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Nightshade Paranormal Cozy #2
Witch Spells Trouble
Suzy Maycomber is looking forward to learning how to be a witch at the Academy.
However, trouble seems to follow her where ever she goes. Suzy discovers one of the students is found murdered in the basement. With the help of an old ghost that speaks in riddles, Suzy is determined to find the killer.
Unfortunately, not is all as it appears. Things get even more complicated when nearly everyone Suzy knows, seems to be different. Suzy finds herself yet again in the midst of murder, attacks, kidnappings, and strange spells.
Are you ready for Suzy's next adventure? Buckle up, get ready and enjoy the (Broom Hilda) ride!
However, trouble seems to follow her where ever she goes. Suzy discovers one of the students is found murdered in the basement. With the help of an old ghost that speaks in riddles, Suzy is determined to find the killer.
Unfortunately, not is all as it appears. Things get even more complicated when nearly everyone Suzy knows, seems to be different. Suzy finds herself yet again in the midst of murder, attacks, kidnappings, and strange spells.
Are you ready for Suzy's next adventure? Buckle up, get ready and enjoy the (Broom Hilda) ride!
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2017
84 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 18, 2025
5+ 🌟 Wild, magical adventure filled ride. 😍
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂: 🄰🅄🄳🄸🄾🄱🄾🄾🄺
First off don't at all judge this book by its cover because it's an absolutely thrilling and exciting ride that will not let go of you for even a single moment.
This is the second book in the series and as we see Suzy ready to go to the Academy in Hemlock, she has no idea what magical madness awaits her there.
The starting scene itself, the train at the station and Suzy finding out all the students are mostly of young age and doubting herself but then a mid way journey danger and Suzy and her Salem broom Hilda to the rescue again saving the day, assures Suzy she's something else.
Wow... Right from the moment Suzy, Alfie and Snowball leave the station there's some not something happening. Like finding a ghost that's going to be your roommate in your new apartment.
Then finding out that you're not good in your first class of Magic itself because it seems brewing magic is not Maycomber's forte.... Ahhh there's just so much happening here.
Suzy tries to do her best as she can in her classes when only recently she's found out that she's a witch, when a crime happens and everyone is questioning who it could be behind it.
A basement ghost who has the answer to the culprit but talks in poetry and clues, has Suzy frustrated but she does her best to understand and solve them.
The resident ghost, Malcolm was a bit funny and also mad at times but he did feel Iike the fourth member of the Suzy gang.
I really can't tell you the Magical twists and turns are so many in this one. I was so thrilled and absolutely fascinated with the magical roller-coaster ride that we are taken on to.
From magical mushrooms, rare abilities flower, mystical beings, wraiths, scary mountain people, dangerous beings, vampires, werewolves and so much more is going on in this one.
But what I loved in addition to going on a magical ride is the secrets and crazy twists we get that were absolutely amazing and had me freaking glued to listening this book.
This series is beyond AMAZING and I'm having an absolute blast listening to it. The narrator has done such a fabulous job with how she's enacted the many characters. Can't wait to dive into the next one. Absolutely loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂: 🄰🅄🄳🄸🄾🄱🄾🄾🄺
First off don't at all judge this book by its cover because it's an absolutely thrilling and exciting ride that will not let go of you for even a single moment.
This is the second book in the series and as we see Suzy ready to go to the Academy in Hemlock, she has no idea what magical madness awaits her there.
The starting scene itself, the train at the station and Suzy finding out all the students are mostly of young age and doubting herself but then a mid way journey danger and Suzy and her Salem broom Hilda to the rescue again saving the day, assures Suzy she's something else.
Wow... Right from the moment Suzy, Alfie and Snowball leave the station there's some not something happening. Like finding a ghost that's going to be your roommate in your new apartment.
Then finding out that you're not good in your first class of Magic itself because it seems brewing magic is not Maycomber's forte.... Ahhh there's just so much happening here.
Suzy tries to do her best as she can in her classes when only recently she's found out that she's a witch, when a crime happens and everyone is questioning who it could be behind it.
A basement ghost who has the answer to the culprit but talks in poetry and clues, has Suzy frustrated but she does her best to understand and solve them.
The resident ghost, Malcolm was a bit funny and also mad at times but he did feel Iike the fourth member of the Suzy gang.
I really can't tell you the Magical twists and turns are so many in this one. I was so thrilled and absolutely fascinated with the magical roller-coaster ride that we are taken on to.
From magical mushrooms, rare abilities flower, mystical beings, wraiths, scary mountain people, dangerous beings, vampires, werewolves and so much more is going on in this one.
But what I loved in addition to going on a magical ride is the secrets and crazy twists we get that were absolutely amazing and had me freaking glued to listening this book.
This series is beyond AMAZING and I'm having an absolute blast listening to it. The narrator has done such a fabulous job with how she's enacted the many characters. Can't wait to dive into the next one. Absolutely loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 30, 2018
AudioBook Review
Stars: Overall 2 Narration 2 Story 2
I found the premise cute as Suzy seems to be a witch seriously in need of schooling in all things witchy, yet when she arrives, things are all confused. And yes – that is the best part of this story, one that I can’t decide if it is meant to be a series for children, or for adults. Sure – there’s a murder and a mystery, with an interesting, if not surprising conclusion, but my overwhelming impression of this book is disappointing. The writing was simplistic and choppy, with little to no character development and plenty of tell without show. Sadly, the tone, conversations and even the mystery felt far more appropriate for a child’s primer on cozy mysteries, while missing the intrigue, reality and plausibility of say a Nancy Drew. And that is before we discuss the audio version.
Narration is provided by Rebecca Mitchell, and while her voice is pleasant and she made efforts to distinguish character voices – the repeated odd pauses, emotional inflections in dialogue that carried through to the “he said, she said” moments, and a tendency to confuse narrative with dialogue, muddling an already trying listen just had me putting this title down. Frequently.
It’s a problem in some cozies to go for the cute and outrageous, expecting a suspension of belief that enhances the mystery thread and makes for a fun read or listen. Sadly here, all efforts were spent on the cute and outrageous while ignoring simple plotting, mystery and character development and editing. I won’t be continuing with this series.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall 2 Narration 2 Story 2
I found the premise cute as Suzy seems to be a witch seriously in need of schooling in all things witchy, yet when she arrives, things are all confused. And yes – that is the best part of this story, one that I can’t decide if it is meant to be a series for children, or for adults. Sure – there’s a murder and a mystery, with an interesting, if not surprising conclusion, but my overwhelming impression of this book is disappointing. The writing was simplistic and choppy, with little to no character development and plenty of tell without show. Sadly, the tone, conversations and even the mystery felt far more appropriate for a child’s primer on cozy mysteries, while missing the intrigue, reality and plausibility of say a Nancy Drew. And that is before we discuss the audio version.
Narration is provided by Rebecca Mitchell, and while her voice is pleasant and she made efforts to distinguish character voices – the repeated odd pauses, emotional inflections in dialogue that carried through to the “he said, she said” moments, and a tendency to confuse narrative with dialogue, muddling an already trying listen just had me putting this title down. Frequently.
It’s a problem in some cozies to go for the cute and outrageous, expecting a suspension of belief that enhances the mystery thread and makes for a fun read or listen. Sadly here, all efforts were spent on the cute and outrageous while ignoring simple plotting, mystery and character development and editing. I won’t be continuing with this series.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
December 26, 2021
3.5 stars
I love all of the paranormal elements.
I love all of the paranormal elements.
September 8, 2022
witchy, paranormal, cosy mystery delight for autumn.
November 7, 2021
While the second book in the series continues being a fun, quick read this one lacked a few elements I was hoping for.
This time Suzy, Snowball, Broom Hilda, and Alfie are heading to to academy of witches to learn more about magic. I felt like the murder mysteries were too simple I even pieced it together before the MC and the scenarios faced were way too convenient. Which had me wondering what was the point to some "evil" creatures.
In the end, I did feel like it was unnecessary for her to even go to this school. It also ended abruptly which was baffling by itself. Another thing I found odd was that there was no character development just the same characters running around in a new adventure.
Overall I feel like this round lost all the spark from the previous one which was upsetting. Even though I upped the speed limit on the audio book -which by the way is an amazing way to read this series- I still found myself willing to finish it.
This time Suzy, Snowball, Broom Hilda, and Alfie are heading to to academy of witches to learn more about magic. I felt like the murder mysteries were too simple I even pieced it together before the MC and the scenarios faced were way too convenient. Which had me wondering what was the point to some "evil" creatures.
In the end, I did feel like it was unnecessary for her to even go to this school. It also ended abruptly which was baffling by itself. Another thing I found odd was that there was no character development just the same characters running around in a new adventure.
Overall I feel like this round lost all the spark from the previous one which was upsetting. Even though I upped the speed limit on the audio book -which by the way is an amazing way to read this series- I still found myself willing to finish it.
June 29, 2018
School attendance has never been so perilous.
A light read that's fast paced and really very much tongue in cheek which makes it all the more enjoyable. Being the oldest witch at the school has it's pitfalls especially when she can't do the simple stuff. However all that changes when a member of her class is murdered. Why was the young girl killed and why are people acting so strange? Great characters that move from one disaster to another in their fight against the school invasion. The plot is fast and moves along swiftly. A terrific read if you aren't looking for something to tax the brain cells.
A light read that's fast paced and really very much tongue in cheek which makes it all the more enjoyable. Being the oldest witch at the school has it's pitfalls especially when she can't do the simple stuff. However all that changes when a member of her class is murdered. Why was the young girl killed and why are people acting so strange? Great characters that move from one disaster to another in their fight against the school invasion. The plot is fast and moves along swiftly. A terrific read if you aren't looking for something to tax the brain cells.
October 1, 2024
Ok, first book in the series got a pass under the assumption that it was from a brand new writer and a narrator who truly didn’t do anything to help the book. I very nearly didn’t make it through the second, and have no intentions of listening to the rest of the series at this point. The voice of snowball (still no idea why a black cat is named that…) is beyond obnoxious, the mc is, imo, an idiot, and with the writer’s inability to find alternatives to “he says/she says/I say”, I can’t do it. He exclaimed, she whined, I growled… just a few options that would have made the writing more bearable, but fail to make an appearance.
May 10, 2019
Suzy is summoned to attend Witch School even though she will be much older than the rest of the students. It seems that she has a lot of catching up to do. But when she gets to Hemlock, town of the school, she soon becomes embroiled in another murder, a kidnapping and very strange things are happening and no one understands why. As she and the help she recruits for this adventure try to figure things out she does find a new friend in another witch who is a big help to her. It was a very interesting read and once again I enjoyed the book immensely.
January 7, 2022
Again an incredibly high average for a book that I really cannot say deserves more than one or 2 stars.
Somehow the lead character is now romantically involved and even in love. How did that happen? Absolutely no development of this relationship from book 1 to 2.
I can’t believe the sidekicks became even more churlish, childish, and unliveable. As I listen to these, honestly the narrators silly voices for a 200 year old dwarf, didn’t help.
But it’s -37 and I’m going on to book 3….what the hell is wrong with me?
It can’t get worse?
Somehow the lead character is now romantically involved and even in love. How did that happen? Absolutely no development of this relationship from book 1 to 2.
I can’t believe the sidekicks became even more churlish, childish, and unliveable. As I listen to these, honestly the narrators silly voices for a 200 year old dwarf, didn’t help.
But it’s -37 and I’m going on to book 3….what the hell is wrong with me?
It can’t get worse?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
It's a fucking magic school, how can it be so boring. And that stuffy town with the purist? speciest? wizards and witches ugh. I guess it could be construed as a nice message where not everyone thrives in a strict academic setting. Plus the usual comfy village where everyone stands up for each other vs the more individualistic bigger cities. Anyway I still had fun and I even like the romance but I was mad at Suzy for not believing Snowball and also for being a bit too casual with some demeaning words i.e fat, hag.
October 21, 2017
Very cute
This is a nice little cozy with a pretty good mystery embedded in it. It's pretty much G rated and would be fine for teens as well as adults. The characters are not particularly well developed but...it's a cozy and the plotline is very cute.
This is a nice little cozy with a pretty good mystery embedded in it. It's pretty much G rated and would be fine for teens as well as adults. The characters are not particularly well developed but...it's a cozy and the plotline is very cute.
October 22, 2017
School?
Being new to all the magic stuff school seems the way to go. It being a one in a million witch makes it hard to learn from others. Then the doppelgangers attack the school and no one believes. Good read.
Being new to all the magic stuff school seems the way to go. It being a one in a million witch makes it hard to learn from others. Then the doppelgangers attack the school and no one believes. Good read.
October 31, 2017
Witch spells trouble Nightshade paranormal cozy mystety
This is another winner. I enjoyed book 2 as I did book 1. She writes wonderful storylines and great characters in both books. I highly recommend all her books to everyone who loves paranormal cozy mysteries. Diana Romano
This is another winner. I enjoyed book 2 as I did book 1. She writes wonderful storylines and great characters in both books. I highly recommend all her books to everyone who loves paranormal cozy mysteries. Diana Romano
April 23, 2021
The second in the series. The story is what is to be expected from a Cozy Mystery. The characters are becoming familiar so as the series continues, I expect to settle straight into the story. I am still waiting for more character history. A likeable read none the less.
June 15, 2021
I liked this installment of the Nightshade Mystery series. I love all the creatures and magic in the story. The story felt incredibly quick, and I'd like to see a little more development. However, it's definitely a fun, paranormal series that I'll continue to enjoy.
February 9, 2025
I enjoyed the 1st book of the series and found it light entertaining and quirky. The second was painful. Repetitive and over explanation of the obvious made it difficult to read. I wont continue with the series. I had I hopes but was very disappointed
October 24, 2017
A Nice Escape.
In a world filled with all kinds of troubled it's nice to be able to escape to the world created by Lori Woods.
I look forward to the next book.
In a world filled with all kinds of troubled it's nice to be able to escape to the world created by Lori Woods.
I look forward to the next book.
October 28, 2017
Wonderfully Witchy
A truly unique series well worth the time to read. Paranormal and mystery fans will be sure to relish these stories.
A truly unique series well worth the time to read. Paranormal and mystery fans will be sure to relish these stories.
October 29, 2017
👍great
So interesting and just great imagination. Would recommend anyone who enjoys reading humorous witch stories. A very good writer. Thank You for your imagination.
So interesting and just great imagination. Would recommend anyone who enjoys reading humorous witch stories. A very good writer. Thank You for your imagination.
November 2, 2017
Disappointing
I just could not get into this book. The first one was ok. Others might enjoy it. Not my cup of tea.
I just could not get into this book. The first one was ok. Others might enjoy it. Not my cup of tea.
March 21, 2018
Light spirited fun read
Poor Suzy seems incapable of keeping herself out of trouble but with good friends to bail her out she keeps you wondering what will go wrong next.
Poor Suzy seems incapable of keeping herself out of trouble but with good friends to bail her out she keeps you wondering what will go wrong next.
October 30, 2018
Nightshade
Great story line. Keeps one's interest. Will recommend to my friends. Look forward to more nightshade stories to come.
Blanche Charlton
Great story line. Keeps one's interest. Will recommend to my friends. Look forward to more nightshade stories to come.
Blanche Charlton
November 18, 2018
Great books
Love all the books so fare . I can’t just put them down . I start one book I have to keep reading
Love all the books so fare . I can’t just put them down . I start one book I have to keep reading
November 21, 2018
Fun read
Great characters you will want to keep following time after time! I need to do so, I have to find out how their story continues!
Great characters you will want to keep following time after time! I need to do so, I have to find out how their story continues!
October 20, 2020
Net als deel 1 niet per se een heel goed boek, maar wel erg vermakelijk. Door naar deel 3.
March 14, 2021
Loved this book, will be reading the next one. Why can't I add more stars?
May 10, 2021
Cute fast read and a cute series. Very light but fun enough.
April 4, 2022
Suzy & Snowball are caught up in another murder mystery while Suzy is at the academy. Not sure what the draw to the series is for me but. It is funny and very light reading.
October 26, 2023
When the cat and a ghost are smarter than the human.. you know it’s just bad!
September 13, 2025
Witch Spells Trouble has all the makings of a fun, lighthearted paranormal romance, but it did fall short in several areas for me.
In my opinion, one of the biggest drawbacks is Snowball, a supposedly magical companion who feels more like a whiny sidekick than a helpful character. Given that Snowball is meant to aid Suzy, her constant complaining and fear make her seem more like a burden. Her behavior is more akin to that of a scared child, which, over time, becomes grating. Instead of supporting Suzy, she often adds unnecessary irritation to the narrative.
The writing itself is fairly simple, which can be a positive for someone who is looking for something light and easy to follow. However, this simplicity, combined with repetitive storytelling, can become monotonous. Certain phrases and situations feel overused, which makes the plot predictable at times.
Additionally, the romantic development between Suzy and her love interest feels rushed and unconvincing. After just one date and a more passionate encounter, Suzy suddenly declares that she’s in love. This lack of build-up makes the relationship feel shallow and unrealistic. The sudden intensity of her feelings doesn’t align with the pacing of the story.
Overall, it was a nice read that has potential for the upcoming books in the series, but Snowball’s whining, the repetitiveness, and rushed romance, personally for me, made it shallow and irritable at times.
In my opinion, one of the biggest drawbacks is Snowball, a supposedly magical companion who feels more like a whiny sidekick than a helpful character. Given that Snowball is meant to aid Suzy, her constant complaining and fear make her seem more like a burden. Her behavior is more akin to that of a scared child, which, over time, becomes grating. Instead of supporting Suzy, she often adds unnecessary irritation to the narrative.
The writing itself is fairly simple, which can be a positive for someone who is looking for something light and easy to follow. However, this simplicity, combined with repetitive storytelling, can become monotonous. Certain phrases and situations feel overused, which makes the plot predictable at times.
Additionally, the romantic development between Suzy and her love interest feels rushed and unconvincing. After just one date and a more passionate encounter, Suzy suddenly declares that she’s in love. This lack of build-up makes the relationship feel shallow and unrealistic. The sudden intensity of her feelings doesn’t align with the pacing of the story.
Overall, it was a nice read that has potential for the upcoming books in the series, but Snowball’s whining, the repetitiveness, and rushed romance, personally for me, made it shallow and irritable at times.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews