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Drop Dead Witchy #1
Hex Marks the Spot
Going to Hell is easy. Going back home is a different story. They say you can never go back, and I wish that was the case for me. Returning home is complicated when you’re a necromancer and your hometown is the Most Haunted Town in America. It doesn’t help that your hellhound Chihuahua familiar thinks the place is a dump, and it gets worse when your high school crush is still there and still dead sexy. Literally, as he’s now a ghost. Oh, and did I mention that I have to save the world? Yes, that too.
209 pages, ebook
First published October 19, 2018
110 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Ani Gonzalez
30 books486 followersHi! I write about smart, funny people making out (and finding corpses) in haunted houses. I like ghost stories, chocolate, and sangría.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 2, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in books.
I had so much fun with this story! I just couldn't resist reading this book as soon as I saw it. I just loved the idea behind it but the hellhound chihuahua really sealed the deal. It is a rather short piece so it was a quick read and it really told a big story with a lot of excitement. I am so glad that this book made its way onto my radar because I thought it was really well done.
Claire is the star of a television show that features haunted places and she is a necromancer which works out well. She drives a purple hearse and her hellhound chihuahua, Pookie, is her constant companion. Buying her family home which happens to be possessed and moving back to her hometown shouldn't be a problem, right? Oh, there is also the little issue of her ghostly kind of boyfriend that seems to show up at just the right moments.
I really liked the characters in this book. Claire is tough, smart, and really quite easy to like. I loved the fact that she was able to communicate with her dog, Pookie, and often found myself grinning over their exchanges. Pookie was awesome! I always seem to think that the smallest dogs have the huge personalities and that is definitely the case with Pookie. Cole, the ghostly kind of boyfriend, seemed to fit in perfectly. This isn't a romance at all but it was obvious that Cole cared about Claire and wanted to make sure that she stayed safe.
I thought that the story was pretty entertaining. The same curse that is her home is showing up all over town and it is really dangerous. Getting caught up in what's happening could very easily lead to death so there was plenty of excitement to keep things interesting. A few ghosts that can offer some assistance along with a few other intriguing characters really add to the charm of the story.
I do recommend this story to others. I had a lot of fun with the book and found it to be a really easy read. I wouldn't hesitate to read more of Ani Gonzalez's work in the future especially if Pookie is involved!
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author via Lola's Blog Tours.
Initial Thoughts
This was so much fun! I liked Claire a lot and her Hellhound Chihuahua sidekick, Pookie, was too cute for words. Cole the ghost boyfriend (or not) seemed to pop in at just the right time. The story held my interest and there was enough action to keep everything really interesting. I am really glad that I decided to pick this one up.
I had so much fun with this story! I just couldn't resist reading this book as soon as I saw it. I just loved the idea behind it but the hellhound chihuahua really sealed the deal. It is a rather short piece so it was a quick read and it really told a big story with a lot of excitement. I am so glad that this book made its way onto my radar because I thought it was really well done.
Claire is the star of a television show that features haunted places and she is a necromancer which works out well. She drives a purple hearse and her hellhound chihuahua, Pookie, is her constant companion. Buying her family home which happens to be possessed and moving back to her hometown shouldn't be a problem, right? Oh, there is also the little issue of her ghostly kind of boyfriend that seems to show up at just the right moments.
I really liked the characters in this book. Claire is tough, smart, and really quite easy to like. I loved the fact that she was able to communicate with her dog, Pookie, and often found myself grinning over their exchanges. Pookie was awesome! I always seem to think that the smallest dogs have the huge personalities and that is definitely the case with Pookie. Cole, the ghostly kind of boyfriend, seemed to fit in perfectly. This isn't a romance at all but it was obvious that Cole cared about Claire and wanted to make sure that she stayed safe.
I thought that the story was pretty entertaining. The same curse that is her home is showing up all over town and it is really dangerous. Getting caught up in what's happening could very easily lead to death so there was plenty of excitement to keep things interesting. A few ghosts that can offer some assistance along with a few other intriguing characters really add to the charm of the story.
I do recommend this story to others. I had a lot of fun with the book and found it to be a really easy read. I wouldn't hesitate to read more of Ani Gonzalez's work in the future especially if Pookie is involved!
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author via Lola's Blog Tours.
Initial Thoughts
This was so much fun! I liked Claire a lot and her Hellhound Chihuahua sidekick, Pookie, was too cute for words. Cole the ghost boyfriend (or not) seemed to pop in at just the right time. The story held my interest and there was enough action to keep everything really interesting. I am really glad that I decided to pick this one up.
October 29, 2018
With the book title Hex Marks the Spot and the series title Drop Dead Witchy, I was instantly curious about Ani Gonzalez’s story – and this was before I read the blurb and decided it would be a lot of fun. Thus, I was more than happy to dive into Hex Marks the Spot.
Hex Marks the Spot was a quick read, yet it certainly packs a punch. So much happens throughout, ensuring you’ll be willing to devour the book in a single sitting. Once you start, there is no going back – you’re lost to the story and will power through it until the end. Then, once you read the last work, you will find yourself desperate for the next book. As my introduction to Ani Gonzalez, I can honestly say I’ll be on the lookout for the next Drop Dead Witchy book – and am plenty willing to read the author’s other work.
In truth, if I’m being completely honest, Hex Marks the Spot wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. It was so close that I had to round up, but there were little things that niggled somewhat. Mainly it was the fact this book was labelled a standalone. That is it. However, it is very clear the book is tied in with other work by the author. There were numerous references made that I did not understand, and at times it felt as though I’d jumped into the middle of a series and missed some of the vital world building. It wasn’t so bad to have prevented enjoyment, but there were certainly times when I was at a clear disadvantage.
Despite this, I was capable of enjoying the story. There was so much to get to know, so many things I found myself wanting to know more about. Characters, creatures, events, and the world. Everything interested me, and I was sucked in so deep. In fact, the level of interest I had only made me more desperate to sort out my curiosity by going and giving the other books in the universe a read.
If you’ve read other Ani Gonzalez books, then you’re sure to adore this new addition to the wonderful world she has created. If, like myself, you’re new to Ani Gonzalez, Hex Marks the Spot introduces you to a brilliant world, one you’ll be desperate to find out more about. With a self-contained story, you’ll find yourself reading the end of Hex Marks the Spot with a pleased little smile on your face. As part of something bigger, it certainly leaves you wanting more.
Without a doubt, Hex Marks the Spot has guaranteed I’ll be reading more Ani Gonzalez in the future.
Hex Marks the Spot was a quick read, yet it certainly packs a punch. So much happens throughout, ensuring you’ll be willing to devour the book in a single sitting. Once you start, there is no going back – you’re lost to the story and will power through it until the end. Then, once you read the last work, you will find yourself desperate for the next book. As my introduction to Ani Gonzalez, I can honestly say I’ll be on the lookout for the next Drop Dead Witchy book – and am plenty willing to read the author’s other work.
In truth, if I’m being completely honest, Hex Marks the Spot wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. It was so close that I had to round up, but there were little things that niggled somewhat. Mainly it was the fact this book was labelled a standalone. That is it. However, it is very clear the book is tied in with other work by the author. There were numerous references made that I did not understand, and at times it felt as though I’d jumped into the middle of a series and missed some of the vital world building. It wasn’t so bad to have prevented enjoyment, but there were certainly times when I was at a clear disadvantage.
Despite this, I was capable of enjoying the story. There was so much to get to know, so many things I found myself wanting to know more about. Characters, creatures, events, and the world. Everything interested me, and I was sucked in so deep. In fact, the level of interest I had only made me more desperate to sort out my curiosity by going and giving the other books in the universe a read.
If you’ve read other Ani Gonzalez books, then you’re sure to adore this new addition to the wonderful world she has created. If, like myself, you’re new to Ani Gonzalez, Hex Marks the Spot introduces you to a brilliant world, one you’ll be desperate to find out more about. With a self-contained story, you’ll find yourself reading the end of Hex Marks the Spot with a pleased little smile on your face. As part of something bigger, it certainly leaves you wanting more.
Without a doubt, Hex Marks the Spot has guaranteed I’ll be reading more Ani Gonzalez in the future.
December 10, 2021
I was granted complimentary access to Hex Marks the Spot in conjunction with Lola's Blog Tours. Thank you to all involved in affording me this opportunity! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
Honestly, I think the only thing I need to tell you to spark interest in this book is "hellhound chihuahua." I'll elaborate by commenting that he's extremely sassy!
We've got small-town politics, a classic hoaky paranormal investigating TV show that the crew and producers think is fake but a ton of it's actually real, and that plucky little pocket-sized hellhound named Pookie. Yes, Pookie. Hex Marks the Spot is a effortlessly comical short read and it really does its job as book one of a series well. I absolutely must know was Claire and Pookie are going to get up to next!
If you like paranormal mysteries that aren't too straight-laced, this is a must read!
Honestly, I think the only thing I need to tell you to spark interest in this book is "hellhound chihuahua." I'll elaborate by commenting that he's extremely sassy!
We've got small-town politics, a classic hoaky paranormal investigating TV show that the crew and producers think is fake but a ton of it's actually real, and that plucky little pocket-sized hellhound named Pookie. Yes, Pookie. Hex Marks the Spot is a effortlessly comical short read and it really does its job as book one of a series well. I absolutely must know was Claire and Pookie are going to get up to next!
If you like paranormal mysteries that aren't too straight-laced, this is a must read!
January 14, 2020
I'm a bit conflicted with this book. Which is why it took longer to read than it should have. I liked it and I didn't like it. Ya know when you go to the movies to see an action film....it's all style and no substance...lots of flash and really no actual plot and story. A Popcorn Flick! Well, this was like a Popcorn Book! The idea is pretty cool but there really isn't much substance behind it. There isn't much of a story or plot. For one the beginning of the book feels like there should have been other books you read before hand but I couldn't find them if it's the case. There is nothing worse than feeling like you've started something in the middle and missed all the explanation. There is no explanation in this book. The end is quick and makes the things that happen before hand seem pointless and only the epilogue has any bit of information on why some things happened but not enough to really satisfy.
I liked the characters, especially Pookie, and I liked the fun of the book but I'm disappointed there was no actual decent story telling. That's a bad thing for a book. I'd probably be willing to read more but that's the same as me saying I've watched all the Transformers movies.....they entertain me even though their bad.
I liked the characters, especially Pookie, and I liked the fun of the book but I'm disappointed there was no actual decent story telling. That's a bad thing for a book. I'd probably be willing to read more but that's the same as me saying I've watched all the Transformers movies.....they entertain me even though their bad.
November 28, 2023
Lizard: 4⋆.
Wombat: 2⋆.
Overall: 3⋆.
Wombat: 2⋆.
Overall: 3⋆.
December 20, 2018
Paranormal Meets Small Town in the latest series opener from the Banshee Creek world. After all the build up percolating in the background of the rest of the Banshee Creek books and connected series, we finally get to see where all those ominous warnings were leading and it seems it will take a Necromancer, her demon chihuahua familiar, her ghost high school crush, and a band of paranormals who are more than they seem to defeat the big bad.
Oh yep, you read that last sentence right. This is Banshee Creek after all where a gal coming back to her small town roots encounters a spiritual trap on her old ancestral home that summons monster squid from another dimension, that brings an encounter with her high school crush enjoying his afterlife as the spirit protector of his home town, and the PRoVE folks turning out to be a bit of something more than the paranormal fanatics and science types the world things they are.
But, its all hands on deck when someone is deliberately summoning monsters from another dimension and a mysterious cult seems to be operating in the background and behind the summons. The death count is rising and world-weary necromancer, Claire Delacourt, must step up and take the mantle for the family legacy of fighting what goes thump in the night and threatens the world.
Right away, I enjoyed having Claire as the heroine and sole narrator of the story. She had a hard time of it as a kid and teen when she was the freak who saw ghosts and danger in every shadow, but now she's a famous TV personality and has her own ghost hunter show though her demon chihuahua partner, Pookie gets the most fan mail. Behind the scenes, they aren't just playing it up for the camera, but work as a team to kill the dangerous paranormals lurking and dangerous to people. She has come into her own and is no longer that unsure girl who didn't fit in. She is a powerful and confident fighter. Oh, she's not invulnerable and can be injured and even questions how she can defeat these inter dimensional Lovecraft-esque monsters just as she isn't as indifferent as she claims about being around Cole again even in ghost form, but she's the tough gal now and owns the quirks of being the creepy gal who sees and chats with ghosts.
I enjoyed seeing Cole Hunt finally step out of the background for a much bigger role. He was always that character in the epilogues and last pages of the other stories whom readers knew was orchestrating things in Banshee Creek though oh so mysterious. His preparations now make better sense. He may be a ghost, but the man who died a soldier and protector is here still fighting on the front lines and protecting. He's a great sidekick and help to Claire who still gets flustered around him. I enjoyed having both Cole and Pookie as Claire's back up.
What a fun twist PRoVE turned out to be! All this time I thought they were harmless paranormies.... They were always responsible for some of the funniest scenes in the earlier books, but now, I can't wait to see what comes of this new reality that group will bring for the series.
The main mystery of who was opening the gates to let the monsters through and killing or attempting to kill specific people in Banshee Creek is answered, but the overarching issue caused by the increase in power and magic that is returning to the world is left open. I look forward to seeing what comes next for Claire and everyone as their next challenge comes to them.
Hex Marks the Spot does begin a brand new series and I think newcomers who love Urban Fantasy can start here with little difficulty, but might have a mild sense that there were earlier stories.
It is part of the Banshee Creek world of books that began with the Banshee Creek series, then the Main Street Witches were released with the Ghost Hunters After Dark short stories mixed in there, and then these were followed by the Magical Curiosity Shoppe series of short stories.
All these introduce the town and many of its residents including the ghosts that are mentioned as background characters in this new book.
Oh yep, you read that last sentence right. This is Banshee Creek after all where a gal coming back to her small town roots encounters a spiritual trap on her old ancestral home that summons monster squid from another dimension, that brings an encounter with her high school crush enjoying his afterlife as the spirit protector of his home town, and the PRoVE folks turning out to be a bit of something more than the paranormal fanatics and science types the world things they are.
But, its all hands on deck when someone is deliberately summoning monsters from another dimension and a mysterious cult seems to be operating in the background and behind the summons. The death count is rising and world-weary necromancer, Claire Delacourt, must step up and take the mantle for the family legacy of fighting what goes thump in the night and threatens the world.
Right away, I enjoyed having Claire as the heroine and sole narrator of the story. She had a hard time of it as a kid and teen when she was the freak who saw ghosts and danger in every shadow, but now she's a famous TV personality and has her own ghost hunter show though her demon chihuahua partner, Pookie gets the most fan mail. Behind the scenes, they aren't just playing it up for the camera, but work as a team to kill the dangerous paranormals lurking and dangerous to people. She has come into her own and is no longer that unsure girl who didn't fit in. She is a powerful and confident fighter. Oh, she's not invulnerable and can be injured and even questions how she can defeat these inter dimensional Lovecraft-esque monsters just as she isn't as indifferent as she claims about being around Cole again even in ghost form, but she's the tough gal now and owns the quirks of being the creepy gal who sees and chats with ghosts.
I enjoyed seeing Cole Hunt finally step out of the background for a much bigger role. He was always that character in the epilogues and last pages of the other stories whom readers knew was orchestrating things in Banshee Creek though oh so mysterious. His preparations now make better sense. He may be a ghost, but the man who died a soldier and protector is here still fighting on the front lines and protecting. He's a great sidekick and help to Claire who still gets flustered around him. I enjoyed having both Cole and Pookie as Claire's back up.
What a fun twist PRoVE turned out to be! All this time I thought they were harmless paranormies.... They were always responsible for some of the funniest scenes in the earlier books, but now, I can't wait to see what comes of this new reality that group will bring for the series.
The main mystery of who was opening the gates to let the monsters through and killing or attempting to kill specific people in Banshee Creek is answered, but the overarching issue caused by the increase in power and magic that is returning to the world is left open. I look forward to seeing what comes next for Claire and everyone as their next challenge comes to them.
Hex Marks the Spot does begin a brand new series and I think newcomers who love Urban Fantasy can start here with little difficulty, but might have a mild sense that there were earlier stories.
It is part of the Banshee Creek world of books that began with the Banshee Creek series, then the Main Street Witches were released with the Ghost Hunters After Dark short stories mixed in there, and then these were followed by the Magical Curiosity Shoppe series of short stories.
All these introduce the town and many of its residents including the ghosts that are mentioned as background characters in this new book.
October 2, 2019
3 Lime Green Slime Tentacles Stars
Hex Marks The Spot is the first book in the Drop Dead Witchy series by Ani Gonzalez.
I’m a little upset here. About the disparities between the PRoVE we’ve seen in all of her previous Banshee Creek related novels, and the one introduced to us here. If this is the truth behind PRoVE, why the frack does nobody in their freaking town know!?! EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM IS PRACTICALLY A MYTH BUSTER. UGHH!
I was so excited for this book, and that kind of crushed my excitement to smithereens. I still really loved Claire and her hellhound chihuahua sidekick Pookie. As well as more Cole Hunt. Why can’t a necromancer date an oddly corporeal ghost that smells like s’mores?
Hex Marks The Spot is the first book in the Drop Dead Witchy series by Ani Gonzalez.
I’m a little upset here. About the disparities between the PRoVE we’ve seen in all of her previous Banshee Creek related novels, and the one introduced to us here. If this is the truth behind PRoVE, why the frack does nobody in their freaking town know!?! EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM IS PRACTICALLY A MYTH BUSTER. UGHH!
I was so excited for this book, and that kind of crushed my excitement to smithereens. I still really loved Claire and her hellhound chihuahua sidekick Pookie. As well as more Cole Hunt. Why can’t a necromancer date an oddly corporeal ghost that smells like s’mores?
November 29, 2021
RATING:
3.5 STARS
After reading the words “pet hellhound chihuahua” in the blurb, I knew I had to read this book. By day, Claire is the star of a haunted house television show. Her real job, however, is working as a necromancer who deals with nasty things like possessions. Her latest job, dealing with her family’s ancestral home, ends up proving more challenging than she anticipated. I would recommend Ani Gonzales’ Hex Marks the Spot and the Drop Dead Witchy series to paranormal romance and urban fantasy readers who are looking for something quick and humorous.
The characters were the star attraction of the book. I loved the hellhound masquerading as a chihuahua. Pookie is super sarcastic, and one of my favorite characters in the book by far. I’ve decided that I will be reading any future books he appears in. One of my favorite Pookie-related quotes is, “You are an immortal being projecting an illusory earthly avatar,” I responded reasonably. “You don’t need bacon.” I was also quite amused by Claire’s somewhat love interest Cole (who is a somewhat powerful ghost and has impeccable timing during some of the key scenes in the book).
The storyline was entertaining and exciting. I enjoyed seeing the little trio of Claire, Pookie, and Cole work on discovering how to fix the curse that seems to have spread from Claire’s home to the rest of the house. The scenes with the ghostly informants were also fun. However, I struggled to connect to the worldbuilding and the Banshee Creek setting. Until starting the book, I didn’t realize that this was connected to Ms. Gonzales’ other books in the Banshee Creek universe. There were some references that readers who are not familiar with her earlier books may not understand and they will subsequently end up at a disadvantage. For a more in-depth reading experience, I would recommend starting at the very first book in the Banshee Creek universe (which I believe is Must Love Ghosts). If you don’t mind missing a couple of details and you would prefer starting from one of the spin-off series, I would recommend this one over the Main Street Witches (that series was much harder to understand without the background of the previous series in my opinion).
Thank you to the author and Lola’s Blog Tours for the complimentary review copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed Hex Marks the Spot; all opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
After reading the words “pet hellhound chihuahua” in the blurb, I knew I had to read this book. By day, Claire is the star of a haunted house television show. Her real job, however, is working as a necromancer who deals with nasty things like possessions. Her latest job, dealing with her family’s ancestral home, ends up proving more challenging than she anticipated. I would recommend Ani Gonzales’ Hex Marks the Spot and the Drop Dead Witchy series to paranormal romance and urban fantasy readers who are looking for something quick and humorous.
The characters were the star attraction of the book. I loved the hellhound masquerading as a chihuahua. Pookie is super sarcastic, and one of my favorite characters in the book by far. I’ve decided that I will be reading any future books he appears in. One of my favorite Pookie-related quotes is, “You are an immortal being projecting an illusory earthly avatar,” I responded reasonably. “You don’t need bacon.” I was also quite amused by Claire’s somewhat love interest Cole (who is a somewhat powerful ghost and has impeccable timing during some of the key scenes in the book).
The storyline was entertaining and exciting. I enjoyed seeing the little trio of Claire, Pookie, and Cole work on discovering how to fix the curse that seems to have spread from Claire’s home to the rest of the house. The scenes with the ghostly informants were also fun. However, I struggled to connect to the worldbuilding and the Banshee Creek setting. Until starting the book, I didn’t realize that this was connected to Ms. Gonzales’ other books in the Banshee Creek universe. There were some references that readers who are not familiar with her earlier books may not understand and they will subsequently end up at a disadvantage. For a more in-depth reading experience, I would recommend starting at the very first book in the Banshee Creek universe (which I believe is Must Love Ghosts). If you don’t mind missing a couple of details and you would prefer starting from one of the spin-off series, I would recommend this one over the Main Street Witches (that series was much harder to understand without the background of the previous series in my opinion).
Thank you to the author and Lola’s Blog Tours for the complimentary review copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed Hex Marks the Spot; all opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
October 22, 2018
Hex marks the Spot is a run read written by Ani Gonzalez. I really enjoyed this book a lot. I have actually read a few books written by this author and she never disappoints. This book had a little bit of a more sinister twist to it then her other books and I really liked that a lot about it! The pace is a string of constant things happening, which never leaves you bored but also does not rush you through the story. It keeps you glued to the pages and much too soon the book is over. There were some nice twists in this "whose done it" which were very well developed.
I really enjoyed Claire, our main character, and even more that she was a character we don't really read about, a necromancer. She is accompanied by a fun little sidekick Pookie, who is not who you think he is which makes it even more fun.
Even though this book is set in Banshee Creek and is somewhat part of a series, it is pretty much a stand alone book, you just recognize some characters from some of the other books that are also set in this quaint little town.
I for one am sure I will read more books that I am sure this author will write in the future!
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
I really enjoyed Claire, our main character, and even more that she was a character we don't really read about, a necromancer. She is accompanied by a fun little sidekick Pookie, who is not who you think he is which makes it even more fun.
Even though this book is set in Banshee Creek and is somewhat part of a series, it is pretty much a stand alone book, you just recognize some characters from some of the other books that are also set in this quaint little town.
I for one am sure I will read more books that I am sure this author will write in the future!
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
October 24, 2018
The traps and how to neutralise them
A great read but please note that this is only 88% of the page count. It doesn't really answer who set the traps only who fed them. Perhaps all will become clear in the next book. Some minor proofing errors but a satisfying read. The characters are great from the loud, opinionated Poole to the strong but not silent hero. Although he does tend to disappear at the most inopportune times. He is a ghost after all.
She is going to buy the old family mansion. Okay it does have it's drawbacks. Namely the octopus that tries to kill her. As well as traps that her blood sets off to call more to attack her. Worse there have been a number of deaths and all of these have had books with the octopus symbol on them by the bodies. With the aid of her hellhound, her ghostly ex-boyfriend and a number of ghosts (including a long dead member of her family) they start to try to pinpoint who and how. The only clue they have is that the caster is human. More deaths and attacks happen. It's not until they stop for their favourite pizza that they gain a clue that might help. Will it aid them in beating this threat and finding the person who is setting the traps and triggering them.
A great read but please note that this is only 88% of the page count. It doesn't really answer who set the traps only who fed them. Perhaps all will become clear in the next book. Some minor proofing errors but a satisfying read. The characters are great from the loud, opinionated Poole to the strong but not silent hero. Although he does tend to disappear at the most inopportune times. He is a ghost after all.
She is going to buy the old family mansion. Okay it does have it's drawbacks. Namely the octopus that tries to kill her. As well as traps that her blood sets off to call more to attack her. Worse there have been a number of deaths and all of these have had books with the octopus symbol on them by the bodies. With the aid of her hellhound, her ghostly ex-boyfriend and a number of ghosts (including a long dead member of her family) they start to try to pinpoint who and how. The only clue they have is that the caster is human. More deaths and attacks happen. It's not until they stop for their favourite pizza that they gain a clue that might help. Will it aid them in beating this threat and finding the person who is setting the traps and triggering them.
December 5, 2021
Hex Marks The Spot is such a wonderful, funny and magical read! I loved it and couldn't put it down. It has it all, necromancer magic, vampires, ghosts, demons and so much more.
Claire is a necromancer, a witch that deals with the dead and the star of her television show where she visits and films haunted places. She has moved back to her home town of Banshee Creek and is in the process of purchasing her family home, The Delacourt Manor. The only problem is that she can't move in because there is a creature that can kill her inside. She is trying to work with and at the same time get information from PRoVE, a government paranormal agency. Then there is dealing with ghosts like her dead, hot high school crush and her hundreds of years old aunt. There is so much other paranormal things going on in the story too.
I loved all the characters, especially Claire, Pookie, Honoria and Cole. Pookie made me laugh so much throughout the story and Honoria reminded me of being a teenager. The story had me pulled in from the first page to the end. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend reading it!
Claire is a necromancer, a witch that deals with the dead and the star of her television show where she visits and films haunted places. She has moved back to her home town of Banshee Creek and is in the process of purchasing her family home, The Delacourt Manor. The only problem is that she can't move in because there is a creature that can kill her inside. She is trying to work with and at the same time get information from PRoVE, a government paranormal agency. Then there is dealing with ghosts like her dead, hot high school crush and her hundreds of years old aunt. There is so much other paranormal things going on in the story too.
I loved all the characters, especially Claire, Pookie, Honoria and Cole. Pookie made me laugh so much throughout the story and Honoria reminded me of being a teenager. The story had me pulled in from the first page to the end. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend reading it!
September 14, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring by more than 0.50 of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
3.5*
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
3.5*
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
October 27, 2018
Another intriguing strand of the Banshee Creek weirdness! We met Claire during the Christmas Bake off shenanigans. Now she is settling back into town full time, having had the old family manor dumped on her. It's infested with all sorts of icky weirdness and anytime she sets foot in it, it basically tries to kill her! Oh and did I say there are gnomes. lots of gnomes?
Pookie, the demon trapped in the chihuahua body, also returns with his wisecracking, badassery LOL. Then of course there is Cole. The dead, very solid like ghost who seems to be bound to the town as its new protector. But he an Claire have a past and I can't help but wonder. Is he really dead or just trapped between dimensions or something? Cos I really want him to have a HEA!!!
Claire finally embraces all her sword wielding, Xena-wannabeness and I can see her and Cole putting the town to rights. Wonderfully snarky humour and banter and I loved finding out that PROVE may not just be a bunch of cooky nutters after all!
Pookie, the demon trapped in the chihuahua body, also returns with his wisecracking, badassery LOL. Then of course there is Cole. The dead, very solid like ghost who seems to be bound to the town as its new protector. But he an Claire have a past and I can't help but wonder. Is he really dead or just trapped between dimensions or something? Cos I really want him to have a HEA!!!
Claire finally embraces all her sword wielding, Xena-wannabeness and I can see her and Cole putting the town to rights. Wonderfully snarky humour and banter and I loved finding out that PROVE may not just be a bunch of cooky nutters after all!
November 8, 2021
Claire was a necromancer & she returned to her haunted home town to film a TV show. She purchased her home that was also the home to all her deceased ancestors. The home was falling apart. While in the yard, she was attacked by a slimy like of goo that resembles a octopus. Her magic was useless as was her hellhounds.
Suddenly, a sword appears, a gift from Cole, her "boyfriend" from high school. Cole is a ghost, His purpose is to protect the town.
All around town sigils appears & when broken by human blood the paranormal octopi appear, ready to kill.
ProVe is a government agency that all paranormal entities have to register with. They also investigate deaths of the paranormal that are happening in the town.
This book is appropriate for all age levels, there is no sex. No editing errors that I saw. I had a lot of fun reading this book, there are two other books that follow this one. There were quite a few giggles and chuckles, it was good old clean fun.
Suddenly, a sword appears, a gift from Cole, her "boyfriend" from high school. Cole is a ghost, His purpose is to protect the town.
All around town sigils appears & when broken by human blood the paranormal octopi appear, ready to kill.
ProVe is a government agency that all paranormal entities have to register with. They also investigate deaths of the paranormal that are happening in the town.
This book is appropriate for all age levels, there is no sex. No editing errors that I saw. I had a lot of fun reading this book, there are two other books that follow this one. There were quite a few giggles and chuckles, it was good old clean fun.
January 9, 2019
In this novel we have another version of the witch plus a odd familiar, in this case a demon chihuahua. Claire is the witch and she has a television show along the lines of ghost hunter-type shows. There are, indeed, various ghosts involved in the story.
There is some kind of Lovecraftian tentacled monster that is the villain of the story. Her task, of course, is to somehow track down where the monster might appear and defeat it. The ghosts and her demon hellhound chihuahua will be helping. There's also a special sword and a pizza store that prove important.
It's sort of an unusual story of this type and it does have its moments but I have been reading better stories of this type lately. I found the ghosts more interesting than the main character. The story is like trying to meld Lovecraft with present-day television and I think it just doesn't really work.
There is some kind of Lovecraftian tentacled monster that is the villain of the story. Her task, of course, is to somehow track down where the monster might appear and defeat it. The ghosts and her demon hellhound chihuahua will be helping. There's also a special sword and a pizza store that prove important.
It's sort of an unusual story of this type and it does have its moments but I have been reading better stories of this type lately. I found the ghosts more interesting than the main character. The story is like trying to meld Lovecraft with present-day television and I think it just doesn't really work.
October 21, 2018
I read this when it was part of the limited edition 'Shadow Files'. I enjoy every installment that features Banshee Creek; what a collection of characters, even a studly ghost! Claire Delacourt has returned (been summoned?) back to her home town as the paranormal is becoming stronger and more dangerous in Banshee Creek. Clair is a necromancer: she can see and hear the dead. Oh, and her pet is a hellhound cursed into the form of a Chihuahua. Talking variety, of course. (If ‘Supernatural’ can have a Yorkie hellhound, why not?) The studly ghost is Claire’s crush from High School, who is now a warrior in the coming war against evil. The Banshee Creek stories are full of well-drawn people and situations, I highly recommend them all, and I can’t wait for the next one!
October 23, 2018
If you've read anything from this author you are probably familiar with Banshee Creek. Well, this is book 1 in a new series still set in Banshee Creek that include some of the same characters. So it's both new & familiar at the same time. I genuinely love the humour that flows through these stories & the fun that you find in each book keep me coming back for more. This was originally part of a compilation box set with other authors but I'm so pleased that it's now out on it's own. As you would expect, there is suspense, thrills & humour not all of which comes from the human inhabitants. This story moves along nicely with always something happening but never feeling rushed. I loved it!
November 3, 2018
I really enjoyed this one, and I honestly had no idea who was placing the hexes so the end was pretty surprising. Claire was an interesting character, and I really loved her interactions with the dog and Cole. Although part of me feels like I am missing something with Cole. Most likely because I have not read all of the books. In the books I have read, Cole was glimpsed here and there and did have some kind of influence on outcomes, but is a big presence in this one. I'm actually looking forward to all three of them in future books.
Of all of the books I have read so far, this is by far my favorite. Pookie is a really weird name for a dog, especially one as smart and sarcastic as this one.
Of all of the books I have read so far, this is by far my favorite. Pookie is a really weird name for a dog, especially one as smart and sarcastic as this one.
October 23, 2018
I really enjoyed the Banshee Creek series, and this is a great continuation of that world. And there's some sparks of romantic interest :p
As in Claire's show, Pookie is the star of it all. And while the mystery is interesting enough, the real enjoyment of this read for me came with all the little details of folks meet in other stories being given more depth. I'm certainly looking at the PRoVE folks a lot differently thanks to this read. All in all this read hits a sweet spot of blending the familiar with new so that anyone new to the Banshee Creek world won't feel like they're missing any needed details.
*I'm a lucky fish and got a review copy of the read from a blog tour*
As in Claire's show, Pookie is the star of it all. And while the mystery is interesting enough, the real enjoyment of this read for me came with all the little details of folks meet in other stories being given more depth. I'm certainly looking at the PRoVE folks a lot differently thanks to this read. All in all this read hits a sweet spot of blending the familiar with new so that anyone new to the Banshee Creek world won't feel like they're missing any needed details.
*I'm a lucky fish and got a review copy of the read from a blog tour*
October 25, 2018
This was a great book. Claire and her demon dog Pooky are quite entertaining. Especially Pooky.
Claire is trying to move her base of operations to her old family home in Banshee Creek but it isn't working out.
The house has a curse on it against her and tries to kill her. She has to figure who, what and how to get it off. But the curse isn't just on her house, it's in several places in town. She needs more help to figure it out so Caine and PROVE is in it to.
This book comes out to box with drama and doesn't stop until it ends. I loved it.
I voluntarily agreed to review this book. My review is my own honest opinion.
Claire is trying to move her base of operations to her old family home in Banshee Creek but it isn't working out.
The house has a curse on it against her and tries to kill her. She has to figure who, what and how to get it off. But the curse isn't just on her house, it's in several places in town. She needs more help to figure it out so Caine and PROVE is in it to.
This book comes out to box with drama and doesn't stop until it ends. I loved it.
I voluntarily agreed to review this book. My review is my own honest opinion.
October 30, 2018
Great story, eagerly waiting on the next one!
This may be the first story in this series, but all of the Banshee Creek stories are linked, which makes for great world and character development. This story is so much fun and follows Claire,a necromancer, and Pookie, her sarcastic hellhound chihuahua, as they try to solve a mystery in surrounding her abandoned family manor. The story is written well and as always, sheds a little more light on the overall enigma that is Banshee Creek!!!!
This may be the first story in this series, but all of the Banshee Creek stories are linked, which makes for great world and character development. This story is so much fun and follows Claire,a necromancer, and Pookie, her sarcastic hellhound chihuahua, as they try to solve a mystery in surrounding her abandoned family manor. The story is written well and as always, sheds a little more light on the overall enigma that is Banshee Creek!!!!
October 28, 2021
Ani Gonzalez's books just keep getting better! The first in the Drop Dead Witchy series is no exception.
Although it is it's own series, it builds on what went before and runs with it, with page turning results. The storyline is fast paced and imaginative, featuring many of the Banshee Creek characters we have come to love. The underlying events that have been building since the first Banshee Creek book provide a tension that promises to keep readers entertained for many books to come.
This installment is well written and action packed. I can't wait for the next one!
Although it is it's own series, it builds on what went before and runs with it, with page turning results. The storyline is fast paced and imaginative, featuring many of the Banshee Creek characters we have come to love. The underlying events that have been building since the first Banshee Creek book provide a tension that promises to keep readers entertained for many books to come.
This installment is well written and action packed. I can't wait for the next one!
October 21, 2018
The necromancer with a TV show, the hellhound who looked like a chihuahua, the hunky ghost, the demon's house, the ritual sword, and the paranormal investigators get together and give the readers an enjoyable afternoon. If you haven't been to Banshee Creek before you'll still have a lot of laughs, but beware, because you'll definitely want to read more about its very unusual citizens! I'm so glad to have a new installment!
October 8, 2019
I love Banshee Creek!!!!
I am permanently hooked on this series. When I read the book with Claire has a good judge I didn’t like her but this book had changed my mind. I adore Pookie. I liked that you gave Cole a bigger piece of the story.
I am going to tell all my fiends about these books.
Thank you Ani for writing a great series and please don’t stop.
Sincerely,
A like time fan
I am permanently hooked on this series. When I read the book with Claire has a good judge I didn’t like her but this book had changed my mind. I adore Pookie. I liked that you gave Cole a bigger piece of the story.
I am going to tell all my fiends about these books.
Thank you Ani for writing a great series and please don’t stop.
Sincerely,
A like time fan
October 28, 2019
This is definitely one of those series you read after the originals, but it is kick butt good, and gives Banshee Creek a new spin. It's a bit more serious and darker, or at least as dark as Ms. Gonzalez gets, but with much of the same humor that keeps me coming back. Featuring more action than romance, but with a tantalizing hint at it in the future. I will gladly read every one of these books i can get my hands on!
April 18, 2020
This is back to Banshee Creek, but a real departure from Banshee Creek and the Main Street Witches. It was less warm and fuzzy and happiness and light. But demon Chihuahua! I mean, really ... how could one resist?! There is information here that is not included in the other series. I wasn't sure if this is an alternate reality, or things were never as they seemed. I enjoyed the book and look forward to book 2.
November 14, 2018
I really liked this story. It had a good combination of interesting characters, action, mystery, and funny banter. While it reads as a stand-alone, we got to revisit some of the "old" characters from the Banshee Creek Town stories and it further developed the interconnecting plot line. I´m really curious about what awaits us next :)
December 4, 2018
Hex Marks the Spot is a fun, paranormal read. The characters are funny down to the sassy hellhound in chihuahua form. Claire is smart with a penchant for trouble. The story is light and fast paced and I love the Supernatural references (always a win). Ghostly boy"friends" and evil octopuses spice up an entertainingly fast paced read.
February 14, 2021
I really liked this book as it was an alternate world view of Banshee Creek but not a revamped story.
I would like more of these (as long as they are not just revamped books of the original series's)but think the author has abandoned the series as it has been nearly 3 years since this was published.
I would like more of these (as long as they are not just revamped books of the original series's)but think the author has abandoned the series as it has been nearly 3 years since this was published.
October 3, 2023
You have got to be kidding me!
This really shouldn't work, a mix of Buffy Charmed Scooby Doo and pretty much every other paranormal book film and tv show throw in Hammer horror movie posters as a magical ward tons of humor and even a budding ghost/human romance it's absolutely crazy but it's brilliant can't wait to read more, Baz.
This really shouldn't work, a mix of Buffy Charmed Scooby Doo and pretty much every other paranormal book film and tv show throw in Hammer horror movie posters as a magical ward tons of humor and even a budding ghost/human romance it's absolutely crazy but it's brilliant can't wait to read more, Baz.
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