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Moonstone Bay #2
Witch Out of Water
Hadley Hunter is the new witch in a town overflowing with paranormal beings. She’s ready to settle, but odd things keeping cropping up and knocking her off her game.
In addition to dating Moonstone Bay’s sheriff Galen Blackwood, Hadley has her hands full when she helps discover a body at a local festival and uncovers a decades’ old feud between two warring families.
The stories are flying fast and furious and the suspects are racking up. At the top of the list is local enigma Booker, a mysterious soul who Hadley is determined to chase until he starts giving answers about his hidden past.
Galen and Booker are at odds – and it’s over more than just the dead body – and Hadley feels caught in the middle. When another witch shows an interest in her magical development, Hadley is eager for a breather. Unfortunately for her, the old witch in town might not be on the up and up.
Hadley has a lot to do. She needs to solve a murder, figure out what’s up with the other witch and get to know a few more locals. That’s on top of bonding with a grandfather she didn’t even know she had. She doesn’t have a job but she’s always working at something … as long as she survives to see another fantastic island sunrise, that is.
In addition to dating Moonstone Bay’s sheriff Galen Blackwood, Hadley has her hands full when she helps discover a body at a local festival and uncovers a decades’ old feud between two warring families.
The stories are flying fast and furious and the suspects are racking up. At the top of the list is local enigma Booker, a mysterious soul who Hadley is determined to chase until he starts giving answers about his hidden past.
Galen and Booker are at odds – and it’s over more than just the dead body – and Hadley feels caught in the middle. When another witch shows an interest in her magical development, Hadley is eager for a breather. Unfortunately for her, the old witch in town might not be on the up and up.
Hadley has a lot to do. She needs to solve a murder, figure out what’s up with the other witch and get to know a few more locals. That’s on top of bonding with a grandfather she didn’t even know she had. She doesn’t have a job but she’s always working at something … as long as she survives to see another fantastic island sunrise, that is.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2018
1962 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
303 books2,898 followersWhen I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
February 28, 2023
Witch Out of Water was definitely not as good as the first in the series. Where the FMC Hadley’s expressions and mannerisms were very innocent and cute in the first book (she just moved to a land of supernatural beings and found out she was a witch, how could she not act that way?!), here she just came off as an annoying prude. She has her good moments, but come on girl, her fixating on the fact a guy was hooking up with two different girls at the same time was ridiculous.
There were also some moments where in the first book was kind of endearing, but repeatedly mentioned in book 2, just came off as sexist. Men are just as much work, if not more, than women!!
The storyline was another fun murder mystery, so I stayed for the plot here. Maybe the next in the series will be redeeming!
There were also some moments where in the first book was kind of endearing, but repeatedly mentioned in book 2, just came off as sexist. Men are just as much work, if not more, than women!!
The storyline was another fun murder mystery, so I stayed for the plot here. Maybe the next in the series will be redeeming!
October 14, 2020
FFS. Stupid, annoying, immature 'heroine' is stupid, annoying and immature. I refuse to believe women in their 20s are this shallow and stupid. Git off my lawn!
The setting and other characters are actually cute which is why I tried to continue with the series. My bad. I should know better by now, but call me insane for thinking it could've gotten better.
Spoiler. It didn't.
The setting and other characters are actually cute which is why I tried to continue with the series. My bad. I should know better by now, but call me insane for thinking it could've gotten better.
Spoiler. It didn't.
March 30, 2019
2019 grade B
I needed a change of pace from the SciFi space operas and thrillers, so I purchased book two of the Moonstone Bay series. It picks up right where book one left off. It is not quite as good as book one because fewer of the characters and situations are "new," but don't let that put you off. The story is fast paced and interesting in the beginning and end but flags a little in the middle. It was pretty easy to set aside when necessary during that area. Mysteries always seem anticlimactic at the end for some reason and this one did too.
Still it is a good read with delightful characters and I enjoyed it.
I needed a change of pace from the SciFi space operas and thrillers, so I purchased book two of the Moonstone Bay series. It picks up right where book one left off. It is not quite as good as book one because fewer of the characters and situations are "new," but don't let that put you off. The story is fast paced and interesting in the beginning and end but flags a little in the middle. It was pretty easy to set aside when necessary during that area. Mysteries always seem anticlimactic at the end for some reason and this one did too.
Still it is a good read with delightful characters and I enjoyed it.
July 9, 2018
Second story in this new series was just as good if not better than the first, Hadley and Galen are getting to know each other more and more dating is going well in Moonstone Bay even if everyone on the island knows everyone's business what can you say it's a small island full of gossipy supernaturals what could go wrong right??
Great mystery, wonderful characters I'm just loving and who doesn't like escaping to an island for a few hours.
Great mystery, wonderful characters I'm just loving and who doesn't like escaping to an island for a few hours.
January 30, 2019
Just as good as the 1st in series. Characters are very interesting
November 19, 2018
Hadley is new to town, and she's still recovering from finding out she's a witch, and someone trying to kill her. Not only that she's trying to navigate a new relationship, and her new friendships as well. But, when she ends up finding a dead body, things start getting more complicated.
This book was a great sequel in this series! I loved how Hadley acted, and it is awesome how she is slowly learning how to use her powers, and manage her way through a new place. This book also really brought out small changes in Hadley, and it was very interesting as well.
This book was great! I really enjoyed reading it, and I laughed and got upset right along with Hadley. I'm curious about her relationship with Booker, and I almost wonder if he would be a better fit for her, but we will see how it goes. I'm so excited for more in this series now!
This book was a great sequel in this series! I loved how Hadley acted, and it is awesome how she is slowly learning how to use her powers, and manage her way through a new place. This book also really brought out small changes in Hadley, and it was very interesting as well.
This book was great! I really enjoyed reading it, and I laughed and got upset right along with Hadley. I'm curious about her relationship with Booker, and I almost wonder if he would be a better fit for her, but we will see how it goes. I'm so excited for more in this series now!
July 5, 2018
A guaranteed good read
I love this author, she never does wrong and I loved this story. Hadley is a witch but didn’t know it till two weeks ago. She’s always in the middle of trouble. It was a fun read about solving some murders and Hadley discovering her magical talents. Her love interest, Galen, has some kinks to work out but he was a great character as well.
I love this author, she never does wrong and I loved this story. Hadley is a witch but didn’t know it till two weeks ago. She’s always in the middle of trouble. It was a fun read about solving some murders and Hadley discovering her magical talents. Her love interest, Galen, has some kinks to work out but he was a great character as well.
July 14, 2018
Disappointing
I was really let down by the second book in the series. I could not get into the story at all. It got to the point where I was forcing myself to read it.
The first book has a lot of promise to it... I am hoping book 3 will be better, if not then I may not continue this series.
I also found myself disliking Galen. I prefer Booker.
I was really let down by the second book in the series. I could not get into the story at all. It got to the point where I was forcing myself to read it.
The first book has a lot of promise to it... I am hoping book 3 will be better, if not then I may not continue this series.
I also found myself disliking Galen. I prefer Booker.
November 25, 2018
You can find this review and all of my others over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
Actual rating of 3.5.
Hadley has only been on Moonstone Bay for a few weeks now, and is still recovering from the revelation that she's a witch, as well as the previous mystery that hit the bay as soon as she did. She's settling into island life, but is finding herself feeling a little lost when it comes to her true heritage. Wanting to learn how to be a better witch she approaches another local witch madame Selena, an old rival of her grandmother's, in a hope to better understand how to wield her powers. A nice night at a festival with Galen turns into another whopper of a case for Hadley and her merry band of paranormal beings when the body of a local woman is found. It seems like a cut and dried case, however, Hadley and Galen feel that there's more here than meets the eye. Hoping to have a little downtime has definitely gone by the wayside in this story as Hadley teams up with Galen to find out some truths about long time residents on Moonstone Bay as well as some about her friends.
This is the second installment in Lee's Moonstone Bay series, a cozy supernatural mystery that is a quick and easy read. The snarky traits of Hadley are still forefront as well as the overbearing protectiveness of Galen, which both seem to be running traits for Lee's characters - this is also seen in her Mystic Caravan series. At times Hadley's need to be angry, and looking for a reason to fight Galen can get a bit annoying, as well as Galen's overpowering need to be the knight in shining armor hero and great protector of the woman he is dating. It doesn't take away from the story much though.
I enjoyed the mystery, and didn't figure out whodunit until around the 65-70% mark, but I really enjoyed the why of it. The explanation given was entirely believable and I think executed extremely well.
I'm glad to see that Hadley's grandfather, Wesley, seems to be becoming a recurring character in this series as I think he's great. I also love that we FINALLY found out exactly WHAT Booker is. And I have to admit, I didn't see it coming. An awesome inclusion, I must say. I love that the characters in this series are not perfect, they have their flaws, which is another reason why I the snarkiness and overprotectiveness doesn't irk me TOO much overall, they're believable character flaws which I believe are much needed in the urban fantasy genre. A lot of people get annoyed with the "perfect-super-powerful-but-doesn't-know-it" characters that litter the genre. It doesn't annoy me too much overall as I believe that if the story is good enough, you can get over how OP the characters are. That's just me though.
All in all, this story is as much about the character's development and the relationship evolution occurring with said characters, as it is about the mysteries. I'm all about stories and series that focus on their character's, because, let's be honest, you generally read a series not only for the continuing story-line, but mostly for the characters themselves. I do at least anyway. A nice quick, easy read, which sometimes is just what the doctor ordered.
Actual rating of 3.5.
Hadley has only been on Moonstone Bay for a few weeks now, and is still recovering from the revelation that she's a witch, as well as the previous mystery that hit the bay as soon as she did. She's settling into island life, but is finding herself feeling a little lost when it comes to her true heritage. Wanting to learn how to be a better witch she approaches another local witch madame Selena, an old rival of her grandmother's, in a hope to better understand how to wield her powers. A nice night at a festival with Galen turns into another whopper of a case for Hadley and her merry band of paranormal beings when the body of a local woman is found. It seems like a cut and dried case, however, Hadley and Galen feel that there's more here than meets the eye. Hoping to have a little downtime has definitely gone by the wayside in this story as Hadley teams up with Galen to find out some truths about long time residents on Moonstone Bay as well as some about her friends.
This is the second installment in Lee's Moonstone Bay series, a cozy supernatural mystery that is a quick and easy read. The snarky traits of Hadley are still forefront as well as the overbearing protectiveness of Galen, which both seem to be running traits for Lee's characters - this is also seen in her Mystic Caravan series. At times Hadley's need to be angry, and looking for a reason to fight Galen can get a bit annoying, as well as Galen's overpowering need to be the knight in shining armor hero and great protector of the woman he is dating. It doesn't take away from the story much though.
I enjoyed the mystery, and didn't figure out whodunit until around the 65-70% mark, but I really enjoyed the why of it. The explanation given was entirely believable and I think executed extremely well.
I'm glad to see that Hadley's grandfather, Wesley, seems to be becoming a recurring character in this series as I think he's great. I also love that we FINALLY found out exactly WHAT Booker is. And I have to admit, I didn't see it coming. An awesome inclusion, I must say. I love that the characters in this series are not perfect, they have their flaws, which is another reason why I the snarkiness and overprotectiveness doesn't irk me TOO much overall, they're believable character flaws which I believe are much needed in the urban fantasy genre. A lot of people get annoyed with the "perfect-super-powerful-but-doesn't-know-it" characters that litter the genre. It doesn't annoy me too much overall as I believe that if the story is good enough, you can get over how OP the characters are. That's just me though.
All in all, this story is as much about the character's development and the relationship evolution occurring with said characters, as it is about the mysteries. I'm all about stories and series that focus on their character's, because, let's be honest, you generally read a series not only for the continuing story-line, but mostly for the characters themselves. I do at least anyway. A nice quick, easy read, which sometimes is just what the doctor ordered.
February 11, 2023
Book 2 in the fun A Moonstone Bay Mysteries
I am really enjoying this series but it isn't for everyone. The characters are great but there are some sexual innuendos- not bad just early relationship joking and the main couple share a bed but there isn't any sex. The book starts with a recap of the first book which is unique and helpful. We met all of the characters in the first book but now we are getting to know them better and we learn what type of paranormal they are which is fun. Hadley inherited a lighthouse from a grandmother she never knew about, she found out she's a witch and she is now trying to figure out witchcraft. Her boyfriend Galen is the Sheriff, Lilac works at a tiki bar in town and Booker is the local handyman. Hadley wants someone to teach her magic so Lilac suggests Madame Selena which causes problems. I was hoping Hadley's Grandmother May would play a more prominent part in her training but it is part of the story. Hadley, Galen, and Lilac witness a fight between two women and then one of them ends up dead. Hadley inserts herself into Galen's case at his request (eye roll) but it helps with getting and explaining clues. One of the people we learn more about is Hadley's grandfather Wesley and he definitely adds to the story. There wasn't as much jovial bantering in this book and more verbal sparring and I prefer the jovial bantering from the first book. There is a lot going on and the book was hard to put down and it was definitely enjoyable. #WitchOutOfWater #MoonstoneBayCozyMystery
I am really enjoying this series but it isn't for everyone. The characters are great but there are some sexual innuendos- not bad just early relationship joking and the main couple share a bed but there isn't any sex. The book starts with a recap of the first book which is unique and helpful. We met all of the characters in the first book but now we are getting to know them better and we learn what type of paranormal they are which is fun. Hadley inherited a lighthouse from a grandmother she never knew about, she found out she's a witch and she is now trying to figure out witchcraft. Her boyfriend Galen is the Sheriff, Lilac works at a tiki bar in town and Booker is the local handyman. Hadley wants someone to teach her magic so Lilac suggests Madame Selena which causes problems. I was hoping Hadley's Grandmother May would play a more prominent part in her training but it is part of the story. Hadley, Galen, and Lilac witness a fight between two women and then one of them ends up dead. Hadley inserts herself into Galen's case at his request (eye roll) but it helps with getting and explaining clues. One of the people we learn more about is Hadley's grandfather Wesley and he definitely adds to the story. There wasn't as much jovial bantering in this book and more verbal sparring and I prefer the jovial bantering from the first book. There is a lot going on and the book was hard to put down and it was definitely enjoyable. #WitchOutOfWater #MoonstoneBayCozyMystery
January 3, 2019
Reviewed at Haunted Bookshelf
I had such fun on my return visit with Hadley, Galen, and crew in “Witch Out of Water”. Life certainly is shaping up… differently for Hadley and I’m loving walking alongside her as she makes her way in this new world of witchcraft and supernatural beings she never knew existed.
Hadley and Galen take their flirtation a bit further and the result of them as a couple is often hilarious and frustrating… often at the same time. Often Hadley loves to argue… just because she can. And Galen is a knight in shining armor… even when that isn’t really necessary. Together they are often fire and ice and totally believable as a new couple.
A dead body will change their focus a bit especially since it looks more like murder with every uncovered clue.
“Witch Out of Water” builds the known characters a bit more, gives us some insights into why things are as they are in this small, gossipy town. We get to discover just what type of supernatural Booker is… and I loved it.
I enjoyed myself, got some answers even more questions and I’m ready to dive into “Freaky Deaky Tiki” which just released. (one day I’ll get caught up… probably not) Anyway, if you’re in the mood for some crime solving with a definite paranormal twist, then you’ll enjoy this one.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I had such fun on my return visit with Hadley, Galen, and crew in “Witch Out of Water”. Life certainly is shaping up… differently for Hadley and I’m loving walking alongside her as she makes her way in this new world of witchcraft and supernatural beings she never knew existed.
Hadley and Galen take their flirtation a bit further and the result of them as a couple is often hilarious and frustrating… often at the same time. Often Hadley loves to argue… just because she can. And Galen is a knight in shining armor… even when that isn’t really necessary. Together they are often fire and ice and totally believable as a new couple.
A dead body will change their focus a bit especially since it looks more like murder with every uncovered clue.
“Witch Out of Water” builds the known characters a bit more, gives us some insights into why things are as they are in this small, gossipy town. We get to discover just what type of supernatural Booker is… and I loved it.
I enjoyed myself, got some answers even more questions and I’m ready to dive into “Freaky Deaky Tiki” which just released. (one day I’ll get caught up… probably not) Anyway, if you’re in the mood for some crime solving with a definite paranormal twist, then you’ll enjoy this one.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
April 16, 2024
5 STARS, PARANORMAL TROPICAL ISLAND
5 STARS & A great BLURB provided is what Book 2 in the Series: A Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery. It's just off the coast of Southern Florida in the Atlantic Ocean and the great thing is one doesn't even need a passport if an American. That sounds terrific, a wonderful magical sun kissed paradise that's a Territory of the US, yay. Vacation hot spot for witches, werewolves, all types of aquatic shifters & shifters of all varieties, vampires, zombies, & other paranormal magical folk.
Except the zombies just live there locked in the heavily fortified graveyard complete with viewing window on the far side for family & loved ones in the know. Someone wicked put a zombie spell on the graves & the crazy lovable beings fortified the graveyard, added the viewing window, & discretely started cremating all newly dead to control the zombie population. What a great community!
I would love to experience the Blue Slush Effect, check out a few festivals, explore the various tiki bars & regular bars & restaurants or food trucks that are spread out closely to the others plus walk the beach and check out a few paranormal magical beings.
One never knows what might be, might just find out you are a little odd, also.
RECOMMEND
5 STARS & A great BLURB provided is what Book 2 in the Series: A Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery. It's just off the coast of Southern Florida in the Atlantic Ocean and the great thing is one doesn't even need a passport if an American. That sounds terrific, a wonderful magical sun kissed paradise that's a Territory of the US, yay. Vacation hot spot for witches, werewolves, all types of aquatic shifters & shifters of all varieties, vampires, zombies, & other paranormal magical folk.
Except the zombies just live there locked in the heavily fortified graveyard complete with viewing window on the far side for family & loved ones in the know. Someone wicked put a zombie spell on the graves & the crazy lovable beings fortified the graveyard, added the viewing window, & discretely started cremating all newly dead to control the zombie population. What a great community!
I would love to experience the Blue Slush Effect, check out a few festivals, explore the various tiki bars & regular bars & restaurants or food trucks that are spread out closely to the others plus walk the beach and check out a few paranormal magical beings.
One never knows what might be, might just find out you are a little odd, also.
RECOMMEND
December 28, 2019
Festival mayhem
When Galen takes Hadley to visit her first festival on Moonstone Island things go south fast as they stumble upon the body of Trish who Hadley first met earlier in the day.
When Hadley met her she was arguing angrily with her friend Ashley over Booker but according to Lilac the girls don't usually argue in fact they're best friends despite a family feud that's been running for generations. So what on earth would have happened for Ashley to turn on her bff and murder her with a kitchen knife?
In an endeavour to learn more about her witchy powers Hadley tries talking to Madame Selena.. as Madame S drones on Hadley once again gives up and decides to demand help from her ghostly grandma but May has disappeared and won't answer Hadley's pleas.
Hadley is unused to being a lady of leisure and was looking for a job but now there is a murderer on the loose she's far too busy trying to fathom it out and helping Galen as only she can..
When Galen takes Hadley to visit her first festival on Moonstone Island things go south fast as they stumble upon the body of Trish who Hadley first met earlier in the day.
When Hadley met her she was arguing angrily with her friend Ashley over Booker but according to Lilac the girls don't usually argue in fact they're best friends despite a family feud that's been running for generations. So what on earth would have happened for Ashley to turn on her bff and murder her with a kitchen knife?
In an endeavour to learn more about her witchy powers Hadley tries talking to Madame Selena.. as Madame S drones on Hadley once again gives up and decides to demand help from her ghostly grandma but May has disappeared and won't answer Hadley's pleas.
Hadley is unused to being a lady of leisure and was looking for a job but now there is a murderer on the loose she's far too busy trying to fathom it out and helping Galen as only she can..
November 28, 2020
I really enjoy this series, however, I had to give this book a 4-star instead of the 5 that the others have gotten. The constant use of "you're cute" by practically every single character is getting on my nerves.
The grandmother has become my least favorite character and I can't see anyway of redeeming her at this point. If her "unfinished business" is to help her granddaughter then why is she never around and seems to do absolutely nothing of value. Why even have her there at all? She seems like a pointless plot device.
I also don't like the way the author has made all the male characters so gross. They're all womanizers? SERIOUSLY? Her low opinion of men in general is showing.
Given this review, you'd expect a lower rating. However, I still like the story and the characters. It's just parts of the book make me see red. The author needs to understand that not all men are dogs and not all women are spastic idiots. I'm hoping this gets better with other books.
The grandmother has become my least favorite character and I can't see anyway of redeeming her at this point. If her "unfinished business" is to help her granddaughter then why is she never around and seems to do absolutely nothing of value. Why even have her there at all? She seems like a pointless plot device.
I also don't like the way the author has made all the male characters so gross. They're all womanizers? SERIOUSLY? Her low opinion of men in general is showing.
Given this review, you'd expect a lower rating. However, I still like the story and the characters. It's just parts of the book make me see red. The author needs to understand that not all men are dogs and not all women are spastic idiots. I'm hoping this gets better with other books.
December 29, 2021
Life on the beach isn't all frolic but it certainly makes for a great read!
Witch Out of Water picks right up where book 1 left off. Hadley Hunter new arrival to Moonstone Bay has a newly discovered grandfather and she is making progress getting to know him. Her new boyfriend Galen Blackwood is still Mr. Protective and oh so Sigh worthy. Her friends Booker and Lilac are still supporting her snoopy inclinations while they serve information up on a platter for her as well as a revelation or two.
While Hadley has stumbled into yet another investigation she is still at a loss on her magic and how to do things. New character to the mix Madam Selena is definitely eye roll worthy and comes across as someone to be wary of. Many other new characters and more world building have set another mystery into motion and on top of that now Mays ghost is missing from the Lighthouse. I absolutely encourage everyone of all ages to read this.
Witch Out of Water picks right up where book 1 left off. Hadley Hunter new arrival to Moonstone Bay has a newly discovered grandfather and she is making progress getting to know him. Her new boyfriend Galen Blackwood is still Mr. Protective and oh so Sigh worthy. Her friends Booker and Lilac are still supporting her snoopy inclinations while they serve information up on a platter for her as well as a revelation or two.
While Hadley has stumbled into yet another investigation she is still at a loss on her magic and how to do things. New character to the mix Madam Selena is definitely eye roll worthy and comes across as someone to be wary of. Many other new characters and more world building have set another mystery into motion and on top of that now Mays ghost is missing from the Lighthouse. I absolutely encourage everyone of all ages to read this.
June 8, 2020
Good
The second book featuring Hadley Hunter, new witch in Moonstone Bay, has her investigating the murder of one of the local young women, because she doesn’t believe the accused best friend is guilty!
There’s a lot going on in town for Hadley, she meets interesting people, and wants to learn how to use her magic, which hopefully her ghostly grandmother can help her with.
This is a cute cozy, set in a fascinating magical island community, with all kinds of magical beings.
It’s not precisely a stand alone... the mystery is complete for this book, but Hadley’s ongoing story began in the previous book, and is not yet entirely told, although there is no cliffhanger, there is a slight foreshadowing style book hook for the next book.
Recommended for cozy paranormal mystery fans, and those who enjoy the “newbie witch finding her magic” style fantasy stories.
The second book featuring Hadley Hunter, new witch in Moonstone Bay, has her investigating the murder of one of the local young women, because she doesn’t believe the accused best friend is guilty!
There’s a lot going on in town for Hadley, she meets interesting people, and wants to learn how to use her magic, which hopefully her ghostly grandmother can help her with.
This is a cute cozy, set in a fascinating magical island community, with all kinds of magical beings.
It’s not precisely a stand alone... the mystery is complete for this book, but Hadley’s ongoing story began in the previous book, and is not yet entirely told, although there is no cliffhanger, there is a slight foreshadowing style book hook for the next book.
Recommended for cozy paranormal mystery fans, and those who enjoy the “newbie witch finding her magic” style fantasy stories.
February 19, 2023
Wooden characters and gigantic plot holes
I've read a few series by this author and they are generally light on characterization but entertaining. This series recycles almost everything about the main characters from other books but uses the most annoying aspects. Having an interest in sex is not "perverted". Men who "protect" women by acting proprietary and keeping them ignorant are not charming. Relatives who meet in adulthood do not naturally treat grown women as little girls.
The characters and motivations for every action are unbelievable, especially the plans and motivations for the murders. Perhaps there are such incompetent and meaningless murders perpetrated in the real world, but they are not enjoyable puzzles to read about.
The world building is still interesting which is why I gave two stars.
I've read a few series by this author and they are generally light on characterization but entertaining. This series recycles almost everything about the main characters from other books but uses the most annoying aspects. Having an interest in sex is not "perverted". Men who "protect" women by acting proprietary and keeping them ignorant are not charming. Relatives who meet in adulthood do not naturally treat grown women as little girls.
The characters and motivations for every action are unbelievable, especially the plans and motivations for the murders. Perhaps there are such incompetent and meaningless murders perpetrated in the real world, but they are not enjoyable puzzles to read about.
The world building is still interesting which is why I gave two stars.
July 20, 2018
Truths, half truths and downright lies
Fabulous read. I got so caught up that I had to unravel my knitting twice. When a young girl is murdered all fingers point to her BFF. After all they had had a massive row just hours earlier. However she isn't convinced and the more she and Galen look into it, the more they have doubts. Can they trace back what really happened? Was it all to do with the feud or is there another reason? In the midst of all this she is trying to get a handle on her magic and the relationship with Galen. A great plot, okay I got one part right but the actual ending was spectacular. Plus the more we learn about the characters the more we want to know.
Fabulous read. I got so caught up that I had to unravel my knitting twice. When a young girl is murdered all fingers point to her BFF. After all they had had a massive row just hours earlier. However she isn't convinced and the more she and Galen look into it, the more they have doubts. Can they trace back what really happened? Was it all to do with the feud or is there another reason? In the midst of all this she is trying to get a handle on her magic and the relationship with Galen. A great plot, okay I got one part right but the actual ending was spectacular. Plus the more we learn about the characters the more we want to know.
December 19, 2021
Omg! I was thrilled to have found this fantastic book, " Witch Out of Water " which is the 2nd book in the ‘Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery series’ :) ... With a perfect PNR cozy mystery and a totally fresh storyline! ... Awesome quirky, yet relatable characters & clever dialogue with a fun, snarky heroine, Hadley, and a hunky hero, Galen, with enough chemistry between them to ignite the pages! lol ... Great descriptions with surprises that kept me turning pages like crazy from the start, not wanting to stop whenever I had to! ... Even tho I borrowed this through my Amazon Kindle Unlimited free trial, I can honestly recommend this to all fans of fiction, and I can't wait to read more from Ms. Amanda M. Lee!
January 10, 2023
A good 2nd book in the series! We see some changes for our main character that require growth - like new relationships with the people she's gotten to know on the island.
Her communication is still very... lacking at many points. She's not saying what she thinks and feels. I hope we see her grow out of that over time as she becomes more comfortable with herself and her new life.
I enjoyed this mystery as much as the one in the last book. Lots of twists and turns, and magic involved. I like the fact that our sheriff involves Hadley with the detecting at times. I'm wondering if she will end up working at the sheriff's department in the future.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this series!
Her communication is still very... lacking at many points. She's not saying what she thinks and feels. I hope we see her grow out of that over time as she becomes more comfortable with herself and her new life.
I enjoyed this mystery as much as the one in the last book. Lots of twists and turns, and magic involved. I like the fact that our sheriff involves Hadley with the detecting at times. I'm wondering if she will end up working at the sheriff's department in the future.
I'm looking forward to reading more from this series!
August 13, 2018
I'm kind of sad that this is one of the author's newer series which means I haven't got to binge on them as I have some of her other series. However this is not going to stop me from being a huge fan and looking out for the next release. Hadley discovers that she is still the hot new property on the island and not everyone seems pleased about her presence or maybe they want something from her. All that whilst trying to solve a murder and being Galen's new sidekick.. er sorry hero to Galen's side kick :-) The interplay between the characters yet again was a delight and reading a book in this world was like taking a warm sunny islandy hug and I can't wait for more.
April 20, 2020
Entertaining
I'm loving my visits to Moonstone Bay! The characters are charming and over-the-top, and background info on Booker and Lilac is bound to be fun. Hadley is a worthwhile heroine; she may be justifiably insecure about her power but works to get a handle on things. Galen is both protective and supportive and a good match for Hadley. The murder mystery and its resolution is satisfying, although I missed the comedy from the previous book, but some of the more wretched aspects probably didn't really lend themselves to a blithe touch. I look forward to Hadley exuberantly embracing her new home and its residents!
I'm loving my visits to Moonstone Bay! The characters are charming and over-the-top, and background info on Booker and Lilac is bound to be fun. Hadley is a worthwhile heroine; she may be justifiably insecure about her power but works to get a handle on things. Galen is both protective and supportive and a good match for Hadley. The murder mystery and its resolution is satisfying, although I missed the comedy from the previous book, but some of the more wretched aspects probably didn't really lend themselves to a blithe touch. I look forward to Hadley exuberantly embracing her new home and its residents!
September 14, 2020
Galen & Hadley
I tried for a 4-1/2 rating but it wouldn't let me.
Even though you had people church for misspellings, there were more they missed! Sorry to tell you that.
Loved this book as well as all the others I've read by you.
Guess the proofreaders need a back up proofer!👌 LOL
Keep you books coming. I'll eventually read them all. I just love ALL YOUR BOOKS!!!!! I love your dry sense of humor and wittiness, along with always having a man fall in love with the heroine!!!!
Don't ever stop. You are very blessed, gifted and masses of humor.
Always faithful, loving Fan,
Beth Jenkins
I tried for a 4-1/2 rating but it wouldn't let me.
Even though you had people church for misspellings, there were more they missed! Sorry to tell you that.
Loved this book as well as all the others I've read by you.
Guess the proofreaders need a back up proofer!👌 LOL
Keep you books coming. I'll eventually read them all. I just love ALL YOUR BOOKS!!!!! I love your dry sense of humor and wittiness, along with always having a man fall in love with the heroine!!!!
Don't ever stop. You are very blessed, gifted and masses of humor.
Always faithful, loving Fan,
Beth Jenkins
October 17, 2021
I still say there needs to be more magic, but I do like that Hadley is slowly learning new things she can do with her powers.
I thought for sure the culprit would be with Madame Selena or Booker. Yes, I honestly thought Booker may be the killer. I just feel that he’s going to turn on his friends. I suppose that is awful and especially given what Hadley found out about him, I have hopes that one of the next books focuses on Booker’s talents.
I also like the vampire and hope he’s in future books as a sort of gossipy flaming friend to Hadley. He just seems like he’ll be fun and put some spice into the duo.
Next book is Freaky Deaky Tiki (A Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery Book 3)
I thought for sure the culprit would be with Madame Selena or Booker. Yes, I honestly thought Booker may be the killer. I just feel that he’s going to turn on his friends. I suppose that is awful and especially given what Hadley found out about him, I have hopes that one of the next books focuses on Booker’s talents.
I also like the vampire and hope he’s in future books as a sort of gossipy flaming friend to Hadley. He just seems like he’ll be fun and put some spice into the duo.
Next book is Freaky Deaky Tiki (A Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery Book 3)
June 11, 2024
I like Amanda M. Lee’s books and have read many of them. I recently started reading the Moonstone Bay series and in general like the story. The problem I have is how whiny the main character is and how utterly pathetic she comes across. I realize it’s a writing formula used by Lee. I saw it in the Charlie Rhodes series. It is tedious the lead female characters don’t come into their own until the end of the series. The character development book by book doesn’t move fast enough. Ultimately I will read the whole series, but sometimes I root for the villain to knock off the main character because of how insipid she is portrayed. Amanda if you are reading this, step up your game.
July 8, 2018
Lovely read!!
This book had so many things going on it was hard to keep straight
The mystery of who killed Trish was the main subject matter. But there were lots of side plots such as about Madame Selena who wanted to teach Hadley all about being a witch. she is not all that she seems. will Hadley try to uncover the plot twists and reveal the murderer?
I enjoyed Hadley and Taken relationship and their witty banter with each other.
Lovely read. Hope to read more about Hadley soon
This book had so many things going on it was hard to keep straight
The mystery of who killed Trish was the main subject matter. But there were lots of side plots such as about Madame Selena who wanted to teach Hadley all about being a witch. she is not all that she seems. will Hadley try to uncover the plot twists and reveal the murderer?
I enjoyed Hadley and Taken relationship and their witty banter with each other.
Lovely read. Hope to read more about Hadley soon
July 13, 2018
An enjoyable read
I did not find this as fun as the first book in the series, we had a lot.more dialogue than I care for, mainly between Hadley and Galen constantly bantering. We did get to meet a few new residents and find out what flavour of.supernatural Booker is (a strike of genius) the murder mystery never really grabbed me and I did not feel.any emotional investment from any of the characters which also.let the story down. So, not as good as book one but some interesting moments.
I did not find this as fun as the first book in the series, we had a lot.more dialogue than I care for, mainly between Hadley and Galen constantly bantering. We did get to meet a few new residents and find out what flavour of.supernatural Booker is (a strike of genius) the murder mystery never really grabbed me and I did not feel.any emotional investment from any of the characters which also.let the story down. So, not as good as book one but some interesting moments.
February 4, 2021
A quick read.
It’s been quite a while since I’ve ‘visited’ Moonstone Bay, and I’d forgotten just how tedious I found Galen and Booker. Hadley is still very unsure of her place on Moonstone Bay, and as a result she ends up putting her foot in it on occasion, but I’m enjoying her adventures just the same. The murder investigation was so-so, and I figured out who did it quite quickly. The case had a few interesting twists and turns, and I’m moving on to the third book to see how Aisling Grimlock handles the island.
3 stars ⭐️
It’s been quite a while since I’ve ‘visited’ Moonstone Bay, and I’d forgotten just how tedious I found Galen and Booker. Hadley is still very unsure of her place on Moonstone Bay, and as a result she ends up putting her foot in it on occasion, but I’m enjoying her adventures just the same. The murder investigation was so-so, and I figured out who did it quite quickly. The case had a few interesting twists and turns, and I’m moving on to the third book to see how Aisling Grimlock handles the island.
3 stars ⭐️
November 24, 2022
Really good
I love this series so far. My only issue is Galen. He has moments with Hadley that give me pause. I think if I had a friend who's boyfriend was like this I'd say run and run now. It's somewhat manipulative but not in a good way. I'm really hoping he calms down. If you've been around people in abusive relationships or in one yourself, you'll see traits from Galen that remind you of that. I really want to like him more though. It's just hard when you recognize certain things. It's still a great series though.
I love this series so far. My only issue is Galen. He has moments with Hadley that give me pause. I think if I had a friend who's boyfriend was like this I'd say run and run now. It's somewhat manipulative but not in a good way. I'm really hoping he calms down. If you've been around people in abusive relationships or in one yourself, you'll see traits from Galen that remind you of that. I really want to like him more though. It's just hard when you recognize certain things. It's still a great series though.
July 5, 2018
Slow start, great finish
Really enjoyed the adventure with Hadley. The dialogue seemed a smidge forced At times, which usually is not the case. The storyline also got onto a little bit of a slow start. Lots of information along the way , and I love Hadleys relationship with the other islanders. I like that the storyline with the Wesley is progressing. The same with Galen . Looking for the next book.
Really enjoyed the adventure with Hadley. The dialogue seemed a smidge forced At times, which usually is not the case. The storyline also got onto a little bit of a slow start. Lots of information along the way , and I love Hadleys relationship with the other islanders. I like that the storyline with the Wesley is progressing. The same with Galen . Looking for the next book.
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