Spelldriver

Magic & Mixology Mystery #6

by Gina LaManna

With a wedding on the horizon and her father tucked safely away in prison, the future is looking bright for Lily Locke. Unfortunately, life on The Isle is never calm for long… and when a Ranger is killed brutally in plain sight, Lily and her fiancé—the renowned Ranger X—find themselves hunting a murderer more ruthless than any they’ve ever encountered before. However, unraveling the killer’s intricate plot isn’t Lily’s only problem. She has a cousin who is nowhere to be found. A dangerous hunter has escaped from prison. Ranger X is all but obsessed with his latest case, and Lily worries it’s consuming him entirely. Despite it all, Lily must make a decision that will affect not only her life, but the life of the man she loves more than anything else—and once it’s done, there’s no turning back…

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Magic, Audiobook

268 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 26, 2019

About the author

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Gina LaManna has also called Italy and Los Angeles home. After studying numbers and equations in college, she realized multiple choice tests were “just not for her” and began writing books instead. She loves cappuccino foam and whipped cream and would subsist solely on sprinkles if possible. She currently lives in St. Paul with her wonderful husband and family.

Reviews

[☆Dani☆ ☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series truly rocks!

I have absolutely loved reading this series and can't wait for more! I have loved all the characters. Especially Hettie, she has to be one of my favorites!

[Chrysta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! I have loved this series from book one! This mystery has a lot of twist and I absolutely loved the new characters the Quilter! Loved how she would pop in at such random times and knew exactly what Lily needed! I can not wait until the next installment takes me back to the Isle!

[Miki’s⚠️ Safety Reviews & Rants⚠️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars for the whole series
⭐️This is a review for the WHOLE 8 book series. I did the audiobooks. In my opinion this was a perfect audiobook read.

My rating is based on MY ENJOYMENT of this series not necessarily because it was the best series or books I have ever read. It just hit the spot for me.

🌟Brief Summary:
‼️Such a fun and delightful series! Gah I loved it.
♥️SAFE!
‼️Closed door romance
‼️Cozy Magical world
‼️Building storyline w each book
‼️Great Audiobook
‼️Likeable characters
‼️Sweet and swoon Romance
‼️Quick short books that are jam packed


‼️This series follows Lily when she finds out she isnt human but a witch with magical powers. She is THE Mixologist. There is only one in the world at a time and she is the MOST powerful to come along maybe EVER.
She is taken by her two aunts to a magical island where her family lives and she has a whole mixology bungalow and store.

‼️We follow Lily as she finds out secrets about her mom and dad, falls in love, learns about magic and becomes more powerful.
She is very kindhearted and always has to solve mystery each book BUT also the over arching plot builds and gets better with each book.

♥️The Romance is so sweet. To me it was very balanced w the mystery and plot WHICH I LOVE. It’s hard to find decent Romance in these types of books that are not set to the background.

Around book 4 the mystery and plot line does get slightly darker. Not a crazy amount but the stakes get higher and higher.

Things I Did 💔 Not Like

-As the books go on I found myself confused by Lilys Reactions to things sometimes. At times she was just immature and jumped to extreme judgement without all the facts. It got annoying after a while.

-Zin is not m fav character she is very selfish. Infact sometimes certain members her family annoyed me

-This sometimes reads very YA. When these characters are late 20s early 30s.

🥀 Hero:
Ranger X- Lead Ranger on the island
He’s Hot 🔥
He’s super swoon😍
He is head over heels in love with Lily ♥️

He’s very powerful and very secluded from any form of relationship or romance. It’s his job that keeps him that way. The way of a Ranger is that they don’t have personal connections. But our boy changes EVERYTHING to be with his one true love ♥️

🦋 Heroine:
Lily- THE Mixologist
She is kind hearted
At times immature and reactive
Sometimes takes a while to get the clues together
But overall is sweet and kind and doing a great job with what she has been thrown at her.
I can’t say I always understood her but overall the good out weighed the bad

💭 POV:
Single first person POV told through the h

😡/😍 Angst level:
Low with occasional medium

❤️‍🔥 Sex & Burn Rate:
Slow build but def tons of chemistry throughout there is immediate attraction but it’s not acted on. By the end of book 3 they are together but still have issues to work through
-Closed door-

🌓 Push/Pull:
Mild for the first few books. There is reasons they cannot pursue a relationship so there are complications.


☠️ OW/OM Drama:
None

🤮 OW/OM Sex / Fluid or DNA Exchange:
None

🤬 Cheating:
None

👰🏼‍♀️ Virgins:
None
No history given for either,
No past brought up
Neither had loved anyone before

⛈️Separation/ 3rd Act Breakup:
None
They def have lots to work through but once together they never separated

🎧AUDIO
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ great I think the narrator did great. She showed emotion, changed her voice for diff characters and she had a good clear voice.

Safety⚠️Triggers🗡️:
Nothing major typical bad guy stuff but there was some death in the family and some bad daddy issues

🌈Epilogue:
There is a few lead ins to a spin off connected to this world with new characters small and short.

Yes! Not far in the future but def starting to work HEA!

🥂HEA:
Yes! Married and got the big baddie

❌My opinion is just that… MY OPINION.❌
I know we all get passionate about our favorite reads and characters but we should respect each opinions a thoughts. ~Thank you

[Bookgyrl · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is much going on in this next installment. Lily is looking for a wedding dress while worrying about the magical contract she was forced to sign with her father (giving him her firstborn) and the death of a ranger upsets the Isle.

I noticed a couple of times I have forgotten some storylines from the earlier books. These books are not standalones, so I would advice starting with book 1.

Imaginative as ever and easy to read. Love this series.

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course she's pregnant 🤦🏻‍♀️😂 it was built up through the whole book that lily would be by the end.
It'll be interesting to see how everyone copes with the news and what Lucian will do when he finds out.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its always great to visit The Isle, catching up with Lily and RangerX was wonderful and I love how this series is growing I’m looking forward to much more.

[Amy Blasko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best yet

Gina never fails to surprise and delight you! Lily and X are at it again with murder, deceit, love and family. Now I'm anxiously awaiting book 7!

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply fluff reading.

[Alyson Beard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Can't wait for the next installment of the Lily & her family's story. As always there are unexpected twists & turns on her journey.

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily Locke and Ranger X are supposed to be planning a wedding, bu when a ranger is murdered on the main street with scads of people around, Lily can't resist helping the Rangers solve the mystery. She does have a totally different approach, and X is smart enough to know she is going to do it no matter what he says. She is also researching her mother because she is unwilling to believe she was an assassin for the Factiion. Meanwhile Poppy has fallen in love-with the vampire hunter who came to the Isle (in the last book).

There are adventures galore-including a very nerve-wracking one with Liam. There are confrontations with her father (Lucien who is in jail). There is family time with Lily's grandmother, aunts, and cousin, and even a ghostly visit from her mother. And there is humor as Lily and family go to the bridal store and she tries on wedding dress creations by Wanda. There are some new characters including the evasive woman known as the Quilter. There are old characters we are happy to meet again. There are mysteries, and best of all there is romance. Who could ask for anything else from the author for this wonderful book, the sixth in the series. There is even a little cross over from another series that sneaks up on you!

A fantastic book that keeps you racing to the end from the moment you start to read. Ms LaManna keeps outdoing herself with book after book, each better than the last. Don't miss an author and a series that leaves you wanting even more!

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most involved and best Mixology book yet! There are so many twists and turns together with some humor, you can't put it down once you begin! Lily, her cousins and aunts are helping her find the perfect wedding dress when a mysterious strange old woman hands her the perfect wedding dress while she is in the dressing room and then she disappears. Lily's grandmother said you just met The Quilter! And so begins the first mystery and then there is the murder of one of X's rangers. Added to that is the mystery of Lily's father, although deep within the hardest prison to break out of, Lily tries to get her history out of him, what really happened to her mother and why and was he responsible for her death? And then throw in the fact that she had to give her father her first born by unbreakable magic contract which leaves her so upset and conflicted. Then there is Lily meeting Ranger X's brother from whom X is estranged and who wants to reconnect with him. Then Poppy disappears and the Vampire hunter who was supposed to kill her has escaped from the jail. As you see there are so many subplots that are deftly woven together to one very surprising conclusion! Can't wait for the next book and next adventure, including Lily and Ranger X finally getting married! I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rangers take a hit in this episode of the Magic & Mixology saga. Lily is bound and determined to help even if she doesn't understand how things are happening like they are. There is a little bit of tension in her relationship. There is other family issues happening as well. A lot for someone to take in. You feel a little bad for the poor girl with everything going on in her life all at the same time. If you are not familiar with this series, you may have troubles following along with this one. It's not totally undo-able but you may not really understand some of the things or the comments if you haven't read the previous books. There is a long running storyline/mystery that carries over from book to book, while the main mystery is solved in each. There are a few surprise twists you won't see coming. All your favorite characters are there. Even Grandma Hettie and her crazy self! ;) It's a well crafted story with lots of attention to the details. There are scenes that will make you laugh, one or two to make you cringe (one particular scene featuring Hettie will make you laugh and cringe at the same time.) lol There is also a couple scenes that will weigh heavy on your heart. It reads easily and moves along smoothly.

[Arie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This one just might turn me off the series. There was a lot of dialogue, and it wasn't done well. Lily is supposed to be an intuitional detective, but always saves the most obvious question for the very end of the conversation. It's frustrating. The conversations with Ranger X are the worst, going round in circles with apologetic arguing, but always expressing cheesy sentimentalities. I usually skip the majority of their conversations.
The other weird thing I've noticed with this series is that the author can't remember the fact that the story takes place on a magically tropical island. There are always cozy fires, comforting cups of hot cocoa, wearing sweaters and quilted blankets to ward against the chill in the air.
My final observation is how everything affects Lily so viscerally. Everything rocks her to her core, makes her heart completely stop, or her stomach sink, or some other super strong reaction multiple times a day. It's a little over the top. The story didn't add much to the series either besides where her father ends up. This book could be skimmed to get to the next one.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some new interesting reveals. hmm...
I'm rooting for Poppy, i hope she gets a HEA. And the introduction of X's brother was nice. Liam's story gets expanded on which was intriguing. But i was under the impression that he was w/in her age range.

While i am enjoying this series, the overall conspiracy/mystery storylines are wearing thin. I'm not a big fan of overall conspiracy/big villain arcs continuing throughout a series. Plus, I'm a little exasperated of the deal w/Lily's father & her future w/X.

But i look forward to more books as we'll need that wedding!!Plus, this one left off on a cliffhanger.

It reminds me of another series i read-Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews which had similarities but i think that one dealt w/the overlying evil better. I would recommend that series to those who like this one.

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition to the series!

Holy wow!
I don’t think this book could have had any more unseen twists and turns if Gina LaManna would have just placed the story right in the middle of a tornado!
I’m always excited to return to the island and the chaos that seems to come uninvited in Lily and Ranger X’s part of the world. Spelldriver did not disappoint!
I’m not sure what to say for fear of giving away spoilers.
So I’ll just say I was definitely surprised by the questions that were answered and the characters stories that were told.
A gratifying story especially if you’ve followed Lily’s story from book 1.

[Stephanie Corbett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest instalment in the Mixologist series, is yet another episode in this fantastical adventure on the hidden isle in the middle of Lake Superior. The adventure continues with Lily (the mixologist) and her fiancé X the head of isle Rangers. Whilst Lily’s dad May be in prison and there she is safe for now, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t magical trouble abound on the isle... and somehow that trouble always seems to find Lily.

This is an exciting and gripping magical adventure, a wonderful addition to this series, and I for one can’t wait for more.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Shannon Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Guilty Pleasure Ever!

Ms. Lamanna has done it again. She has entertained, kept me on the edge of my seat and surprised me. My only gripe with this 5 star guilty pleasure is that I now have to wait for the next book in the series but I’m not a patient Islander!

If you are a fan of mystical or are looking for a book series to keep you guessing and entertained, look no further than the life of Lily Locke and her outrageously goofy family. I’d classify Lily as an upgraded mythical version of Stephanie Plum...and the best detail, Lily has NO problem choosing her Ranger! Find this series in your favorite reading format NOW! You can thank me later. 😉

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved the Mixologist series from the start, and was eagerly awaiting this new one. I was not disappointed! Have you read the series? No? Then I’d say if you like mysteries with a magical twist, you are in for a treat. If you have been reading along with Lacey and Ranger X, you will want this newest.

The story moves along and has lots of twists … I don’t like to quote plots, so just know that there is plenty of family, magic, questions, and some answers. Which all added up to a good read. And yes, I'm now eagerly awaiting, again, the next book!

note: I received an ARC of this book from the author. This review is my own opinion.

[Debi Paglia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best Mixology yet!!! Gina LaManna is such a creative writer. Every intricate detail of this book is so well thought out. The flow of the story is so smooth and the story itself is so spellbinding that you won’t want to put it down, even when you finish reading it! If you like magical places, interesting people and a wonderful story, then you will need to read this book. The book can be read alone, but to get a fuller understanding of the main character, Lily, and how her background has lead her to her current life, then read all of the Magic of Mixology series in order. You will love it!

[Mary A. Muchowicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A ranger is killed, a vampire Hunter escapes , and Lily's evil father is still a huge problem

Lily's powers as the mixologist have continued to grow. She helps solve the question of who really killed Ranger L, but her father manages an almost impossible escape although Lily helps capture Melissa who facilitated his escape. Now, will she able able to get married and protect her firstborn? I really enjoyed all 6 books in this series and can't wait for the release of the next book.

[Mary Pomerantz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Island Magic

These days I like to read books that I can finish in an afternoon if I want to. I like light hearted books with a supernatural plot, a bit of romance and a touch of humor. This book satisfies on all counts. Gina La Manna is one of my favorite authors in this genre and The Magic and Mixology series is my favorite of the series she has written. I hope she keeps writing them as I need to find out what happens next!

[Lois L Langham · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite in the series so far!!!

This series just keeps getting better and better. Lily has really grown and developed so much from her first day on the isle. I love the introduction of X’s family and can’t wait to see how that evolves . This book definitely leaves you anxiously awaiting the next book. I highly recommend. I love the Quilter and how that plays out . Fantastic book!!!!

[Audra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good addition to the series

I have really enjoyed the Magic & Mixology series. They are entertaining and we'll written, and once I start one I can't put it down! This book had some of my least favorite parts. I loved the second half of the book, but the beginning had a few parts towards the beginning where Lily acted spoiled and out of character. I still enjoyed the story and the ending was well worth pushing through those short segments. Great beach read!

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I read Book One, I was hooked. I whipped through Books One through Six and enjoyed every moment. This book has characters that I actually find myself thinking about throughout the day. To say that I enjoyed this series is an understatement. I NEED a book seven!!!

This series had a bit of Harry Potter, Twilight, Divergent and much more in it. It was a fun and exciting read. It was well written and it is my most favorite series that I have read in my adult years.

[Kai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good book. I’m loving this series. I can’t wait for Lily and X to get married, it their path is continuously plagued with set backs from her father.
It was interesting to learn more about her mother and I’m intrigued to find out what her father will do next after what just happened in this book.

Zin and Poppy are becoming lovely, fascinating characters in their own right and I’m still trying to work out Liam’s role in all of this!

[Tessa Talks Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spell Driver and this entire cozy mystery series that mixes hocus pocus with crime-solving in a smart, witty, and slapstick manner. The writing is spot on with a well-developed fantasy world (a magical island invisible to humans) and complex, endearing characters. It is fast-paced and manages to keep even the most distracted person (me) focused on the story. This is one of my all-time favorite series! I would recommend starting from Book 1, Hex on the Beach.

[Stephanie Donahue · Rating 5 out of 5]

On my goodness! I just finished my ARC and I could not put it down! This has been my favorite book so far. The only problem with this book was I finished so quick and now have to wait for the next one! The characters in this series just continue to grow and surprise me at ever turn. Plus there’s a few surprises in store in Spelldriver. Way to go on another awesome read Gina!!

[Erin Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily Locke, the most competent mixologist The Isle has ever had, learns that she can always rely on family. In this book, she tries to solve the murder of a Ranger plus, trying to dodge gifts she doesn't want, and trying to pull her entire current and future family together. Lily is reminded that things aren't always as they seem.

[Jeanie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A definite must for fans of the series and fans of the genre. I spent more time worrying about what happens next and about her dress than the immediate problems but it wasn't because the plot wasn't as excellent as always and better than some, it was because I care about them and those are the two biggies in their personal lives.

[Brandy Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't stop reading

These books get better with each one. I love Lily and Ranger X. They have so many things get in the way and still find time for themselves. The whole family is sometimes more involved but they were there just enough. The cliff hanger end was something else. This story can go so many ways.