What do you think?
Rate this book
Crystal Magic #1
Sapphire Nights
The first in a new romantic mystery series by bestselling author Patricia Rice:
A lawman haunted by his past . . . a scientist haunted by her future.
Samantha Moon arrives in Hillvale— population 325 lives and countless ghosts—in a fog as thick as the one circling the aging mountain town. Bereft of friends and family, money and memory, all she has to her name is a stray cat . . . but that's apparently enough for the people of Hillvale to take her in.
L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker's problem is too many memories. He's come to bury his tragic past in this remote California town, where his father vanished years before. Ever watchful, Walker sees how Sam's arrival disturbs the deceptive peace of Hillvale. Old bones lead to new death, stirring ancient fears and feuds.
Sam will need Walker's help to uncover the truth of who she is and face the burden that brings. But how can he accept a reality that stretches beyond the borders of what he knows -- one that contains spirits, psychics, and imaginary voices—the weirdness that ruined his life before?
And if they survive what lies ahead, will they find any way to make a future together?
OTHER BOOKS IN THE CRYSTAL MAGIC SERIES:
Book 1: Sapphire Nights
Book 2: Topaz Dreams
Book 3: Crystal Vision
Book 4: Wedding Gems
Book 5: Azure Secrets
Book 6: Amber Affairs
A lawman haunted by his past . . . a scientist haunted by her future.
Samantha Moon arrives in Hillvale— population 325 lives and countless ghosts—in a fog as thick as the one circling the aging mountain town. Bereft of friends and family, money and memory, all she has to her name is a stray cat . . . but that's apparently enough for the people of Hillvale to take her in.
L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker's problem is too many memories. He's come to bury his tragic past in this remote California town, where his father vanished years before. Ever watchful, Walker sees how Sam's arrival disturbs the deceptive peace of Hillvale. Old bones lead to new death, stirring ancient fears and feuds.
Sam will need Walker's help to uncover the truth of who she is and face the burden that brings. But how can he accept a reality that stretches beyond the borders of what he knows -- one that contains spirits, psychics, and imaginary voices—the weirdness that ruined his life before?
And if they survive what lies ahead, will they find any way to make a future together?
OTHER BOOKS IN THE CRYSTAL MAGIC SERIES:
Book 1: Sapphire Nights
Book 2: Topaz Dreams
Book 3: Crystal Vision
Book 4: Wedding Gems
Book 5: Azure Secrets
Book 6: Amber Affairs
330 pages, ebook
First published March 27, 2018
About the author
Patricia Rice
163 books515 followersWith several million books in print and New York Times and USA Today's bestseller lists under her belt, former CPA Patricia Rice writes emotionally-charged contemporary and historical romances which have won numerous awards, including the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice and Career Achievement Awards.
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 19, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sapphire Nights is a paranormal mystery set in the quirky mountain town of Hillvale California, the former site of an artist commune. The town is haven to eccentrics attracted by the town’s fabled vortex of energy. When a young woman with amnesia arrives in the small resort town, a mystery she’s undoubtedly, but inexplicably, connected to begins to unravel. The townsfolk are drawn to the puzzling blonde beauty with a green thumb, including the town’s lawman Chen Ling Walker.
The mystery of Sapphire Nights has many moving parts. In a town of people claiming supernatural gifts, it’s hard to know who’s the real deal. As the plot unfolds a colourful cast of characters emerges that adds an incredible richness to the story. I enjoyed the set up of Hillvale as well as the mystery, though I felt the book a little overlong at times. Readers who prefer clean(ish) romance will like the Walker/Sam dynamic.
Book two appears to be set in Hillvale but centered on new main characters. I plan to take at least one my trip to this enigmatic small town of secrets.
Reviewed for ismellsheep.com
Sapphire Nights is a paranormal mystery set in the quirky mountain town of Hillvale California, the former site of an artist commune. The town is haven to eccentrics attracted by the town’s fabled vortex of energy. When a young woman with amnesia arrives in the small resort town, a mystery she’s undoubtedly, but inexplicably, connected to begins to unravel. The townsfolk are drawn to the puzzling blonde beauty with a green thumb, including the town’s lawman Chen Ling Walker.
The mystery of Sapphire Nights has many moving parts. In a town of people claiming supernatural gifts, it’s hard to know who’s the real deal. As the plot unfolds a colourful cast of characters emerges that adds an incredible richness to the story. I enjoyed the set up of Hillvale as well as the mystery, though I felt the book a little overlong at times. Readers who prefer clean(ish) romance will like the Walker/Sam dynamic.
Book two appears to be set in Hillvale but centered on new main characters. I plan to take at least one my trip to this enigmatic small town of secrets.
Reviewed for ismellsheep.com
July 7, 2018
Series: Crystal Magic #1
Publication Date: 3/27/18
The writing is excellent with well-developed characters, a tight, well-written story, a complex and interesting mystery and a lovely romance. The mystery will keep you guessing right up until the end – it is filled with plots and sub-plots and so many twists and turns.
Samantha (Sam) Moon arrives in the small mountain town of Hillvale, California without an actual memory of who she is, where she comes from – nothing – it is all a total blank. The only reason she has any idea of her name is that she found it written on something in her car – well – she thinks it is her car – after all, she was driving it. How did she get here – there is an address programmed on the GPS – did she program it? Why is she here? She’s been in a bit of a befuddled state, but her mind is finally clearing a bit – at least she can think – but she still has absolutely no idea who she is or why she is in this place.
Hillvale is a mysterious, very small town populated with what the locals call Lucys and Nulls. The Nulls are pretty much just what the name says – plain, ordinary, logical with no belief in anything that is magical or mystical. The Lucys seem – and many actually are – looney. They often talk in jibberish and never, ever get directly to the point and say what they actually mean. They have various talents – some assist restless spirits to the other side, some tell futures by reading tarot cards, some create spells and sculptures that protect people and spaces – well, you name it and there is someone with that talent. Many of the people are hold-overs from the old hippie commune days. Days that are better forgotten, but can’t be. They were days filled with drugs, betrayals, fraud, and evil.
Chen Ling Walker is more than he seems. He’s the county deputy assigned to patrol and police the Hillvale area – but – that isn’t all he is. He’s here on a mission – he intends to find out what happened to his father when he was in this area nearly 20 years ago. Walker is sure his father was murdered here, but his body has never been found. Walker fully intends to find out what happened, but the locals are tight-lipped and will not speak to anyone – especially an outsider. Walker is still trying to recover from the murder/suicide of his wife and son, so he has taken a sabbatical from his job as CEO of his own company. He had to get away – and this is the perfect thing for him to do.
The descriptions are so vivid that you can feel the evil surrounding you. Your heartbeat will speed up and you can only wonder who or what is causing all of that evil. More and more is revealed as Sam remembers who she is and how she got here. Then, she learns more about her family background and her ties to this place. She is in danger here – the evil is stalking her.
Can she and Walker save her from that evil? Can they solve the mystery behind the disappearance of Walker’s father? Can two people from such different worlds find love and happiness? Well – you’ll just have to read the story to find out!
Now, I will say that I’d have liked MORE at the ending – an epilogue – an additional chapter – something. Perhaps we’ll learn more in additional books in the series, but I’d have liked to see how/if they work things out in this book.
The book is interesting and filled with lovely, quirky characters that you’ll quickly come to like. I think it might be fun to live in a town like Hillvale.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 3/27/18
The writing is excellent with well-developed characters, a tight, well-written story, a complex and interesting mystery and a lovely romance. The mystery will keep you guessing right up until the end – it is filled with plots and sub-plots and so many twists and turns.
Samantha (Sam) Moon arrives in the small mountain town of Hillvale, California without an actual memory of who she is, where she comes from – nothing – it is all a total blank. The only reason she has any idea of her name is that she found it written on something in her car – well – she thinks it is her car – after all, she was driving it. How did she get here – there is an address programmed on the GPS – did she program it? Why is she here? She’s been in a bit of a befuddled state, but her mind is finally clearing a bit – at least she can think – but she still has absolutely no idea who she is or why she is in this place.
Hillvale is a mysterious, very small town populated with what the locals call Lucys and Nulls. The Nulls are pretty much just what the name says – plain, ordinary, logical with no belief in anything that is magical or mystical. The Lucys seem – and many actually are – looney. They often talk in jibberish and never, ever get directly to the point and say what they actually mean. They have various talents – some assist restless spirits to the other side, some tell futures by reading tarot cards, some create spells and sculptures that protect people and spaces – well, you name it and there is someone with that talent. Many of the people are hold-overs from the old hippie commune days. Days that are better forgotten, but can’t be. They were days filled with drugs, betrayals, fraud, and evil.
Chen Ling Walker is more than he seems. He’s the county deputy assigned to patrol and police the Hillvale area – but – that isn’t all he is. He’s here on a mission – he intends to find out what happened to his father when he was in this area nearly 20 years ago. Walker is sure his father was murdered here, but his body has never been found. Walker fully intends to find out what happened, but the locals are tight-lipped and will not speak to anyone – especially an outsider. Walker is still trying to recover from the murder/suicide of his wife and son, so he has taken a sabbatical from his job as CEO of his own company. He had to get away – and this is the perfect thing for him to do.
The descriptions are so vivid that you can feel the evil surrounding you. Your heartbeat will speed up and you can only wonder who or what is causing all of that evil. More and more is revealed as Sam remembers who she is and how she got here. Then, she learns more about her family background and her ties to this place. She is in danger here – the evil is stalking her.
Can she and Walker save her from that evil? Can they solve the mystery behind the disappearance of Walker’s father? Can two people from such different worlds find love and happiness? Well – you’ll just have to read the story to find out!
Now, I will say that I’d have liked MORE at the ending – an epilogue – an additional chapter – something. Perhaps we’ll learn more in additional books in the series, but I’d have liked to see how/if they work things out in this book.
The book is interesting and filled with lovely, quirky characters that you’ll quickly come to like. I think it might be fun to live in a town like Hillvale.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
March 29, 2020
What would you do if you found yourself with no memory, driving a car, with the GPS set to an unknown address? Such a wonderful plot line. Sam struggles to find herself without letting anyone know she's lost herself in a town called Hillvale that defines the word "strange". I enjoyed every moment of the book without understanding anything. Just the people dynamics were enough. A cast of characters that you will never forget. I can't wait to see what the next in the series has in store for no other reason than to revisit the people who live in Hillvale.
Want to Read
May 11, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/11/2019)! 🎁
May 28, 2019
I found this book a bit too long, It just seemed to drag. I almost didn’t finish it, mainly as it didn’t hold my interest and I had to keep putting it down, there was far too many characters, little romance, and it just wasn’t for me really.
May 15, 2018
I loved this latest contemporary mystery by Patricia Rice. As always she has delivered a thoroughly engaging book, that introduced me to a town I cannot wait to learn more about. I was sucked in from the first chapter, where the main character is trying to figure who she is and why she cannot remember anything.
For those of you like myself who are fans of the "Magic" series', you will see glimpses of how everyone fits together almost from the start. However, this is definitely its own story, with a unique cast of characters that are at once intriguing and flawed. If you are new to Pat's books or the "Magic" series in general, this is a great chance to see what a great story she creates. Then you can try her other contemporary "Magic" books, or go all the way back to the beginning with her historical "Magic" series'. The really nice thing about the way that Pat spins her stories is that she makes them all very independent of each other as she jumps decades in time from one "Magic" series to another.
****************************************************************************************
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
****************************************************************************************
For those of you like myself who are fans of the "Magic" series', you will see glimpses of how everyone fits together almost from the start. However, this is definitely its own story, with a unique cast of characters that are at once intriguing and flawed. If you are new to Pat's books or the "Magic" series in general, this is a great chance to see what a great story she creates. Then you can try her other contemporary "Magic" books, or go all the way back to the beginning with her historical "Magic" series'. The really nice thing about the way that Pat spins her stories is that she makes them all very independent of each other as she jumps decades in time from one "Magic" series to another.
****************************************************************************************
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
****************************************************************************************
May 11, 2018
Sapphire Nights by Patricia Rice
Crystal Magic #1
Can you imagine driving to a gps destination not knowing who you are or anything about yourself? Well, that is how this book starts out with Samantha Moon heading to Hillvale hoping to find out who she is, why she is on the road and just what is happening. When she arrives she is taken in by the “Lucys” and told to avoid the “Nulls” – but – that is easier said than done.
Chen Ling Walker is a man on a mission – he wants to find out what happened to his father nearly two decades ago. He is a policeman but also has a business to run. When human bones are found it sets more in motion than many expected.
With a history of hippies, murder, land fraud, a commune, artists and magic this story is action-packed, provides a mystery to be solved and throws in a delightful romance that was a real treat. I had trouble putting this book down and am eager to read what happens next in this series. I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author and this is no exception.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Crystal Magic #1
Can you imagine driving to a gps destination not knowing who you are or anything about yourself? Well, that is how this book starts out with Samantha Moon heading to Hillvale hoping to find out who she is, why she is on the road and just what is happening. When she arrives she is taken in by the “Lucys” and told to avoid the “Nulls” – but – that is easier said than done.
Chen Ling Walker is a man on a mission – he wants to find out what happened to his father nearly two decades ago. He is a policeman but also has a business to run. When human bones are found it sets more in motion than many expected.
With a history of hippies, murder, land fraud, a commune, artists and magic this story is action-packed, provides a mystery to be solved and throws in a delightful romance that was a real treat. I had trouble putting this book down and am eager to read what happens next in this series. I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author and this is no exception.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
June 10, 2018
Interesting mystery
This book seems to be very loosely connected to the California Malcolm series, which itself is a continuation of two prior series. In this book it's not so much the conflict of magic and science, but magic and politics at work. I don't think that I care for that juxtaposition quite as well. With science v. magic, I felt the books revolved around different perspectives in viewing the world and certain, sometimes unexplainable, events. The two were compatible, if only those involved could learn to appreciate that not everyone views the world in the same fashion. With magic v. politics the plot becomes more polarized. There is a point of view which is "correct" and one which is portrayed as corrupted. It makes for an us v. them dynamic which isn't conducive to finding commonalities in differences, in my opinion. Still, the story was entertaining and I'll probably read the next, just to see how it progresses.
This book seems to be very loosely connected to the California Malcolm series, which itself is a continuation of two prior series. In this book it's not so much the conflict of magic and science, but magic and politics at work. I don't think that I care for that juxtaposition quite as well. With science v. magic, I felt the books revolved around different perspectives in viewing the world and certain, sometimes unexplainable, events. The two were compatible, if only those involved could learn to appreciate that not everyone views the world in the same fashion. With magic v. politics the plot becomes more polarized. There is a point of view which is "correct" and one which is portrayed as corrupted. It makes for an us v. them dynamic which isn't conducive to finding commonalities in differences, in my opinion. Still, the story was entertaining and I'll probably read the next, just to see how it progresses.
May 12, 2018
If you have read the earlier books by Ms. Rice and enjoyed them, then you will love this one too. I have read most of the Unexpected Magic series and enjoyed them. This book set in modern times seems to be a little harder to get in to for some reason but it was definitely worth the effort. There are lots of characters (and I mean Characters!). Some cute, some funny, some quirky and some a little scary. There are several different mysteries going on that seem like they may overlap somewhat. There is some romance too but more magic? or is it magic? You'll have to read and decide for yourself. Very interesting book!! Looking forward to reading the next one in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 26, 2019
a young woman with memory loss finds herself in a small eccentric town. Once home to a commune filled with artists and hippies, the town has dwindled to a few stalwart psychics and a group of greedy developers. Samantha, the young woman, quickly becomes the focus of the strange doings and catches the eye of the hunky deputy. the deputy has secrets of his own.
although the beginning was promising I was disappointed in this book. Hampered by too many characters, implausibilities and info dumps it lacks suspense. I was not charmed or engaged by any of the characters although the deputy was the most appealing. the romance is pedestrian: more like friends with benefits than a real romance. It is an easy enough read, just not one that kept me riveted or more than mildly interested.
although the beginning was promising I was disappointed in this book. Hampered by too many characters, implausibilities and info dumps it lacks suspense. I was not charmed or engaged by any of the characters although the deputy was the most appealing. the romance is pedestrian: more like friends with benefits than a real romance. It is an easy enough read, just not one that kept me riveted or more than mildly interested.
May 15, 2018
This story is one of ghosts, greed, forgotten art, drugs, and family ties. There were times that the local people seemed a bit more than crazy and others when their warnings of evil made were much more than random rantings. The paranormal aspects reminded me of stories by Jayne Ann Krentz and the suspenseful aspects reminded me of another favorite author, Christina Dodd. I don't think anyone will be disappointed with this ending and will want to read the future stories in the new series.
I received an ARC but the opinions are entirely my own.
I received an ARC but the opinions are entirely my own.
May 10, 2018
Publisher's Description:
A LAWMAN HAUNTED BY HIS PAST . . .
A SCIENTIST HAUNTED BY HER FUTURE.
Samantha Moon arrives in Hillvale- population 325 lives and countless ghosts-in a fog as thick as the one circling the aging mountain town.
Bereft of friends and family, money and memory, all she has to her name is a stray cat . . .
but that's apparently enough for the people of Hillvale to take her in.
L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker's problem is too many memories. He's come to bury his tragic past in this remote California town, where his father vanished years before.
Ever watchful, Walker sees how Sam's arrival disturbs the deceptive peace of Hillvale.
Old bones lead to new death, stirring ancient fears and feuds.
Sam will need Walker's help to uncover the truth of who she is and face the burden that brings. But how can he accept a reality that stretches beyond the borders of what he knows -- one that contains spirits, psychics, and imaginary voices-the weirdness that ruined his life before?
And if they survive what lies ahead, will they find any way to make a future together?
My Thoughts:
Although I generally enjoy a good read by Patricia Rice this book isn't exactly one I would have normally read since I prefer a book of a historical nature.
I loved her Unexpected Magic series and this is a spin off of that historical romance series being about the descendants of those beloved characters.
Still I prefer her historical romance books.
This book is still well written but just not in my preferred genre.
I'm certain this book will appeal to Patricia Rice enthusiast that like a more modern / contemporary setting.
I gave this book with it's decidedly paranormal nature 3.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the author to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily..
A LAWMAN HAUNTED BY HIS PAST . . .
A SCIENTIST HAUNTED BY HER FUTURE.
Samantha Moon arrives in Hillvale- population 325 lives and countless ghosts-in a fog as thick as the one circling the aging mountain town.
Bereft of friends and family, money and memory, all she has to her name is a stray cat . . .
but that's apparently enough for the people of Hillvale to take her in.
L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker's problem is too many memories. He's come to bury his tragic past in this remote California town, where his father vanished years before.
Ever watchful, Walker sees how Sam's arrival disturbs the deceptive peace of Hillvale.
Old bones lead to new death, stirring ancient fears and feuds.
Sam will need Walker's help to uncover the truth of who she is and face the burden that brings. But how can he accept a reality that stretches beyond the borders of what he knows -- one that contains spirits, psychics, and imaginary voices-the weirdness that ruined his life before?
And if they survive what lies ahead, will they find any way to make a future together?
My Thoughts:
Although I generally enjoy a good read by Patricia Rice this book isn't exactly one I would have normally read since I prefer a book of a historical nature.
I loved her Unexpected Magic series and this is a spin off of that historical romance series being about the descendants of those beloved characters.
Still I prefer her historical romance books.
This book is still well written but just not in my preferred genre.
I'm certain this book will appeal to Patricia Rice enthusiast that like a more modern / contemporary setting.
I gave this book with it's decidedly paranormal nature 3.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the author to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily..
May 16, 2018
This is a riveting tale of interesting characters, a few believe in earth spirits, and the rest scoff at it but they co-exist, not necessarily in complete harmony. Their town is called Hillvale, spiritual home to 325 lives and countless ghosts.
Samantha Moon's GPS was programmed Hillvale, where she arrived devoid of memory. She was surprised for her positive reception by the people who she later discovered are folks who are wholly in tuned with their senses.
Sam met the gorgeous L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker who's trying to unearth the disappearance of his father in this remote area of California almost two decades past.
The arrival of Sam brought new upheaval to the old town. Walker and Sam couldn't deny their palpable attraction to each other. Sam is desperate for Walker's help to unveil the truth of her identity. But Walker is wary of Sam's leanings towards spiritualism despite her scientific educational background.
This needs to be read with an open mind for an enthralling reading experience. Most of the characters have spiritual beliefs on earth's magnificent powers. It's a fascinating read.
Patricia Rice is one of my go-to authors, she's a superb story-teller, but this is such a slow burn for my liking which is ironic because the entire narrative happened within eight days!
This eCopy is gratis which I voluntarily read. My review is impartial and honest.
Samantha Moon's GPS was programmed Hillvale, where she arrived devoid of memory. She was surprised for her positive reception by the people who she later discovered are folks who are wholly in tuned with their senses.
Sam met the gorgeous L.A. investigator Chen Ling Walker who's trying to unearth the disappearance of his father in this remote area of California almost two decades past.
The arrival of Sam brought new upheaval to the old town. Walker and Sam couldn't deny their palpable attraction to each other. Sam is desperate for Walker's help to unveil the truth of her identity. But Walker is wary of Sam's leanings towards spiritualism despite her scientific educational background.
This needs to be read with an open mind for an enthralling reading experience. Most of the characters have spiritual beliefs on earth's magnificent powers. It's a fascinating read.
Patricia Rice is one of my go-to authors, she's a superb story-teller, but this is such a slow burn for my liking which is ironic because the entire narrative happened within eight days!
This eCopy is gratis which I voluntarily read. My review is impartial and honest.
May 17, 2018
This book is a little bit different than Ms. Rice’s normal books. I’ve probably read over 20 of her books, and this one had the most eclectic cast of characters! This is not a bad thing—just different. Keep an open mind, and you will probably enjoy the story. I did. Many of Ms. Rice’s books include supernatural elements, and this book is no exception. I really like the way it’s not ‘witchcraft’ elements, but rather supernatural forces tied to the earth. And I love the nickname for these supernatural characters: they are called the ‘Lucys.’
Anyway, Walker is in town searching for answers to an unsolved crime from 18 years earlier. Sam is drawn to town by a set of strange circumstances, and spends the first quarter of the book not even knowing who she really is. She finally figures it out and starts the process of understanding the town and her role in it. Think of some of your favorite quirky relatives and friends, and you will get an idea of the type of town this story is set in.
She encounteres many of the town inhabitants, and finds acceptance and some long-lost relatives. This story kept me interested. There are many details to pay attention to with this eclectic cast of characters. And the ending is satisfying. I want to go visit!!!
Anyway, Walker is in town searching for answers to an unsolved crime from 18 years earlier. Sam is drawn to town by a set of strange circumstances, and spends the first quarter of the book not even knowing who she really is. She finally figures it out and starts the process of understanding the town and her role in it. Think of some of your favorite quirky relatives and friends, and you will get an idea of the type of town this story is set in.
She encounteres many of the town inhabitants, and finds acceptance and some long-lost relatives. This story kept me interested. There are many details to pay attention to with this eclectic cast of characters. And the ending is satisfying. I want to go visit!!!
May 6, 2018
In Sapphire Nights, Samantha Moon arrives in Hillville with a cat that is not hers and with no idea of who she is. Finding her name in a textbook, she follows the preset gps coordinates to her destination. Hillville is a town founding by hippies and artists that is full of whooey mystical people and a few rich nulls. The only thing Samantha knows for sure is that deputy Walker is a sexy hunk and that she knows a lot about environmental science. Walker has suffered major losses in his life and is only in Hillville to uncover what happened to his father years before. Friends with benefits evolves into more as the ghosts (I do mean literal ghosts) of the past bring to light a great evil and a great many buried secrets. The story is full of intrigue and mystery with wonderful world building. The characters catch the reader's attention. The story progresses quite a bit with mysterious story telling from the odder, "Lucy" characters in the book that make it a little hard to keep up with sometimes. Overall, the story is a great introduction to the series with interesting characters that will leave the reader coming back for more. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy.
May 30, 2018
I came across Patricia Rice’s books a year ago when I stumbled onto her Unexpected Magic books. Sapphire Nights features the same brand of possibilities as those explored in that series, but this is a contemporary story set in America.
This book features several different storylines, each intertwined with others to produce a complex and thoroughly enjoyable read. Firstly there is the slow burn of a love story developing between newcomer to Hillvale Sam Moon and local deputy sheriff Chen Ling Walker. Add to that the mysterious death of Walker’s father 20 years ago, and the series of strange events taking place in and around Hillvale and you have a fascinating and compelling read.
Sam and Walker are well developed and well rounded characters who own the page and ensure readers are invested in their future. The supporting cast of Nulls and Lucys ensures there’s never a dull moment, and then there are the inexplicable and yet plausible magical happenings around the town to keep the story bubbling along. I loved this one!
This book features several different storylines, each intertwined with others to produce a complex and thoroughly enjoyable read. Firstly there is the slow burn of a love story developing between newcomer to Hillvale Sam Moon and local deputy sheriff Chen Ling Walker. Add to that the mysterious death of Walker’s father 20 years ago, and the series of strange events taking place in and around Hillvale and you have a fascinating and compelling read.
Sam and Walker are well developed and well rounded characters who own the page and ensure readers are invested in their future. The supporting cast of Nulls and Lucys ensures there’s never a dull moment, and then there are the inexplicable and yet plausible magical happenings around the town to keep the story bubbling along. I loved this one!
May 5, 2018
Hillvale is a town of secrets and Samantha Moon has a big secret, she has no idea who she is and once she finds out she may regret having the answer to that secret. All Samantha knows is she is in a car with a GPS reading of Hillvale and home. She should have turn around when she saw the signpost to Hillvale - Spiritual Home to 325 lives and countless ghosts. Once in Hillvale, she discovers what the sign means. The town is divide into two fractions the Lucys short for the Lucent Ladies the town's spiritualists and Nulls, the techies, geeks and non-believers. The town has a long history of believing in spirituality and those who didn't and the conflict. The discovery on a mountain brings some of the secrets the town has to light and will test Samantha and her relationship with Deputy Chen Ling Walker who has secrets and one of them has to do with the discovery. Once some of the secrets are revealed the town erupts. I can't wait for Topaz Nights and another wonderful visit to Hillvale.
November 27, 2019
the book cover they show here is not the same as the book cover I have. The heroine is blonde with very curly hair and blue eyes (sapphire). The lady on the cover has brown, straight hair and amber eyes----that's a huge mistake. This whole story takes place in only 8 days. IMO, it should have been based over at least a month: way too much going on for the characters to not be thoroughly exhausted at all times! EIGHT DAYS! That's crazy. Anyway, some other "problems" include: 1) Tess pulled out a gun. Who is Tess and WHY did she pull out a gun? 2) The ghost who spoke with Samantha was called Gladys at first, then later as Grace. 3) I believe that women are wonderful fascinating creatures, and that they do NOT need men's names to make them more so. Sam is a man's name. Having said all that, overall this was a wonderful story---just needed a little REAL sex.
May 14, 2018
Sapphire Nights is book #1 in Patirica Rice’s new series "Crystal Magic" series. Promises to be an enjoyable and inventive series. It has suspense, romance, secrets, a bit of magic, charming characters,
reconciliation and a riveting good vs evil plot. Well written with mysterious storytelling and quirky characters. The storyline is unpredictable, intriguing and truly fascinating. The characters will definitely keep your attention and the plot kept me turning pages.
Storytelling is definitely Patricia Rice's forte. Definitely a masterful and brilliant author. A must read for fans of romance, mystery, magic, small towns, secrets and riveting storytelling. I look forward to book 2.
I received a complimentary copy, however, all opinions are my own.
reconciliation and a riveting good vs evil plot. Well written with mysterious storytelling and quirky characters. The storyline is unpredictable, intriguing and truly fascinating. The characters will definitely keep your attention and the plot kept me turning pages.
Storytelling is definitely Patricia Rice's forte. Definitely a masterful and brilliant author. A must read for fans of romance, mystery, magic, small towns, secrets and riveting storytelling. I look forward to book 2.
I received a complimentary copy, however, all opinions are my own.
April 6, 2022
Samantha Moon arrived in Hillvale with no idea of her identity or why she was there other than it was programmed as home on her car's gps. Hillvale is a divided town between the Lucys who are people who have or believe they have paranormal abilities and the Nulls, ordinary people. Chen Ling Walker, an LA investigator, is there to find out what happened to his father who disappeared in the area twenty years ago. He is skeptical about the Lucys and, even though he is attracted to Sam, is unsure of her developing paranormal skills as a gardener and diviner with a walking stick. Somehow they mesh and she becomes his go between and interpreter with the Lucy population. There are twists and turns to this story that really kept my attention. I highly recommend it.
May 9, 2018
This was a really good book. The only reason it is four stars instead of five is that the hero had gone through a pretty traumatic experience and I think that should have been dealt with more than the heroine doesn't offer sympathy, but just accepts, so the hero is all better albeit terrified. I really think it would take more than that. Although, there was a lot going on in this book, so I can kind of see how it was sort of glossed over. I don't mean to sound negative because it is another great Rice book just what I see as a ding. I really like the magic, crystals, and new characters in town that seem to be the start of a great series.
May 10, 2018
Very odd and interesting characters and a good mystery. Walker has had enough crazy in his life and then Sam blows into town and it starts again. Sam has no idea who she is, she just knows she is supposed to be in Hillvale. Walker starts to find answers for Sam, but he has an old mystery that also needs answers. What happened to his father while he was in Hillvale. As they try to find answers, Walker isn't sure about Sam's sanity, but he is attracted to her and can't seem to stay away from her. Will they find their answers before it is too late?
May 12, 2018
Intriguing Story.
The reader learns about Hillvale along with Samantha Moon who is suffering from amnesia. It is a town split in two, on one side there are the social misfits, hippies and psychics; on the other rich men determined to become richer by land grabbing and one mustn’t forget the ghosts or spirits! Somehow Sam is the key to either unite or tear apart the community, she just has to find out how and why. I look forward with interest to the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The reader learns about Hillvale along with Samantha Moon who is suffering from amnesia. It is a town split in two, on one side there are the social misfits, hippies and psychics; on the other rich men determined to become richer by land grabbing and one mustn’t forget the ghosts or spirits! Somehow Sam is the key to either unite or tear apart the community, she just has to find out how and why. I look forward with interest to the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 12, 2018
4*s for "I really liked it". I wasn't too sure if I'd like this as I often find contemporary stories somewhat flat, but the mention of magic had me. Sam's story held my attention from start to finish. Hillvale is an itsy bitsy town full of wacky people with a wealthy "first family" dominating with its financial power. This could be classified as a romantic suspense with a touch of magic, however, there are no graphic sex scenes. I'm curious what the rest of this series will bring.
I received a free copy and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
I received a free copy and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
June 8, 2024
This gripping tale immediately draws you into Samantha Moon's predicament and the mystery surrounding it. Fog, spirits, and the remarkable mystic powers of many of the women in the obscure little town of Hillvale, CA, cement you to your seat and keep you turning pages. As the mystery is slowly brought into focus, characters are identified, situations become more dire, and the danger factor escalates. Don't miss this exciting narrative and meet the eccentric population that brings the story to life. Good Read!!!!!
June 13, 2019
Good read
I enjoyed this book. It held mystery and intrigue; but most of all it showed that a book can discuss a sexual encounter between a male and female without it becoming a description of how many times the orgasms occurred. The characters were well defined and contained intricacies that made the book enjoyable.
I enjoyed this book. It held mystery and intrigue; but most of all it showed that a book can discuss a sexual encounter between a male and female without it becoming a description of how many times the orgasms occurred. The characters were well defined and contained intricacies that made the book enjoyable.
August 8, 2019
Read this on Google books, and quite enjoyed it enough to read the next one. A terrific beginning, a woman with amnesia driving through a fog. She arrives in Hillvale, a mysterious town with a supernatural vibe, Rice sets up the whole series with interesting characters at every turn. Biracial Walker, (a plot point) a deputy there for his own investigation , meets our heroine and the fun begins.
January 2, 2020
Paranormal mystery/ love story
Paranormal mixes with murder mystery and love story. Entertaining escape novel. Girl forgets who she is, finds she has powers and was raised with plenty of secrets. Girl finds answers to her questions and love with gunky law officer who has some secrets of his own
Paranormal mixes with murder mystery and love story. Entertaining escape novel. Girl forgets who she is, finds she has powers and was raised with plenty of secrets. Girl finds answers to her questions and love with gunky law officer who has some secrets of his own
May 10, 2021
A Must Read!
This was another amazing book by Patricia rice. I love Samanthas sweet yet sassy personality and her open mind about what is going on with her and Walkers gruff yet tender way with her will have you hooked, not to mention all the other lovable characters from Hillvale. If you’ve read her magic Malcolm series you will love the little mentions of Lucinda and her art 😉
This was another amazing book by Patricia rice. I love Samanthas sweet yet sassy personality and her open mind about what is going on with her and Walkers gruff yet tender way with her will have you hooked, not to mention all the other lovable characters from Hillvale. If you’ve read her magic Malcolm series you will love the little mentions of Lucinda and her art 😉
July 3, 2025
This was to long for my liking it was hard to keep reading. I had to put it down for a while so I could continue it just kind of dragged on. When I finally pushed myself to get to the end it really didn't help me like it any better. The characters were interesting and the basic story was a good idea.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews