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Witchcraft Mystery #10
Bewitched and Betrothed
A supernatural force on the loose in San Francisco and a family reunion keeps witch and vintage storeowner Lily Ivory on her toes as she prepares to walk down the aisle...
When Lily Ivory stumbles on the uniform of a former prisoner from Alcatraz and SFPD inspector Carlos Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, Lily suspects something dangerous has been unleashed on the ghost-ridden island of Alcatraz. She'll have to sleuth out the culprit—when she’s not busy entertaining her visiting relatives and resolving romantic conflicts as her wedding date approaches. Could recent omens be pointing to the magical threat in her adopted city? If so, she'll have to line up her allies to change the fate of the Bay Area. Because no matter what, Lily's determined to celebrate her marriage with her friends by her side—even if it means battling a demonic foe before she can make it to the altar.
When Lily Ivory stumbles on the uniform of a former prisoner from Alcatraz and SFPD inspector Carlos Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, Lily suspects something dangerous has been unleashed on the ghost-ridden island of Alcatraz. She'll have to sleuth out the culprit—when she’s not busy entertaining her visiting relatives and resolving romantic conflicts as her wedding date approaches. Could recent omens be pointing to the magical threat in her adopted city? If so, she'll have to line up her allies to change the fate of the Bay Area. Because no matter what, Lily's determined to celebrate her marriage with her friends by her side—even if it means battling a demonic foe before she can make it to the altar.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 25, 2019
257 people are currently reading
1265 people want to read
About the author
Juliet Blackwell
41 books2,911 followersJuliet Blackwell (aka Julie Goodson-Lawes, aka Hailey Lind) started out life in Palo Alto, California, born of a Texan mother and a Yankee father. The family soon moved to what were, at the time, the sticks of Cupertino, an hour south of San Francisco. Walking to and from kindergarten every day she would indulge in her earliest larcenous activity: stealing walnuts and apricots from surrounding orchards.
By the time she graduated middle school, the orchards were disappearing and the valley at the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay had become the cradle of the silicon semi-conductor. A man named Steve Jobs was working in his garage in Cupertino, just down the street. Juliet's father advised his daughters to enter the lucrative and soon-to-flourish field of computers.
"Bah" said Juliet, as she went on to major in Latin American Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz (they had, by far, the best parties of any department). Rather than making scads of money in computers, she read, painted, learned Spanish and a little French and Vietnamese, lived in Spain and traveled through Europe, Mexico, and Central America. She had a very good time.
Juliet pursued graduate degrees in Anthropology and Social Work at the State University of New York at Albany, where she published several non-fiction articles on immigration as well as one book-length translation. Fascinated with other cultural systems, she studied the religions, folklore and medical beliefs of peoples around the world, especially in Latin America. Juliet taught the anthropology of health and health care at SUNY-Albany, and worked as an elementary school social worker in upstate New York. She also did field projects in Mexico and Cuba, studied in Spain, Italy, and France, worked on a BBC production in the Philippines, taught English as a second language in San Jose, and learned how to faux finish walls in Princeton, New Jersey. After having a son, moving back to California, and abandoning her half-written dissertation in cultural anthropology, Juliet started painting murals and portraits for a living. She has run her own mural/faux finish design studio in Oakland, across the bay from San Francisco, for more than a decade. She specializes in the aesthetic renovation of historic homes.
Finally, to round out her tour of lucrative careers, Juliet turned to writing. Under the pseudonym of Hailey Lind, Juliet penned the Art Lover's Mystery Series with her sister Carolyn, about an ex-art forger trying to go straight by working as a muralist and faux finisher in San Francisco. The first of these, Feint of Art, was nominated for an Agatha Award; Shooting Gallery and Brush with Death were both IMBA bestsellers, and Arsenic and Old Paint is now available from Perseverance Press.
Juliet's Witchcraft Mystery series, about a witch who finally finds a place to fit in when she opens a vintage clothes shop on Haight Street in San Francisco, allows Juliet to indulge yet another interest—the world of witchcraft and the supernatural. Ever since her favorite aunt taught her about reading cards and tea leaves, Juliet has been fascinated with seers, conjurers, and covens from many different cultures and historic traditions. As an anthropologist, the author studied and taught about systems of spirituality, magic, and medicine throughout the world, especially in Latin America. Halloween is by far her favorite holiday.
When not writing, painting, or haranguing her funny but cynical teenaged son, Juliet spends a lot of time restoring her happily haunted house and gardening with Oscar the cat, who ostensibly belongs to the neighbors but won't leave her alone. He started hanging around when Juliet started writing about witches...funny coincidence.
By the time she graduated middle school, the orchards were disappearing and the valley at the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay had become the cradle of the silicon semi-conductor. A man named Steve Jobs was working in his garage in Cupertino, just down the street. Juliet's father advised his daughters to enter the lucrative and soon-to-flourish field of computers.
"Bah" said Juliet, as she went on to major in Latin American Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz (they had, by far, the best parties of any department). Rather than making scads of money in computers, she read, painted, learned Spanish and a little French and Vietnamese, lived in Spain and traveled through Europe, Mexico, and Central America. She had a very good time.
Juliet pursued graduate degrees in Anthropology and Social Work at the State University of New York at Albany, where she published several non-fiction articles on immigration as well as one book-length translation. Fascinated with other cultural systems, she studied the religions, folklore and medical beliefs of peoples around the world, especially in Latin America. Juliet taught the anthropology of health and health care at SUNY-Albany, and worked as an elementary school social worker in upstate New York. She also did field projects in Mexico and Cuba, studied in Spain, Italy, and France, worked on a BBC production in the Philippines, taught English as a second language in San Jose, and learned how to faux finish walls in Princeton, New Jersey. After having a son, moving back to California, and abandoning her half-written dissertation in cultural anthropology, Juliet started painting murals and portraits for a living. She has run her own mural/faux finish design studio in Oakland, across the bay from San Francisco, for more than a decade. She specializes in the aesthetic renovation of historic homes.
Finally, to round out her tour of lucrative careers, Juliet turned to writing. Under the pseudonym of Hailey Lind, Juliet penned the Art Lover's Mystery Series with her sister Carolyn, about an ex-art forger trying to go straight by working as a muralist and faux finisher in San Francisco. The first of these, Feint of Art, was nominated for an Agatha Award; Shooting Gallery and Brush with Death were both IMBA bestsellers, and Arsenic and Old Paint is now available from Perseverance Press.
Juliet's Witchcraft Mystery series, about a witch who finally finds a place to fit in when she opens a vintage clothes shop on Haight Street in San Francisco, allows Juliet to indulge yet another interest—the world of witchcraft and the supernatural. Ever since her favorite aunt taught her about reading cards and tea leaves, Juliet has been fascinated with seers, conjurers, and covens from many different cultures and historic traditions. As an anthropologist, the author studied and taught about systems of spirituality, magic, and medicine throughout the world, especially in Latin America. Halloween is by far her favorite holiday.
When not writing, painting, or haranguing her funny but cynical teenaged son, Juliet spends a lot of time restoring her happily haunted house and gardening with Oscar the cat, who ostensibly belongs to the neighbors but won't leave her alone. He started hanging around when Juliet started writing about witches...funny coincidence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
August 9, 2019
This is one of my favorite paranormal mystery series and this tenth installment was worth the wait, in my opinion. Juliet Blackwell has done a wonderful job of crafting the character of Lily Ivory. Over the course of ten books, the reader has watched Lily grow in both her magic and her relationships. She had gone from solitary witch to building a family and community that supports her and provides her with friendship and love. With this 10th installment, the author continues to develop Lily's magic and her position in the magical community. The mystery element was well done and this book had me hooked from the first chapter. Like every other book in the series, once I crack open the book I just want to devour each page.
I am looking forward to what this author has in store for Lily, Sailor, Oscar and all the other secondary characters as she continues to grow and develop this series. I will definitely be back for more.
I am looking forward to what this author has in store for Lily, Sailor, Oscar and all the other secondary characters as she continues to grow and develop this series. I will definitely be back for more.
June 10, 2019
Lily is a witch living in San Francisco, and owner of the vintage clothing story, Aunt Cora’s Closet. She’s engaged to be married, and looking forward to their handfasting ceremony. But there is a demon in San Francisco threatening the whole city and Lily, along with her grandmother’s visiting coven members, assorted psychics, and voodoo practitioners are working together to save the city. I listened to the earlier books in the series on audio, and enjoyed reading this one in ebook format. One of the things I like about this series is that the author is very familiar with San Francisco, and real places, often unfamiliar, are mentioned. Who knew there was a Bay Bridge Troll? Great San Francisco ambiance and realistic characters make this paranormal series a lot of fun to read.
September 11, 2019
When vintage clothing store owner Lily Ivory stumbles on the uniform of a former prisoner from Alcatraz she knows nothing good can come from it. Then, SFPD inspector Carlos Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, and Lily suspects something dangerous has been unleashed on the ghost-ridden island of Alcatraz.
All this is taking place while Lily is getting ready for her handfasting with her boyfriend, Sailor. There is also an evil force at work in San Francisco, and Lily is ready to take it on, and make sure good comes out on top.
This visit to the magical world of San Francisco is a fantastic tale. Lily is getting ready to join with the love of her life. Helping her to celebrate is her mother, and her mother's coven, visiting from Texas. They are great fun to read about, and I loved how Ms. Blackwell worked them into the story. This series has been building up to the fight against a demonic evil, and the climax of it was perfect. Working in Alcatraz was a great addition to the story, and it made this book a real page turner.
The Witchcraft series is one of my favorites. It is also one that I'd love to reread, and wish I could read again for the first time so I could savor every word.
All this is taking place while Lily is getting ready for her handfasting with her boyfriend, Sailor. There is also an evil force at work in San Francisco, and Lily is ready to take it on, and make sure good comes out on top.
This visit to the magical world of San Francisco is a fantastic tale. Lily is getting ready to join with the love of her life. Helping her to celebrate is her mother, and her mother's coven, visiting from Texas. They are great fun to read about, and I loved how Ms. Blackwell worked them into the story. This series has been building up to the fight against a demonic evil, and the climax of it was perfect. Working in Alcatraz was a great addition to the story, and it made this book a real page turner.
The Witchcraft series is one of my favorites. It is also one that I'd love to reread, and wish I could read again for the first time so I could savor every word.
October 28, 2021
Maya finds an old uniform that belonged to a former prisoner at Alcatraz. Lily can feel vibes from clothing and feels negative energy from the shirt. What follows is a kidnapping (Elena- a NPS employee and Carlos's cousin) in front of Lily's store- in broad daylight. What does this mean?
This is back to the series I've enjoyed. Lily and her magic, her acceptance of it, and her growth, and with her chosen/found family. Front and center are Lily and relationships with Oscar, Maya, Bronwyn, Conrad, Carlos, Aidan. I did enjoy the history of Alcatraz and how certain characters were based on real people. Would be interested in reading/learning more.
My only complaint/issue is Lily and Sailor. I don't get it, I really don't. They don't talk, Sailor keeps secrets. They do finally have the "talk" about kids and other important things which compromise one fucking sentence in this book. It's a longer sentence, I grant you that. But. One. Sentence. I will say for being in "love" I'm not buying it. And this is book 10. Sailor has the least amount of page time. Maya and Bronwyn get more. Seriously.
I am interested in more if the focus continues to be the mystery and her relationships with her chosen family. Unless I suddenly become a Sailor fan, if he becomes a "main" character, I'm done. I. Don't. Get. Them.
This is back to the series I've enjoyed. Lily and her magic, her acceptance of it, and her growth, and with her chosen/found family. Front and center are Lily and relationships with Oscar, Maya, Bronwyn, Conrad, Carlos, Aidan. I did enjoy the history of Alcatraz and how certain characters were based on real people. Would be interested in reading/learning more.
My only complaint/issue is Lily and Sailor. I don't get it, I really don't. They don't talk, Sailor keeps secrets. They do finally have the "talk" about kids and other important things which compromise one fucking sentence in this book. It's a longer sentence, I grant you that. But. One. Sentence. I will say for being in "love" I'm not buying it. And this is book 10. Sailor has the least amount of page time. Maya and Bronwyn get more. Seriously.
I am interested in more if the focus continues to be the mystery and her relationships with her chosen family. Unless I suddenly become a Sailor fan, if he becomes a "main" character, I'm done. I. Don't. Get. Them.
August 8, 2019
I was a bit disappointed..... After all the descriptive lead-up to the epic battle between Lily and Sitri, the climax of the story felt rather anticlimactic. What should've been a nail-biting face-off was in fact vaguely told and rushed. We get to see a lot of Lily feeling inadequate and uncertain about her powers (which would almost guarantee failure in a real situation, and yet she succeeds yet again, because of course she does!), but not much of any ACTUAL battling of the wits between Lily and Sitri. Just, frustrated by the lack of real conflict at the climax of this story. Seems that the author gets to the climax of the story and loses faith in her own writing just as much as Lily loses faith in her magical capabilities.
July 24, 2019
A delightful story. I thoroughly enjoyed the latest A Witchcraft Mystery. Delightful characters and situations. Oscar is a hoot. I will share my review soon.
July 23, 2019
When Maya asked Lily to look at an old Alcatraz prison uniform and see if she can confirm its legitimacy, Lily never expected the uniform to open a can of worms. Not only is the uniform legitimate, but the vibrations are extremely bad, so Lily tones down its energy so that it can go up on display. All seems well until Elena, Carlos Romero’s cousin, is abducted with the uniform in hand. Lily gets investigating and discovers that things are far worse than anyone could’ve imagined. A powerful demon that Lily thought she’d never have to go up against is back and she’s going to need every ally at her back to face him again.
I have been a fan of this series since the first book was published, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the latest installment. While this book isn’t among my favorites of the series, it’s still pretty good. One of the things that I love about this series is that the storytelling is still going strong 10 books in, which is a great accomplishment. It’s not boring and it doesn’t show any signs of starting to falter. If anything, it’s building up and packing more punches than ever.
This time around, Lily becomes involved in a series of mysteries that are all connected to Alcatraz. As a California native, Alcatraz does have a mysterious allure… not that Lily sees it that way. She doesn’t want anything to do with Alcatraz, but fate has other plans for her. Going against every warning bell in her body, Lily stands tall and makes her way to Alcatraz only to discover that an old foe is waiting for her.
I absolutely love that we got to spend some time with Lily’s grandmother, Graciela, and her coven in addition to her mother. I wish that we got to spend more time with them, but there were more important things going on. Graciela and her coven are a trip. I know they’re fictional characters, but I just want to hang out with them. We saw a little less of Lily’s mom but I’m also glad that they’re mending their burnt bridge.
It was also great to see Lily become more involved with Sailor’s family as she gets closer to her handfasting with Sailor. Of course, she and Sailor continue to bicker instead of talking until later in the book. I always wondered how long their relationship will last with the amount of bickering and the lack of serious relationship conversations, so we’ll see how that goes. I did like that they took two steps forward together, which makes me feel more positive about their handfasting. Of course, I still remember when they first got together, much to their surprise, so it is great to see them going somewhat strong.
As always, I’m excited to see where the story will take us next, especially after Lily’s latest showdown with some powerful foes. It was great seeing the supernatural community unite. It’s a glimpse at what is to come and just how powerful Lily and her allies are together.
I have been a fan of this series since the first book was published, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the latest installment. While this book isn’t among my favorites of the series, it’s still pretty good. One of the things that I love about this series is that the storytelling is still going strong 10 books in, which is a great accomplishment. It’s not boring and it doesn’t show any signs of starting to falter. If anything, it’s building up and packing more punches than ever.
This time around, Lily becomes involved in a series of mysteries that are all connected to Alcatraz. As a California native, Alcatraz does have a mysterious allure… not that Lily sees it that way. She doesn’t want anything to do with Alcatraz, but fate has other plans for her. Going against every warning bell in her body, Lily stands tall and makes her way to Alcatraz only to discover that an old foe is waiting for her.
I absolutely love that we got to spend some time with Lily’s grandmother, Graciela, and her coven in addition to her mother. I wish that we got to spend more time with them, but there were more important things going on. Graciela and her coven are a trip. I know they’re fictional characters, but I just want to hang out with them. We saw a little less of Lily’s mom but I’m also glad that they’re mending their burnt bridge.
It was also great to see Lily become more involved with Sailor’s family as she gets closer to her handfasting with Sailor. Of course, she and Sailor continue to bicker instead of talking until later in the book. I always wondered how long their relationship will last with the amount of bickering and the lack of serious relationship conversations, so we’ll see how that goes. I did like that they took two steps forward together, which makes me feel more positive about their handfasting. Of course, I still remember when they first got together, much to their surprise, so it is great to see them going somewhat strong.
As always, I’m excited to see where the story will take us next, especially after Lily’s latest showdown with some powerful foes. It was great seeing the supernatural community unite. It’s a glimpse at what is to come and just how powerful Lily and her allies are together.
June 23, 2019
This book is the tenth book in the series, and it’s still going strong. To be honest, I haven’t read a book in this series in a while, but I had no problems keeping up with everything, a definite plus. I loved all the characters, but I don’t feel I knew Sailor very well, someone I think I would have liked to know better. However, maybe that was just because he didn’t play a huge role in this one. I found the plot interesting, so much so, I’d like to find out more about Alcatraz, maybe even visit there soon. Overall, I really liked this cozish paranormal mystery, and you should definitely give it a try. I highly recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 11, 2023
Another great installment in this cozy mystery series. I was about to give it 3 stars, but then the final 2 chapters were so enthralling, that it bumped it up to a solid 4 stars.
November 22, 2024
Okay book. Didn’t pull me in. I wish the relationship drama was more satisfying. I also wish the story included the spells used more instead of saying things like “mumbled words under my breath” or something like that. The action scene also wasn’t exciting. I did like that it was set in SF which was fun.
September 26, 2019
This series continues to hold the title of Shelley's favorite cozy mystery audiobook series! I liked the Alcatraz stuff, and there was a lot of quality Oscar content, and I especially liked how the wedding was just a little tiny part of the story. I also really appreciate that the author chooses to include a homeless drug user as a positive character () which seems pretty radical for the cozy genre. Go Conrad!
July 25, 2019
This is book 10 in A Witchcraft Mystery series. I have read only 1 previous book in the series. This may be the reason I just didn't love the story. Lily goes to Alcatraz Island and finds the ghost population is rampant. She is in the midst of planning her wedding and isn't sure if it will come off as planned. Many previous characters are in this story. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 12, 2021
This series is like comfort food, and always hits the spot this time of the year. A witch, vintage clothing , community and all things magic. An easy breezy read that feels like a fall Hallmark movie in a book 📚🍁🍂
April 28, 2019
One of my favorite series, and this entry is one of the best.
March 27, 2024
Bewitched and Betrothed continues Juliet Blackwell’s Witchcraft Mystery series that follows Lily Ivory’s journey. Lily has come a long way since she arrived in San Francisco so many books ago, but the mysteries and magic keep on coming! This series has been a delightful read and is one I highly recommend for those wanting a little magic to their cozy mysteries.
Lily and Sailor are in wedding planning mode, or more ceremonial handfasting mode. It’s a more spiritual ceremony and one that is more special for her and Sailor than going through a regular wedding. But naturally, Lily’s plans are halted when something strange happens. When her friend, Maya brings in some old clothes for Lily to sift through for sales, Lily uncovers an old shirt, but what’s particular about this shirt is that it looks like one a prisoner would wear…from a very long time ago, as in Alcatraz!
Yes, Lily has found a shirt that a possible escapee from Alcatraz would have likely been wearing. Of course the question is, did the prisoner survive or was this recovered later on? Blackwell being a nearby resident clearly did her research for these little tidbits and it shows very well. It is decided that Lily will donate the shirt that gives off bad vibes to the Alcatraz park that is the island. Having called the local rangers, one of which is Carlos’ cousin, she readily hands over the shirt with a few cautionary warnings.
But even more shocking is that as the rangers leave, Elena, Carlos’s ranger cousin, is kidnapped along with the shirt. An investigation starts and Lily is eager to help in any way she can, feeling like she should’ve done more about the shirt instead of just handing it over.
Meanwhile other things are happening under the radar in the city. Lily still suspects that Renee the Cupcake Lady is up to something shady that threatens the safety of San Francisco. Lily is also trying to help her gobgoyle familiar, Oscar, help locate his mother who could be hiding anywhere in the world as a gargoyle statue. Through all the chaos Lily remains ever positive and vigilant. She’s a tough person to bring down despite her gentle nature. She’s a force to be reckoned with.
There was still of course a nice sprinkling of romance! After just finishing a set of hardcore romance books, it was nice just to have some casual kisses and more mystery dynamics involved with the plot! I enjoy romance, but I like it as a side element. This one was truly a breath of fresh air after my latest reads.
Mystery wise, I felt like things were good. I didn’t really foresee the whodunnit all that well, but I feel like in the long run, we were meant to be floundering a little for suspects and motives. The answers that we got were logical and sound, perhaps if I remembered more from the previous books, the shock factor would’ve held more effect, but alas my poor memory just had me agreeing with what was presented! Lol.
All in all, Bewitched and Betrothed was a fun and magically delightful read! I always enjoy diving into what I call cozy paranormal reads, ones that are light on the paranormal dynamics but are still clearly apart of the story. This is a fun mystery series too and I always love traveling the streets of San Francisco with Lily and her friends. It’s probably because of these books that the city is on my Bucket List! I highly recommend this to just about any cozy mystery reader as well!
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars
Lily and Sailor are in wedding planning mode, or more ceremonial handfasting mode. It’s a more spiritual ceremony and one that is more special for her and Sailor than going through a regular wedding. But naturally, Lily’s plans are halted when something strange happens. When her friend, Maya brings in some old clothes for Lily to sift through for sales, Lily uncovers an old shirt, but what’s particular about this shirt is that it looks like one a prisoner would wear…from a very long time ago, as in Alcatraz!
Yes, Lily has found a shirt that a possible escapee from Alcatraz would have likely been wearing. Of course the question is, did the prisoner survive or was this recovered later on? Blackwell being a nearby resident clearly did her research for these little tidbits and it shows very well. It is decided that Lily will donate the shirt that gives off bad vibes to the Alcatraz park that is the island. Having called the local rangers, one of which is Carlos’ cousin, she readily hands over the shirt with a few cautionary warnings.
But even more shocking is that as the rangers leave, Elena, Carlos’s ranger cousin, is kidnapped along with the shirt. An investigation starts and Lily is eager to help in any way she can, feeling like she should’ve done more about the shirt instead of just handing it over.
Meanwhile other things are happening under the radar in the city. Lily still suspects that Renee the Cupcake Lady is up to something shady that threatens the safety of San Francisco. Lily is also trying to help her gobgoyle familiar, Oscar, help locate his mother who could be hiding anywhere in the world as a gargoyle statue. Through all the chaos Lily remains ever positive and vigilant. She’s a tough person to bring down despite her gentle nature. She’s a force to be reckoned with.
There was still of course a nice sprinkling of romance! After just finishing a set of hardcore romance books, it was nice just to have some casual kisses and more mystery dynamics involved with the plot! I enjoy romance, but I like it as a side element. This one was truly a breath of fresh air after my latest reads.
Mystery wise, I felt like things were good. I didn’t really foresee the whodunnit all that well, but I feel like in the long run, we were meant to be floundering a little for suspects and motives. The answers that we got were logical and sound, perhaps if I remembered more from the previous books, the shock factor would’ve held more effect, but alas my poor memory just had me agreeing with what was presented! Lol.
All in all, Bewitched and Betrothed was a fun and magically delightful read! I always enjoy diving into what I call cozy paranormal reads, ones that are light on the paranormal dynamics but are still clearly apart of the story. This is a fun mystery series too and I always love traveling the streets of San Francisco with Lily and her friends. It’s probably because of these books that the city is on my Bucket List! I highly recommend this to just about any cozy mystery reader as well!
Overall Rating 4.5/5 stars
July 27, 2019
https://openbooksociety.com/article/b...
Bewitched and Betrothed
Witchcraft Mystery #10
By Juliet Blackwell
ISBN 9780451490612
Author’s website: julietblackwell.net
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
A supernatural force on the loose in San Francisco and a family reunion keeps witch and vintage storeowner Lily Ivory on her toes as she prepares to walk down the aisle…
When Lily Ivory stumbles on the uniform of a former prisoner from Alcatraz and SFPD inspector Carlos Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, Lily suspects something dangerous has been unleashed on the ghost-ridden island of Alcatraz. She’ll have to sleuth out the culprit—when she’s not busy entertaining her visiting relatives and resolving romantic conflicts as her wedding date approaches. Could recent omens be pointing to the magical threat in her adopted city? If so, she’ll have to line up her allies to change the fate of the Bay Area. Because no matter what, Lily’s determined to celebrate her marriage with her friends by her side—even if it means battling a demonic foe before she can make it to the altar.
Review:
Each book in the Witchcraft Series is great fun, and this tenth installment, Bewitched and Betrothed, is the best book yet in the series. Romance, demons, the mystique of Alcatraz, a kidnapping, and an uncertain fate for San Francisco come together to make a quick-moving, entertaining tale.
One of author Juliet Blackwell’s greatest skills is making the paranormal world work seamlessly with the real world, and it all makes sense and feels completely plausible. There is always a great deal of magic involved with the stories, but here it is especially vital. Everywhere one looks, the paranormal is there allowing readers to suspend reality and believe that a cataclysmic event could indeed be due to the battle of good vs. evil. There is much more than the fate of the world at stake – Lily is about to get married, Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, and a decades old mystery needs to be solved.
I like protagonist Lily, and she has grown so much over the course of the series, starting out as a fragile yet tough on the outside loner and becoming the warm, strong witch that she is today surrounded by a supportive community. Getting to know Lily’s grandmother and her coven is a hoot. What a treasure trove of outrageous (in the best way) characters! Sailor is as secretive as ever and Aiden just as enigmatic. Of course, Lily’s familiar Oscar is the real star.
Faithful readers of the series will be delighted with the magical milieu and sequence of events. The tale imparts excitement, suspense, and whimsy throughout. The conclusion is gratifying, and I look forward to many more adventures with Lily and company. Highly recommended to fans of paranormal cozy mysteries.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Bewitched and Betrothed
Witchcraft Mystery #10
By Juliet Blackwell
ISBN 9780451490612
Author’s website: julietblackwell.net
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
A supernatural force on the loose in San Francisco and a family reunion keeps witch and vintage storeowner Lily Ivory on her toes as she prepares to walk down the aisle…
When Lily Ivory stumbles on the uniform of a former prisoner from Alcatraz and SFPD inspector Carlos Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, Lily suspects something dangerous has been unleashed on the ghost-ridden island of Alcatraz. She’ll have to sleuth out the culprit—when she’s not busy entertaining her visiting relatives and resolving romantic conflicts as her wedding date approaches. Could recent omens be pointing to the magical threat in her adopted city? If so, she’ll have to line up her allies to change the fate of the Bay Area. Because no matter what, Lily’s determined to celebrate her marriage with her friends by her side—even if it means battling a demonic foe before she can make it to the altar.
Review:
Each book in the Witchcraft Series is great fun, and this tenth installment, Bewitched and Betrothed, is the best book yet in the series. Romance, demons, the mystique of Alcatraz, a kidnapping, and an uncertain fate for San Francisco come together to make a quick-moving, entertaining tale.
One of author Juliet Blackwell’s greatest skills is making the paranormal world work seamlessly with the real world, and it all makes sense and feels completely plausible. There is always a great deal of magic involved with the stories, but here it is especially vital. Everywhere one looks, the paranormal is there allowing readers to suspend reality and believe that a cataclysmic event could indeed be due to the battle of good vs. evil. There is much more than the fate of the world at stake – Lily is about to get married, Romero’s cousin is kidnapped, and a decades old mystery needs to be solved.
I like protagonist Lily, and she has grown so much over the course of the series, starting out as a fragile yet tough on the outside loner and becoming the warm, strong witch that she is today surrounded by a supportive community. Getting to know Lily’s grandmother and her coven is a hoot. What a treasure trove of outrageous (in the best way) characters! Sailor is as secretive as ever and Aiden just as enigmatic. Of course, Lily’s familiar Oscar is the real star.
Faithful readers of the series will be delighted with the magical milieu and sequence of events. The tale imparts excitement, suspense, and whimsy throughout. The conclusion is gratifying, and I look forward to many more adventures with Lily and company. Highly recommended to fans of paranormal cozy mysteries.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
August 3, 2021
I’ve waited so long to read this book! Lily is back, still trying to finalise the last bits of her wedding/handfasting ceremony for Sailor. Of course, nothing ever goes to plan - her grandmother’s coven is in town creating havoc, she’s having trouble getting in touch with Sailor, Renee the Cupcake Lady is making cupcakes, and to top it all off she gets a shirt which gives off some super dodgy vibes and kicks off some action she REALLY didn’t need this close to the ceremony!
I love all the characters in this book. I really enjoy how areas of San Francisco are mentioned, and I also particularly appreciate how the author incorporates Indigenous stories, histories, and myths into the books. I always know when I pick up one of the Witchcraft Mystery books, I’m going to get a cute read with loads of action and some interesting local information. My other favourite paranormal cozy mystery series (I also highly rate the Haunted Home Renovation series by Juliet Blackwell too).
I love all the characters in this book. I really enjoy how areas of San Francisco are mentioned, and I also particularly appreciate how the author incorporates Indigenous stories, histories, and myths into the books. I always know when I pick up one of the Witchcraft Mystery books, I’m going to get a cute read with loads of action and some interesting local information. My other favourite paranormal cozy mystery series (I also highly rate the Haunted Home Renovation series by Juliet Blackwell too).
July 5, 2020
I love this cast of characters that I have come to know so well, and each one plays a pivotal role in the evil showdown that has now come to San Francisco. Evil is circulating around Alcatraz as the story ramps up for the grand finale. I found myself actually digging into the history of Alcatraz while reading this 10th installment. Alcatraz comes with a very interesting past, which makes it a great setting for the battle of good vs evil, although things may not be as clear cut as good & evil.
I had read somewhere that this may be the last installment of the series, but I see lots of potential for more, if Ms. Blackwell sees fit, and I hope she does. I just love reading these when I’ve had too much of some of the more grisly gritty reads, of which I seem to fill my tbr & read shelves.
I had read somewhere that this may be the last installment of the series, but I see lots of potential for more, if Ms. Blackwell sees fit, and I hope she does. I just love reading these when I’ve had too much of some of the more grisly gritty reads, of which I seem to fill my tbr & read shelves.
July 8, 2020
This series is really fun and I hope it continues - though I really hope Ivy gets past her insecurities and knows her self worth (she's a super kind badass). I'm glad things worked out
November 5, 2023
This story is centered around Alcatraz and a demon coming for Lily, the main character. Lily's relatives are in town for her marriage to Sailor. They and other magical friends help Lily in her fight with the demon and protect San Francisco. The book was an easy read.
July 5, 2019
Will review at www.fantasyliterature.com
January 1, 2020
This is absolutely one of the best series I’ve read. I love how she describes San Francisco, the people, the streets, the food, etc. I can’t wait for the next book to be written.
March 28, 2024
Nice continuation of this series. I do like reading about San Francisco and places I know well.
November 3, 2019
Are there going to be more? As of November 2019 I cant find anything but I've see messages like this on older books nor do I see anywhere saying this is the last one so that means hope.
August 10, 2019
OK I get that San Francisco is a beautiful city. I get the Alcatraz is an interesting tourist destination. What I don't get is why Ms. Blackwell found it necessary to give her readers a history lesson. The book would have been a hundred pages less had she not spent SO MUCH TIME on the history of tourism industry in San Francisco. I understand that she needs to keep her readers reading, but the fight between good and evil has reached the point of absurdity in my opinion. Gone are the lovely (if not somewhat crime ridden) stories that Lily Ivory first embarked upon. Now that she's "Queen of the Realm" it is going to her head and I for one am losing interest. Sorry Ms. Blackwell. I think I'm done.
July 10, 2019
Bewitched and Betrothed, a Witchcraft Mystery #10
by Juliet Blackwell
I'm always excited to see a new Witchcraft Mystery pop up. One of the things that always surprises me about these novels is the seemless way Blackwell is able to switch between the lighthearted doings of Lily and her friends in the dress shop to the heart-pounding terror that Lily often faces in her witchcraft journey. This novel is no exception!
Lily and Sailor's handfasting ceremony is fast approaching and there are still multiple loose ends to tie up. Add to that a feeling of disconnect that seems to be arising between Lily and Sailor, and Lily wonders if he is having second thoughts. Oscar is still hunting for his mother, as well as trying to plan Lily and Sailor's honeymoon -- on which he will be tagging along. Graciela's coven is in town for the handfasting, as is Lily's mother, with whom she has a mixed relationship. And all around San Francisco, things seem to be magically in motion. Maya finds a vintage shirt that appears to have belonged to an inmate of Alcatraz among other items in an elderly woman's attic. The shirt seems possessed of malevolent intent. When it is passed on to the National Park Service Alcatraz Museum, the NPS office who picks it up is kidnapped. Is there magic involved? And Renee the cupcake lady is back in action, conspiring against Aiden and Lily -- has she put herself in thrall to a demon? And is that demon, Sitri, the demon Lily went up against soon after moving to San Francisco? And what's with the "Festival of Felons" event to be held at Alcatraz on the night of the full moon? Ghosts, demons, ancient curses and more lead Lily and friends on a wild ride as they attempt to prevent the coincidentia oppositorium from succeeding.
Great plotting and pacing, good proofing and editing, consistent characters who show growth with each new novel, nice mix of lightheartedness and heart-pounding excitement, coupled with no cliff-hanger ending (although the door is left wide open for the next adventure) are the reason I've kept reading this series through all 10 novels, and why I am already anticipating the next in the series.
by Juliet Blackwell
I'm always excited to see a new Witchcraft Mystery pop up. One of the things that always surprises me about these novels is the seemless way Blackwell is able to switch between the lighthearted doings of Lily and her friends in the dress shop to the heart-pounding terror that Lily often faces in her witchcraft journey. This novel is no exception!
Lily and Sailor's handfasting ceremony is fast approaching and there are still multiple loose ends to tie up. Add to that a feeling of disconnect that seems to be arising between Lily and Sailor, and Lily wonders if he is having second thoughts. Oscar is still hunting for his mother, as well as trying to plan Lily and Sailor's honeymoon -- on which he will be tagging along. Graciela's coven is in town for the handfasting, as is Lily's mother, with whom she has a mixed relationship. And all around San Francisco, things seem to be magically in motion. Maya finds a vintage shirt that appears to have belonged to an inmate of Alcatraz among other items in an elderly woman's attic. The shirt seems possessed of malevolent intent. When it is passed on to the National Park Service Alcatraz Museum, the NPS office who picks it up is kidnapped. Is there magic involved? And Renee the cupcake lady is back in action, conspiring against Aiden and Lily -- has she put herself in thrall to a demon? And is that demon, Sitri, the demon Lily went up against soon after moving to San Francisco? And what's with the "Festival of Felons" event to be held at Alcatraz on the night of the full moon? Ghosts, demons, ancient curses and more lead Lily and friends on a wild ride as they attempt to prevent the coincidentia oppositorium from succeeding.
Great plotting and pacing, good proofing and editing, consistent characters who show growth with each new novel, nice mix of lightheartedness and heart-pounding excitement, coupled with no cliff-hanger ending (although the door is left wide open for the next adventure) are the reason I've kept reading this series through all 10 novels, and why I am already anticipating the next in the series.
April 12, 2022
3.5 Stars
August 18, 2020
Got to chapter 14 and gave up. I really like the author's Haunted Home (and other buildings) series and read most of the books in this series but never felt the same connection.
I have far too many books in my TBR to force myself to finish this. There were several potentially good story lines, but it just never got going strongly in any of them. I never did care for Sailor or Adrian so the marriage part of the plot held no interest for me either.
I have far too many books in my TBR to force myself to finish this. There were several potentially good story lines, but it just never got going strongly in any of them. I never did care for Sailor or Adrian so the marriage part of the plot held no interest for me either.
April 30, 2019
What's more stressful than preparing for your wedding day? While Lily prepares for her upcoming nuptials, she also tries to find a kidnapped woman and stop a demon from rising; not to mention her gobgoyle familiar is trying to plan her honeymoon and the elderly ladies of her grandmother's coven are in town for the wedding sightseeing and getting into mischief.
Lily has her hands full in this excellent installment in the Witchcraft mystery series.
Lily has her hands full in this excellent installment in the Witchcraft mystery series.
July 3, 2019
The Witchcraft Mystery series has been awesome from the start but it's one of those very rare series where each book is better than the previous. Bewitched and Betrothed was no exception!
I absolutely adored everything about it. As usual, it's such a treat to be reunited with Lily and her magical and non-magical friends (but mostly, Oscar), and of course, there's Aunt Cora's Closet, I really wish there was some kind of vintage clothes show like that in my area (even without the supernatural side of things, lol).
I've said it all along but Lily Ivory's books are not ONLY fluff, there's always been some kind of substance behind them and that's part of what makes them special. In this volume, I've learnt a lot about Alcatraz history and it made me feel like picking up a book to learn more about it, and more specifically about the Native American Occupation of the island (I had NEVER heard of it, so thank you Juliet Blackwell).
It was also a special treat for Bewitched and Betrothed to be so closely linked to A Cast-Off Coven as this second volume remains one of my very fave Witchcraft Mystery. I hadn't missed Sitri the demon, but if I have to deal with a demon (even as just a reader, you know) I'd rather it be a familiar one.
I enjoy a good wedding plot so it was really nice to be there for Lily and Sailor's handfasting. The whole ending of the book was so perfect and, well, magical, it kinda felt like a series finale and I REALLY hope that's not the case.
I absolutely adored everything about it. As usual, it's such a treat to be reunited with Lily and her magical and non-magical friends (but mostly, Oscar), and of course, there's Aunt Cora's Closet, I really wish there was some kind of vintage clothes show like that in my area (even without the supernatural side of things, lol).
I've said it all along but Lily Ivory's books are not ONLY fluff, there's always been some kind of substance behind them and that's part of what makes them special. In this volume, I've learnt a lot about Alcatraz history and it made me feel like picking up a book to learn more about it, and more specifically about the Native American Occupation of the island (I had NEVER heard of it, so thank you Juliet Blackwell).
It was also a special treat for Bewitched and Betrothed to be so closely linked to A Cast-Off Coven as this second volume remains one of my very fave Witchcraft Mystery. I hadn't missed Sitri the demon, but if I have to deal with a demon (even as just a reader, you know) I'd rather it be a familiar one.
I enjoy a good wedding plot so it was really nice to be there for Lily and Sailor's handfasting. The whole ending of the book was so perfect and, well, magical, it kinda felt like a series finale and I REALLY hope that's not the case.
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