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The Lily Singer Adventures #5
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Betrayal
Would you betray your friends to save them?
It has been months since Lily Singer’s harrowing adventure in England, yet there has still been no word of her father or Morgan le Fay. Far from being able to relax, Lily has been kept busy doing the last thing in the world she ever imagined: dating Sebastian Blackwell.
Insanity must run in her family.
Things start to get interesting—that is, bothersome and entirely inconvenient—when former beau and FBI agent, Richard Grant, asks for help investigating a series of occult-related murders. Lily would rather decontaminate Sebastian’s mold-ridden car than open that can of worms, yet she might not have a choice. For a whisper has spread throughout the magical underworld—a rumor of creatures that will pit friend against friend and resurrect shadows from the past.
It has been months since Lily Singer’s harrowing adventure in England, yet there has still been no word of her father or Morgan le Fay. Far from being able to relax, Lily has been kept busy doing the last thing in the world she ever imagined: dating Sebastian Blackwell.
Insanity must run in her family.
Things start to get interesting—that is, bothersome and entirely inconvenient—when former beau and FBI agent, Richard Grant, asks for help investigating a series of occult-related murders. Lily would rather decontaminate Sebastian’s mold-ridden car than open that can of worms, yet she might not have a choice. For a whisper has spread throughout the magical underworld—a rumor of creatures that will pit friend against friend and resurrect shadows from the past.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2019
703 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 2, 2019
The Lily Singer Adventures continue with book five, Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Betrayal, and it’s another great addition to the series. In fact, this one has left me desperate for book six.
It’s been a while since I read the first four books in this series, meaning when I jumped into this fifth it took my brain a while to catch up with what was going on. The moment everything clicked into place, I was gone. I was hooked, unable to put the book down, and things sucked me in so deep.
With book five, things continue to develop in wonderful ways. I admit, this one focuses more on the love and lies aspects than the hocus pocus, but it is vital to the storyline. Things come together well, and by the end we see how the two elements are vital to the hocus pocus of the series.
In truth, this one surprised me. Big things happened in book four, and I expected us to pick up the thread and follow it. We do, but not in the ways I had expected. New elements were introduced, and things developed in the most unexpected of ways. I adored it, was hooked, and I cannot wait to see how these new elements interact with the things introduced to us in the prior books.
As fun as the whole book was, it was the ending that really got me. It ends on a big note, on something that is going to have repercussions throughout the rest of the series, and I’m so desperate to get the next book. I need to know what happens, and I need to know now.
Without a doubt, I’ll be diving into book six the moment I get my hands on it.
It’s been a while since I read the first four books in this series, meaning when I jumped into this fifth it took my brain a while to catch up with what was going on. The moment everything clicked into place, I was gone. I was hooked, unable to put the book down, and things sucked me in so deep.
With book five, things continue to develop in wonderful ways. I admit, this one focuses more on the love and lies aspects than the hocus pocus, but it is vital to the storyline. Things come together well, and by the end we see how the two elements are vital to the hocus pocus of the series.
In truth, this one surprised me. Big things happened in book four, and I expected us to pick up the thread and follow it. We do, but not in the ways I had expected. New elements were introduced, and things developed in the most unexpected of ways. I adored it, was hooked, and I cannot wait to see how these new elements interact with the things introduced to us in the prior books.
As fun as the whole book was, it was the ending that really got me. It ends on a big note, on something that is going to have repercussions throughout the rest of the series, and I’m so desperate to get the next book. I need to know what happens, and I need to know now.
Without a doubt, I’ll be diving into book six the moment I get my hands on it.
May 4, 2019
I was eager to start the fifth book in this series, because I had really enjoyed the previous ones. It was an entertaining read like they had all been, and it was very easy for me to get into it. I immediately connected to the characters again, and felt invested in the story right away.
I still really enjoy the format of these books, as it gives you a chance to look in Sebastian's head too in between the two stories from Lily's perspective. The whole book was very suspenseful, and it kept me wanting to pick it up. The ending has made me really curious about the next book, and I can't wait to read it. This book definitely added a bunch of new elements to the series, all of which make me very curious.
All in all, a solid book as usual. I definitely recommend this series.
I still really enjoy the format of these books, as it gives you a chance to look in Sebastian's head too in between the two stories from Lily's perspective. The whole book was very suspenseful, and it kept me wanting to pick it up. The ending has made me really curious about the next book, and I can't wait to read it. This book definitely added a bunch of new elements to the series, all of which make me very curious.
All in all, a solid book as usual. I definitely recommend this series.
February 25, 2019
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
Love, Lies and Hocus Pocus: Betrayal is the fifth book in this fun urban fantasy series. It had been a while since I read the last two books, so it took me a while to get into this book. Luckily the author added enough hints and mentions of pasts events that I quickly got brought up to speed again. The start of a bit of a romantic scenes and while I loved reading it, I felt like the story really starts when we hear of the trouble that's going on.
I had expected the plot line to go on with the same evil guys that book 4 was about, but they have disappeared and there is no word about them. A new mystery pops up with witches who are causing trouble in their city. Or maybe it's all related after all, but that isn't clear yet by the end of this book. The plot line was an interesting one and I liked how it tied in with Sebastian's backstory. I felt like it really added something to his character, but I also felt so bad for what he has to go through in this book.
It was fun to be back in this world and spend some time with these characters. And see how Lily and her friends deal with this latest threat. There is character interaction, but also action and a bit of mystery. And magic ofcourse. I really like the magic system in this world.
I liked how we got to see this further stage in Sebastian's and Lily's relationship. They are sort of dating, but things definitely don't go as smoothly. I think it makes sense that they are clashing at times, although at some times I wish Lily stopped thinking about agent Grant and comparing Sebastian to him. It's almost like she wants to change him at times, but hey I think that's part of her character arc and struggles. And throughout the book their relationship keeps having those ups and downs. There are some really low moments and also some awesomely perfect moments where you really feel their connection.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger ending and I really am curious what's going on there. And Sebastian has to make a difficult choice and I am just not sure how they will deal with the consequences. I am already looking forward to the next book.
And Sir Kipling is awesome again as well in this book. I really like this talking cat that plays a big role in each story. I like his snark, but most of all I love how she is always by Lily's side. I also liked how this mystery ties in with the novella Cat magic, I was hoping that would be the case and having read that novella I enjoyed the few references back to it.
And there's also a reference to a character that gets introduced in the prequel novel A Study in Mischief. So it was fun to that character pop up in the main books as well. For those who haven't read the novella's all the relevant details are still mentioned so you don't miss anything.
In this book we get to learn a bit more about the demons and I liked how our knowledge of that part gets expanded a bit. I also enjoy seeing more of the wizard powers and the fae.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this latest installment in this fun urban fantasy series. Lily and Sebastian have a lot to deal with in this book, not only relationship struggles, but also a mystery surrounding a group of witches that is causing trouble. There are demons involved and it was interesting to learn a bit more about those. I also enjoyed the references to events that happened in the two novella's and how those tie in with this book. And Sir Kipling is a lot of fun to read about again as always. And while I like his snark, the moments he really stands by Lily are my favorite. Another great book in this series, it ends with a bit of a cliffhanger and I am curious to see how they will resolve that in the next book.
Love, Lies and Hocus Pocus: Betrayal is the fifth book in this fun urban fantasy series. It had been a while since I read the last two books, so it took me a while to get into this book. Luckily the author added enough hints and mentions of pasts events that I quickly got brought up to speed again. The start of a bit of a romantic scenes and while I loved reading it, I felt like the story really starts when we hear of the trouble that's going on.
I had expected the plot line to go on with the same evil guys that book 4 was about, but they have disappeared and there is no word about them. A new mystery pops up with witches who are causing trouble in their city. Or maybe it's all related after all, but that isn't clear yet by the end of this book. The plot line was an interesting one and I liked how it tied in with Sebastian's backstory. I felt like it really added something to his character, but I also felt so bad for what he has to go through in this book.
It was fun to be back in this world and spend some time with these characters. And see how Lily and her friends deal with this latest threat. There is character interaction, but also action and a bit of mystery. And magic ofcourse. I really like the magic system in this world.
I liked how we got to see this further stage in Sebastian's and Lily's relationship. They are sort of dating, but things definitely don't go as smoothly. I think it makes sense that they are clashing at times, although at some times I wish Lily stopped thinking about agent Grant and comparing Sebastian to him. It's almost like she wants to change him at times, but hey I think that's part of her character arc and struggles. And throughout the book their relationship keeps having those ups and downs. There are some really low moments and also some awesomely perfect moments where you really feel their connection.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger ending and I really am curious what's going on there. And Sebastian has to make a difficult choice and I am just not sure how they will deal with the consequences. I am already looking forward to the next book.
And Sir Kipling is awesome again as well in this book. I really like this talking cat that plays a big role in each story. I like his snark, but most of all I love how she is always by Lily's side. I also liked how this mystery ties in with the novella Cat magic, I was hoping that would be the case and having read that novella I enjoyed the few references back to it.
And there's also a reference to a character that gets introduced in the prequel novel A Study in Mischief. So it was fun to that character pop up in the main books as well. For those who haven't read the novella's all the relevant details are still mentioned so you don't miss anything.
In this book we get to learn a bit more about the demons and I liked how our knowledge of that part gets expanded a bit. I also enjoy seeing more of the wizard powers and the fae.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this latest installment in this fun urban fantasy series. Lily and Sebastian have a lot to deal with in this book, not only relationship struggles, but also a mystery surrounding a group of witches that is causing trouble. There are demons involved and it was interesting to learn a bit more about those. I also enjoyed the references to events that happened in the two novella's and how those tie in with this book. And Sir Kipling is a lot of fun to read about again as always. And while I like his snark, the moments he really stands by Lily are my favorite. Another great book in this series, it ends with a bit of a cliffhanger and I am curious to see how they will resolve that in the next book.
April 19, 2023
I really want to knock Sebastian and Lily's heads together!!
December 31, 2022
I stalled on this one. I really dislike self-sabotaging protagonists and it seems to me that Lily is deadset on overthinking and messing up her relationship, that I don't care anymore.
February 26, 2019
It's so lovely to be back in the world of Lily and Sebastian, it's like a warm cozy blanket of a series, although I have to admit given the way things ended in book 4, I was apprehensive about how would pan out. I have to admit that I was pretty surprised! The usual format with the story remains with 2 parts separated by an interlude, part one starting not too far from the closing events of the last but with enough time for some semblance of normality to return. In this first part there is a recap of the previous instalment. This is done in a really subtle way and doesn't feel pushed into the story, it's perfect for anyone who hasn't read book 4 since it was released.
But I know that what you all really want to know about is what is happening with Lily and Sebastian! Setting up your two main protagonists in a potential relationship is always going to be a difficult dynamic to traverse. I have to say, whilst it was something I had been rooting for, I was worried about how it would affect their characters. It was therefore important to get this part right and I have to admit I found Sherrer's approach to be refreshing. The potential for romance can sometimes lead to the story being overrun by it, and whilst Lily and Sebastian are often frustrating in their courtship, they are also really endearing. Not all relationships start as epic love stories and the opening lines about opposites attract, does set the tone perfectly for them.
The second part truly shows off Sherrer's writing skill, as an utterly breathtaking action packed set piece takes up much of the final quarter of the book. That this level of action continues without let up or feeling repetitive is really something special, I defy anyone to put it down in these final stages. From Agent Grant to the Fae, everyone plays a part in this show down which takes more than one or two unexpected twists.
What I really liked about the book as a whole was the full introduction of a new big bad, for those who have also read the novella Cat Magic there will be a familiarity already. I didn't feel that the story needed a break from John Faust, until one was there and it actually gave a refreshing change of pace and given the fragility of Lily and Sebastian's situation I think adding John Faust to the mix may have left the book feeling angsty. Sir Kipling remains the real star of the piece and of the series as a whole, he brings things together so perfectly often voicing/meowing the opinions that needed to be said. The ending is unexpected, whilst theepilogues traditionally wrap things up, this one ends on a real cliff hanger which isn't usual for the series, but honestly, It couldn't have ended any other way.
I loved this book just as I have loved every one before it, 5*"
But I know that what you all really want to know about is what is happening with Lily and Sebastian! Setting up your two main protagonists in a potential relationship is always going to be a difficult dynamic to traverse. I have to say, whilst it was something I had been rooting for, I was worried about how it would affect their characters. It was therefore important to get this part right and I have to admit I found Sherrer's approach to be refreshing. The potential for romance can sometimes lead to the story being overrun by it, and whilst Lily and Sebastian are often frustrating in their courtship, they are also really endearing. Not all relationships start as epic love stories and the opening lines about opposites attract, does set the tone perfectly for them.
The second part truly shows off Sherrer's writing skill, as an utterly breathtaking action packed set piece takes up much of the final quarter of the book. That this level of action continues without let up or feeling repetitive is really something special, I defy anyone to put it down in these final stages. From Agent Grant to the Fae, everyone plays a part in this show down which takes more than one or two unexpected twists.
What I really liked about the book as a whole was the full introduction of a new big bad, for those who have also read the novella Cat Magic there will be a familiarity already. I didn't feel that the story needed a break from John Faust, until one was there and it actually gave a refreshing change of pace and given the fragility of Lily and Sebastian's situation I think adding John Faust to the mix may have left the book feeling angsty. Sir Kipling remains the real star of the piece and of the series as a whole, he brings things together so perfectly often voicing/meowing the opinions that needed to be said. The ending is unexpected, whilst theepilogues traditionally wrap things up, this one ends on a real cliff hanger which isn't usual for the series, but honestly, It couldn't have ended any other way.
I loved this book just as I have loved every one before it, 5*"
February 19, 2019
Another excellent instalment of the LLHP series. If you love magic, adventure, tea and cats, then this is the series for you.
The only downsides to this book are: 1. It’s rather more emotional than the other instalments and 2. It does have rather a cliffhanger ending, which I am not, in general, a fan of.
Otherwise, very enjoyable. I very much look forward to finding out what happens in the next book, in particular, seeing Sebastian’s character development (I can’t say in relation to what in particular without spoilers!). I only wish I didn’t have to wait until next year. I’m sure my patience will be amply rewarded.
I received a free copy of this book.
The only downsides to this book are: 1. It’s rather more emotional than the other instalments and 2. It does have rather a cliffhanger ending, which I am not, in general, a fan of.
Otherwise, very enjoyable. I very much look forward to finding out what happens in the next book, in particular, seeing Sebastian’s character development (I can’t say in relation to what in particular without spoilers!). I only wish I didn’t have to wait until next year. I’m sure my patience will be amply rewarded.
I received a free copy of this book.
February 13, 2025
I have enjoyed the series until this book. I found it difficult to read. It was like the author wanted to share too much information for this book, but ended up not sharing enough. I also found the relationship parts of the book to be extremely immature. More like a high school angst ridden romance than a true love between mature adults. Lily and Sebastian are supposed to be adults.
September 8, 2022
Seriously this is a great series but at this point I just want Lily and Sebastain to be together and safe for just a wee bit.
January 22, 2025
Oh my!
Lydia Sherrer has pulled out all the stops in this fifth book of the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus series!
So much is happening to both Lily Singer, and her best friend/love, Sebastian Blackwell.
Between evil witches, demons, a face from Sebastian's past, one Roger Darthe, and a Fae Queen that insists on her way, or no way, both Lily and Sebastian are going out of their heads with worry - not for themselves, but for each other.
Despite not telling each other the truth about their feelings for each other, they both need the other to feel complete but, with one emergency after another happening, with Sebastian's past hitting him like a grenade has gone off, he is being forced by circumstances to be in between two choices, that will either end badly, or dangerously badly!
When Madam Ethel Barrington calls Lily during the night, to help prevent a demon attack on a storage room in another Museum, that holds powerful Wizard relics, she doesn't hesitate, and joins Ethel, along with Sir Kip but, when Sebastian seems to turn on her, just before she goes into battle, Lily has to harden her heart, and face this deadly danger with just Madam Barrington, and Sir Kip, to help.
What happens next is a truly exciting battle between the forces of good and evil, and it will take everything that Lily has, and is, and even more, in order to win this battle.
But, just when the battle is at its height, and things have taken a terrible turn for Lily and her friends, Sebastian appears with some very powerful magical allies!
This was a very powerful book, and really brought home to us, the readers, what's really at stake in Lily's fight against evil.
Lydia Sherrer has written a really compelling story here, and having both Lily, and Sebastian's, viewpoint through all that happens to them, this truly brings it to life.
I absolutely LOVED this book, and couldn't put it down until the final page, where I was left with a really powerful cliffhanger!
I didn't mind, though, as I have the complete series, and so will be going straight on to Book 6: 'Identity', to find out what's going to happen next! Lol
Once I've finished reading this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I thought about this series, that seems to be getting greater by the book!
Lydia Sherrer has pulled out all the stops in this fifth book of the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus series!
So much is happening to both Lily Singer, and her best friend/love, Sebastian Blackwell.
Between evil witches, demons, a face from Sebastian's past, one Roger Darthe, and a Fae Queen that insists on her way, or no way, both Lily and Sebastian are going out of their heads with worry - not for themselves, but for each other.
Despite not telling each other the truth about their feelings for each other, they both need the other to feel complete but, with one emergency after another happening, with Sebastian's past hitting him like a grenade has gone off, he is being forced by circumstances to be in between two choices, that will either end badly, or dangerously badly!
When Madam Ethel Barrington calls Lily during the night, to help prevent a demon attack on a storage room in another Museum, that holds powerful Wizard relics, she doesn't hesitate, and joins Ethel, along with Sir Kip but, when Sebastian seems to turn on her, just before she goes into battle, Lily has to harden her heart, and face this deadly danger with just Madam Barrington, and Sir Kip, to help.
What happens next is a truly exciting battle between the forces of good and evil, and it will take everything that Lily has, and is, and even more, in order to win this battle.
But, just when the battle is at its height, and things have taken a terrible turn for Lily and her friends, Sebastian appears with some very powerful magical allies!
This was a very powerful book, and really brought home to us, the readers, what's really at stake in Lily's fight against evil.
Lydia Sherrer has written a really compelling story here, and having both Lily, and Sebastian's, viewpoint through all that happens to them, this truly brings it to life.
I absolutely LOVED this book, and couldn't put it down until the final page, where I was left with a really powerful cliffhanger!
I didn't mind, though, as I have the complete series, and so will be going straight on to Book 6: 'Identity', to find out what's going to happen next! Lol
Once I've finished reading this, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I thought about this series, that seems to be getting greater by the book!
December 14, 2019
I honestly bought this book because I was in a Reading challenge at my public library and one of the challenges was to read a book set in your hometown. I was born in Atlanta and that is where Lily Singer, wizard and Library Archivist lives and works.
I read the book in two days and then over the next week finished the entire published series. And the next week finished the spinoff books.
The books are a simple and fun read and I am a pretty fast reader. The story is compelling and the the main characters are fun. What is a lot of fun is the dialogue between awkward Lily, charming Sebastian and Lily’s snarky talking cat (although he doesn’t start talking till book 2).
Having read all the books and the next one out in a month, I have done a reread and I’m busy developing my theories for Book 6. Clues are there and some red herrings. As I work on the theories, and check back though the books I have found more.
The books could be read stand alone, since explanations of the world are there, but that would only be half the fun.
I highly recommend. This series brings me back to the Harry Potter days of reading non stop, then going over the books with a fine toothed comb to figure out what was ahead, but in much shorter books.
I m so glad this was in my library challenge, since I most likely would not have bought the book to start with.
I read the book in two days and then over the next week finished the entire published series. And the next week finished the spinoff books.
The books are a simple and fun read and I am a pretty fast reader. The story is compelling and the the main characters are fun. What is a lot of fun is the dialogue between awkward Lily, charming Sebastian and Lily’s snarky talking cat (although he doesn’t start talking till book 2).
Having read all the books and the next one out in a month, I have done a reread and I’m busy developing my theories for Book 6. Clues are there and some red herrings. As I work on the theories, and check back though the books I have found more.
The books could be read stand alone, since explanations of the world are there, but that would only be half the fun.
I highly recommend. This series brings me back to the Harry Potter days of reading non stop, then going over the books with a fine toothed comb to figure out what was ahead, but in much shorter books.
I m so glad this was in my library challenge, since I most likely would not have bought the book to start with.
August 1, 2024
Lily and Sebastian have finally admitted they have feelings for each other, and they’ve started dating. But one evening when Sebastian pulls out all the stops, Lily’s phone rings, and she can’t stop herself from answering. It’s FBI agent Richard Grant, who had dated her previously (but then was discovered to be using her to get info on her father). Agent Grant asks for Lily’s help in solving a series of mysterious crimes in Atlanta. To ease Sebastian’s ruffled ego, she invites him to be present when the agent comes to explain the case. Sebastian recognizes signs in the photographs that point to demonic activity and he warns Lily to stay away. Lily, of course, refuses, and asks Richard for the FBI files on the case. Sebastian offers to pick them up, but then disappears. Lily calls on Sebastian’s pixie friend to help her find and save him. She succeeds, but not without dire consequences. The final battle is intense, and the outcome was a bit of a surprise, leaving a huge cliffhanger.
The only thing that bothered me in this volume is that Lily occasionally seems a bit unstable. She often obsesses about things and her mind wanders while people are talking to her. I’m hoping she gets more self-confidence soon.
The only thing that bothered me in this volume is that Lily occasionally seems a bit unstable. She often obsesses about things and her mind wanders while people are talking to her. I’m hoping she gets more self-confidence soon.
April 4, 2019
So exciting!
I just raced through this book in a couple of days, after spending the preceding week re-reading the first four books to refresh my memory. And now I have to wait almost a year for the next one? Argh!
This whole series is great. The main characters are all fully-drawn, complicated people (yes, including Sir Kipling). The plots are engaging, growing more complex and intense over the course of the series. In this book, the relationship between Lily and Sebastian continues to grow, in confusing and complicated ways as they try to sort out their tangled emotions. But the action of the book doesn't give them much time to work on that. There are investigations, kidnappings, rescues, and exciting battles. My only complaint is that Lydia has left so much hanging unresolved at the end, unlike the other books, which left a few things open, but mostly wrapped up at the end. And now we have to wait almost a year to find out what happens next. It's going to be a hard wait. Meanwhile, she's written some other books about these characters, and I'm off to start reading those.
I just raced through this book in a couple of days, after spending the preceding week re-reading the first four books to refresh my memory. And now I have to wait almost a year for the next one? Argh!
This whole series is great. The main characters are all fully-drawn, complicated people (yes, including Sir Kipling). The plots are engaging, growing more complex and intense over the course of the series. In this book, the relationship between Lily and Sebastian continues to grow, in confusing and complicated ways as they try to sort out their tangled emotions. But the action of the book doesn't give them much time to work on that. There are investigations, kidnappings, rescues, and exciting battles. My only complaint is that Lydia has left so much hanging unresolved at the end, unlike the other books, which left a few things open, but mostly wrapped up at the end. And now we have to wait almost a year to find out what happens next. It's going to be a hard wait. Meanwhile, she's written some other books about these characters, and I'm off to start reading those.
February 24, 2019
I feel like I have waited forever for the newest installment of the LLHP series! It pulled me right on in and didn’t disappoint for the most part, I will explain my disappointment but first...
Wizards, witches, romance, proper tea, fae, a budding romance, and snarky cats form a bewildering world to get lost into. Lily Singer is still trying to process what went on with her father and Morgan Lafay, while trying to figure out what was happening between her and Sebastian. She Agent Grant contacts her about a string of unexplainable crimes happening around the city. Bound to keep everybody safe Lily agrees to help, but can she help herself?
I felt emotions coming off the pages of this one, more so than others in the series. I could not put it down, but I will mention the disappointment now which is two parts. Part one it ended when I wanted it to keep going, and part two it ended in a doozy of a cliff hanger. Which is a sad moment for any invested reader!
* I was gifted a copy of this book and my thoughts and comments are of my own mind. *
Wizards, witches, romance, proper tea, fae, a budding romance, and snarky cats form a bewildering world to get lost into. Lily Singer is still trying to process what went on with her father and Morgan Lafay, while trying to figure out what was happening between her and Sebastian. She Agent Grant contacts her about a string of unexplainable crimes happening around the city. Bound to keep everybody safe Lily agrees to help, but can she help herself?
I felt emotions coming off the pages of this one, more so than others in the series. I could not put it down, but I will mention the disappointment now which is two parts. Part one it ended when I wanted it to keep going, and part two it ended in a doozy of a cliff hanger. Which is a sad moment for any invested reader!
* I was gifted a copy of this book and my thoughts and comments are of my own mind. *
November 12, 2020
I love this series, but I must say that this book doesn't really deserve a 5 star, maybe a 4.5 at best. At times it dragged. To me it seemed like it was repeating over and over. The characters Lily, Sebastian, and others including Sir Kipling Lily's cat, that constantly reminding us about things that happened just a few chapters before or in the previous books drags my interest down.
The introduction of Roger, someone from Sebastian's past, peaked my interest. The character was well developed and and did help the book, but again too much was left out or the basics of Roger and Sebastian's past together was repeated without adding much to it.
Overall a good book. It's good for anyone from teenage to adults. Hope others enjoyed the book and that new readers do also. I must say here that please look up the suggested reading list for the series, including the novella's. There are things that happen in some of them that are needed when you are this far into the series.
The introduction of Roger, someone from Sebastian's past, peaked my interest. The character was well developed and and did help the book, but again too much was left out or the basics of Roger and Sebastian's past together was repeated without adding much to it.
Overall a good book. It's good for anyone from teenage to adults. Hope others enjoyed the book and that new readers do also. I must say here that please look up the suggested reading list for the series, including the novella's. There are things that happen in some of them that are needed when you are this far into the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2019
ARE. YOU. KIDDING. ME?! THAT is seriously how you had to end the book, on a DAMN cliffhanger, oohhhh Lydia you clever little witch you, I mean wizard, lol, but honestly, that was actually better than the 4th book, so many emotions especially since we finally get to see Lily express her true feelings to Sebastian, maybe now that she has done so, it will allow to her not have to focus so much how infuriating he can be to her at times. Finally admitting it to him will also drive her to become stronger to try to protect Ethel and Sebastian, but what about her ward bracelet, will we get to see a brand new one now and will it be endowed with even more power and now that it is broken, is the angelic power gone? Now I got to get my hands on book 6! DANG YOU Lydia, you pulled a Neal Shusterman cliffhanger on us you brilliant and cleverly devilish writer you.
March 3, 2019
“No back talk or foolishness, or it’s off to Harvard with you!”
The Lydia Sherrer wit is alive and well with this latest addition to the Love Lies and Hocus Pocus series. It further showcases her ability to write a literary roller coaster as the story begins with such a light note that is shattered by the ring of a telephone. With that initial mood of awkward whimsy broken, the story gradually, gruesomely transformed last in tone until it reaches the darkest depths its ever touched, then keeps on digging. More is revealed of Sebastian’s past, hinting at what lies behind his mask of reckless charm. A massive turn of events sets the series in a direction none of the previous volumes prepared is for!
The Lydia Sherrer wit is alive and well with this latest addition to the Love Lies and Hocus Pocus series. It further showcases her ability to write a literary roller coaster as the story begins with such a light note that is shattered by the ring of a telephone. With that initial mood of awkward whimsy broken, the story gradually, gruesomely transformed last in tone until it reaches the darkest depths its ever touched, then keeps on digging. More is revealed of Sebastian’s past, hinting at what lies behind his mask of reckless charm. A massive turn of events sets the series in a direction none of the previous volumes prepared is for!
April 1, 2019
So I binge read all of these books to this point and now I'm upset that I have to wait until January of next year for the next book. I was prepared for it until I got to the end of this one. This one ended on a veritable cliff hanger which is very uncool. I'm tempted to knock my rating down to 2 stars because I'm pretty angry about this ending. Ms. Sherrer could have posed that 2020 deadline at the end of the previous book and I would have been okay with it. But to leave me hanging doesn't make me happy and it isn't very nice or well mannered on her part.
Unless you're considering reading this book in December of 2019, don't read it! Put it back on your TBR shelf and save yourself some frustration and grief.
Unless you're considering reading this book in December of 2019, don't read it! Put it back on your TBR shelf and save yourself some frustration and grief.
August 27, 2019
Lily Singer, Accidental Hero
Lily Singer wants nothing more than good books, great tea and to study her magic quietly. Her erstwhile friend, Sebastian, has other ideas. Sebastian is constantly dragging Lily into trouble. Increasingly dangerous trouble. Along the way Lily finds trouble of her own and Sebastian, along with her mentor and her magical cat, sail to her rescue.
I found Lily a difficult character to like, especially at the beginning. Over the course of five books I could see some redeeming qualities, such as her loyalty to Sebastian. For someone who is meant to be a cool thinking librarian type, she’s rash and often foolhardy.
Overall, I enjoyed the books and look forward to the next one.
Lily Singer wants nothing more than good books, great tea and to study her magic quietly. Her erstwhile friend, Sebastian, has other ideas. Sebastian is constantly dragging Lily into trouble. Increasingly dangerous trouble. Along the way Lily finds trouble of her own and Sebastian, along with her mentor and her magical cat, sail to her rescue.
I found Lily a difficult character to like, especially at the beginning. Over the course of five books I could see some redeeming qualities, such as her loyalty to Sebastian. For someone who is meant to be a cool thinking librarian type, she’s rash and often foolhardy.
Overall, I enjoyed the books and look forward to the next one.
February 26, 2019
I received a free copy of this book, which was great because I've been following Lydia Sherrer since she started her Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus (LLHP) series since she started. Although you really need to have read the other five books before, this is one of her best. Lydia has a way of writing characters that slides you into the pages before you know it and making you really care about Lily and Sebastian. This book examines what happens when life is messy and the supernatural is messing with you. The book ends on a cliffhanger with a poignancy that will have you reaching for the next book...only to realize with a bit of agony, that she hasn't written it yet.
February 14, 2021
Boredom and waiting..
.. for a new release to come out from another author meant I bought the rest of the available series.
I am still not finding Lily or Sebastian compelling heroes but a need for distraction meant continuing to follow the series I had read so much of..
I am not surprised that I struggled to stay focused.. it's not quite there, as the series started lacking that magic that compels the reader to continue its no surprise that I found myself putting it down and reluctantly picking it back up hours later..
Not really gripping enough.. missing sparks.. I just wanted to be able to believe it but I can't!!
.. for a new release to come out from another author meant I bought the rest of the available series.
I am still not finding Lily or Sebastian compelling heroes but a need for distraction meant continuing to follow the series I had read so much of..
I am not surprised that I struggled to stay focused.. it's not quite there, as the series started lacking that magic that compels the reader to continue its no surprise that I found myself putting it down and reluctantly picking it back up hours later..
Not really gripping enough.. missing sparks.. I just wanted to be able to believe it but I can't!!
October 25, 2021
One problem with reading books in a series is that it is hard to find things to say about the book that I haven't already said about the earlier episodes. I find the characters in this fantasy mystery to be amusing and fascinating, which makes the series fun to follow.
The author includes a cast of characters list in the from of the book helping the reader keep track of the many secondary characters. She also includes a glossary of terms relating to wizardry and/of magic. These add an element of believability to the story, despite its fantasy setting.
I am enjoying the series very much, although fantasy is not what I usually read.
The author includes a cast of characters list in the from of the book helping the reader keep track of the many secondary characters. She also includes a glossary of terms relating to wizardry and/of magic. These add an element of believability to the story, despite its fantasy setting.
I am enjoying the series very much, although fantasy is not what I usually read.
May 9, 2023
This is the last book in the series that I've read. This book felt like the author was ready to step back from the series for a while and do other things. Still, it's a good read, and I would recommend it to fantasy fans.
My other recommendation is that any of you who might be interested in the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus series, please contact your local libraries to get these books on the shelves. I had to purchase all of the books in order to read them, but for me, that is the highlight of my life: buying books! Someone else might not be so fortunate as to have money for books, and if not for libraries, they will miss out on a great series.
My other recommendation is that any of you who might be interested in the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus series, please contact your local libraries to get these books on the shelves. I had to purchase all of the books in order to read them, but for me, that is the highlight of my life: buying books! Someone else might not be so fortunate as to have money for books, and if not for libraries, they will miss out on a great series.
Read
July 27, 2024DNFed at 26%
There wasn't anything specific that made me stop reading this series. There are still the same issues I had in the previous books. The main characters still act immaturely. I can see some growth in the FMC but it's not enough for me to get over her annoying streaks.
I actually preferred the main characters being just friends instead of going into a romantic relationship.
Also, I still dislike some of the side characters. There is a lot of haughtiness going around.
After taking a break between the previous book and this one, I realized that I lost complete interest in this series.
There wasn't anything specific that made me stop reading this series. There are still the same issues I had in the previous books. The main characters still act immaturely. I can see some growth in the FMC but it's not enough for me to get over her annoying streaks.
I actually preferred the main characters being just friends instead of going into a romantic relationship.
Also, I still dislike some of the side characters. There is a lot of haughtiness going around.
After taking a break between the previous book and this one, I realized that I lost complete interest in this series.
April 9, 2025
I'd put this at a bit over 4-stars. Really hating the forced whole star model Good Reads has right now.
This book was slower to get going than the previous ones. Gone are the villains from the last three books, and in their place are some witches from Sebastian's past. The relationship between Sebastian and Lily is explored more, with all its awkward glory. We also delve more into Sebastian's past.
Be aware: this book deals with depression and trauma, in the form of demonic voices in the head.
This book was slower to get going than the previous ones. Gone are the villains from the last three books, and in their place are some witches from Sebastian's past. The relationship between Sebastian and Lily is explored more, with all its awkward glory. We also delve more into Sebastian's past.
Be aware: this book deals with depression and trauma, in the form of demonic voices in the head.
April 17, 2019
Okay
That ending, no. And how long we have to wait for the next.....
While I very much like this series, I didn’t care as much for this particular book. I like Lily, but do wish she wouldn’t be so self absorbed so much. The romance part felt kind of like grade school people until the very end. Wasn’t happy with the way Sebastian was portrayed in this book. He is a good guy. Oh well, guess we’ll just have to wait and see what the author comes up with for them.
That ending, no. And how long we have to wait for the next.....
While I very much like this series, I didn’t care as much for this particular book. I like Lily, but do wish she wouldn’t be so self absorbed so much. The romance part felt kind of like grade school people until the very end. Wasn’t happy with the way Sebastian was portrayed in this book. He is a good guy. Oh well, guess we’ll just have to wait and see what the author comes up with for them.
July 2, 2019
Happy and Sad
Gamut of emotions for this book. First I was delighted the series was continuing. Then I was disappointed because it started very slow. After about 10% or so into the book, the pace picked up, and picked up some more. The further I read, the faster the pace. So exciting. I had to get to the end. I read until 5:00 am so I could finish the book. Then my jaw dropped. A cliffhanger. Really? Really? Enough said.
Gamut of emotions for this book. First I was delighted the series was continuing. Then I was disappointed because it started very slow. After about 10% or so into the book, the pace picked up, and picked up some more. The further I read, the faster the pace. So exciting. I had to get to the end. I read until 5:00 am so I could finish the book. Then my jaw dropped. A cliffhanger. Really? Really? Enough said.
July 30, 2021
Love, Lies & Hocus Pocus: Betral, Book 5 of the Lily Singer mysteries, by Lydia Sherer
As usual, Sherer's work is entertaining, with smooth flow, lots of action, relatable characters, some unexpected twists and turns, impeccable proofing and editing, and plenty of smiles for the reader. Well, that is, until the reader gets to the end, which isn't an ending, but a cliffhanger. I cannot stress enough how much I hate cliffhanger endings. So I showed my disapproval in my rating.
As usual, Sherer's work is entertaining, with smooth flow, lots of action, relatable characters, some unexpected twists and turns, impeccable proofing and editing, and plenty of smiles for the reader. Well, that is, until the reader gets to the end, which isn't an ending, but a cliffhanger. I cannot stress enough how much I hate cliffhanger endings. So I showed my disapproval in my rating.
August 12, 2023
I haven’t finished the book yet but may not because: Wow, Lily is SUCH an asshole. At the end of the last book I thought that had changed and so decided to read this one. Nope, she’s eve worse. Geez, how much of a snob and a jerk to the really genuine people in your life can you be? I’m hoping her snobbish ass gets put in her place but I’m honestly not hopeful. She constantly degrades the only character in the book who is consistently likable. We’ll see if I can get through this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2025
3.5 stars. I'm a huge Lilly Singer fan and love this series. This was a very slow read for me. Normally I can fly through these books but this one seemed to drag on. There was a ton of internal monologue and lots of character building. I'm sure it was necessary to set up the plots for the following books but it took away from this one. With that said, the last 25% of this book is excellent! Super exciting and you are left completely on a cliff hanger for book 6.
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