Magic & Malice: Starry Hollow Witches 07
Chronological order is not necessary but recommended.
Three stars. It is a good read and worth your time.
In a Nutshell:
Ember Rose, the descendant of the one true witch and a journalist in Starry Hollow, uncovers and investigates the death of Hattie Rollins-Mahoney, a wealthy 200-year-old matriarch she would feature. It turns out that Hattie’s death was not an accident but murder. And it appears that everyone has reason to hate Hattie. Meanwhile, Marley, her daughter, is turning 11 and facing challenges. Will her magic appear?
The Protagonists:
I love the character of Ember Rose. Finding out she has magical powers and wealth has not dented her New Jersey feisty attitude. She will not conform or allow her aunt to spoil her daughter, Marley. Ember also carries the issues of mistrust from her past, and her dedication to solving mysteries often affects her personal life and relationships. Feisty, impulsive, loyal with a sense of justice—what’s not to love? Ember Rose is relatable—flawed yet determined. Her curiosity and resourcefulness make her a captivating lead.
Why Read It?:
I have enjoyed each of the books in this series. I was very much looking forward to this one to see if Marley comes into her magical powers as witches do at age eleven. In this story, you will find Ember deeply investigating the murder and moving things forward with her beau, Granger, the Werewolf Sheriff. That ends joyously for some and in heartbreak for others.
Starry Hollow is an enchanting backdrop, a world where spells and curses are part of daily life. It hosts a cast of quirky characters, hidden secrets, and Aunt Hyacinth, the one witch who rules them all.
While the cosy mystery elements keep the plot engaging, the magical world-building allows for moments of exploration and depth.
I liked the new character Bonkers, but I hope they will not disappoint. I was excited by introducing the snarky familiar Raoul, but the relationship and character haven’t settled. The interplay between witch and familiar is salty and uncaring.
Rushing to the next book…
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: U
Violent: U
Would I read the next one or reread it?: Definitely
My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1* Finished the book but didn’t like it.
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read, often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A magnificent read. A prominent example of the genre.