A mother desperate to save her twin sons, a war veteran in torment, a beautiful young psychic with a terrible secret, a powerful magician with a shattered soul, and a Queen steeped in history and glory. These extraordinary beings cross paths and set off a remarkable chain of events in Spells and Oregano: Book II in The Secret Spice Cafe Trilogy.
Overcome by despair after a trauma when she was sixteen, Sarita Taylor has spent the past ten years isolated and lonely aboard her beloved RMS Queen Mary. Fearful of outsiders, she dedicates her time to managing The Secret Spice Café, now an award-winning restaurant. Until Luca Miceli, a man with a dark past, steps on board.
Patricia V. Davis deftly spins past and present, mystery and magic, into a potent story of passionate longing and family tragedy all at once. Spells and Oregano is a compelling tale of atonement, devotion, and undying love, set aboard one of the world’s most magnificent, haunted ships.
The Secret Spice Cafe Trilogy is an Official Pulpwood Queens Book Club Selection. Don’t miss Cooking for Ghosts: Book I
PATRICIA V. DAVIS's SECRET SPICE CAFE TRILOGY is a magical realism/paranormal mystery series set aboard the historic RMS Queen Mary. Research for these novels took her far and wide, from meeting with a genuine voodoo priestess to chatting with the world's greatest magician, David Copperfield. The trilogy is available in paperback, eBook, audiobook, and library hardback. Her first feature film, LYVIA'S HOUSE, a 'Twin-Peaks-meets-Get-Out' psychological thriller was released in 2024. Patricia lives with her poker player/rice farmer husband. They divide their time between southern Nevada and northern California. Represented by Gordon Warnock at FUSE LITERARY.
Oh geez, this review has been sitting here for over a year and for some reason it never went public.
Patricia Davis has once again provided a tasty suspense-filled mystery set on the beautiful ship Queen Mary. It is a continuation of characters but the mystery, plot, and adventures are quite different. We return to the Secret Spice Cafe aboard the ship where passengers bring with them their personal baggage as well as their suitcases. It is a charming mystery, a bit more than a cosy but definitely not a hard core "thriller." As with the first in the series, it a very enjoyable read.
While some have suggested that Spells and Oregano can be read as a stand-alone, I do believe that you should read the books in order. Understanding the primary characters will be difficult otherwise.
This book picks up 10 years after the last one ends. At first I was disappointed as two of the women have married and moved to England and Italy. I missed them. Sarita has grown up and now manages the Cafe. The ghosts are still hanging around and making their opinions known.
This one involves the twin magicians and their tragic story. As Angela's nephews, one (Luca) joins her on the ship for some healing time after a tragedy occurs. He has some amazing abilities that really fit into the ship's atmosphere. He is a great addition.
At first I was a little disappointed as I missed the two characters and there was less on the ghosts backstories but as the new story line developed I became engrossed and ended up enjoying it very much. What I would like to see is some of the delicious recipes that always make me hungry reading about them. Still it's a great addition to the trilogy.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of the ARC in exchange for a fair review.
MY Review of “Spells & Oregano” Book Two The Secret Spice Café, by Patricia V. Davis
OMG! WOW! This is the second time I am reading “Spells & Oregano” by Patricia V. Davis. I have been magicaly spellbound and captivated by this intriguing and intense novel. This is the second book in “The Secret Spice Café” series and this can be a stand-alone story. Kudos to Patrica V. Davis for weaving a multi-layered story and bringing up significant issues of our time. The genres for this story are Magical Realism, Fiction, Mystery, Para-Normal Activity and Suspense. The timeline of this story is set in the present and goes back to the past to clarify the events for the characters. Most of the action in the story takes place on The RMS Queen Mary, where the author describes the beauty, mystery, historical details, and rumors and truths of many secrets, spirits and ghosts, as well as para normal activity. Other locations mentioned are Brooklyn, New York, and Las Vegas. Cooking on the RMS Queen Mary is a very important part of this story. Patricia V. Davis describes her character as complex and complicated. Several of the characters have special surprising abilities. There are ghosts and spirits that seem to be sending messages and having “their” say. We have moved ten years forward in time and see that Sarita Taylor has psychic abilities and is not sure how to deal with her dreams and the secrets that have haunted her. Sarita does not like to leave the ship. The other characters from the first book are on board The RMS Queen Mary, some working in the kitchen, and some working in other areas on the ship. Sarita’s dreams and nightmares seem to be tied in with other new characters. In this book, Patricia V. Davis brings us the Magical Realism and the world of magic. The reader is introduced to two twins, each with different abilities.As they mature, they become magicians. Several terrible tragedies occur, that are important in relation to this book. The blurb says” A mother desperate to save her twin sons, a war veteran in torment, a beautiful young psychic with a terrible secret, a powerful magician with a shattered soul, and a Queen steeped in history and glory. These extraordinary beings cross paths and set off a remarkable chain of events in “Spells and Oregano” Book ll in The Secret Spice Café Trilogy.” There is also a dark mystery and much suspense that is going on the RMS Queen Mary. Someone is hurting and trying to sabotage Sarita and The Secret Spice Café. The author provides us with subtle clues, and after reading this a second time, I still could not have seen the conclusion. There are twists and turns, and danger. When ghosts and spirits are involved, it is more complicated. I appreciate that the author discusses feelings such as anger, fear, jealousy, betrayal, loyalty, trust, faith, hope and love. Patricia V. Davis brings in significant topics that are more than just “Fiction.” Some of these are: war and trauma, medical issues, mental issues, emotional issues, proper treatment, abuse, sibling rivalry, and a supportive network. I would recommend this engaging and fiery novel to readers that appreciate the genres of this book. I received an Advanced Reading Copy for my honest review. I eagerly anticipate for the next book in this series. Happy Reading!
Unlike the Matrix Reloaded, Speed II, and a host of other disappointing sequels, the second installment in this series was excellent. And also unlike a lot of those disappointing movie sequels, this book does not make the mistake of trying to retell the same story again. It is a true continuation of the lives of the previous characters, but with a new plot, new mystery, and some new characters bringing along new drama. The story is compelling, you will care about the characters old and new, and the ending is a rush.
I think this book is definitely better than the first one. I enjoyed the storyline, entertaining and engrossing, and I think the cast of characters was well written and I appreciated the character development. I will surely read the next instalment in this series. Recommended! Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked this book well enough but I think there's just something special about a first book in a series! It's hard to believe that there's a ten year Gap in between this book and book 1 The ship still has her charm after all of these years. I'm glad I was able to come back and visit her. I love the way this author writes. She makes you feel as if you're on board with the characters and seeing into their lives. I think it's great that an author can make you feel their uncertainty about certain situations they are in. The cover of the book is just beautiful!! I love that the ship is featured on it and I love the expressions on the characters' faces. It makes you wonder what they are thinking about When Rohini and Cristiano had their talk I could just see the Mary looking down on them from where she sat. They're still my favorite couple. Angela is still there and we have some new characters added to this story. The new characters make this an interesting book with a great plot I strongly recommend this book. So far, I am loving this series! My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
This is the 2nd book in the trilogy. I have read and reviewed the first in series that I enjoyed very much. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the advance review copy. My review opinion is my own.
In this next in the series we are returning to the Spice Cafe aboard the Queen Mary 10 years later. Two of the four women have moved on and are not part of this book. The author has deftly created a new story based on Sarita. Sarita has now grown up and manages the Cafe. The ghostly atmospheric story of the Queen Mary's history is still part of this book and includes a new arrival with even new magical abilities. I enjoyed this book overall but did find that I do miss the previous charcters and the receipes they created together. I look forward to the 3rd in series and highly recommend this series for all who enjoy ghost stories with a suspenseful historic background. The author has a wonderful writing style that is enjoyable and fun to read .
One of those lightning in a bottle books the surpasses the first in a series! I was so hooked right at the beginning that it was difficult to put it down when I had to. Davis is a master at structuring a story, weaving plotlines so enticingly so that there is not. one. lull. in the narrative, not one thread that is not leading us somewhere intriguing or satisfyingly closed. Highly recommend, for the pace, the characters, the (amazing! And so detailed!) setting, language and lyricism. I'll keep reading books by this author, and I'll likely read this one again this winter. Well done.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review:
Although a bit confusing at first which the amount of different characters and dialogue, this turned out to be a lovely book. Well written, woven together nicely. I liked the amount of suspense, mystery, romance and magic. Though it's the second book in the series, it can still be read as a stand alone.
Hold on to your seats—you’re going for the ride of your life aboard an anchored ship, the RMS Queen Mary! Patricia V. Davis, author of her second book in the trilogy of the Secret Spice Café, Spells and Oregano, takes readers into treacherous waters, an uncharted zone of magic and illusion gone wrong. We experience the punishing aftermath of trauma: why Sarita Taylor has remained on the ship for the last ten years, how a twin brother cannot escape his grief, and why a tiny, Sicilian mother must intervene from the grave. Though a fast-paced, suspenseful book, with a dangerous mystery, the pull of this magical novel is the human heart, its anchor. No matter how the story expands and transports us into dimensions of the psychic and paranormal, traversing the realms of life and death, time and space, it always returns to the enduring connections of empathy and love. Life affirming and delicious, this is a book to enjoy and share!
The Secret Spice Café has been the scene of many stories, good and bad. Aboard the RMS Queen Mary, this restaurant sees many people come through her doors. Patricia Davis has woven the mystery of the Queen Mary into the stories of the people who work at the café, setting them up with their own life's path to romance and letting us come along for the ride. This is the 2nd book in the series. You'll have a little more background info if you have read the first, which I have, but it's not necessary. You can enjoy this story and the amazing community of friends and lovers at the Secret Spice.
With the second book of her trilogy, Davis again paints a vibrant and suspenseful world of captivating characters—both living and dead—and all with a heartfelt undertow of genuine emotion that grounds the paranormal and supernatural elements and blends them smoothly into her vivid and believable universe. The stakes feel even higher in this second outing as the denizens of The Secret Spice Cafe juggle their personal and romantic relationships, ghosts, a very real, vengeful, and maniacal psychopath, magicians, sorcery, a bit of voodoo, otherworldly abilities, culinary skills, and a healthy dollop of good old fashioned love and lust. I’m utterly charmed by this series, and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I thought "Cooking With Ghosts" was good; but "Spells & Oregano" was even better! I can't wait until the third layer comes out - to add more delicious frosting to the cake. Who wouldn't love reading about life on the RMS Queen Mary, along with exceptional food, interesting people - alive and dead?? I enjoyed the descriptions and historical details that Patricia V. Davis brought to life. There were many characters, with different personalities - compatible by each having a foreboding past. I especially enjoyed the sensual, exciting connection that Luca and Sarita experienced on the ship. When Alan came aboard - I had not a clue what his mysterious part would play in the multitude of events that kept me wanting to know more. A truly magnificent - magical performance!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Let me start off by saying I love books about witches, magick, ghosts, etc. I find them fascinating. This book is filled with tragedy, love, super-natural, magick and mystery. I have not read the first book in this series but this book stood alone just fine. The characters are likable (or you love to hate them in some cases) which all makes for a good read. The part I liked the most is you don't see what the end brings. I love books like that - ones that keep you guessing until the end. You won't be disappointed with this book. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
This was a wait for the next problem book. Found it very interesting, now I need the others to finish story. Loved the visits from the dead relatives. Luca and Sarita make a cute couple.
I enjoyed this second book in the series much more than the first. It has a storyline that has a point to it. The first book didn't really seem to have a point other than to tell the story of the friends. This has an storyline that tells the story of the friends but primarily it's the story of the now grown-up daughter of one the friends and the cousin of one of the other friends. It's funny how entwined the lives of the 4 friends and family are. But in the end the two fall in love despite adversity, and all is well. #SpellsAndOregano #NetGalley
I'm so in love with this book! From page 1, Patricia V. Davis had me hooked. It's an amazing sequel that kept me wanting more. She brings the characters to life in a way that makes you feel as if you know them personally. As for the recipes, they are in such detail, that you can practically taste and smell them.I love the magic, the supernatural, and the intrigue. Spells and Oregano is one of the best sequels I've ever read! One author I can count on to never disappoint!
I really enjoyed part two of this trilogy even more than the first installment. It is a excellent continuation of book one, with excellent deepening of the characterization of the characters, but with an interesting new plot and new mysteries. We are also introduced two new characters with their own dramas and trials and tribulations. It's a compelling story and you will like these characters, both the originals and the new ones. Excellent excellent ending. I cannot recommend this book more.
I would like to thank the author/publisher/Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book and exchange for a fair and honest review.
Absolutely loved this delicious second book that takes place 10 years after the first book! WOW! I thought I loved the first and this book had me hooked even more! The ladies have moved on and went their separate ways just the way of life sadly. In this fantastic follow up You’ll get to see where they are but also I loved the new characters and this fantastic story! I read this in a sitting and can’t wait to read the next book! I hope this series never ends!
Patricia V. Davis is an excellent story teller she had me hooked on her trilogy with Book 1, 'Cooking for Ghosts'. When I turned the first page of 'Spells & Oregano' she had me hooked again. Her way of telling the story makes one feel like they are right there experiencing the ups and downs of each character. I am already anticipating Book 3 of 'The Secret Spice Cafe'.
REVIEWED: Spells and Oregano (Secret Spice Cafe) WRITTEN BY: Patricia V. Davis PUBLISHED: November, 2017
This intriguing and intense novel is the second book in “The Secret Spice Café” series, but can also be a stand-alone read. It’s a multi-layered story that brings up issues such as the plight of war veterans with PTSD, while weaving a tale of magical realism, mystery, paranormal activity, and suspense. At the same time, it is, at its core, a story of love. Well written, fun, atmospheric.
An enthralling read, full of magic that never feels forced or contrived. The characters read as realistic and engaging, tugging at your heartstrings without ever fully rending them or becoming so sentimental it feels heavy to read. Spiced up with just enough romance to stay interesting (but not too much) and a healthy dollop of danger and intrigue to keep the pace pumping, this book is a definite “weekend read”- you won’t want to put it down!
A very enjoyable book. Although I read the first in this series, it is not necessary. Patricia Davis knows how to grab your interest from page one and hold it until the end, and then some. This book is well written, a smooth and charming read. A must for any ship lover or fans of great storytelling. As with Cooking for Ghosts, highly recommend.
Take some ghosts, add romance and good food, throw in some mystery, toss in a sorcerer, and stir well! This is the recipe for Patricia V. Davis’ SPELLS & OREGANO, the second book in The Secret Spice Café series.
While a couple of our favorite characters from COOKING FOR GHOSTS (the first book in the series) have decided to move on to new adventures, Angela, Cristiano, Rohini, and Sarita are still living among the spirits that roam the Queen Mary. They are joined by a young mother who is trying desperately to save her twin sons and an amazing magician who was shattered by a performance gone horrifically wrong. And then there is the tormented soul aboard who presents a grave danger to someone at the café.
The Secret Spice Café is now managed by the lovely Sarita, who was deeply traumatized when she was only sixteen and has seldom left the ship since then. Much too serious for her young age, Angela thinks Sarita acts “like any activity which didn’t involve books was like getting a root canal.” But her life changes when the tormented Luca comes aboard. Will they save each other, or destroy each other?
Amidst all this drama though is humor. There is a wonderfully hilarious “cat fight” in Chapter 8 between two spirits. You will be in tears from laughter. There is also the creepy – “spiders as bag as rodents”. Eek!
This is a beautifully written story of family, friends, passion, tragedy, and undying love.
Spells and Oregano: Book II in The Secret Spice Cafe Trilogy is the second in a trilogy, but the first one I've read. The characters are vividly drawn... I actually took a few notes to help me keep up with them, as there are many. Of course I came to love Sarita very much, and to want the best for her and Luca. (No spoilers here.) And although I'm not usually a fan of paranormal fiction, Spells & Oregano was so well-written that it drew me into its web, and I couldn't wait to turn the pages (or click on them, since I was reading on my Kindle) to see what happened next. Davis has obviously done her research, and the details about the Queen Mary, the foods and clothing, all the period details and especially the magic were very believable. I'm so impressed that David Copperfield blurbed the book, which gives it even more integrity! I love the scene in New Orleans and Sarita's connection to her granny, a Voodoo princess, and the "gris-gris" Haitian pouch she slept with to keep her anxiety attacks at bay. All terrific details that made this colorful story really come alive. Well done!
Wow! I think this book was even better and "spicier" than the first in the series (Cooking for Ghosts). Ten years have passed and it was great to see how the lives of the six friends have turned out. There were some surprises, but the saddest was Sarita, who has isolated herself since the trauma that the first book ended with. I don't want to give too much away, but when a family member of Angela's arrives on the Queen Mary, her life will change forever! This series is so much fun to read, full of exciting twists, and scary dramas, but also with so much heart and emotions! You really come to love the characters and I can't wait for the 3rd installation, which I think is set for release in the fall of 2019. Ms, Davis, I don't want to say goodbye! Maybe you could make it a series, and not just a trilogy? 💗