whole bunch of queer characters who populate Wisteria.
And Bentley is looking more and more as a promising candidate for Zara's heart.
It was really good to find more about Zara's childhood and about her father. Although, argh! that is a very selfish man! I'm really sorry for Zoey, as she really wanted a grandad :( But then... Zoey is... okay, you'll need to read/listen to the book to learn that :P
And the mystery was fascinating! Also, ghost!dogs!
And the ending! Ouch! I can't wait to know what's going on...
A recommendation, though: if you're listening to this, as I did, avoid doing it on the streets. Bursting out laughing while walking around is not something that makes you look like a sane and trustworthy citizen :P
Tiffany Williams' narration was, as always, delightful.
And Bentley is looking more and more as a promising candidate for Zara's heart.
It was really good to find more about Zara's childhood and about her father. Although, argh! that is a very selfish man! I'm really sorry for Zoey, as she really wanted a grandad :( But then... Zoey is... okay, you'll need to read/listen to the book to learn that :P
And the mystery was fascinating! Also, ghost!dogs!
And the ending! Ouch! I can't wait to know what's going on...
A recommendation, though: if you're listening to this, as I did, avoid doing it on the streets. Bursting out laughing while walking around is not something that makes you look like a sane and trustworthy citizen :P
Tiffany Williams' narration was, as always, delightful.
January 30, 2024
Zara Riddle is a witch who recently came into her powers after she moved to the town of Wisteria after turning 32 years old.
On the way to work at the library, she is followed by a blue jay that can talk, and also discovers a wounded red fox that she takes to the vet.
As things are pretty much always not what they seem in Wisteria. The fox winds up being her long abandoned father who is a shifter, that she never knew about.
She and her aunt go for some supplies her aunt needs only to discover the woman who grew the supplies Zinnia needs is missing, and thanks to Zara's abilities knows she is dead.
It is only with bad grace that Zara allows her father to stay at her house, especially as the house is remodeling itself and kicking Zara out of her own room, only because her daughter is thrilled to have her grandfather back in her life.
Zara has another surprise at the end of the story witch will definitely affect as least the next book and probably even more.
On the way to work at the library, she is followed by a blue jay that can talk, and also discovers a wounded red fox that she takes to the vet.
As things are pretty much always not what they seem in Wisteria. The fox winds up being her long abandoned father who is a shifter, that she never knew about.
She and her aunt go for some supplies her aunt needs only to discover the woman who grew the supplies Zinnia needs is missing, and thanks to Zara's abilities knows she is dead.
It is only with bad grace that Zara allows her father to stay at her house, especially as the house is remodeling itself and kicking Zara out of her own room, only because her daughter is thrilled to have her grandfather back in her life.
Zara has another surprise at the end of the story witch will definitely affect as least the next book and probably even more.
July 11, 2024
(I'm writing this review after the fact, so I'll try to keep my comments solely to this book and not the series.)
Ugh. Where do I begin when it comes to Rhys Quarry? He does just enough to make him likeable . But Zara doesn't fall for it his attempts to rope her in, and soon enough, he shows his true colors--nearly killing her in the process. I think that this, coming on the heels of Chet in the last book, felt like salt in a wound. However, I appreciate it adding more dimension to the Riddle women.
As a whole, this book flew by. Zara is still a novice witch, but you can see how much she's grown and how she puts her powers to use in the current book. There's a noticeable difference from the first book, and I couldn't help but be proud as I read the part where she went investigating with Zinnia (no longer as a shrub). Very excited for the next one!
Ugh. Where do I begin when it comes to Rhys Quarry? He does just enough to make him likeable . But Zara doesn't fall for it his attempts to rope her in, and soon enough, he shows his true colors--nearly killing her in the process. I think that this, coming on the heels of Chet in the last book, felt like salt in a wound. However, I appreciate it adding more dimension to the Riddle women.
As a whole, this book flew by. Zara is still a novice witch, but you can see how much she's grown and how she puts her powers to use in the current book. There's a noticeable difference from the first book, and I couldn't help but be proud as I read the part where she went investigating with Zinnia (no longer as a shrub). Very excited for the next one!
March 8, 2025
When Zara finds a wounded fox on the way to work one morning, the last thing on her mind is saving her father’s life. She’s still trying to sort through whether she ever had feelings for Chet Moore or if that was just a residual effect of Chessa’s possession. Either way, the anger and frustration of being used are very real. But this is Wisteria and there never seems to be adequate time to wallow or think about what might have been. Before she knows it, Zara is dealing with her con-man father teaching her teenage daughter “life skills,” her house transmogrifying into a three bedroom while attempting to evict her, and her aunt and a pair of ghost dogs have enlisted her to assist in the search of a missing magical dealer. Never a dull moment in this small town and the thrilling conclusion will have you balancing on the edge of your seat while your peals of laughter threaten to topple you over the edge.
August 5, 2018
Day of The Triffids, witch style!
When she comes across an injured fox, she rushes it to the vet but it is only when she brings him home that she finds out the truth. Her errant father is a shifter! Now he is not only winning over her daughter but the house as well. It has created a new room for him and is slowly squeezing her out of hers. Furthermore her aunt's friend is missing and she has seen the ghosts of the friend's faithful dogs. What has happened to her friend? The matter is reported to the police. Can she find the killer? Will her father actually have her best interests at heart? Who has been watching her and sending the blue jay to warn her off danger? Great plot and the characters get better and better although I would love Boa to actually talk. Plus did the house ever get back to normal?
When she comes across an injured fox, she rushes it to the vet but it is only when she brings him home that she finds out the truth. Her errant father is a shifter! Now he is not only winning over her daughter but the house as well. It has created a new room for him and is slowly squeezing her out of hers. Furthermore her aunt's friend is missing and she has seen the ghosts of the friend's faithful dogs. What has happened to her friend? The matter is reported to the police. Can she find the killer? Will her father actually have her best interests at heart? Who has been watching her and sending the blue jay to warn her off danger? Great plot and the characters get better and better although I would love Boa to actually talk. Plus did the house ever get back to normal?
November 8, 2019
I really love this series! This book is possibly my new favorite. Angela Pepper does such a great with her plots in keeping you guessing with the mystery side of the story. All the characters are so colorful and quirky that it creates a bunch of fun little side stories which really just helps keep the story light and adds a great comedic vibe. It's a clean story free of language and sex, there's very mild violence that to be expected with any murder mystery but not too graphic in nature. It's a great mix of magic, comedy, mystery and family relationships. The narrator does a fantastic job and really adds that extra level of fun that we all enjoy when listening to a book. If you haven't already then check out this series, they are all great stories and loads of fun!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 10, 2017
Witches, a fox, and birds. Something seems wonky in Wisteria and, of course, Zara is right in the middle. She is a witch, a soul catcher specifically, allowing the dead to work with her. She not only has a dead woman rehabbing her yard but her family is a bit twisted at the moment. If you are starting the series here, don't, go back and read from the first book. The characters have history and there is a common threat in some of the books, but the mystery is new each time. It's a great series with wit, humor, mythology and a sexy detective who might be a new love interest. I always look forward to the next adventure! I was given an early copy, happily and voluntarily wrote this review.
July 12, 2017
Better & better!
I absolutely love this series by Angela Pepper and the books just keep getting better! Although I missed the interaction of Sara and Chet in this one (no, sadly I haven't given up on a HEA for them yet although Bentley is looking more like a good contender), it was great to learn more about Zara's family. I love the snarky dialogue between the characters and Zara & Zoey's weird and wonderful personalities! I can't wait to find out more about the various character's lives. For example, what's up with Corvin? Why does Chet seem so worn down? When will Bentley learn the truth? Thanks, Angela Pepper, for another entertaining addition to the Wisteria Witches series!
I absolutely love this series by Angela Pepper and the books just keep getting better! Although I missed the interaction of Sara and Chet in this one (no, sadly I haven't given up on a HEA for them yet although Bentley is looking more like a good contender), it was great to learn more about Zara's family. I love the snarky dialogue between the characters and Zara & Zoey's weird and wonderful personalities! I can't wait to find out more about the various character's lives. For example, what's up with Corvin? Why does Chet seem so worn down? When will Bentley learn the truth? Thanks, Angela Pepper, for another entertaining addition to the Wisteria Witches series!
March 10, 2019
Father Knows Best?
Although generally well-grounded (for a gal who didn't even know she was a witch until in her thirties, has abandonment issues from not much more than annual visits from dear old Dad, and whose Mom threw her out when she got pregnant at 16), Zara finds her involvement with the gardener's ghost may involve too much . . . ground. And then there's her house and her incredible shrinking bedroom. Narrator Tiffany Williams keeps it real as the next chapter of the Riddle saga continues in book four. Each, so far, has told its discrete story, although picking up instantly from the last page of the previous book and dangling a teaser at the end of the tale. Not quite a cliffhanger but makes you anxious to continue.
Although generally well-grounded (for a gal who didn't even know she was a witch until in her thirties, has abandonment issues from not much more than annual visits from dear old Dad, and whose Mom threw her out when she got pregnant at 16), Zara finds her involvement with the gardener's ghost may involve too much . . . ground. And then there's her house and her incredible shrinking bedroom. Narrator Tiffany Williams keeps it real as the next chapter of the Riddle saga continues in book four. Each, so far, has told its discrete story, although picking up instantly from the last page of the previous book and dangling a teaser at the end of the tale. Not quite a cliffhanger but makes you anxious to continue.
January 16, 2026
Things are really starting to get interesting! Zara has grown on me, and I made sure to prepare myself for a wild cliffhanger of an ending this time (it did not disappoint, though I had guessed something about the ending correctly).
I like that the adventures seem to be more and more involved and intricate with each book. It seems that more and more people close to Zara get involved in the mysteries as time passes, which I am concerned about, seeing as how everyone was put in danger at one point in the book. We don't need a massive supernatural wipeout, after all.
I am eager to see where Angela takes me next in the world of Wisteria, and how Zara will navigate the new betrayals and secrets revealed to her over the course of this book.
I like that the adventures seem to be more and more involved and intricate with each book. It seems that more and more people close to Zara get involved in the mysteries as time passes, which I am concerned about, seeing as how everyone was put in danger at one point in the book. We don't need a massive supernatural wipeout, after all.
I am eager to see where Angela takes me next in the world of Wisteria, and how Zara will navigate the new betrayals and secrets revealed to her over the course of this book.
July 5, 2019
Is one of your librarians a witch? Does your town have a magical connection? Wisteria has both!
Zara, her aunt Zinnia, and daughter Zoe are part of a family of witches and they have friends and acquaintances who are shifters, including her conman sire (not much of a dad since he only visited her once a year as a child). Lots of mysteries and misdirection, a takeover by a woman who didn't know that she was dead, Zara's bedroom shrinking daily, and more. And the humor! A great addition to the series as well as a fun stand alone!
Tiffany Williams continues in her perkiest best as the voice actress and adds to the hilarity.
Zara, her aunt Zinnia, and daughter Zoe are part of a family of witches and they have friends and acquaintances who are shifters, including her conman sire (not much of a dad since he only visited her once a year as a child). Lots of mysteries and misdirection, a takeover by a woman who didn't know that she was dead, Zara's bedroom shrinking daily, and more. And the humor! A great addition to the series as well as a fun stand alone!
Tiffany Williams continues in her perkiest best as the voice actress and adds to the hilarity.
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