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A Wiccan Wheel Mystery #6
Autumn Alibi
After a hectic year, Edindale, Illinois, attorney Keli Milanni is ready to welcome autumn by counting her many blessings. But a case of murder could cause her to fall behind . . .
Keli is hoping that Mabon, the Wiccan Autumn Equinox, will bring balance back into her life. But it’s death that comes calling when she’s asked to consult on an estate case. Recently passed, Elaine Turnbull left everything, including her valuable art and antiques collection, to her granddaughter, Lana. But Lana has been missing for years, ever since a tragedy tore her family apart. Also missing may be Elaine’s most recent will. Then there’s the not-so-small detail that Elaine’s death by natural causes may not have been so natural after all . . .
With the help of her boyfriend Wes, who knew Lana in high school, Keli starts digging into Elaine’s past—and her journals. Soon she discovers that everyone, from Elaine’s caretaker to her curator, had a motive for murder—along with a seemingly rock-solid alibi. Between missing people, missing documents, a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense she’s being stalked, Keli is feeling a disturbing chill. Now not even her Wiccan protection rituals may save her from a killer with a cold heart that’s far from grateful . . .
Keli is hoping that Mabon, the Wiccan Autumn Equinox, will bring balance back into her life. But it’s death that comes calling when she’s asked to consult on an estate case. Recently passed, Elaine Turnbull left everything, including her valuable art and antiques collection, to her granddaughter, Lana. But Lana has been missing for years, ever since a tragedy tore her family apart. Also missing may be Elaine’s most recent will. Then there’s the not-so-small detail that Elaine’s death by natural causes may not have been so natural after all . . .
With the help of her boyfriend Wes, who knew Lana in high school, Keli starts digging into Elaine’s past—and her journals. Soon she discovers that everyone, from Elaine’s caretaker to her curator, had a motive for murder—along with a seemingly rock-solid alibi. Between missing people, missing documents, a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense she’s being stalked, Keli is feeling a disturbing chill. Now not even her Wiccan protection rituals may save her from a killer with a cold heart that’s far from grateful . . .
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 24, 2019
27 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer David Hesse
6 books203 followersJennifer David Hesse is the author of two cozy mystery series: the Wiccan Wheel Mysteries and the forthcoming Flower House Mysteries (under the name "Jess Dylan," coming May 25, 2021).
Born and raised in Central Illinois, Jennifer earned her undergraduate degree as an English major from Eastern Illinois University and her law degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
After an eight-year stint in New York, she now makes her home in Chicago with her husband and daughter. When she’s not writing, Jennifer enjoys yoga, hiking, and movie night with her family.
Born and raised in Central Illinois, Jennifer earned her undergraduate degree as an English major from Eastern Illinois University and her law degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
After an eight-year stint in New York, she now makes her home in Chicago with her husband and daughter. When she’s not writing, Jennifer enjoys yoga, hiking, and movie night with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 11, 2019
I'm enjoying this series a lot. 🙌 I love the Wiccan angle, and the mystery in this one was particularly well done. 🎨 There was also a great cast of secondary characters. 👤👤👤 I hope we see more of Arlen (the necromancer), and Crenshaw is always I delight. 💗 Keli remains a strong and likable lead, and her and Wes continue to make a cute couple. 💑 So yea, this was a strong addition to the ongoing A Wiccan Wheel Mystery Series. 👍👍
November 17, 2019
Now that the snow has melted and it feels like Autumn once again, I wanted to read some books set during this season. Luckily, the next book in the Wiccan Wheel Series was exactly what I was looking for!
I began reading The Wiccan Wheel mysteries earlier this year partly because I was in a cozy mystery mood and partly because I’ve always been fascinated by various beliefs and religions that people choose to follow. What I discovered was a delightful series centered around, of course, the Wiccan Wheel which divides up the calendar into eight seasons and their corresponding celebrations such as Mabon and Yule Tide.
Keli Milanni is a successful attorney who is a Wiccan witch. Several of her cases, as well as the search for her mysterious aunt, often lead Keli to murderous endeavors. With the aide of her abilites, she solves the cases and brings closure to those who are left behind. She has interesting friends and co-workers who help her along the way, each bringing their own quirky personalities to the story.
The series, including Autumn Alibi, is a collection of well written, intelligent cozy mysteries. There are hints of romance but they are not the focus of the stories -the mysteries remain at the center throughout. This a fun series, especially if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a bit of a paranormal flair.
I began reading The Wiccan Wheel mysteries earlier this year partly because I was in a cozy mystery mood and partly because I’ve always been fascinated by various beliefs and religions that people choose to follow. What I discovered was a delightful series centered around, of course, the Wiccan Wheel which divides up the calendar into eight seasons and their corresponding celebrations such as Mabon and Yule Tide.
Keli Milanni is a successful attorney who is a Wiccan witch. Several of her cases, as well as the search for her mysterious aunt, often lead Keli to murderous endeavors. With the aide of her abilites, she solves the cases and brings closure to those who are left behind. She has interesting friends and co-workers who help her along the way, each bringing their own quirky personalities to the story.
The series, including Autumn Alibi, is a collection of well written, intelligent cozy mysteries. There are hints of romance but they are not the focus of the stories -the mysteries remain at the center throughout. This a fun series, especially if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a bit of a paranormal flair.
August 17, 2019
Autumn Alibi by Jennifer David Hesse was another exciting addition to this series. I have enjoyed each book in this series as the mysteries are all intriguing and the characters are developing in a natural progression.
Keli assists Crenshaw in this investigation and I enjoyed getting to know Crenshaw better. Farrah and Wes also join into the investigation which moved the mystery plot into other avenues that I hadn't considered. I was pleased to meet Arlen and I look forward to seeing more of him in the next book. A well-crafted plot, with several suspects who are all suspicious, a few twists and turns and a finale that allowed all of the threads/clues to come together. I was glad to see the secondary storyline of Keli's stalker wrapped up in this one. She definitely was handling it much better than I would have. I appreciate the research that Ms. Hesse does for the Wicca religion to be presented in such a clear and relatable way throughout the story. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Keli assists Crenshaw in this investigation and I enjoyed getting to know Crenshaw better. Farrah and Wes also join into the investigation which moved the mystery plot into other avenues that I hadn't considered. I was pleased to meet Arlen and I look forward to seeing more of him in the next book. A well-crafted plot, with several suspects who are all suspicious, a few twists and turns and a finale that allowed all of the threads/clues to come together. I was glad to see the secondary storyline of Keli's stalker wrapped up in this one. She definitely was handling it much better than I would have. I appreciate the research that Ms. Hesse does for the Wicca religion to be presented in such a clear and relatable way throughout the story. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
November 26, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
I'm not going to lie, reading has probably been on the bottom of my to-do list lately...because of Pokemon! But when I had a minute or two I continued this story, and I really did enjoy this gem of a cozy mystery. There were times I felt a little lost with the characters as this was the sixth book, but essentially it is a book you can just pick up and read and understand. Keli is a great character, and her version of witchcraft was very refreshing for me. She has a fantastic network of characters around her, and I particularly enjoyed Wes, Farrah and Crenshaw and their input into the sotry. Arlen was a latecomer but I can see him flourishing later on with more character/story development.
There was layers to this mystery, and time had passed between them. Some things I really didn't believe (like Lana not realizing about the note) but essentially it was a good mystery and everything worked out.
Definitely need to check out the other books. Five stars!
I'm not going to lie, reading has probably been on the bottom of my to-do list lately...because of Pokemon! But when I had a minute or two I continued this story, and I really did enjoy this gem of a cozy mystery. There were times I felt a little lost with the characters as this was the sixth book, but essentially it is a book you can just pick up and read and understand. Keli is a great character, and her version of witchcraft was very refreshing for me. She has a fantastic network of characters around her, and I particularly enjoyed Wes, Farrah and Crenshaw and their input into the sotry. Arlen was a latecomer but I can see him flourishing later on with more character/story development.
There was layers to this mystery, and time had passed between them. Some things I really didn't believe (like Lana not realizing about the note) but essentially it was a good mystery and everything worked out.
Definitely need to check out the other books. Five stars!
September 11, 2019
Edindale attorney Keli Milanni is ready for Mabon, the Wiccan Autumn Equinox, when she gets an offer from former law partner Crenshaw to help him settle up an estate. It seems Elaine Turnbull died, and her heir, Lana, is missing, and has been since the day after her father died by suicide. There is also talk that Elaine had written a new will, that is now missing.
While boyfriend Wes is in Chicago on a work assignment, he searches for Lana, since that is the last place she was seen. Meanwhile, Keli moves into the Turnbull mansion to help Crenshaw catalog the valuable art and antiques collection. But the more they search the more questions come arise about things.
It's up to Keli and her usual crew to get to the bottom of things, while they face a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense Keli is being stalked.
Tightly written and plotted, Autumn Alibi is a great addition to the Wiccan Wheel series. I really enjoy reading about Kili and her adventures. All the characters are perfectly written, and interact beautifully.
One of the things that I really enjoy about Keli is that she seems so real. She is not perfect. She has demons, like the fear of tunnels and being underground, that add to the drama of the story. She is such a regular person, who faces life head-on. She makes each book a perfect way to enjoy turning the pages. There is a perfect blend of mystery and romance. The author also blends in Keli's Wiccan practices and describes them, and the reasons for them, with perfection.
Each book in the Wiccan Wheel series gets better. I can't wait to see what Jennifer David Hesse comes up with next.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
While boyfriend Wes is in Chicago on a work assignment, he searches for Lana, since that is the last place she was seen. Meanwhile, Keli moves into the Turnbull mansion to help Crenshaw catalog the valuable art and antiques collection. But the more they search the more questions come arise about things.
It's up to Keli and her usual crew to get to the bottom of things, while they face a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense Keli is being stalked.
Tightly written and plotted, Autumn Alibi is a great addition to the Wiccan Wheel series. I really enjoy reading about Kili and her adventures. All the characters are perfectly written, and interact beautifully.
One of the things that I really enjoy about Keli is that she seems so real. She is not perfect. She has demons, like the fear of tunnels and being underground, that add to the drama of the story. She is such a regular person, who faces life head-on. She makes each book a perfect way to enjoy turning the pages. There is a perfect blend of mystery and romance. The author also blends in Keli's Wiccan practices and describes them, and the reasons for them, with perfection.
Each book in the Wiccan Wheel series gets better. I can't wait to see what Jennifer David Hesse comes up with next.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
September 24, 2019
Resourceful and intelligent, Kell Milani practices law in Edinton, IL. In this sixth book in the series, she is becoming more open about her religious practice...that of a Wiccan. Her harmony with nature and her senses allow her intuition to flourish. A fellow lawyer and friend recruits her help in the resolving of the estate of a wealthy woman. But was there a reason to be suspicious of her cause of death? And the heir to the estate has been missing for over a decade. Red herrings and potential suspects abound, and Keli must use everything in her arsenal to find the truth. I've only read the two latest in the series, but I will definitely read the first four in this appealing series. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is the sixth book in the A Wiccan Wheel Mystery series by Jennifer David Hesse.
I was fascinated from the word go. Keli has a complex relationship between her spirituality and her job as a lawyer. It’s not easy mixing the two since there are so many judgements based on her beliefs. Her idea of religion is different than normal folks. And different isn’t wrong. It’s just… different. With all the LGBTQ acceptance these days, I’m surprised there is not more acceptance of Wicca, mediums, tarot readers and the like.
Keli is contracted to find the missing will of Elaine Turnbull. So she must stay in Elaine’s house and ferret around for facts and clues. Once she finds something juicy, the next day it is gone, taken from her room. Room blessings and spells abound in this book. It is actually all very cool. At least to me. I thought the spells were very well done.
This is pretty much a locked room mystery since most of the residents aren’t out of the house during a good part of it. Since this is my first foray into the Wiccan Wheel mysteries, I wasn’t certain who were main characters and recurring characters and who were not. So, it make the entire search that much more difficult for me. I have to admit I had no idea who the culprit was.
While in the midst of reading this, I realized that Jennifer David Hesse is from very close to my own hometown in Southern Illinois. You don’t see a lot of books set in this area. So, I was particularly pleased about that fact. Can’t wait to read more and do an entire background search into the character by reading all the previous five books. Excited.
If you love cozy, do check this one out. Don’t hesitate. It will be a fun ride for you. It was an awesome ride for me.
Highly recommended.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the sixth book in the A Wiccan Wheel Mystery series by Jennifer David Hesse.
I was fascinated from the word go. Keli has a complex relationship between her spirituality and her job as a lawyer. It’s not easy mixing the two since there are so many judgements based on her beliefs. Her idea of religion is different than normal folks. And different isn’t wrong. It’s just… different. With all the LGBTQ acceptance these days, I’m surprised there is not more acceptance of Wicca, mediums, tarot readers and the like.
Keli is contracted to find the missing will of Elaine Turnbull. So she must stay in Elaine’s house and ferret around for facts and clues. Once she finds something juicy, the next day it is gone, taken from her room. Room blessings and spells abound in this book. It is actually all very cool. At least to me. I thought the spells were very well done.
This is pretty much a locked room mystery since most of the residents aren’t out of the house during a good part of it. Since this is my first foray into the Wiccan Wheel mysteries, I wasn’t certain who were main characters and recurring characters and who were not. So, it make the entire search that much more difficult for me. I have to admit I had no idea who the culprit was.
While in the midst of reading this, I realized that Jennifer David Hesse is from very close to my own hometown in Southern Illinois. You don’t see a lot of books set in this area. So, I was particularly pleased about that fact. Can’t wait to read more and do an entire background search into the character by reading all the previous five books. Excited.
If you love cozy, do check this one out. Don’t hesitate. It will be a fun ride for you. It was an awesome ride for me.
Highly recommended.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
August 15, 2019
I have enjoyed this series from the very first book and eagerly look forward to each new entry in the series. I seemed to connect with Keli from the very beginning and enjoy the way the author has written her character. She comes across the page as an intelligent, warm, curious, open person. I think the author has done a terrific job growing and developing her character as well as the secondary characters. This time around, we get to visit with the regular cast of secondary characters as well as get introduced to some new ones. I like the way the author surprised me with how the relationship between two secondary characters may be changing. I thought the mystery was well done and it did keep me guessing to a point. I did guess the killer and the reason this person committed the crimes but it did not take away from my enjoyment. Keli is a practicing Wiccan and I do enjoy how the author incorporates this into the stories. For me, it adds to Keli's characters and some of the motivations for why she does something or acts a certain way. I like that the author is writing the character to be more open about her beliefs.
I am looking forward to reading more books in the series and seeing where the author takes the characters and the mysteries. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I am looking forward to reading more books in the series and seeing where the author takes the characters and the mysteries. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
August 13, 2019
This is a great series, especially for anyone who is interested in Wicca and their beliefs.
Keli is a solid character who is slowly becoming more in tune with her beliefs.
In this book, Keli is asked to consult on a case of a runaway teen, who is about to inherit a small fortune.
It seems that people are insisting the girl will never be found, and someone else insists there is a second will.
Before long, Keli finds herself in a whirlwind mystery and uses her inner strength to find the answers.
I had an idea who the bad guy was, and just needed to watch the story unfold to be sure.
I'm always excited to see a new book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
Keli is a solid character who is slowly becoming more in tune with her beliefs.
In this book, Keli is asked to consult on a case of a runaway teen, who is about to inherit a small fortune.
It seems that people are insisting the girl will never be found, and someone else insists there is a second will.
Before long, Keli finds herself in a whirlwind mystery and uses her inner strength to find the answers.
I had an idea who the bad guy was, and just needed to watch the story unfold to be sure.
I'm always excited to see a new book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
September 23, 2019
PEACE
The Sixth book of the Wiccan Wheel mysteries has Kali Milanni looking forward to Wiccan celebration of Mabon, the Autumn Equinox. She hopes it will bring balance back into her life.
Elaine Turnbull has died and her WILL leaves everything to her Granddaughter, Lana who has been missing for a long time. Kali learns that Elaine might have written a later WILL is no where to be found. Her friend and attorney Crenshaw is the executor of the estate and called Kali as he knows she good at finding missing objects. Why did Lana runaway from home 15 years ago? Was Elaine murdered? What occurs at Mabon? Will Kali locate a living Lana or is she already dead. I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
The Sixth book of the Wiccan Wheel mysteries has Kali Milanni looking forward to Wiccan celebration of Mabon, the Autumn Equinox. She hopes it will bring balance back into her life.
Elaine Turnbull has died and her WILL leaves everything to her Granddaughter, Lana who has been missing for a long time. Kali learns that Elaine might have written a later WILL is no where to be found. Her friend and attorney Crenshaw is the executor of the estate and called Kali as he knows she good at finding missing objects. Why did Lana runaway from home 15 years ago? Was Elaine murdered? What occurs at Mabon? Will Kali locate a living Lana or is she already dead. I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 3, 2019
This was a lovely seasonal cozy full of secrets, magic, and an eclectic group of liars. I always love an old house with secrets of its own and this mansion had plenty of surprises up its sleeve. Keli is not only a smart lawyer, but she is also Wiccan who has solved mysteries in the past. I don't know much about the Wiccan religion and I love how pieces of it were not only included, but vital to solving the mystery. It is definitely something I am intrigued to learn more about and I love how it really shaped Keli as character. The fact that this mystery takes place around the Wiccan Autumn Equinox just really adds to this mysterious atmosphere.
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In a house full of selfish people who are clearly holding secrets, someone must know what happened to Elaine the night of her death. Things are definitely not as they seem and when it is discovered that she was murdered and there might be a missing will, Keli is hired by her friend to find the will and she unknowingly enters an ever growing mystery. Things are disappearing - and they aren't the only things. Elaine's granddaughter had disappeared many years ago and Keli and her boyfriend Wes are determined to find her. I loved the quirky and suspicious characters and how the mystery just kept spiraling and morphing with so many different pieces. I had no idea of the truth and I loved the way things were revealed to us. Not only was Keli an interesting and wonderful character, her friends around her also each added something fun to following the story.
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Though this is the first book I've read in this story, it definitely will not be my last. Thank you to the publishers for a free digital copy of this book.
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In a house full of selfish people who are clearly holding secrets, someone must know what happened to Elaine the night of her death. Things are definitely not as they seem and when it is discovered that she was murdered and there might be a missing will, Keli is hired by her friend to find the will and she unknowingly enters an ever growing mystery. Things are disappearing - and they aren't the only things. Elaine's granddaughter had disappeared many years ago and Keli and her boyfriend Wes are determined to find her. I loved the quirky and suspicious characters and how the mystery just kept spiraling and morphing with so many different pieces. I had no idea of the truth and I loved the way things were revealed to us. Not only was Keli an interesting and wonderful character, her friends around her also each added something fun to following the story.
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Though this is the first book I've read in this story, it definitely will not be my last. Thank you to the publishers for a free digital copy of this book.
November 16, 2019
Keli has finally settled into her new business, she knows she needs an assistant but getting that sorted needs to take a back seat when her ex colleague and friend Crenshaw asks for her help and says she will be paid for it. They need to track down the heir to a local estate and this gets Keli's boyfriends interest as he went to school with her and feels bad that they lost contact. A problem arises when it seems there could be another, later will, and also there is a possibility that the client was sent to her eternal rest just a little too early!
Now Keli is staying in the mansion with a group of people who could be murderers, any one associated with her is getting their car tyres slashed, on the plus side her friend Farrah has managed to arrange job interviews for the office assistant post ... err but her crazy stalker she calls the "Giftster" has arranged somehow for an open interview that day claiming she will be paying a huge salary! Luckily one of the proper applicants is actually someone she has done legal work for, he is also a Pagan (more Shamanic than herself) and fully qualified, soon after she takes him on though she needs to use his Shaman skills to help the original case as theft and murder seems to be the dish of the day!
Now Keli is staying in the mansion with a group of people who could be murderers, any one associated with her is getting their car tyres slashed, on the plus side her friend Farrah has managed to arrange job interviews for the office assistant post ... err but her crazy stalker she calls the "Giftster" has arranged somehow for an open interview that day claiming she will be paying a huge salary! Luckily one of the proper applicants is actually someone she has done legal work for, he is also a Pagan (more Shamanic than herself) and fully qualified, soon after she takes him on though she needs to use his Shaman skills to help the original case as theft and murder seems to be the dish of the day!
September 23, 2019
I’ve been reading cozy mysteries a lot lately, probably because it’s my second favorite genre. I’ve read all the books in this series so far, this one being the sixth, and I think this one is my favorite of them. I have to admit that Keli’s character didn’t always win me over, but finally in this one she’s completely won me over. She seemed never true to herself, but finally she is. The book also has an interesting plot, and I wasn’t really sure who the culprit was because I kept changing my mind. I loved the minor changes that happened in this book (no spoilers!), and I’m hoping we’ll get to see more of the secondary characters, especially Arlen. He intrigues me. This is a great cozy mystery, and you should pick this one up if you like this genre. Highly recommend, and I was provided a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 11, 2019
I love this series and think that each book is better than the previous, this one was no exception.
I loved to meet again the cast of characters, read about their developments, and meet some new. This time we're left with a cliff hanger, not related to the mystery, and I hate to wait for the next book to know what will happen.
The mystery was complex and very good, I had some doubt about the culprit but the solution came as a surprise.
It was entertaining and engrossing and I read it in one setting.
I look forward to reading the next instalment.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I loved to meet again the cast of characters, read about their developments, and meet some new. This time we're left with a cliff hanger, not related to the mystery, and I hate to wait for the next book to know what will happen.
The mystery was complex and very good, I had some doubt about the culprit but the solution came as a surprise.
It was entertaining and engrossing and I read it in one setting.
I look forward to reading the next instalment.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
September 7, 2019
Keli Milanni is ready for Mabon and is thankful to the Goddess for all she has. When she is asked by her former colleague to help with an estate he is working on, Keli finds herself immersed in a murder mystery. But will Keli be able o celebrate Mabon and be thank the Goddess for being able to solve the case.
This is the first book I have read in this series and I was pleasantly surprised. There are a lot of cozy series that touch on Wicca and Paganism, but this felt much truer to a practitioner by the way the Keli practices and lives her life. So kudos on that. I look forward to reading the previous five books in the series and catching up.
This is the first book I have read in this series and I was pleasantly surprised. There are a lot of cozy series that touch on Wicca and Paganism, but this felt much truer to a practitioner by the way the Keli practices and lives her life. So kudos on that. I look forward to reading the previous five books in the series and catching up.
September 9, 2019
Another good read that will get you in the mood for Fall and Halloween although I don't celebrate Halloween.
I am beginning to love cozy mysteries and have really been enjoying this series.
In this story there is a murder involved and it will make you keep guessing as to who it is!
I thought the book well written and for the most part very entertaining. Great characters and an overall great read.
As I've said before you'll want to be in your cozy place maybe with some pj's, robe the whole nine yards and with whatever you usually snack on.
You're in for an interesting ride.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
I am beginning to love cozy mysteries and have really been enjoying this series.
In this story there is a murder involved and it will make you keep guessing as to who it is!
I thought the book well written and for the most part very entertaining. Great characters and an overall great read.
As I've said before you'll want to be in your cozy place maybe with some pj's, robe the whole nine yards and with whatever you usually snack on.
You're in for an interesting ride.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
March 10, 2022
Really about a 3.7. I'd read one other in the series and thought it was okay; enjoyed this one much more as the heroine seemed to have come into her own. It turned out to be the last in the series. I wondered if the author knew, because a subplot was wrapped up VERY quickly and I thought rather unsatisfactorily. I would have read the next in the series had there been one, so ...
August 11, 2019
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. This author has a wonderful gift of combining an intriguing mystery along with realistic Wiccan practices, and a wonderful feel of the season she describes along the Wheel of the Year. I'm also very glad to see Arlen being added to the cast of characters. I always jump at the chance to read these books
November 19, 2022
Perfect cozy for a quiet, autumnal vibe.
August 10, 2019
An enjoyable book. I found the wiccan stuff slowed down the storyline a bit. The focus was a bit scattered so it didn't feel very tight or easy to read. I would call it average. #AutumnAlibi #NetGalley
October 1, 2019
"Autumn Alibi" is the 6th book in the "Wiccan Wheel Mystery" Series by Jennifer David Hesse. I own the first 3 books in the series but haven't got around to reading them, with that said I was able to read this as a stand alone.
After a hectic year, Edindale, Illinois, attorney Keli Milanni is ready to welcome autumn by counting her many blessings. But a case of murder could cause her to fall behind . . .
Keli is hoping that Mabon, the Wiccan Autumn Equinox, will bring balance back into her life. But it’s death that comes calling when she’s asked to consult on an estate case. Recently passed, Elaine Turnbull left everything, including her valuable art and antiques collection, to her granddaughter, Lana. But Lana has been missing for years, ever since a tragedy tore her family apart. Also missing may be Elaine’s most recent will. Then there’s the not-so-small detail that Elaine’s death by natural causes may not have been so natural after all . . .
With the help of her boyfriend Wes, who knew Lana in high school, Keli starts digging into Elaine’s past—and her journals. Soon she discovers that everyone, from Elaine’s caretaker to her curator, had a motive for murder—along with a seemingly rock-solid alibi. Between missing people, missing documents, a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense she’s being stalked, Keli is feeling a disturbing chill. Now not even her Wiccan protection rituals may save her from a killer with a cold heart that’s far from grateful . . .
I really enjoyed this story protagonist Keli is a likable, intelligent woman who is an attorney and also Wiccan. All of the characters in the book are well developed and interesting.
The story was well paced, and I found I couldn’t put the book down. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep me wanting to find out what will happen next. The description of Mabon the Wiccan Autumn Equinix was great and I learnt something new which is always a bonus.
I look forward to reading the next installment in this series
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After a hectic year, Edindale, Illinois, attorney Keli Milanni is ready to welcome autumn by counting her many blessings. But a case of murder could cause her to fall behind . . .
Keli is hoping that Mabon, the Wiccan Autumn Equinox, will bring balance back into her life. But it’s death that comes calling when she’s asked to consult on an estate case. Recently passed, Elaine Turnbull left everything, including her valuable art and antiques collection, to her granddaughter, Lana. But Lana has been missing for years, ever since a tragedy tore her family apart. Also missing may be Elaine’s most recent will. Then there’s the not-so-small detail that Elaine’s death by natural causes may not have been so natural after all . . .
With the help of her boyfriend Wes, who knew Lana in high school, Keli starts digging into Elaine’s past—and her journals. Soon she discovers that everyone, from Elaine’s caretaker to her curator, had a motive for murder—along with a seemingly rock-solid alibi. Between missing people, missing documents, a string of vandalism against her friends, and the sense she’s being stalked, Keli is feeling a disturbing chill. Now not even her Wiccan protection rituals may save her from a killer with a cold heart that’s far from grateful . . .
I really enjoyed this story protagonist Keli is a likable, intelligent woman who is an attorney and also Wiccan. All of the characters in the book are well developed and interesting.
The story was well paced, and I found I couldn’t put the book down. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep me wanting to find out what will happen next. The description of Mabon the Wiccan Autumn Equinix was great and I learnt something new which is always a bonus.
I look forward to reading the next installment in this series
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 20, 2019
Autumn Alibi is book six in a series of cozy mysteries set around the eight Wiccan sabbats (festivals), as found in the Wheel of the Year. The protagonist, Keli Milanni, is an attorney who is also Wiccan, which adds a spiritual touch to this book. When a wealthy estate owner dies, it’s up to Keli and her friends to find the missing will and the missing heir — and to find the killer, when it is made apparent that the death wasn’t as natural as it initially seemed…
This was a good book but, coming into it at this point, I found some of the characters a bit confusing — mainly who was unique to this book and who is recurring. This is more on me as the reader and less on the author, I think, as I came into this series with this title and perhaps should have started with the first book, which I believe is called Midsummer Night’s Mischief. However, I found Autumn Alibi to be a light read, definitely living up to the genre of “cozy mystery”, and it had plenty of plot twists and turns to keep the reader interested.
I liked how Wicca was woven into the storyline, and how the various spells and symbolisms were portrayed. It was definitely handled with care and precision, and I think it will endear Wicca to a lot of readers who maybe know very little if anything about the religion. Romance and humour also feature, but there were a few scenes where I felt the humour was a bit stretched or forced, and I felt myself jolted out of the story.
The characters were well-drawn and the plot is intriguing. The subplot around Keli’s stalker added just the right amount of unsettling atmosphere, and this worked really well with the backdrop of the Autumn Equinox. However, overall I felt that the author was trying to fit too much into the story in too small a timescale and so it was a bit scattered in places. Despite this it is a cozy mystery and is an entertaining read for a quiet evening at home.
I received an e-ARC from the publisher, Kensington Books, through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a good book but, coming into it at this point, I found some of the characters a bit confusing — mainly who was unique to this book and who is recurring. This is more on me as the reader and less on the author, I think, as I came into this series with this title and perhaps should have started with the first book, which I believe is called Midsummer Night’s Mischief. However, I found Autumn Alibi to be a light read, definitely living up to the genre of “cozy mystery”, and it had plenty of plot twists and turns to keep the reader interested.
I liked how Wicca was woven into the storyline, and how the various spells and symbolisms were portrayed. It was definitely handled with care and precision, and I think it will endear Wicca to a lot of readers who maybe know very little if anything about the religion. Romance and humour also feature, but there were a few scenes where I felt the humour was a bit stretched or forced, and I felt myself jolted out of the story.
The characters were well-drawn and the plot is intriguing. The subplot around Keli’s stalker added just the right amount of unsettling atmosphere, and this worked really well with the backdrop of the Autumn Equinox. However, overall I felt that the author was trying to fit too much into the story in too small a timescale and so it was a bit scattered in places. Despite this it is a cozy mystery and is an entertaining read for a quiet evening at home.
I received an e-ARC from the publisher, Kensington Books, through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2019
Series: A Wiccan Wheel Mystery - Book 6
Author: Jennifer David Hesse
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Paranormal/Witch
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 368
Publishing Date: September 24th, 2019
The much anticipated cozy book addition to the “A Wiccan Wheel Mystery” series from Kensington books hits stores on September 24th. Written by author Jennifer David Hesse, Autumn Alibi was worth the wait, (not that readers had to wait long, but it felt like it).
The “A Wiccan Wheel Mystery” series is one of my favorites and has been from book one. Keli is a delightfully captivating character that if readers could meet in real life, they would admire and want to have as a best friend or neighbor, not to mention as their lawyer. Other characters are equally exciting and vital to the success of this cozy book and the series.
I like the further element of Keli having a stalker, which adds intrigue to the murder mystery. Is the stalker after her, or is the stalker part of the murder? Although I figured out early in the book who the killer is, it did not diminish my enjoyment of the story or this cozy book overall. Most readers will enjoy the energy, the twists, and turns, and will cheer Keli on as she begins to unravel the mystery. The relationship between her and Wes takes another step towards commitment and happiness and will resonate with readers who are currently in a relationship that they want to grow.
Its always thrilling for me to sit down with a cozy book, especially after a long hard day and in a grumpy mood and finish the book with a smile on my face. This is precisely what Autumn Alibi brings to readers, and I am happy to recommend this cozy and series to cozy readers everywhere.
Author: Jennifer David Hesse
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Paranormal/Witch
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 368
Publishing Date: September 24th, 2019
The much anticipated cozy book addition to the “A Wiccan Wheel Mystery” series from Kensington books hits stores on September 24th. Written by author Jennifer David Hesse, Autumn Alibi was worth the wait, (not that readers had to wait long, but it felt like it).
The “A Wiccan Wheel Mystery” series is one of my favorites and has been from book one. Keli is a delightfully captivating character that if readers could meet in real life, they would admire and want to have as a best friend or neighbor, not to mention as their lawyer. Other characters are equally exciting and vital to the success of this cozy book and the series.
I like the further element of Keli having a stalker, which adds intrigue to the murder mystery. Is the stalker after her, or is the stalker part of the murder? Although I figured out early in the book who the killer is, it did not diminish my enjoyment of the story or this cozy book overall. Most readers will enjoy the energy, the twists, and turns, and will cheer Keli on as she begins to unravel the mystery. The relationship between her and Wes takes another step towards commitment and happiness and will resonate with readers who are currently in a relationship that they want to grow.
Its always thrilling for me to sit down with a cozy book, especially after a long hard day and in a grumpy mood and finish the book with a smile on my face. This is precisely what Autumn Alibi brings to readers, and I am happy to recommend this cozy and series to cozy readers everywhere.
May 4, 2020
Another witchy adventure with Keli Milanni has come to an end and this one takes place around Mabon or the Autumn Equinox. Reading this book I wasn't fully impressed with it and have been noticing that the books in the series are just keeping somewhat of a repetitious flow to it and there doesn't seem to be much growth with the character's, especially with Keli and her path as a Wiccan. Earlier in the book Jennifer David Hesse gives sort of a timeline peek and how much time had lapsed from her other books. So to me, even though I feel the book had some creative licensing which I understand, I want to start seeing more growth from Keli on her path! I love seeing growth of characters in a book and growth is definitely a big thing that Wiccans work on in their lives. I would also like to see Jennifer David Hesse put in some more witchy things when dealing with our main protagonist because the way I see it if you are writing a book centering on a Wiccan character then simply stating constantly they saged the area, played with crystals or leaves, or pulling out a tarot card here and there just gets stagnant after a while. There is more to the path than that. This book was fun though and I did enjoy it as Jennifer David Hesse is a great writer and her books are fun, and of course, my favorite characters have made a return along with some well fleshed out secondary character's that add some extra fun to the book. Jennifer David Hess also brings a little more of Arlen the Necromancer into this book and there are a few good witchy moments, but I feel there can be a little more! I am also hoping there are more books in the series as I want to see what lies ahead for both Keli and Farrah!
September 25, 2019
This is the 6th book in the Wiccan Wheel Mystery Series. This is another intriguing mystery with wonderful Wiccan practices and a perfect Autumn feel of the season . I loved this book and have enjoyed and recommend each book in the series.
Keli is looking forward to a quiet Mabon celebration with her friends and coven while her boyfriend is out of town. She is ready for some peace and quiet in her busy life as a attorney and practicing Wiccan. Her hopes for quiet celebrations are dashed when her former law partner asks her to investigate a will and estate of a old client of his who has passed away. The client left everything to a long lost granddaughter who has been missing from the family for years. The estate is quite large and includes priceless art and antique with a mansion so Keli must find the granddaughter to settle the estate. Keli moves into the estate to catalog the items and work on finding a possible missing first will. In the meantime Keli is being stalked and that is a frightening aspect of this book for me . As Kelli proceeds through the estate she finds that the client may have been murdered and she investigates the many clues and possibilities she finds in her quest.
This had all the elements of a perfect Autumn cozy mystery. A great enticing cover, wonderful descriptions of Autumn season and the Mabon celebration . All the charcters we love in this series add depth to the story. I loved this book and am already looking forward to the next in series. The charcters are all well crafted and I love the interesting sleuth with many twist and turns throughout . This next in series kept me turning pages to the last page. Well done to the author.
Keli is looking forward to a quiet Mabon celebration with her friends and coven while her boyfriend is out of town. She is ready for some peace and quiet in her busy life as a attorney and practicing Wiccan. Her hopes for quiet celebrations are dashed when her former law partner asks her to investigate a will and estate of a old client of his who has passed away. The client left everything to a long lost granddaughter who has been missing from the family for years. The estate is quite large and includes priceless art and antique with a mansion so Keli must find the granddaughter to settle the estate. Keli moves into the estate to catalog the items and work on finding a possible missing first will. In the meantime Keli is being stalked and that is a frightening aspect of this book for me . As Kelli proceeds through the estate she finds that the client may have been murdered and she investigates the many clues and possibilities she finds in her quest.
This had all the elements of a perfect Autumn cozy mystery. A great enticing cover, wonderful descriptions of Autumn season and the Mabon celebration . All the charcters we love in this series add depth to the story. I loved this book and am already looking forward to the next in series. The charcters are all well crafted and I love the interesting sleuth with many twist and turns throughout . This next in series kept me turning pages to the last page. Well done to the author.
October 23, 2019
Princess Fuzzypants here: Leading up to Halloween there seems to be quite a few witchy cozies to read. Keli, is a Wiccan, and while she does her incantations, she is not a spell casting witch. In fact, as a lawyer, that might come in handy. It certainly will not hurt as she is engaged to help her former colleague sort through the estate of a very wealthy woman. Her late husband was a collector and there are all sorts of treasures in the mansion once they figure out what is there. But it seems some things may be misplaced and others may be hidden.
In the misplaced category is the woman’s granddaughter who is also the heir. She disappeared shortly after her father’s death and she needs to be found before the estate can be settled. Under the hidden category is a possible new holographic will. But that is not all that is in a state of confusion. It is going to take all of Keli’s powers to unravel the mystery, including the one of who killed the deceased.
I enjoy this series with its understated “magic”. The characters are realistic and believable and the mystery is engaging without being over the top. I particularly liked the process of finding her assistant. It makes for a light and enjoyable read.
Four purrs and two paws up.
In the misplaced category is the woman’s granddaughter who is also the heir. She disappeared shortly after her father’s death and she needs to be found before the estate can be settled. Under the hidden category is a possible new holographic will. But that is not all that is in a state of confusion. It is going to take all of Keli’s powers to unravel the mystery, including the one of who killed the deceased.
I enjoy this series with its understated “magic”. The characters are realistic and believable and the mystery is engaging without being over the top. I particularly liked the process of finding her assistant. It makes for a light and enjoyable read.
Four purrs and two paws up.
February 5, 2020
It's been a busy year for attorney Keli Milanni. Now the Autumn Equinox is coming which is the Wiccan holiday of Mabon and Keli's looking forward to relaxing and counting her blessings. But when her friend and previous business partner, Crenshaw Davenport asks for her help, she gladly agrees. Elaine Turnbull has passed away and Crenshaw is the executor of her sizable estate. He must also find Elaine's granddaughter, Lana, who ran away years earlier. However, all is not as it seems as it's very possible that Elaine was murdered. Everyone involved lied about their alibis, all of them are keeping secrets, and it seems there may be a missing will. Can Keli find out what's going on before it's too late?
This is a great series and this book is no exception. I love the main characters especially Keli who has really blossomed throughout the series with regards to her spiritual path. The book's well-written and I was hooked from the beginning. I was kept engaged until the end as this is a wonderful read. I'm really hoping there's more to come and highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order.
This is a great series and this book is no exception. I love the main characters especially Keli who has really blossomed throughout the series with regards to her spiritual path. The book's well-written and I was hooked from the beginning. I was kept engaged until the end as this is a wonderful read. I'm really hoping there's more to come and highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order.
November 7, 2023
Keli has plenty to be grateful for, as her fledgling law practice is taking off. When a former co-worker asks her to assist on an estate case, Keli agrees. Recently deceased Elaine Turnbull has left her considerable assets to her granddaughter, Lana, but Lana ran away at the age of 17 and hasn't had contact with the family for years. Keli's boyfriend, Wes, knew Lana in school, and he agrees to work that angle while Keli and Crenshaw begin cataloging the estate's assets. When a member of the household insists that Elaine had drawn up a new will, a new wrinkle is added to the case. Soon Keli is poring over Elaine's journals, observing the odd dynamics of the household, and wondering if Elaine's death may have been murder. As if that wasn't enough, her stalker seems to have returned, vandalizing the cars of Keli's friends and acquaintances. With help from others in the Wiccan community, Keli sets out to solve the case.
Very interesting story. There were two distinct storylines, but they melded together nicely. Characters were three-dimensional, from familiar characters to newly introduced ones. The plot was engrossing and kept my attention.
Excellent book, five stars.
Very interesting story. There were two distinct storylines, but they melded together nicely. Characters were three-dimensional, from familiar characters to newly introduced ones. The plot was engrossing and kept my attention.
Excellent book, five stars.
October 16, 2019
After a hectic year, Keli Milanni is ready to welcome in the autumn season. She is hoping that the Mabon, Wiccan Autumnal Equinox, will bring her balance. But when her former colleague is handling a probate case of the recently deceased Elaine Turnbull he calls in Keli for help. This case is anything but the balance for Keli. is looking for. Elaine’s will leaves everything to her granddaughter who has been missing for years. Some of Elaine’s friends insist that Elaine wrote a new will before she passed. With the missing heires and possible missing will Elaine also enlists her boyfriend, Wes, into the investigation. The more they look into things the more questions they find.
I really enjoyed this book. I have read one other book in this series and each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone book. Keli is a likable protagonist, she is smart and personable. Like Keli the rest of the characters are well-developed. The storyline moved at a quick pace, however, there are several twists and turns along the way to keep you guessing. I look forward to catching up on this series and future books.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
I really enjoyed this book. I have read one other book in this series and each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone book. Keli is a likable protagonist, she is smart and personable. Like Keli the rest of the characters are well-developed. The storyline moved at a quick pace, however, there are several twists and turns along the way to keep you guessing. I look forward to catching up on this series and future books.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
September 18, 2019
Autumn Alibi is the 6th installment in the Wiccan Wheel mystery series. I have not read all the stories in this series but was able to follow the mystery and enjoy. Keli Milanni is an attorney who happens to be wiccan and is looking forward to Mabon the Wiccan Autumn Equinix. Holiday is supposed to bring balance back into your life. Unfortunately, she is working on the estate of Elaine Turnball who has recently passed away and left her estate to her missing granddaughter Lana. There is a missing will as well as then she begins to question whether Elaine’s death is in fact based on natural causes. Keli enlists her boyfriend Wes to look for Lana in Chicago the last place she was known to have been. There is no lack of suspects in Elaine’s death and Keli needs all the protection spells she can get in this one. Good addition to the series and looking forward to the next in the series.
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