Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Zombies... When Abigail Collins heard Nick’s theory on their current case, she knew he had to be crazy, but when a zombie shows up in her apartment she has no choice but to believe him.

A renegade necromancer bent on manipulating witches and murdering innocent people runs amok in town and Abby and Nick have to stop them before more bodies pile up.

Further complicating matters two PIB agents step onto the scene, claiming a link between their case and Abby’s. To top it all off, blood starved vampires are causing chaos in the city.

It’s just another day for PIB Agent Abigail Collins, full of blood, monsters, and explosions.

Audible Audio

Published May 13, 2016

67 people are currently reading
502 people want to read

About the author

A.L. Kessler

89 books333 followers
A.L. Kessler is an author of paranormal and urban fantasy books and is best known for her “Here Witchy Witchy” series. A self-proclaimed coffee addict, she resides in Colorado Springs with her family and menagerie of animals. When she’s not writing her next book, she loves to read and visit with friends and family.

To learn more about her, check out her website:
http://www.amylkessler.com/
or follow her on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/alkesslerauthor

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
190 (49%)
4 stars
136 (35%)
3 stars
54 (14%)
2 stars
4 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Naomi.
1,438 reviews56 followers
February 17, 2016
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace

4.5 Stars

Deathly Magic was another thrilling and action packed read in the Here Witchy Witchy series. I loved seeing Abby again as she took on a whole new case. She now has a partner, Nick, who I met in the first book and she’s trying to date Simon, but there never seemed to be a good time and complications continued to rise.

In this particular case, dead bodies are uncovered, bloodlust vampires are on the loose and Abby needs to track down a missing werewolf for Greg. Abby’s life was threatened a few times and trouble seemed to follow her everywhere. She took in a new family member, was battered and bruised, and was seriously sleep deprived. But no matter what happened to her, she was able to get up and work on her cases.

It was good to see all the characters I met in the first book again. Detective Mason was always there when a case arose. Oliver still wants to teach Abby and seems to be at the right place at the right time. Levi proved that he will protect Abby and is always worried about her safety. Nick was his pain-in-the-ass self, but good at his job. And Simon… I can see that he cares deeply for Abby, and will do anything for her, but pack life and Abby’s work always interferes with what little love life they have.

Deathly Magic was as entertaining as I expected. There was plenty of action to keep me glued to the book and eager to see what was to happen next. There was constant danger, and even after the case was solved, I was left with a lot of questions. There were a couple of threads left open that left me wondering what’s going to happen next for Abby: what her connection to the Vampire world is, what secrets do Levi and Oliver have, and will Abby and Simon find the right time to work on their attraction. I am very keen to continue this series, it’s addictive, mysterious and with action galore!

Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Leigh.
78 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2018
Much better title, same level of greatness as Book 1. ALK may start being an auto buy for me if this series keeps going so well. Here's the breakdown:

Negatives:
- Workaholic. I feel like Abby gets way overwhelmed with too much stuff. It's just TOO MUCH. There are tons of side plots, side characters, plus the main conflict, plus some more side conflicts. I realize I said my negative for the last one was the lull, but this is like negative in the opposite way. I just felt exhausted after reading all the stuff she had to do. It was total chaos!


- Clue resistant heroine. I mean, I hate to say it, but Abby is missing a lot of stuff in this one. I think she needs a nap to get her act together cause I think EVERYONE can guess who the King of the Vampires is... Not hard, at all. I also think EVERYONE could guess who "Witch" was after about 2 seconds. But I get it, she is super tired after all the other stuff she's had to deal with.

- Zombie drop. Weird that the story line with the zombies just kinda drops off. We don't get resolution there and it's just kinda like "we caught the perp, no need to break down an explanation on the plan there". I still have major questions... Just a lot of unanswered stuff, which is weird cause this was definitely the main MAIN plot.



Positives:
- Character. Love the characters, again. ALK has some good character development in this book and we can see everyone progressing.

- Those side plots. Even though there were ALOT of side plots, I enjoyed every single one! I was interested from start to finish. I actually liked it a lot that there were side plots that didn't necessarily relate back to the main story. It was fun to see all the twists and turns from the main and side plots pan out.





- Knowing the limits. I like that Abby continues to be a bada**, but isn't an egotistical, arrogant, jerk who runs into danger without thinking it through. She doesn't try to prove herself, or make stupid mistakes thinking she knows best. She is calm, cool, and collected. What a good heroine.

- Romantic notions. Loved Simon in this, but was bummed at the ending. I am not worried... I still see good things coming in the future.

In conclusion: currently getting Book 3!

Profile Image for Stephanie Gillis.
Author 14 books355 followers
February 21, 2024
Okay I'm really starting to get into this series. I think I read the first book at the wrong time because I was much more invested in these characters. I think my only reason why it's not five stars is sometimes the pacing felt too fast for my personal taste but I get these are more of like how I imagine a monster-of-the-week tv show would be so quicker is better. I just want more time with a lot of the characters internal thoughts, there's a ton of action in these and for my personal reading taste I like thicker books with more conversations because god dang it can we just let Abby and Simon go on ONE uninterrupted date?! lol. I know this is a slow-burn series but I'm dying here!
Anyways I highly recommend especially if you want something like Dresden Files but without all the chauvinism.
429 reviews1 follower
May 23, 2019
Enjoyable series so far, strong heroine

Interesting world and characters, action packed and a couple of cases make this book super. The lead character is a strong Independent woman. I like books where the lead is in an investigator. In this series, she is a PIB agent investigating supernatural cases. This is urban fantasy with an overall story arc where at this point, you only see the pieces but don't see this where series is going. It's fun trying to figure it out. This book had a complete story line with active cases solved. There is not a cliffhanger. Just a continuation of the series where the story arc continues to unfold. I am staying with the series and moving to book 3.
Profile Image for Deborah .
839 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2019
This was much better than the last. Although I was a little ambiguous of the budding romance between our witch and werewolf, I was sorry to see how it evolved. In every installment an interesting case develops. This focused on a necromancer and a powerful witch. I don't want to say too much to create a spoiler. I do highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Mia Bishop.
Author 38 books121 followers
August 27, 2017
Loved book 1, book 2 was another great adventure with Abby! A.L. Kessler does a great job of spinning suspense and mystery into the story to keep you guessing all the way through.
99 reviews
June 12, 2021
Thank you

Second book is even better than the first. I truly appreciate the longer more involved storylines. I still love the characters too.
Profile Image for Mary Rowe.
2,618 reviews8 followers
June 15, 2021
Continuing Convolutions, more mysteries and secreta

How much more can one young woman endure? Unknown blood relations, rogue abilities, power-mad antagonists - and no chance for viable, meaningful connection to a significant other?

Hopefully life gets more stable….
Profile Image for Karen.
117 reviews2 followers
August 5, 2019
The story is interesting so far. I'm having a little trouble with some of the verbiage, but it's not as bad as others I've read recently. It's strange how many books haven't been properly edited. One that I remember specifically from this book: Aloud = out loud. Allowed = permitted.

This one is worth the read if you like werewolves, witches, and zombies without a ton of sex all over. There's a bit of romance, but people are not constantly naked with various partners, so it's refreshing. The grammatical mistakes aren't as proliferating as others I've attempted recently.
16 reviews
January 5, 2020
Another beautifully written story. I really do enjoy the characters. The way the plot thickens and just pulls you into it. Now that I've read books one and two, it's time to jump into number three. Just love Abby, Levi, Mason and Simone.
Profile Image for Donna Fernstrom.
Author 11 books21 followers
December 23, 2016
Better than the first book (which I also enjoyed). A great mystery plot! Lots of action, engaging characters, and plenty left to discover. I'm enjoying this series even more with the second book, and I'm looking forward to the next. I can't wait to find out what the story is behind the cat.
Profile Image for Annie Slasher (Booked & Loaded).
257 reviews16 followers
March 29, 2016
This is an original review from Booked & Loaded - all opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

Deathly Magic by A.L. Kessler is the second book in her Here Witchy Witchy series. This urban fantasy was a joy to read and only left me jonesing for more.

Deathly Magic is a quick paced Urban Fantasy. The character growth and back-story that is bursting forth with awesomeness, has left me with a yearning for MORE Abigail. I always expect these two things from any Urban Fantasy and I am so pleased that this series is accomplishing both.

I am undecided about Abby's new partner Nick. I still don't like him but I think my feelings pretty much run parallel with Abby on this subject, which makes it very easy. Hell, maybe her HEALTHY dose of paranoia matches my own crazy and that is why I enjoy her so much. Or, maybe it is because Nick just really is a creepy creeper and that is why he seems to amp up my spidey sense. I guess I will have to wait and see....

Deathly Magic is full of paranormal aspects, thrilling action and well placed conflict. Pick up this series and dive into your next Urban Fantasy obsession!
Profile Image for KittyGrimm.
97 reviews6 followers
January 13, 2016
I received ARC version of Deathly Magic for honest review.

From the very beginning Deathly Magic got me hooked on the story like the first book of Here Witchy Witchy series did to me.

The story follows Abigail Collins who is witch who works as an agent for PIB. With new partner they start to investigate a case where dead bodies start to appear. While doing their investigations Abby is once again thrown to life threatening situations, which she has to try to conker.


I absolutely LOVED this story, it had me laughing at times, and I like it how you can see yourself as Abby. Each of the characters that were introdused were well written and wanted to make me to think that what will happen next.

I can't wait to read the next part of the Here Witchy Witchy series!!
Profile Image for Benjamin.
Author 21 books27 followers
May 1, 2016
A good sequel to "No More Black Magic", "Deathly Magic" just didn't grab me like its predecessor did. There were definitely some similarities between the two, but the fact that there didn't seem to be much in the realm of new information into the characters was a bit of a letdown. There were pieces here and there that hinted at bigger things, but none of it was explained in this book. One thing that was also missing was the tying together of all the different storylines, leaving this novel feeling fragmented in places and repetitive in others.
Overall, I'm still interested in what Kessler has to offer in this series, but "Deathly Magic" was merely a step between the first book and the next for me.
454 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2020
Not sure

I read the 1st book back in 2015. I don't continue with the series. After seeing it recommended on the urban fantasy Facebook page, I decided to have another look. (If urban fantasy is your thing, the page and posts are brilliant). I re-read book 1 which had enough to get me here in book 2. It had less typos than book 1, which was good. My problem is, she is not a rounded character as she has no life out of work and no strong emotional connections. It makes the books a bit dull and you have to suspend your disbelief at how many times she throws herself into hazardous situations and survives. There is potential here but it is too narrow to grab me fully. Will I read the next? I'm not sure and will read the reviews before committing.
Profile Image for Jessica Poodiack.
10 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2016
More questions than answers, but still a very good read.

The characters are interesting, the plot is a bit convoluted and slow in coming together. I still enjoyed the book, and hope we learn more about Levi and why Abby is quick to dismiss any questions she has about his vampire family. The pseudo relationship with Simon was pretty boring. Abby needs to be a little less blasé on attempts on her life.
868 reviews14 followers
March 7, 2016
I really enjoyed the first of this series and I loved this one, it really got in it's stride with the world already set up and characters established. I did feel an aching sense of loneliness for Abby and I would love her to have a bit of happiness. Alas she seems to get none stop action, plenty of blood, guts and gore and never knowing who is friend or foe. Great urban fantasy, highly recommended.
Profile Image for Eating Between.
307 reviews29 followers
February 15, 2016
Abby is back! If you think things hit the fan last time than buckle your seatbelts! Dead bodies and zombies start running a muck add the local packs issues and you have a recipe for chaos! In true Abby form there are explosions, kick ass magic and lots of spunk from my new Favorite witch! I LOVE every minute of this and can not wait for more!
Profile Image for Jana Gundy.
1,919 reviews17 followers
Read
February 20, 2016
Full on urban fantasy

Abigail is back and she gets right into trouble with tons of action and mystery. The author does a great job of creation g a world and plot that keep you reading. There is very little romance and what is there, isn't very emotional, so this definitely Moore urban fantasy than paranormal romance. The story was great and I look forward to what comes next.
1,216 reviews10 followers
November 25, 2016
An amazing story that keeps the pages turning. You just can't help but cheer for Abigail as she struggles and battles through her case of zombies and blood starved vamps. It has a bit of humor, some mystery and a whole bunch of paranormal craziness to keep the story interesting. This series just gets better with each book.
Profile Image for Tatiana.
Author 26 books36 followers
December 15, 2023
I’m enjoying this series more and more. The dialogue (and internal dialogue) is very matter of fact, the protagonist remains a competent fighter and a powerful witch — although not a great investigator as she’s always ignoring glaring clues. There are love interests but it happens so slow no one’s even kissed yet. I respect that, she’s got crimes to solve she can’t sit around mooning!
Profile Image for Barb.
1,034 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2019
Werewolves and Witches

Abby's life is a disaster. Her life as a PIB agent is far from boring. Her protector leads her into a dangerous case. The werewolves have their own agenda for her. Her romantic life is screwed. Can't imagine what's next but ready to find out.
Profile Image for Michelle Pickard.
86 reviews5 followers
February 6, 2023
Cute series!

I am really enjoying this series. I'm not sure if I really like Nick but we'll see. Lol I also think we know who the vampire King really is. The ending of this book had me in tears. I want to see Abby with Simon!
Profile Image for Donna Foster.
852 reviews163 followers
March 20, 2016
* Received this book in exchange for a review *

Deathly Magic is bathed in good Karma.
Profile Image for Carrie.
2,517 reviews19 followers
December 24, 2016
Man, Abby has the worst luck ever. These books are just non-stop action filled madness, and I'm completely obsessed.

Even after her vacation, Abby just can't catch a break. Her work, which was already a huge component of her life, is now pretty much 100% of her life. Luckily, it also involves her kinda-sorta-love interest, Simon, so there is a little glimmer of hope in the romance department. That little glimmer is stomped on again and again in this book, as each date get preempted by all sorts of nastiness. There's starved vampires, zombies, lots of mauled corpses, missing werewolves, evil witches, and so many secrets that I don't even know where to begin.

The bigger story (other than the Abby/Simon romance-ish) has to do with the bodies that keep turning up. Not only do the bodies connect to Levi's vampire dealings, but they also appear to connect with Abby's most recent near-death experiences. No - I'm not talking about the ones in the previous book - these are brand new incidents. The sheer amount of destruction that Abby leaves in her wake is staggering. She's like the female version of Harry Dresden.

If you're looking for all your questions to be answered, this book will not make you happy. Sure, we are learning more about the mysterious Uncle, but Levi is still a mystery (that includes farm animals that had me laughing out loud). There are probably a lot of clues thrown in along the way, but we've got all sorts of questions, like who is the boss man? who is the vampire king? where did the cat come from? what is Nick's problem? The list is endless, and I will eagerly gobble up the next book!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.