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China Bayles #2
Witches' Bane
Herb shop owner China Bayles is shocked when Halloween hijinks take a gruesome turn...
In a small Texas town, what starts as a little festive Halloween fun ends in a brutal murder. And lawyer-turned-herbalist China Bayles is even more shocked when her friend Ruby, a New Age expert in tarot and astrology, becomes the prime suspect after a minister accuses her of witchcraft. Now it’s up to China to unmask the real killer...
In a small Texas town, what starts as a little festive Halloween fun ends in a brutal murder. And lawyer-turned-herbalist China Bayles is even more shocked when her friend Ruby, a New Age expert in tarot and astrology, becomes the prime suspect after a minister accuses her of witchcraft. Now it’s up to China to unmask the real killer...
255 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1993
21 people are currently reading
1194 people want to read
About the author
Susan Wittig Albert
120 books2,376 followersSusan is the author/co-author of biographical/historical fiction, mysteries, and nonfiction. Now in her 80s and continuing to write, she says that retirement is not (yet) an option. She publishes under her own imprint. Here are her latest books.
A PLAIN VANILLA MURDER, #27 in the long-running China Bayles/Pecan Springs series.
Two Pecan Springs novella trilogies: The Crystal Cave Trilogy (featuring Ruby Wilcox): noBODY, SomeBODY Else, and Out of BODY; and The Enterprise Trilogy (featuring Jessica Nelson): DEADLINES, FAULTLINES, and FIRELINES.
THE DARLING DAHLIAS AND THE POINSETTIA PUZZLE #8 in the Darling Dahlias series, set in the early 1930s in fictional Darling AL
THE GENERAL'S WOMEN. Kay, Mamie, and Ike--the wartime romance that won a war but could have derailed a presidency.
LOVING ELEANOR: A novel about the intimate 30-year friendship of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok, based on their letters
A WILDER ROSE: the true story of Rose Wilder Lane, who transformed her mother from a farm wife and occasional writer to a literary icon
THE TALE OF CASTLE COTTAGE, #8 in the Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter
DEATH ON THE LIZARD, the 12th and last (2006) of the Robin Paige series, by Susan and Bill Albert
TOGETHER, ALONE: A MEMOIR OF MARRIAGE AND PLACE
AN EXTRAORDINARY YEAR OF ORDINARY DAYS
WORK OF HER OWN: A WOMAN'S GUIDE TO RIGHT LIVELIHOOD
WRITING FROM LIFE: TELLING YOUR SOUL'S STORY
A PLAIN VANILLA MURDER, #27 in the long-running China Bayles/Pecan Springs series.
Two Pecan Springs novella trilogies: The Crystal Cave Trilogy (featuring Ruby Wilcox): noBODY, SomeBODY Else, and Out of BODY; and The Enterprise Trilogy (featuring Jessica Nelson): DEADLINES, FAULTLINES, and FIRELINES.
THE DARLING DAHLIAS AND THE POINSETTIA PUZZLE #8 in the Darling Dahlias series, set in the early 1930s in fictional Darling AL
THE GENERAL'S WOMEN. Kay, Mamie, and Ike--the wartime romance that won a war but could have derailed a presidency.
LOVING ELEANOR: A novel about the intimate 30-year friendship of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok, based on their letters
A WILDER ROSE: the true story of Rose Wilder Lane, who transformed her mother from a farm wife and occasional writer to a literary icon
THE TALE OF CASTLE COTTAGE, #8 in the Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter
DEATH ON THE LIZARD, the 12th and last (2006) of the Robin Paige series, by Susan and Bill Albert
TOGETHER, ALONE: A MEMOIR OF MARRIAGE AND PLACE
AN EXTRAORDINARY YEAR OF ORDINARY DAYS
WORK OF HER OWN: A WOMAN'S GUIDE TO RIGHT LIVELIHOOD
WRITING FROM LIFE: TELLING YOUR SOUL'S STORY
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
February 12, 2024
I’m really enjoying this and another cozy mystery series by this author. I do enjoy the characters and their growth more than the mystery and its solution but that’s pretty common for me.
I believe the same narrator reads this entire series for the audiobook version, and the series is a long one. She does a great job. I’m also learning a lot about herbs in the process, which is fun.
Have already borrowed the next book in the series 😀
I believe the same narrator reads this entire series for the audiobook version, and the series is a long one. She does a great job. I’m also learning a lot about herbs in the process, which is fun.
Have already borrowed the next book in the series 😀
May 9, 2015
Witches Bane by Susan Wittig Albert is a 1994 Berkley publication.
I try to attend my “Friends of the Library” annual sale each year to raise money for my local library. And each year I lag home sacks full of books not only for a good cause but to give them a good home.
So, when I signed up to review some new releases from this author, I seemed to remember bringing home a few older books I picked up at the library sale from this series, and sure enough I have a handful of these “China Bayles” books on my shelf. So, I thought it would be fun to go back and read some of the first installments before tackling the newer ones so I would have an idea of how the series has progressed over time.
Set in the East Texas Hill Country, China has settled into Pecan Springs after walking away from her high pressure career as an attorney and opened up an herbal shop and began living a slower paced lifestyle. But, as they say, murder happens everywhere, and so when China's friend Ruby comes under scrutiny by a local minister for her dabbling in tarot cards, and poisonous herbs, she is first person people suspect when a murder occurs. So, China and her boyfriend McQuaid begin looking at the case more closely.
Although written in the early nineties, the story holds up well with age, although there are references here and there to things we no longer say or do or think the same way about these days. Otherwise the mystery stands the test of time admirably. China is a savvy lady, ahead of her time, with a stubborn streak, a wounded soul afraid of taking changes with love or what will perhaps be a whole new family, after her estranged mother announces she is engaged to be married. But, China's family is fairly tame compared to some residents in Pecan Springs...
The Halloween setting sets the stage for a twisted murder mystery, with a lot of underlying messages that spotlight family dynamics and the pecking order of siblings and the long lasting impact our parents have on us, well into adulthood. These older books in the series are different, an if you go back and read some of them now you will see a very different tone than what the newer releases have. But, this simply implies that the series has not become stagnant, it has moved forward and it's characters with it. Over all this one was a satisfying read and a fun bit of nostalgia.
3.5 stars
I try to attend my “Friends of the Library” annual sale each year to raise money for my local library. And each year I lag home sacks full of books not only for a good cause but to give them a good home.
So, when I signed up to review some new releases from this author, I seemed to remember bringing home a few older books I picked up at the library sale from this series, and sure enough I have a handful of these “China Bayles” books on my shelf. So, I thought it would be fun to go back and read some of the first installments before tackling the newer ones so I would have an idea of how the series has progressed over time.
Set in the East Texas Hill Country, China has settled into Pecan Springs after walking away from her high pressure career as an attorney and opened up an herbal shop and began living a slower paced lifestyle. But, as they say, murder happens everywhere, and so when China's friend Ruby comes under scrutiny by a local minister for her dabbling in tarot cards, and poisonous herbs, she is first person people suspect when a murder occurs. So, China and her boyfriend McQuaid begin looking at the case more closely.
Although written in the early nineties, the story holds up well with age, although there are references here and there to things we no longer say or do or think the same way about these days. Otherwise the mystery stands the test of time admirably. China is a savvy lady, ahead of her time, with a stubborn streak, a wounded soul afraid of taking changes with love or what will perhaps be a whole new family, after her estranged mother announces she is engaged to be married. But, China's family is fairly tame compared to some residents in Pecan Springs...
The Halloween setting sets the stage for a twisted murder mystery, with a lot of underlying messages that spotlight family dynamics and the pecking order of siblings and the long lasting impact our parents have on us, well into adulthood. These older books in the series are different, an if you go back and read some of them now you will see a very different tone than what the newer releases have. But, this simply implies that the series has not become stagnant, it has moved forward and it's characters with it. Over all this one was a satisfying read and a fun bit of nostalgia.
3.5 stars
August 15, 2025
Probably more like 2 1/2 stars. I rounded up because I liked the fact that the author had the protagonist on the wrong track. It made for a more interesting story in solving the murder.
September 14, 2015
Since I liked Thyme of Death 4* worth, I was looking forward to book 2. I wanted to like this, but too often I had to make myself pick up the book and continue reading - not a good sign. I persevered, but I have to say, . Things did pull together enough to make it 2.5* but definitely didn't approach 3* - too bad!
March 1, 2020
This second book was not nearly as enjoyable as the first. The plot was mainly China investigating the murder. In the first book I enjoyed hearing about her town and the people in it more than the criminal investigation. I really missed that in this book. I also was expecting a lot of atmosphere around the autumn season, but we hardly got any of that. I still enjoy the complex characters, and will be trying the third book.
August 23, 2022
I’m enjoying this series - Darling Dahlias with a bit of sex and a much, much better plot line. I knew who the murderer was early on, but I like to see how he get trapped in lies and loose lips and then gets caught!!
Almost all the characters in this series have a counterpart in Dahlias - from China to Khat. There are a lot more China books, so I’ll keep reading them.
Almost all the characters in this series have a counterpart in Dahlias - from China to Khat. There are a lot more China books, so I’ll keep reading them.
June 18, 2019
I didn't really like China Bayles very much (or her bff Ruby, for that matter).
I usually like to begin with Book #1 of any series, but couldn't get my hands on Thyme of Death at my library. I don't think it really it matters, in this case. I don't know if I will continue with this series.
I usually like to begin with Book #1 of any series, but couldn't get my hands on Thyme of Death at my library. I don't think it really it matters, in this case. I don't know if I will continue with this series.
October 28, 2010
Another good cozy mystery - can't wait to read more in the series.
March 2, 2022
China Baynes and her best friend Ruby own shops next to each other, an herb shop and a new age store, respectively. Halloween is fast approaching, and Ruby is planning on teaching a class in Tarot. Strange, creepy happenings soon have the community of Pecan Springs upset, so a mud-slinging preacher acts to rid the town of witches, beginning with China and Ruby. Matters grow increasingly complicated as one of Ruby's students is murdered by what appears to be black magic.
The local cop is impressively adept, and he soon has a suspect, based on apparently iron-clad evidence. China's background as a lawyer comes into play as she considers the possibility that the suspect might be innocent. Her friendship with Ruby and her curiosity drive her to investigate, against her boyfriend's advice. He is an ex-cop who teaches at the university and highly regards the local police force.
China won't be dissuaded, and her life is soon in danger.
The author lets us know we are in Texas, along with its Tex-Mex cuisine, its twang, its way of dressing. She greatly details every house and room where the story wends, every plant included. I don't think anyone is mentioned without including their first and last name and their occupation. So, when Albert tosses the first of the names at the reader, I listed 15. She doesn't stop there but continues to add name after name. After the first 15, though, I relied on memory to keep track while referring to my list for the first names as they came up--and they do. This gives the reader the impression that the town is small enough for China to know everyone. Still, a town of 30,000 doesn't seem all that small to me. So, I would have appreciated less name calling.
Nevertheless, the irritation of too many names did not interfere with my enjoyment of this mystery. With surprises and semi-surprises, it's a fun read.
The local cop is impressively adept, and he soon has a suspect, based on apparently iron-clad evidence. China's background as a lawyer comes into play as she considers the possibility that the suspect might be innocent. Her friendship with Ruby and her curiosity drive her to investigate, against her boyfriend's advice. He is an ex-cop who teaches at the university and highly regards the local police force.
China won't be dissuaded, and her life is soon in danger.
The author lets us know we are in Texas, along with its Tex-Mex cuisine, its twang, its way of dressing. She greatly details every house and room where the story wends, every plant included. I don't think anyone is mentioned without including their first and last name and their occupation. So, when Albert tosses the first of the names at the reader, I listed 15. She doesn't stop there but continues to add name after name. After the first 15, though, I relied on memory to keep track while referring to my list for the first names as they came up--and they do. This gives the reader the impression that the town is small enough for China to know everyone. Still, a town of 30,000 doesn't seem all that small to me. So, I would have appreciated less name calling.
Nevertheless, the irritation of too many names did not interfere with my enjoyment of this mystery. With surprises and semi-surprises, it's a fun read.
October 4, 2018
Review: Halloween is on it's way into the small town of Pecan Springs where the MC where China and her next door business owner Ruby are preparing for the season. But China with her herbal shop and Ruby with her tarot class are being picketed by a reverend and his flock from a nearby church.
Between that and the animal sacrifices that keep popping up all over town, the townspeople are very nervous. When one of the townspeople looks like a human sacrifice and Ruby's newest interest gets arrested, China must step in a help out.
I found this book better than the first one but I but the plot was a bit too obvious for me to thoroughly enjoy the ending.
It was sufficiently well written though for me to want to read on in the series.
Between that and the animal sacrifices that keep popping up all over town, the townspeople are very nervous. When one of the townspeople looks like a human sacrifice and Ruby's newest interest gets arrested, China must step in a help out.
I found this book better than the first one but I but the plot was a bit too obvious for me to thoroughly enjoy the ending.
It was sufficiently well written though for me to want to read on in the series.
August 11, 2020
The first few chapters were boring and sleep-inducing. Not really interested in witches, folklore and voodoo which the beginning of the book contained. However, when all that foolishness was left behind, the mystery got interesting, so the book ended up with 3 stars.
I do like the setting in Texas and have visited many of the places mentioned in the book so it felt like home.
I got irritated with the main character, China, who did many dishonest things in her investigation. For instance, she pretended to be from the sheriff's department in order to get information. Isn't that a crime?
I do like the setting in Texas and have visited many of the places mentioned in the book so it felt like home.
I got irritated with the main character, China, who did many dishonest things in her investigation. For instance, she pretended to be from the sheriff's department in order to get information. Isn't that a crime?
February 6, 2021
I'm enjoying the small town feel of these stories - just small enough most people know of each other, just big enough there's outsiders (and you can bet somebody knows somebody who knows something about the person). The herb knowledge is good, so are the cooking tips. The mystery well, I did figure out who probably did it early on. This series so far has been a good escape from both winter weather and the pandemic.
September 26, 2024
Your typical witchy homicide in a small town. Personally, I prefered the herb minutiae and spooky details, perfectly timed for kicking off fall
October 5, 2018
This book started off strong. But, the conclusion was weak. Specifically, I found it hard to believe that China Bayles , the main character who is an ex-lawyer, did not have a clue who the killer was. Clues were dropped everywhere. However, there is something that could account for the story ending as it did. Let me explain.
In the two books that comprise the series so far much has been written about how China cannot stand her mother who she sees as being cold and distant because of her mother being an alcoholic. China feels betrayed of her mother's love as her mother retreated into a bottle as a result of being shut out by her husband. In this book, China's mother comes to visit. She is sober and has stopped smoking. She has come to mend fences with China. China shuts her mother out, just like her father shut out his wife. Her mother points out that China is following the same path her father did by keeping people at a distance. She likes McQuaid but, like her mother points out, she doesn't even call him by his first name. This is a way that she keeps McQuaid at a distance.
At the end of the book when the killer is explaining why the two women were killed, the reason has to do with familial favoritism. In order to understand (figure out) why the killer acted in this way with this motivation, it requires an investment in commiseration for the psychological damage done by favoritism being shown for a sibling. China cannot do this because she has, just as her mother pointed out, kept the people around her at a distance. If she cannot feel and come to some understanding why her life is the way it is, she certainly cannot project those feelings and understandings onto other people. I hope that the issues with her mother are explored further in future books in the series.
Witches' Bane was not a bad novel. However, it was not as satisfying as it could have been.
In the two books that comprise the series so far much has been written about how China cannot stand her mother who she sees as being cold and distant because of her mother being an alcoholic. China feels betrayed of her mother's love as her mother retreated into a bottle as a result of being shut out by her husband. In this book, China's mother comes to visit. She is sober and has stopped smoking. She has come to mend fences with China. China shuts her mother out, just like her father shut out his wife. Her mother points out that China is following the same path her father did by keeping people at a distance. She likes McQuaid but, like her mother points out, she doesn't even call him by his first name. This is a way that she keeps McQuaid at a distance.
At the end of the book when the killer is explaining why the two women were killed, the reason has to do with familial favoritism. In order to understand (figure out) why the killer acted in this way with this motivation, it requires an investment in commiseration for the psychological damage done by favoritism being shown for a sibling. China cannot do this because she has, just as her mother pointed out, kept the people around her at a distance. If she cannot feel and come to some understanding why her life is the way it is, she certainly cannot project those feelings and understandings onto other people. I hope that the issues with her mother are explored further in future books in the series.
Witches' Bane was not a bad novel. However, it was not as satisfying as it could have been.
July 22, 2009
Getting back to China Bayle's beginnings a bit for me. I enjoyed the story as always but found this one has a different flavor than some of those further along -- not better or wrose, just interesting to note the developmental changes. I enjoyed the Leatha/China relationship in this one though I'd encountered the facts of it in a later volume, it was good to actually experience the "in-person" unfolding of the storyline. This is something I love about SWA's series -- there is overlap when need be but nothing is actually repetitive. Nearly every book can stand on its own very nicely but those who get hooked on the series are treated to an on-going "getting to know the characters" experience wiwthout being treated as though they cannot recall who is who from one book to another -- we are given more details, deeper layers. Perfect light reading which the past several days has been desperately necessary here -- thank you, SWA!
Got this one free with a purchase at Borders -- one of their odd coupon deals. This is an early China Bayles mysteries which I had not yet read. Of course, I've begun already. I can't NOT begin one of Susan Wittig Albert's books once I have it in hand. Such fun!
Got this one free with a purchase at Borders -- one of their odd coupon deals. This is an early China Bayles mysteries which I had not yet read. Of course, I've begun already. I can't NOT begin one of Susan Wittig Albert's books once I have it in hand. Such fun!
July 29, 2011
Strange things have been going on in the Texas town of Pecan Springs. A town resident has discovered dead chickens with piles of coins nearby. Another resident has discovered one of his goats killed, also with a pile of money nearby. To make matters even worse, China Bayles' friend Ruby Wilcox has started teaching a class on reading tarot cards. Then a Bible-thumping preacher arrives in Pecan Springs and starts accusing Ruby of devil worship. Are all these strange happening due to Ruby's witchcraft, or are they the work of Mexican santerias?
On Halloween night, one of the women in Ruby's tarot class holds an all-woman Halloween party. Then the hostess is discovered brutally murdered the next morning. The travelling minister suggests that Ruby is the prime suspect of the murder, so China goes to work to find the real killer.
"Witches' Bane" is the second book in the China Bayles series by Susan Wittig Albert. This is a fast-moving, interesting mystery, with great twists at the end. There are lots of facts included about growing herbs and other plants. China is such a smart, down-to-earth heroine and very likable. I highly recommend this book, both to fans of the China Bayles series as well as readers looking for a fun Halloween-themed mystery.
On Halloween night, one of the women in Ruby's tarot class holds an all-woman Halloween party. Then the hostess is discovered brutally murdered the next morning. The travelling minister suggests that Ruby is the prime suspect of the murder, so China goes to work to find the real killer.
"Witches' Bane" is the second book in the China Bayles series by Susan Wittig Albert. This is a fast-moving, interesting mystery, with great twists at the end. There are lots of facts included about growing herbs and other plants. China is such a smart, down-to-earth heroine and very likable. I highly recommend this book, both to fans of the China Bayles series as well as readers looking for a fun Halloween-themed mystery.
November 6, 2009
This is the second book in the China Bayles Mystery series.
This is an enjoyable series. Each book is themed to an herb and something in the plot has to do with the herb in some way.
This book has to do with a death being made to look like it was done by someone into witch craft or cults and one of the characters grows a poisonous plant garden with witche's bane in it. Overall, I enjoyed the plot with it's twist and turns. I honestly had no clue who actually did the murder. My only disappointments were not finding out what happened to the murder that started the book (not related to the actual murder mystery of the plot itself) and the fact that China & McQuaid's relationship went nowhere again. The fact that her mom made an appearance was interesting.
This is an enjoyable series. Each book is themed to an herb and something in the plot has to do with the herb in some way.
This book has to do with a death being made to look like it was done by someone into witch craft or cults and one of the characters grows a poisonous plant garden with witche's bane in it. Overall, I enjoyed the plot with it's twist and turns. I honestly had no clue who actually did the murder. My only disappointments were not finding out what happened to the murder that started the book (not related to the actual murder mystery of the plot itself) and the fact that China & McQuaid's relationship went nowhere again. The fact that her mom made an appearance was interesting.
June 14, 2016
Witches' Bane is my second foray into the spicy world of China Bayles, and in this installation the reader glimpses the dysfunctional Bayles family. Halloween enlivens the atmosphere with whisperings of witches, use of magic, and mysterious deaths. As usual, our heroine must risk life and limb in an effort to find truth and justice. Why do female detectives shun relationships and commitment? China Bayles closely parallels Deborah Knotts in the Margaret Maron mystery series in many aspects. Each author follows their own path in presenting a story. Susan Wittig Albert focuses on herbs, flowers, and women. The supporting men characters present a one sided individual, whereas the women grab center stage. Albert gives a fun read.
March 31, 2018
I was happy to have this book available to read when I just needed something light, but still a read I could count on to assure a smart mystery with characters that become old friends through the series.
However, I may try another series by Susan W Albert before I go on with the China Bayles series. They seemed a bit convuluted with red herrings.
I was told by the owner of our mysteries only book store, Aunt Agatha's, that the series by Robin Paige, which is a pseudonym of husband and wife writing team Susan Whitting Albert and Bill Albert, is a bit more "sophisticated". Regardless of their place in the cutting edge of the world of mystery writers, the Alberts have much experience and are very clever. I can count on a good quick read.
However, I may try another series by Susan W Albert before I go on with the China Bayles series. They seemed a bit convuluted with red herrings.
I was told by the owner of our mysteries only book store, Aunt Agatha's, that the series by Robin Paige, which is a pseudonym of husband and wife writing team Susan Whitting Albert and Bill Albert, is a bit more "sophisticated". Regardless of their place in the cutting edge of the world of mystery writers, the Alberts have much experience and are very clever. I can count on a good quick read.
February 26, 2008
(2nd China Bayles)
I like this series although it's not one of my favorites. This entry was interesting because of it's specific brand of early Nineties feminism. (There's lots of talk about goddess religion, therapy groups, rediscovering of self etc. etc.) The mystery itself was pretty well done although I called the culprit the minute they came on the scene. I like that the main character's issues were treated seriously and not just resolved through the lovin' of a good man. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
I like this series although it's not one of my favorites. This entry was interesting because of it's specific brand of early Nineties feminism. (There's lots of talk about goddess religion, therapy groups, rediscovering of self etc. etc.) The mystery itself was pretty well done although I called the culprit the minute they came on the scene. I like that the main character's issues were treated seriously and not just resolved through the lovin' of a good man. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 9, 2017
China is a lawyer turned herb store owner who investigates murders well while the idea really appeals to me the execution of it somehow falls a bit flat. This is both the second in the series & the second of China's adventures that I've read & I don't feel I "know" her any better. What should have been a really engaging story failed to engross as I would have liked. The plot's entertaining enough at the time but instantly forgettable afterwards
Will I read the third in the series? We'll see...
Will I read the third in the series? We'll see...
August 23, 2013
It was ok, I'm still going to try book 3. I figured it out right away. I do enjoy the sprinkling of facts about herbs. I'm hoping China gets her act together with her Mom. It's a good beach read kind of book.
May 27, 2016
I am really enjoying this series. I am getting to know the characters and I like when their lives are so well developed through the story.
January 1, 2024
China Baynes and her best friend Ruby own shops next to each other, an herb shop and a new age store, respectively. Halloween is fast approaching, and Ruby is planning on teaching a class in Tarot. Strange, creepy happenings soon have the community of Pecan Springs upset, so a mud-slinging preacher acts to rid the town of witches, beginning with China and Ruby. Matters grow increasingly complicated as one of Ruby's students is murdered by what appears to be black magic.
The local cop is impressively adept, and he soon has a suspect, based on apparently iron-clad evidence. China's background as a lawyer comes into play as she considers the possibility that the suspect might be innocent. Her friendship with Ruby and her curiosity drive her to investigate, against her boyfriend's advice. He is an ex-cop who teaches at the university and highly regards the local police force.
China won't be dissuaded, and her life is soon in danger.
The author lets us know we are in Texas, along with its Tex-Mex cuisine, its twang, its way of dressing. She greatly details every house and room where the story wends, every plant included. I don't think anyone is mentioned without including their first and last name and their occupation. So, when Albert tosses the first of the names at the reader, I listed 15. She doesn't stop there but continues to add name after name. After the first 15, though, I relied on memory to keep track while referring to my list for the first names as they came up--and they do. This gives the reader the impression that the town is small enough for China to know everyone. Still, a town of 30,000 doesn't seem all that small to me. So, I would have appreciated less name calling.
Nevertheless, the irritation of too many names did not interfere with my enjoyment of this mystery. With surprises and semi-surprises, it's a fun read.
The local cop is impressively adept, and he soon has a suspect, based on apparently iron-clad evidence. China's background as a lawyer comes into play as she considers the possibility that the suspect might be innocent. Her friendship with Ruby and her curiosity drive her to investigate, against her boyfriend's advice. He is an ex-cop who teaches at the university and highly regards the local police force.
China won't be dissuaded, and her life is soon in danger.
The author lets us know we are in Texas, along with its Tex-Mex cuisine, its twang, its way of dressing. She greatly details every house and room where the story wends, every plant included. I don't think anyone is mentioned without including their first and last name and their occupation. So, when Albert tosses the first of the names at the reader, I listed 15. She doesn't stop there but continues to add name after name. After the first 15, though, I relied on memory to keep track while referring to my list for the first names as they came up--and they do. This gives the reader the impression that the town is small enough for China to know everyone. Still, a town of 30,000 doesn't seem all that small to me. So, I would have appreciated less name calling.
Nevertheless, the irritation of too many names did not interfere with my enjoyment of this mystery. With surprises and semi-surprises, it's a fun read.
December 8, 2017
This is the second novel I've read by Wittig Albert. I was not impressed at all by the first, a novel in her Beatrix Potter mystery series. This one was make or break for me for this author, and I was much more invested in this story and the characters here. China is intelligent and engaging, not annoying, as many cozy mystery protagonists tend to be. Even though this is the second book in the China Bayles series, I was never lost on characters, location, or story. Albert does a nice job of encapsulating her novels so you don't need to read them in order to understand overarching relationships and stories. There's no recipes or tips to clog up the pages, which is also a welcome respite.
As to this particular story, the first 75 pages clipped along nicely, then stagnated until around page 200, where everything picked up quickly and raced to a satisfying finish. This seems to be a pattern in cozy mysteries- they establish the town, the characters, the niche (candy store, pastry shop, quilting shop, etc) then the murder occurs, then things slow down until one particular clue is discovered, and then the protagonist figures it out, and corners the murder- either getting them to confess, or for a fight- to the death or the protagonist's advantage. This one is no different. And while it was easy to figure out one of the murderers here, the other was more difficult to put a finger on. There were plenty of red herrings and I was honestly surprised by the second murder, and the other person responsible.
I'll definitely continue on with this series. You've got my attention, Albert.
As to this particular story, the first 75 pages clipped along nicely, then stagnated until around page 200, where everything picked up quickly and raced to a satisfying finish. This seems to be a pattern in cozy mysteries- they establish the town, the characters, the niche (candy store, pastry shop, quilting shop, etc) then the murder occurs, then things slow down until one particular clue is discovered, and then the protagonist figures it out, and corners the murder- either getting them to confess, or for a fight- to the death or the protagonist's advantage. This one is no different. And while it was easy to figure out one of the murderers here, the other was more difficult to put a finger on. There were plenty of red herrings and I was honestly surprised by the second murder, and the other person responsible.
I'll definitely continue on with this series. You've got my attention, Albert.
April 10, 2023
Having lived in Texas, visited the Hill Country, and writing a mystery series with a paranormal twist, I had high hopes for enjoying this book. It was, however, dated by several themes, including the preacher and his band of parishioners. I also figured out who the murderer was halfway through the book. The denouement was excruciatingly long and China was completely clueless in not figuring out so many red hot clues, they practically slapped her a good one. Why she would insist on calling her boyfriend by his last name seems to be a theme without reason for some TV series as well as books. Her complicated relationship with her mother was perpetuated by China's complete rudeness. If she didn't want her mother to visit, then she should have stopped her. Instead, she came across as childish and churlish while her mother, holding out not only an olive branch but managing China's store while she's off sleuthing, cooking meals and being completely open and understanding was made all the more heart-wrenching because China was acting like a complete brat. I found it hard to envision her as an attorney from the very beginning of the book to the ending. There were many redeeming and often funny moments in this book. Howard Cosell the dog. Comments made when China and her best friend, Ruby get ready for a party. The herbal info was also extremely interesting. But I had no wish to go further with this series, and based on comments from other reviewers, the first book in the series must have had a better plot. It does look like subsequent books in this series show the changing times and opinions in these small Texas towns, but I'll leave this as a one-of for myself.
July 24, 2021
China Bayles is enjoying being an herb shop owner in the little town of Pecan Springs, but there are the challenges: she takes part in a tarot class taught by her friend and the next thing she knows, she and Ruby have protestors outside their business doors and being accused of being witches, or at least consorting with witches, by a local minister.
And that's not all. There are the mysterious deaths of a goat and chickens — also blamed on witches by the community gossips — and things go from there.
Before they know it, one of her fellow tarot class attendees turns up dead. If you have ever read a China Bayles mystery before, you know that she will somehow get pulled into investigating the death and along the way uncovers a whole lot of secrets.
I'm a fan of Susan Wittig Albert. These are fun, light, easy-to-read tales very much in the mode of cozies but Bayles is a much more believable amateur sleuth. She's smart, quick on her feet and tenacious. If you are looking for a thriller with lots of red herrings, twists and turns and dark happenings, you won't find it here. In fact, I figured out the solution way before Bayles did — but it in no way diminished the fun of reading the story and seeing the wheels turn in Bayles' mind as she figures it out. As with any cozy, I've developed a fondness for the characters and their antics. The writing is good, the stories probable (notice I didn't say realistic) and when looking for something light to read, this book, this series, fits the bill just fine.
And that's not all. There are the mysterious deaths of a goat and chickens — also blamed on witches by the community gossips — and things go from there.
Before they know it, one of her fellow tarot class attendees turns up dead. If you have ever read a China Bayles mystery before, you know that she will somehow get pulled into investigating the death and along the way uncovers a whole lot of secrets.
I'm a fan of Susan Wittig Albert. These are fun, light, easy-to-read tales very much in the mode of cozies but Bayles is a much more believable amateur sleuth. She's smart, quick on her feet and tenacious. If you are looking for a thriller with lots of red herrings, twists and turns and dark happenings, you won't find it here. In fact, I figured out the solution way before Bayles did — but it in no way diminished the fun of reading the story and seeing the wheels turn in Bayles' mind as she figures it out. As with any cozy, I've developed a fondness for the characters and their antics. The writing is good, the stories probable (notice I didn't say realistic) and when looking for something light to read, this book, this series, fits the bill just fine.
October 11, 2021
China Bayles solves another murder! The gutsy former lawyer now herb shop owner helps her friend, Ruby, figure out who killed Sybil Rand, one of Ruby’s tarot pupils in book #2 of this cozy mystery series. Starting off during Halloween season, it seems witchcraft may be afoot and Ruby holding tarot readings has gotten some Pecan Grove, Tx, “goody two shoes” Christians “knickers in a knot.” Sybil’s death after a Wiccan celebration on Halloween also creates quite a stir. Then as China sleuths, she’s visited by her mother, Leatha, a recovering alcoholic with whom China has unresolved issues. As with all cozy mysteries, the everyday lives of the book’s characters form the nucleus of what makes this genre so much fun to read. However, in this series more time is given to sleuthing than in others so you get to enjoy the “chase” of figuring out who “dunnit.” So China whose former legal life has prepared her to understand the fine art of “asking” questions, assembling clues, and navigating the intricacies of police work plunges into the fray of who the possible suspects may be: is if Ruby’s new boyfriend, Andrew, whose has a bit of a checkered past? Is it the husband? Is it the mistress? No spoilers here; you have to read the book. But this was a good read - and there was a great pumpkin on the cover (in keeping with my October 2021 Halloween reading theme). Plan to read more in this series.
April 7, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by “Witches Bane,” and the author. Usually this little campy series with their own niche and then tails of murder are predictable and well not boring but rather comforting in their predictability. But this novel was entirely different. Although at the beginning I could feel that sense of comforting predictability that idea soon fell to the wayside as I got wrapped up in the novel. At the conclusion I felt such an amount of surprise as I literally compared Susan’s writing to that of Agatha Christie. The killer at the end was not even ever on your radar. She caught your attention briefly but as a tertiary character someone of no importance but rather a pathetic feel. The writing was consistent the entire way through and the characters well shaped with an imperfectness to their behaviour and thoughts that brought them closer to real life. To a place of actual existence. I really wanted to climb right into the pages and check out their town to have coffee with a host of the characters. From the chef nun (she reminded me of my religion teacher Ms. Kavanaugh) to McQuaid, to Ruby the eccentric Wiccan, and of course China. I do hope one day I find the first book of the series at the library or at the very least the third. The different relationships between characters were very realistic in their little quirks but also in the way they interacted with one another.
August 22, 2020
China Bayles is planning for Halloween in her shop, as is her friend, Ruby Wilcox, who runs a new age shop next to China's. The town is astir with reports of animal sacrifice in a ritual manner, and China and Ruby also have to contend with evangelicals protesting in front of their stores - Ruby's for selling witchcraft items, and China for renting the space to Ruby. One of the characters in town is Sybil Rand, who has a poison plant garden. Lots of rumors about Sybil's garden, how she uses it. However, that's not what does her in. After a Halloween party for a girls' night out, plus a Samhain(sp) ceremony with local Wiccans, Sybil ends up dead, with the Death card from Ruby's Tarot card set. However, lots of suspects, a visit from China's mother, and a few red herrings, before China figures out who was leading the killing spree.
It's been a while since I read the first in the series, but now, onto the second. This is a good one for those who want an older heroine. China is in her mid 40s, and her herb shop is a second life.
It's been a while since I read the first in the series, but now, onto the second. This is a good one for those who want an older heroine. China is in her mid 40s, and her herb shop is a second life.
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