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Spellbinder Bay #1
Witch Way To Spellbinder Bay
Would you drop everything and move to a town with a peculiar name, because an odd little man made you a strange offer?
Millie Thorn did, and she could never have guessed what mysteries and revelations were awaiting her in the magical town of Spellbinder Bay.
After witnessing a murder on her first day in the bay, Millie is cast into a world she never knew existed – a world of magic and the paranormal, and a world where it’s seemingly normal to have a conversation with a cockatiel named Reuben.
Learning she is a witch becomes relatively simple to accept after discovering what other paranormal creatures populate the town, and with ever more mysterious clues about her life coming to light, it’s not just a murder she must solve. She must discover who she is, and why she feels like she’s been to the town before. Is it just déjà vu? Millie isn’t so sure.
With talk of another dimension known as The Chaos, and with an unlikely board of directors running the local school – there’s a lot for Millie to learn, and should she decide to stay in town – a lot for her to accept, too.
Did Millie make the correct decision when she moved to the bay? Only time will tell.
Witch Way To Spellbinder Bay is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay Cozy Paranormal Mystery Series.
Millie Thorn did, and she could never have guessed what mysteries and revelations were awaiting her in the magical town of Spellbinder Bay.
After witnessing a murder on her first day in the bay, Millie is cast into a world she never knew existed – a world of magic and the paranormal, and a world where it’s seemingly normal to have a conversation with a cockatiel named Reuben.
Learning she is a witch becomes relatively simple to accept after discovering what other paranormal creatures populate the town, and with ever more mysterious clues about her life coming to light, it’s not just a murder she must solve. She must discover who she is, and why she feels like she’s been to the town before. Is it just déjà vu? Millie isn’t so sure.
With talk of another dimension known as The Chaos, and with an unlikely board of directors running the local school – there’s a lot for Millie to learn, and should she decide to stay in town – a lot for her to accept, too.
Did Millie make the correct decision when she moved to the bay? Only time will tell.
Witch Way To Spellbinder Bay is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay Cozy Paranormal Mystery Series.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2018
566 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Sam Short
20 books61 followersSam Short loves writing, narrowboats, and laughing. It's his dream to one day be able to leave land behind and live on the canals in a narrowboat of his own. The day he steps aboard his own narrowboat will be the day he laughs the loudest!
Sam discovered his joy for writing three years ago, and it's helped him overcome a lot of obstacles in his life - he intends to continue writing for the rest of his life.
When he's not at his desk, Sam loves metal detecting on a nearby beach and walking his unruly hound.
Sam discovered his joy for writing three years ago, and it's helped him overcome a lot of obstacles in his life - he intends to continue writing for the rest of his life.
When he's not at his desk, Sam loves metal detecting on a nearby beach and walking his unruly hound.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
January 8, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay is a Cozy Paranormal mystery and my very first cozy mystery read. I found it to be an easy and fun listen. The story was enjoyable and the mystery entertaining but most of the fun was traveling with Millie as she embarks on a new journey to a strangely named town with even more strange people in it.
The mystery portion of the book only seemed to take up a third of the story. Most of the tale revolves around our down and out girl, Millie. Her only family has moved half way around the world and she stayed behind for a man who turned out not to care for her as much as she cared for him. Then, she is conned out of most of her money by an internet scheme and now she is about to be kicked out of her soon to be condemned building. So, when a stranger shows up to offer her a place in his town and a ticket to get there what does she have to lose?
Millie is a reluctant new witch but as she gets used to the town, she becomes a little more comfortable with the idea. There is a lot of set up for the world in this since it is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay series but most of what Millie is and why she is there, is explained through various characters, including a speaking cockatoo.
I got a little frustrated with Millie from time to time in her reluctance to accept what she is seeing with her own eyes and she might have had a freak out or two when she learns about the paranormal community, but overall, she is likable and entertaining.
I enjoyed the overall feel of the book and the town where it takes place. You could tell there would be a lot of possibilities for stories with Witches, Vampires, Werewolves and Ghosts running around, just to name a few of the paranormal peeps roaming about. Since this is a cozy mystery, it is family friendly and there isn’t any gratuitous anything in it, so it's safe for readers/listeners of all ages.
I’d probably even swing back in and see what Millie is up to in her next adventure.
Narration:
Pearl Hewitt did a good job with the performance. I could always tell who was talking and I think she captured Millie’s voice well. I loved the English accent she chose for Millie as well. I was able to listen at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/user-149056452...
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay is a Cozy Paranormal mystery and my very first cozy mystery read. I found it to be an easy and fun listen. The story was enjoyable and the mystery entertaining but most of the fun was traveling with Millie as she embarks on a new journey to a strangely named town with even more strange people in it.
The mystery portion of the book only seemed to take up a third of the story. Most of the tale revolves around our down and out girl, Millie. Her only family has moved half way around the world and she stayed behind for a man who turned out not to care for her as much as she cared for him. Then, she is conned out of most of her money by an internet scheme and now she is about to be kicked out of her soon to be condemned building. So, when a stranger shows up to offer her a place in his town and a ticket to get there what does she have to lose?
Millie is a reluctant new witch but as she gets used to the town, she becomes a little more comfortable with the idea. There is a lot of set up for the world in this since it is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay series but most of what Millie is and why she is there, is explained through various characters, including a speaking cockatoo.
I got a little frustrated with Millie from time to time in her reluctance to accept what she is seeing with her own eyes and she might have had a freak out or two when she learns about the paranormal community, but overall, she is likable and entertaining.
I enjoyed the overall feel of the book and the town where it takes place. You could tell there would be a lot of possibilities for stories with Witches, Vampires, Werewolves and Ghosts running around, just to name a few of the paranormal peeps roaming about. Since this is a cozy mystery, it is family friendly and there isn’t any gratuitous anything in it, so it's safe for readers/listeners of all ages.
I’d probably even swing back in and see what Millie is up to in her next adventure.
Narration:
Pearl Hewitt did a good job with the performance. I could always tell who was talking and I think she captured Millie’s voice well. I loved the English accent she chose for Millie as well. I was able to listen at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/user-149056452...
May 4, 2018
I was given a a copy of this to review.
I enjoyed this very much. I do love a good cozy mystery. The bonus being that it was a paranormal too. I love vampires and werewolves. So this was great having all of it. I enjoyed the mystery. I didn't see who it was coming. With what we are told at the end I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book.
I enjoyed this very much. I do love a good cozy mystery. The bonus being that it was a paranormal too. I love vampires and werewolves. So this was great having all of it. I enjoyed the mystery. I didn't see who it was coming. With what we are told at the end I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book.
July 6, 2019
Millie Thorn was raised as a mundane and suddenly finds out she's a witch. Imagine her surprise when she moves to a town full of witches, vampires, ghosts and a werewolf. This is a fun romp with interesting and engaging characters that keep you reading to find out what Millie will encounter next. Definitely an author to watch.
April 13, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay series by Sam Short.
Basic premise: Millie Thorn’s life changes forever after she loses her job and is thrown out of her apartment in the city. So when a little strange man gives her a thousand dollars and a train ticket to Spellbinder Bay, she can’t say no since she has no where else to go. Upon arriving she meets quite a lot of unusual characters, one of which is her next door neighbor who lives in a lighthouse. After she leaves, she sees what looks like someone throwing the lighthouse keeper off the top of the lighthouse. And the craziness just continues from there.
This is sort of a coming of age story even though Millie is a little old for that. Her magical heritage was kept from her for her entire life. And now her presence is needed in town or the town’s magical gateway just might leach out into the real world permanently.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters like the vampire biker, her cockatiel familiar Reuben plus the non-magical Detective and his witch daughter. This is definitely a series I want to continue on with. I am so intrigued. I wish the Detective was closer to her age because a love triangle between her, the detective and the vampire would be right up my alley!
If you love a good paranormal, magical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
This is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay series by Sam Short.
Basic premise: Millie Thorn’s life changes forever after she loses her job and is thrown out of her apartment in the city. So when a little strange man gives her a thousand dollars and a train ticket to Spellbinder Bay, she can’t say no since she has no where else to go. Upon arriving she meets quite a lot of unusual characters, one of which is her next door neighbor who lives in a lighthouse. After she leaves, she sees what looks like someone throwing the lighthouse keeper off the top of the lighthouse. And the craziness just continues from there.
This is sort of a coming of age story even though Millie is a little old for that. Her magical heritage was kept from her for her entire life. And now her presence is needed in town or the town’s magical gateway just might leach out into the real world permanently.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters like the vampire biker, her cockatiel familiar Reuben plus the non-magical Detective and his witch daughter. This is definitely a series I want to continue on with. I am so intrigued. I wish the Detective was closer to her age because a love triangle between her, the detective and the vampire would be right up my alley!
If you love a good paranormal, magical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
May 7, 2019
Addicted! Love this series!
May 4, 2018
Imaging being at the lowest point of your life. You've been scammed out of all your money, your miserable building has just been condemned giving your hours to move out, no friends, and your only family is on the other side of the planet. Welcome to the life of Millie Thorn. Oh, wait, that was before someone comes to her house and says "oh, by the way, you're a witch, you have a legacy, and you need to come to Spellbinder Bay to accept it!"
So with nowhere else to go, Millie ends up in Spellbinder Bay. She isn't there for more than a couple of hours when she witnesses someone being murdered. So now she has to learn who she is, identify a murdered, and learn to accept her new reality.
I've never read this author before, but I'm definitely going to be on the lookout for more books. I especially like how there was a believable level of skepticism on Millie's part. I mean, if someone walked up to me today to tell me and show me what they told and showed Millie - I'd have reacted the same way. It was nice to have that anchor of realism in a paranormal story.
Initially, I received a copy free to review, but did purchase it as well. (I liked it that much!)
So with nowhere else to go, Millie ends up in Spellbinder Bay. She isn't there for more than a couple of hours when she witnesses someone being murdered. So now she has to learn who she is, identify a murdered, and learn to accept her new reality.
I've never read this author before, but I'm definitely going to be on the lookout for more books. I especially like how there was a believable level of skepticism on Millie's part. I mean, if someone walked up to me today to tell me and show me what they told and showed Millie - I'd have reacted the same way. It was nice to have that anchor of realism in a paranormal story.
Initially, I received a copy free to review, but did purchase it as well. (I liked it that much!)
July 7, 2018
Reviewed at Haunted Bookshelf
Millie had been conned out of her life savings, stuck in a London basement apartment that could make a cardboard box look glamorous, practically broke and soon to be homeless when the rent came due next week. You could call this the lowest day in Millie’s life… so far. The last thing she ever expected was a strange little man with a compelling manner and a story that makes no believable sense to show up at her door with an offer she shouldn’t refuse. Although she initially sent the odd little man, Henry, on his way out the formerly stuck front gate within hours she would be changing her mind, boarding a train to Spellbinder Bay with no clear idea of how she actually agreed to this. Oh, right, desperation. What Millie finds at the end of her journey will shake her to the core. There is no possible way that any of this can be true… then add in a murder right before her eyes. No, nothing could have prepared Millie for the truths she’s about to discover.
Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay was one of the most intriguing Paranormal Cozy Mysteries that I’ve read recently. Part of the draw of this story was Millie’s complete skepticism and disbelief of what she is told, shown or experiences. There is no way that any of this can possibly be true, and yet she’s experiencing it firsthand. The second part of the enjoyment of this story is simply that it’s a damn good mystery. I never had the slightest clue about the resolution or the ending. I was easily caught up in the events happening in Spellbinder Bay, and in Millie’s new life in this odd town where little is what she considers the norm. It’s also a story that I could easily get into a discussion about and accidentally give away spoilers. So, I’m going to let you discover Millie’s story on your own. I can say that this is a edge of your seat kind of mystery with several possibilities, but certainly not the one that is delivered. I enjoyed every moment in this world and I’m about to head over to Amazon to pick up Broomsticks and Bones, the next story in the series. If you love a good Paranormal Cozy Mystery then you’ll want to pick up Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay and discover an amazing, intriguing world that you won’t want to put down.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Millie had been conned out of her life savings, stuck in a London basement apartment that could make a cardboard box look glamorous, practically broke and soon to be homeless when the rent came due next week. You could call this the lowest day in Millie’s life… so far. The last thing she ever expected was a strange little man with a compelling manner and a story that makes no believable sense to show up at her door with an offer she shouldn’t refuse. Although she initially sent the odd little man, Henry, on his way out the formerly stuck front gate within hours she would be changing her mind, boarding a train to Spellbinder Bay with no clear idea of how she actually agreed to this. Oh, right, desperation. What Millie finds at the end of her journey will shake her to the core. There is no possible way that any of this can be true… then add in a murder right before her eyes. No, nothing could have prepared Millie for the truths she’s about to discover.
Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay was one of the most intriguing Paranormal Cozy Mysteries that I’ve read recently. Part of the draw of this story was Millie’s complete skepticism and disbelief of what she is told, shown or experiences. There is no way that any of this can possibly be true, and yet she’s experiencing it firsthand. The second part of the enjoyment of this story is simply that it’s a damn good mystery. I never had the slightest clue about the resolution or the ending. I was easily caught up in the events happening in Spellbinder Bay, and in Millie’s new life in this odd town where little is what she considers the norm. It’s also a story that I could easily get into a discussion about and accidentally give away spoilers. So, I’m going to let you discover Millie’s story on your own. I can say that this is a edge of your seat kind of mystery with several possibilities, but certainly not the one that is delivered. I enjoyed every moment in this world and I’m about to head over to Amazon to pick up Broomsticks and Bones, the next story in the series. If you love a good Paranormal Cozy Mystery then you’ll want to pick up Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay and discover an amazing, intriguing world that you won’t want to put down.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
March 17, 2019
I finished reading this a while ago so I might not remember that much anymore. I guess I was a bit curious on the combination of cozy crime and magic. However, it was not really a book for me, mostly because of the following reasons:
1. The “I’ll explain everything later” trope. I’m just not in the mood to follow the main character discover this new world with a billion of questions, only to always being told “I’ll explain everything later” or “In all due course”. You cant do that and expect the reader to really really want to know when there’s nothing indicating that it will be a good twist or reveal of information. The information was mostly just standard.
2. The main character did not feel in her 20s. it was all about being proper and polite and speaking like she was 40, which I first thought she was. It’s not very exiting discovering a new world through her eyes.
3. Can we please stop explaining horrible things humans have done by having them actually be monsters in human form? No. HUMANS created slavery, the holocaust, various ethnic cleansing, severe discrimination etc.etc.etc. Not monsters taking on human bodies. We can’t stop explaining away responsibility. It’s actually society(ies) that enabled all these people/parties/etc. to do these atrocities. I know it might seem minor but this trope starts to feel less of a trope and more of a fact people actually believe and therefore becomes dangerous with zero accountability from the society that enabled this to happen.
Otherwise it was a quite harmless read. Since it’s the only combination cozy mystery/magic I have read I cant tell if people who read that genre will enjoy the book or if people curious of the genre should pick this up first.
1. The “I’ll explain everything later” trope. I’m just not in the mood to follow the main character discover this new world with a billion of questions, only to always being told “I’ll explain everything later” or “In all due course”. You cant do that and expect the reader to really really want to know when there’s nothing indicating that it will be a good twist or reveal of information. The information was mostly just standard.
2. The main character did not feel in her 20s. it was all about being proper and polite and speaking like she was 40, which I first thought she was. It’s not very exiting discovering a new world through her eyes.
3. Can we please stop explaining horrible things humans have done by having them actually be monsters in human form? No. HUMANS created slavery, the holocaust, various ethnic cleansing, severe discrimination etc.etc.etc. Not monsters taking on human bodies. We can’t stop explaining away responsibility. It’s actually society(ies) that enabled all these people/parties/etc. to do these atrocities. I know it might seem minor but this trope starts to feel less of a trope and more of a fact people actually believe and therefore becomes dangerous with zero accountability from the society that enabled this to happen.
Otherwise it was a quite harmless read. Since it’s the only combination cozy mystery/magic I have read I cant tell if people who read that genre will enjoy the book or if people curious of the genre should pick this up first.
December 7, 2024
I enjoyed this book but couldn't help but think the mystery or should I say the murder investigation was almost an after thought. This is because the story focuses more on getting to know the residents of spellbinding bay and the mystery around where Millie's powers come from. Don't get me wrong it was fun and I did enjoy it. The mystery was good (when we focused on it) and I liked how the killer thought they had got away with the murder, very unusual but it worked with everything that was going on. The author even have you clues, having finished the book now makes perfect sense. I liked the characters, especially the unusual familiar who was a good choice for the series. I think the author is going to have fun with him. The paranormal touch is obviously going to play a big part in the series and it will be fun to see how it develops.
Things are going right for Millie, which explains why when a stranger turns up and gives her money and suggests that she visits a place she has never heard of, she jumps on the train . When she arrives, its to find she is now the proud owner a cottage and it's talking parrot. But that is not the only surprise she is for Spellbinder bay is no ordinary coastal town and Millie is no ordinary human. A fact that she will have to learn quickly when she witnesses a man being pushed off an empty lighthouse. Can Millie and her new friends find out what happened and more importantly is Millie going to stick around to find out more?
I liked the narrator, she helped to bring the characters and story to life.
Things are going right for Millie, which explains why when a stranger turns up and gives her money and suggests that she visits a place she has never heard of, she jumps on the train . When she arrives, its to find she is now the proud owner a cottage and it's talking parrot. But that is not the only surprise she is for Spellbinder bay is no ordinary coastal town and Millie is no ordinary human. A fact that she will have to learn quickly when she witnesses a man being pushed off an empty lighthouse. Can Millie and her new friends find out what happened and more importantly is Millie going to stick around to find out more?
I liked the narrator, she helped to bring the characters and story to life.
April 4, 2020
This audiobook was really confusing experience.
My book app suggested this to me and I started listening, because I liked the cover. Never heard of Sam Short or narrator Pearl Hewitt before, so didn't really know what to expect.
What a voice and style she has! Fell in love with Pearl Hewitt's reading immediately. Really enjoyable and easy to follow even for a non-native listener.
But her style made me think this is a children's book. Something like the first Harry Potter books. It also made me think that Millie is 14 or something like that. I understood the whole setting of this book totally wrong. Escorted by her voice I entered a very magical world like the one in The Hobbit or Narnia.
It was really baffling when I realized, that Millie is actually an adult and the world around her is our normal, modern world. I was never able to correct my mind about these things, so it lead to a very weird situation where I listened to a different book than Sam Short has ever written.
Nevertheless I had a very enjoyable experience. A five star experience actually. But I am not sure how much of it goes to Sam Short's actual writing. I did enjoy that too, but I also did so much
rewriting in my head that they are all tangled in my mind as a one pleasant adventure.
My book app suggested this to me and I started listening, because I liked the cover. Never heard of Sam Short or narrator Pearl Hewitt before, so didn't really know what to expect.
What a voice and style she has! Fell in love with Pearl Hewitt's reading immediately. Really enjoyable and easy to follow even for a non-native listener.
But her style made me think this is a children's book. Something like the first Harry Potter books. It also made me think that Millie is 14 or something like that. I understood the whole setting of this book totally wrong. Escorted by her voice I entered a very magical world like the one in The Hobbit or Narnia.
It was really baffling when I realized, that Millie is actually an adult and the world around her is our normal, modern world. I was never able to correct my mind about these things, so it lead to a very weird situation where I listened to a different book than Sam Short has ever written.
Nevertheless I had a very enjoyable experience. A five star experience actually. But I am not sure how much of it goes to Sam Short's actual writing. I did enjoy that too, but I also did so much
rewriting in my head that they are all tangled in my mind as a one pleasant adventure.
November 28, 2022
This was a good start to the series. I listened to it on audio, which I think enhanced the book for me because, well British accents! I love a good paranormal book and this one incorporated so many different paranormals. Millie is down on her luck having been swindled out of her savings and is about to be kicked out of the condemned apartment she shares only with a family of mice, when a strange little man knocks on her door and gives her the chance of a lifetime. Suprising herself, Millie agrees and finds herself in the small town of Spellbinder Bay. She is thrown in to a world of witches and vampires and is really struggling to wrap her brain around it, when she witnesses a murder.
All Millie wants is to hightail it out of Spellbinder Bay, but she just can't quite distance herself from it. Something seems a little too right, like she belongs there. She meets a colorful cast of characters along the way.
Overall I really enjoyed this. I have no idea how I would react being thrown in to the situation that Millie was thrown into, but I got a little annoyed at how she just kept saying she couldn't believe this was happening, and none of it was real. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
All Millie wants is to hightail it out of Spellbinder Bay, but she just can't quite distance herself from it. Something seems a little too right, like she belongs there. She meets a colorful cast of characters along the way.
Overall I really enjoyed this. I have no idea how I would react being thrown in to the situation that Millie was thrown into, but I got a little annoyed at how she just kept saying she couldn't believe this was happening, and none of it was real. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
April 29, 2018
I am glad that I have discovered Millie Thorn and Sam Short - I now have a new author that I enjoy. I discovered Sam by chance, having received an ARC and I am now posting my honest review.
Millie Thorn is at the lowest point in her life, rent arrears accruing, no job opportunities in the foreseeable future, no friends when a stranger turns up at her doorstep offering her an alternative, a stack of money and a train ticket to the sea side. Most young ladies would not consider it, but Millie decides to take a chance and boy, did she embark on a life changing something!
This story is brilliant, absolutely enchanting (!) and it is easy to see how you could not put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed it, well written, the storyline flows smoothly and keeps you interested. The characters are only short of lovable, even the grumpy ones and the author has created a backdrop that is totally spell binding. I think it is a lovely story and I cannot get enough of it. Looking forward to the next book.
Millie Thorn is at the lowest point in her life, rent arrears accruing, no job opportunities in the foreseeable future, no friends when a stranger turns up at her doorstep offering her an alternative, a stack of money and a train ticket to the sea side. Most young ladies would not consider it, but Millie decides to take a chance and boy, did she embark on a life changing something!
This story is brilliant, absolutely enchanting (!) and it is easy to see how you could not put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed it, well written, the storyline flows smoothly and keeps you interested. The characters are only short of lovable, even the grumpy ones and the author has created a backdrop that is totally spell binding. I think it is a lovely story and I cannot get enough of it. Looking forward to the next book.
May 5, 2018
This book made it into my top 5 of favourite books ever!
Things are pretty dire for Millie. Having just been conned, she has no money, no job and she lives in a damp and dingy apartment below street level. But she HAS a purpose in life; she just doesn’t know it yet. The visit from a strange man signals the beginning of a new life for Millie. An adventurous, magical life. She moves to Spellbinder Bay, finds out she’s a witch (she does have a bit of trouble accepting the paranormal, but hey, who wouldn’t) and on top of all that, witnesses a murder. She assists the police in solving the murder.
Oh, I just loved this witch cosy (yes, UK spelling; it is British). This was one of the best I’ve ever read! It made me dance in my seat with excitement, it was THAT good. Truly amazing fun. Lots of quirky characters. And very suspenseful. On-the-edge-of-my-seat-suspenseful! The ‘how’ and ‘why’ are both very well explained and I appreciate that immensely. At the end a twist I didn’t see coming. Recommend recommend recommend!!!
Things are pretty dire for Millie. Having just been conned, she has no money, no job and she lives in a damp and dingy apartment below street level. But she HAS a purpose in life; she just doesn’t know it yet. The visit from a strange man signals the beginning of a new life for Millie. An adventurous, magical life. She moves to Spellbinder Bay, finds out she’s a witch (she does have a bit of trouble accepting the paranormal, but hey, who wouldn’t) and on top of all that, witnesses a murder. She assists the police in solving the murder.
Oh, I just loved this witch cosy (yes, UK spelling; it is British). This was one of the best I’ve ever read! It made me dance in my seat with excitement, it was THAT good. Truly amazing fun. Lots of quirky characters. And very suspenseful. On-the-edge-of-my-seat-suspenseful! The ‘how’ and ‘why’ are both very well explained and I appreciate that immensely. At the end a twist I didn’t see coming. Recommend recommend recommend!!!
June 3, 2025
The story is too immature and childish for adults and even older teens.
The main female doesn't act like a 24-year-old; rather, she comes across like a child.
I DNF'd many a book that start like this one, where the main character doesn't know she is part of the paranormal community, and when it is exposed to her, it takes way too many chapters for her to come to terms with it. This long self-exploration becomes tedious, and the focus of the book is on the characters finding themselves rather than solving the mystery.
I skipped from chapter 2 to chapter 9 and she was still whiny and in the, "I can't believe any of this" stage. the woman has no boyfriend (he cheated), no best friend (person the bf cheated with), no home (adopted parents moved to another continent) and no job (was scammed out of life savings by a fake model agent), AND she said she wanted to go somewhere new and start fresh, yet when given this great chance, she is trying to run away. eye twitch. Make it make sense.
The main female doesn't act like a 24-year-old; rather, she comes across like a child.
I DNF'd many a book that start like this one, where the main character doesn't know she is part of the paranormal community, and when it is exposed to her, it takes way too many chapters for her to come to terms with it. This long self-exploration becomes tedious, and the focus of the book is on the characters finding themselves rather than solving the mystery.
I skipped from chapter 2 to chapter 9 and she was still whiny and in the, "I can't believe any of this" stage. the woman has no boyfriend (he cheated), no best friend (person the bf cheated with), no home (adopted parents moved to another continent) and no job (was scammed out of life savings by a fake model agent), AND she said she wanted to go somewhere new and start fresh, yet when given this great chance, she is trying to run away. eye twitch. Make it make sense.
April 20, 2022
3.5 stars
This first book in the series sets up the world of Spellbinder Bay and introduces us to Millie and the residents of the town. An enjoyable paranormal cozy mystery. A few readers tagged it as Romance, and I can see it happening in later books but is not the case with this one.
I really liked the world built by the author. There were a number of familiar elements (a Hellmouth, for example), but also some nuances that were new to me. I did get a little tired of Millie constantly saying that she wasn't going to stay in Spellbinder Bay. Where else would she go? Her adopted family is in Australia, she has no money and no where to live. But if she stays, she has a great cottage, lots of money, and people who seem to care about her. Duh?!? I understand it's just a plot device, but it ended up making her look at bit idiotic.
Oh, and the cover is adorable. The audiobooks are free on hoopla so I'll continue with the series as long as I enjoy it.
This first book in the series sets up the world of Spellbinder Bay and introduces us to Millie and the residents of the town. An enjoyable paranormal cozy mystery. A few readers tagged it as Romance, and I can see it happening in later books but is not the case with this one.
I really liked the world built by the author. There were a number of familiar elements (a Hellmouth, for example), but also some nuances that were new to me. I did get a little tired of Millie constantly saying that she wasn't going to stay in Spellbinder Bay. Where else would she go? Her adopted family is in Australia, she has no money and no where to live. But if she stays, she has a great cottage, lots of money, and people who seem to care about her. Duh?!? I understand it's just a plot device, but it ended up making her look at bit idiotic.
Oh, and the cover is adorable. The audiobooks are free on hoopla so I'll continue with the series as long as I enjoy it.
April 13, 2018
Third person perspective isn’t my thing, but the story was good enough to over come it.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
October 16, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this is not a cozy with some supernatural elements but rather a fantasy story with a few cozy elements.
It was a pleasant read. The narrator for the audiobook has a relaxing voice, which I like.
I enjoyed all the supernatural elements and world building. The murder definitely took a backseat to all that which was fine by me, except that the part where they are resolving it near the end really dragged on a got a little boring for me, particularly because solving the murder isn't really a climax. Come to think of it... it's like this book didn't HAVE a climax. It just sort of trailed off. There are more books in the series so that likely won't really matter in the long run but... kinda strange. It feels like one long "setting the stage" scenario.
Overall, though, an enjoyable enough read.
It was a pleasant read. The narrator for the audiobook has a relaxing voice, which I like.
I enjoyed all the supernatural elements and world building. The murder definitely took a backseat to all that which was fine by me, except that the part where they are resolving it near the end really dragged on a got a little boring for me, particularly because solving the murder isn't really a climax. Come to think of it... it's like this book didn't HAVE a climax. It just sort of trailed off. There are more books in the series so that likely won't really matter in the long run but... kinda strange. It feels like one long "setting the stage" scenario.
Overall, though, an enjoyable enough read.
October 5, 2022
I went into this book thinking it was a cozy mystery but it seems to be a paranormal story with a bit of a mystery. Enjoyed Pearl Hewitt's narration but this might just be too paranormal-y for me. I've never been into vampires and werewolves etc. though the world building was well done. I did get frustrated over the number of times Millie was told to wait for an explanation when she is thrust into this bizarre community. Everyone tells her that now is. not the time, or it's not up to them to explain or any other number of excuses which not only kept Millie in the dark for way too long but readers as well. The mystery itself started out promising but there really wasn't any way for an armchair sleuth to put the pieces together along with Millie. She pretty much plucked the 'aha' moment out of thin air and we were done and I was left with...wait..what? Who? Gah!
July 15, 2018
This is a paranormal mystery that I wasn't sure about liking as I read the first beginning part. Soon, however, the book morphed into a delightful read and an intriguing...'how is this going to turn out?' type of book.
A young woman down on her luck has an encounter with a very mysterious man. The miracle in this is the young woman's acceptance of the man after she had been conned. However, this mystery in itself is answered in the novel.
All I know is that I want a 'Windy Dune' cottage, I want a friend like Reuben, and I want a lighthouse. If you want to know what I'm chattering on about...read this novel. It's a solid murder mystery, but, has a very unique ending. It's not what you think at all.
A magical book for a magical reader that dares to dream outside the box. Enjoy!
A young woman down on her luck has an encounter with a very mysterious man. The miracle in this is the young woman's acceptance of the man after she had been conned. However, this mystery in itself is answered in the novel.
All I know is that I want a 'Windy Dune' cottage, I want a friend like Reuben, and I want a lighthouse. If you want to know what I'm chattering on about...read this novel. It's a solid murder mystery, but, has a very unique ending. It's not what you think at all.
A magical book for a magical reader that dares to dream outside the box. Enjoy!
March 18, 2019
A story party good and nice and party fanciful always interesting.
One of the most annoying things for me was not using a capital "S" for the name Spellbinder Bay. Being the name of the town it was often small s and the capital S all within few sentences. Just being pedantic I suppose. Spelling was
sometimes wrong "there" for "Their" just my old fashioned pedanticness!
The story was certainly full of interesting paranormal characters and Millie finds herself beginning to learn that she too is a very important witch.
Her learning and special powers are coming into her life and I look forward to the next book to see what happens next.
A quite different magical book - definitely enjoyable - try it - I don't think you will be sorry
One of the most annoying things for me was not using a capital "S" for the name Spellbinder Bay. Being the name of the town it was often small s and the capital S all within few sentences. Just being pedantic I suppose. Spelling was
sometimes wrong "there" for "Their" just my old fashioned pedanticness!
The story was certainly full of interesting paranormal characters and Millie finds herself beginning to learn that she too is a very important witch.
Her learning and special powers are coming into her life and I look forward to the next book to see what happens next.
A quite different magical book - definitely enjoyable - try it - I don't think you will be sorry
May 10, 2023
I don’t usually review cozy mystery paranormal series books, because I read SO many of them and because there’s not usually too much to say so I let the rating speak for itself. But, this one really impressed me.
I always listen to these as auidobooks rather than read them and most of the time it’s kind of just background noise while I do simple chores or tasks. I found myself pausing this book when I was doing tasks that required more mental power and thinking about the book when I wasn’t listening to it.
It’s just a very refreshing take on “girl finds out paranormals exists and she is one of them”. I thoroughly enjoyed Millie as a character and the story didn’t feel like it forced any of the tropes we usually get from these kinds of books. I’m excited to continue reading this series!
I always listen to these as auidobooks rather than read them and most of the time it’s kind of just background noise while I do simple chores or tasks. I found myself pausing this book when I was doing tasks that required more mental power and thinking about the book when I wasn’t listening to it.
It’s just a very refreshing take on “girl finds out paranormals exists and she is one of them”. I thoroughly enjoyed Millie as a character and the story didn’t feel like it forced any of the tropes we usually get from these kinds of books. I’m excited to continue reading this series!
March 3, 2019
This is the first book in the Spellbinder Bay series.
Millie Thorn is at the lowest point in her life, and that is when a unique man enters her life an promises her something better. So Millie packs her meager belongings and takes off for Spellbinder Bay. Her she learns that she is a witch and witnesses a murder, its enough to send most people over the edge, but Millie is strong, and she slowly learns to adjust to the idea that she is a witch while she helps thee local police detective investigate the murder.
This was a well written, cute story and a great introduction to a new series.
Millie Thorn is at the lowest point in her life, and that is when a unique man enters her life an promises her something better. So Millie packs her meager belongings and takes off for Spellbinder Bay. Her she learns that she is a witch and witnesses a murder, its enough to send most people over the edge, but Millie is strong, and she slowly learns to adjust to the idea that she is a witch while she helps thee local police detective investigate the murder.
This was a well written, cute story and a great introduction to a new series.
October 13, 2019
When Millie Thorn is very much out of luck, a strange little man offers her a train ticket. Millie surprises herself by accepting - and finds herself in a town full of supernatural beings, finds out she’s a witch and gets offered an impressive inheritance. Still trying to cope with all that, Millie sees her neighbour being pushed to his death and gets to helping solve his murder.
The characters in this story are engaging (loved Reuben!), there’s humour and enough twists and turns to keep me guessing up to the end. I will certainly check out the following book in this series.
This book is for cozy mystery readers with a love of humour and the supernatural.
The characters in this story are engaging (loved Reuben!), there’s humour and enough twists and turns to keep me guessing up to the end. I will certainly check out the following book in this series.
This book is for cozy mystery readers with a love of humour and the supernatural.
April 1, 2020
Witch Way to Spellbinder Bay
Millie Thorn is having a bad day. After being conned out of her savings by a woman who promised her a modeling career if she moved to London. Now, she is living in a rat and roach motel with o idea how she will even manage the rent on this scuzzy apartment. She is surprised to find an eccentric gentleman at her door who tells her she is a witch.
Millie decides to move to Spellbinder Bay as she was asked to do. There she meets other paranormal and witnesses a murder that she helps solve.
I liked this story however there were a lot of grammatical errors and missing words that pulled me out of the story.
Millie Thorn is having a bad day. After being conned out of her savings by a woman who promised her a modeling career if she moved to London. Now, she is living in a rat and roach motel with o idea how she will even manage the rent on this scuzzy apartment. She is surprised to find an eccentric gentleman at her door who tells her she is a witch.
Millie decides to move to Spellbinder Bay as she was asked to do. There she meets other paranormal and witnesses a murder that she helps solve.
I liked this story however there were a lot of grammatical errors and missing words that pulled me out of the story.
April 28, 2018
Wonder how you would feel learning you were a witch and did not know it your entire life? Well, Millie found out and she was not happy. However, after spending time in Spellbinder Bay Millie finally understands what she is and the circumstances that kept that knowledge from her. This book was very entertaining and a good reading experience. I could not put the book down and kept turning the pages until I came to the end of the book. I will definitely look for more books by Sam Short. Recommend this book to all mystery lovers. A fun book to read, try it.
May 5, 2018
This coming of age story by Sam Short wasn't your ordinary tale, no, this involved a young woman coming to surprising terms with being a witch and then learning where, when and how to use and control those powers. I enjoyed the fun mix of characters thrown into the small "paranormal" town in which the story was primarily set, ranging from ghosts, to vampires, to werewolves, to demons, and, of course, witches. It is also a story about finding that place in your heart that you truly call home. This is a voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems Books.
July 2, 2018
New Witch
I loved this book. Millie is at a real low point in her life when she is given an offer too good to refuse. Having nowhere else to go, she goes to Spellbinder Bay, where she is informed that she is a witch. Not only that, but there are other supernatural creatures living there also. On her first day there she witnesses a murder and finds that she owns a cottage and is rich. In a lot of ways it is too much for her and she is tempted to run away. There turn out to be many reasons that she should stay. It is a decision that dhe must make by herself.
I loved this book. Millie is at a real low point in her life when she is given an offer too good to refuse. Having nowhere else to go, she goes to Spellbinder Bay, where she is informed that she is a witch. Not only that, but there are other supernatural creatures living there also. On her first day there she witnesses a murder and finds that she owns a cottage and is rich. In a lot of ways it is too much for her and she is tempted to run away. There turn out to be many reasons that she should stay. It is a decision that dhe must make by herself.
January 18, 2019
This was a fun one! Definite adult Harry Potter vibe. The focus was more on the mystery of Millie’s history than it was on the murder, though. If you’re looking for a story centered around a sleuthing main character and a plot full of twists and turns, you may be a bit disappointed. (I didn’t guess the killer, and I usually have an inkling at least!)
The paranormal aspects were quite intriguing for me, though, so I found it to be a very entertaining read. The narrator for the audiobook is also great!
Recommended for fans of witches and lighthearted mysteries.
The paranormal aspects were quite intriguing for me, though, so I found it to be a very entertaining read. The narrator for the audiobook is also great!
Recommended for fans of witches and lighthearted mysteries.
April 24, 2018
New witch?
In this first of this series, Millie is having a tough day. She never imagines that someone would end up on her doorstep to help her out. Then Henry shows up and things happen to make her decide to move to Spellbinder Bay. Millie gets there and gets involved with a murder and figures out she is a witch.
As you read along you start to learn more about Millie as well as the town and its people.
Enjoy.
In this first of this series, Millie is having a tough day. She never imagines that someone would end up on her doorstep to help her out. Then Henry shows up and things happen to make her decide to move to Spellbinder Bay. Millie gets there and gets involved with a murder and figures out she is a witch.
As you read along you start to learn more about Millie as well as the town and its people.
Enjoy.
May 24, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems to honestly review.
If you are looking for a light hearted fantasy/mystery novel look no further. Normally, I go for a deeper story but this was a breath of fresh air. It has just enough suspense to keep the interest. The character’s life was messed up enough that you get invested and hope for a happy ended. I would recommend this book to a friend looking for something fun.
If you are looking for a light hearted fantasy/mystery novel look no further. Normally, I go for a deeper story but this was a breath of fresh air. It has just enough suspense to keep the interest. The character’s life was messed up enough that you get invested and hope for a happy ended. I would recommend this book to a friend looking for something fun.
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