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The Witches of Wormwood Mysteries #4
Belladonna and a Body: Mystery
Once the town’s hero witch, Hazel Salem is now the prime suspect in a murder investigation.Her fall from grace is nearly complete when a stranger comes to town and throws a spanner in the works - one large enough to alter the course of the murder investigation. Hazel knows she’s being framed.But who is out to get her… and how far will they go to put her out of the picture? Wormwood has always had its secrets… but this one might be its darkest yet.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2019
110 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 19, 2019
Fourth book and this series keeps getting better. It has well developed characters that keep growing as a result of circumstances and challenges. In this one Hazel finds out even more about her family and where her powers come from. However, in spite of having solved mysteries and become somewhat of a local hero she has become a suspect in a local murder.
June 11, 2019
I received this book as an ARC but am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I loved this story. Full of great characters, an interesting plot and a hint of romance, it kept me guessing whodunnit until the killer was revealed. This series just keeps getting better and I can’t wait to read the next one.
June 14, 2022
This is a tremendous episode in the Wormwood Saga. There is an awful lot going on, including manipulation and murder, family rivalries, animal hijinks and a disastrous but very funny coven meeting. What particularly struck me is that at last we find out how Hazel got her unusual powers, what Jesse had to do with it and who he really is, and also what the mayor is up to (it's not good). I must say my jaw dropped several times. Hazel has to deal with a whole new level of weirdness and learns she has a Destiny, which is never good news. If the next book was available, I'd be starting it today!
June 8, 2019
Uncle Constantine is back…And he’s brought the rest of the family with him. Who needs enemies when he’s your relative. Another devilishly good, tangled plot, with great characters, and even some long-awaited answers.
November 2, 2020
Fun and easy to enjoy
Good Good book, with interesting characters, it takes a new twist on a variety of mythology. It was an easy read and a good way to lose yourself for a few hours.
Good Good book, with interesting characters, it takes a new twist on a variety of mythology. It was an easy read and a good way to lose yourself for a few hours.
October 13, 2020
3.5 stars
June 12, 2019
Inheriting an old mansion from the father she never knew, Hazel entered the premises, expecting the smell of mildew from the building left vacant for 10 years. There was a musty dry smell but no dampness. It was very strange that she found no sign of magic anywhere. Her father had been declared legally dead – but no one really knew his fate. Looking around, she admitted she wasn’t here to discover his unknown past -- she had actually come here to begin searching for him. After forcing her way into what was evidently her father’s office space, she hadn’t really found any concrete answers. Instead, she was left with more questions. How had the man who owned a mundane surveillance company met her mother? From whom did Hazel inherit her strange set of magical talents? And what had really happened to her father?
Hazel arrived home late and was exhausted. She took time only to empty the cauldron that Hemlock, her cat and witch’s familiar, assisted by her hellhound Erebus, had filled with a potion they had been cackling over. She didn’t bother to ask what it was. She also missed the fact that a new shop sign across the street read ‘Salem’s Spell Solutions’, direct competition for her own business. Her great-uncle Constantine Salem was blatantly using magic to lure the customers into his new shop.
The Wormwood Coven, where Hazel was their high priestess, met in the Wormwood Forest. They were going to welcome the two new witches, but everyone was back-biting and sniping at the other, throwing hexes at each other! Hazel would have to settle this first before they could continue with the actual meeting. One of the women mentioned an article Hazel wrote on how to create a belladonna bottle curse, meant to its historical interest and not as a death curse for witches. She was still trying to introduce the new members – if everyone would quit giving their opinions on everything! At last, they were officially back to 13 members. It was too bad that by the next day, they’d be down to 12 again…
The next morning Detective Admiral was banging on Hazel’s door. Adelaide Hoy, one of Hazel’s coven, had been murdered! Salt circles and occult symbols at the crime scene meant he needed her help figuring out what supernatural thing caused her death. But Hazel told him she had argued with the victim the night before and probably should not help in this case. Regardless, he asked her to come along with him.
With one thing and the other coming her way, it’s difficult for Hazel to know who to trust. When she becomes the prime suspect, she needs to find out who is framing her for the murder! Is her great-uncle involved since he is suddenly in town? Is someone on the Witch Council after her? Will she find the real culprit before it is too late?
Great stories that will keep the reader on the edge of the seat from first page to last! There is so much going on here that the reader will need to take notes! Grab your copy and see if Hazel can get all of this craziness sorted out!
Hazel arrived home late and was exhausted. She took time only to empty the cauldron that Hemlock, her cat and witch’s familiar, assisted by her hellhound Erebus, had filled with a potion they had been cackling over. She didn’t bother to ask what it was. She also missed the fact that a new shop sign across the street read ‘Salem’s Spell Solutions’, direct competition for her own business. Her great-uncle Constantine Salem was blatantly using magic to lure the customers into his new shop.
The Wormwood Coven, where Hazel was their high priestess, met in the Wormwood Forest. They were going to welcome the two new witches, but everyone was back-biting and sniping at the other, throwing hexes at each other! Hazel would have to settle this first before they could continue with the actual meeting. One of the women mentioned an article Hazel wrote on how to create a belladonna bottle curse, meant to its historical interest and not as a death curse for witches. She was still trying to introduce the new members – if everyone would quit giving their opinions on everything! At last, they were officially back to 13 members. It was too bad that by the next day, they’d be down to 12 again…
The next morning Detective Admiral was banging on Hazel’s door. Adelaide Hoy, one of Hazel’s coven, had been murdered! Salt circles and occult symbols at the crime scene meant he needed her help figuring out what supernatural thing caused her death. But Hazel told him she had argued with the victim the night before and probably should not help in this case. Regardless, he asked her to come along with him.
With one thing and the other coming her way, it’s difficult for Hazel to know who to trust. When she becomes the prime suspect, she needs to find out who is framing her for the murder! Is her great-uncle involved since he is suddenly in town? Is someone on the Witch Council after her? Will she find the real culprit before it is too late?
Great stories that will keep the reader on the edge of the seat from first page to last! There is so much going on here that the reader will need to take notes! Grab your copy and see if Hazel can get all of this craziness sorted out!
June 15, 2019
Hazel loves writing her local little newsletter and included details of a potion requiring the belladonna of the title. What she didn’t realise when she did that, was that someone would use that to frame her for the latest murder in Wormwood! Usually she is the one that helped the detective to find clues between the magical and human parts of a case. Even when she checks the murder scene, there is no magical trace, but clues left behind are linking her to the murder and she has to take a step back.
Add in the competition of a new shop opening immediately opposite hers, run by her odd looking uncle and her cousins, and selling lots of similar items at a much lower cost. He wants her to take down the name of her shop as his is the only one that should be called Salem, telling her she isn’t entitled to use it. There is something strange about his powers and the people he has working for him. But once she is blamed for the murder, he soon finds out that includes problems for his new shop, with the Salem name being dragged into the mud.
A new librarian enters the scene and soon becomes the new heartthrob for all the desperate women of Wormwood. He throws an ancient destiny into the mix and links it to Hazel. Jesse also returns and we get to find out a bit more about who he really is. Hazel inherits a huge house from her father, who was finally declared dead after being missing for so long, and also leaves her a comfortable monetary backing. We also have her familiar who always seems to do everything he can to go against her wishes, now bringing her hellhound into his bad habits.
The storm that has been hovering over Wormwood seems to be coming to a head and Hazel has a destiny to fulfil. Her powers and where they came from, are finally revealed and bring some understanding to her life. Add in the Witch Council accusing her of murder, her own mother’s old investigations of the Council and her aunts coming back into her life, it all adds up to a fascinating crescendo. We find out what the mayor is up to and his part in the future of Wormwood.
Finding out who is framing her and what their reasons are, will be Hazel’s main concern. She wants to clear her name and keep her business going successfully, but now matters are coming to a head and the whole of Wormwood could be in danger and she is the only one that can stop matters apparently. The next book is obviously going to be a doozy, if this is how this one reached its climax! I can’t wait for the next book, Aconite and Accusations, to come out in September, so I can see what happens on Midsummer’s Eve. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I loved it. The action is ramping up with each book in this series! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Add in the competition of a new shop opening immediately opposite hers, run by her odd looking uncle and her cousins, and selling lots of similar items at a much lower cost. He wants her to take down the name of her shop as his is the only one that should be called Salem, telling her she isn’t entitled to use it. There is something strange about his powers and the people he has working for him. But once she is blamed for the murder, he soon finds out that includes problems for his new shop, with the Salem name being dragged into the mud.
A new librarian enters the scene and soon becomes the new heartthrob for all the desperate women of Wormwood. He throws an ancient destiny into the mix and links it to Hazel. Jesse also returns and we get to find out a bit more about who he really is. Hazel inherits a huge house from her father, who was finally declared dead after being missing for so long, and also leaves her a comfortable monetary backing. We also have her familiar who always seems to do everything he can to go against her wishes, now bringing her hellhound into his bad habits.
The storm that has been hovering over Wormwood seems to be coming to a head and Hazel has a destiny to fulfil. Her powers and where they came from, are finally revealed and bring some understanding to her life. Add in the Witch Council accusing her of murder, her own mother’s old investigations of the Council and her aunts coming back into her life, it all adds up to a fascinating crescendo. We find out what the mayor is up to and his part in the future of Wormwood.
Finding out who is framing her and what their reasons are, will be Hazel’s main concern. She wants to clear her name and keep her business going successfully, but now matters are coming to a head and the whole of Wormwood could be in danger and she is the only one that can stop matters apparently. The next book is obviously going to be a doozy, if this is how this one reached its climax! I can’t wait for the next book, Aconite and Accusations, to come out in September, so I can see what happens on Midsummer’s Eve. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I loved it. The action is ramping up with each book in this series! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
June 5, 2019
Book 4 in the fantastic Witches of Wormwood series takes you on a roller coaster ride where you beg for more when you have completed this one. Hazel, is still learning about her paranormal powers and still trying to find out who her father was and anything about him when a solicitor drops an inheritance in her lap. This is from her father who she still doesn't know. It has been 10 years since his disappearance so he is pronounced legally dead. The inheritance includes a run-down derelict mansion and some money to make her more comfortable now. While she is checking out the mansion searching for evidence that could lead her to finding out about her father, she comes across some receipts that leave her with even more questions. When she returns to her shop, she finds she has become a suspect in a murder of one of the witches in her coven after a coven meeting the night before goes awry and she ends the meeting. And her Great Uncle, a strange relative who is trying to get Hazel under his thumb to become more powerful opens up a competing shop across the street from Hazel in order to get her to join with him. There are so many twists and turns and new characters, the mysterious actions of the mayor, a seeming love triangle between Hazel, Tristan and the sheriff, Sean as well as her spoiled pets, Erubus a hellhound and her familiar, Hemlock. Then we have Jesse show up again who has answers about her father and her, but doesn't want to tell her and says he can't. But he tells her there is something ominous going to happen to the town and she is the one that can do something about it, but he won't tell her what or how. So many secrets in the town of Wormwood. So many people sure Hazel killed the witch in her coven. Even the Head of the Witches Council seems to think Hazel is guilty and must be punished by the witches council. Wow I just couldn't get enough of this episode and can't wait for more! An edge of your seat ending that will leave you trying to figure out what could possibly happen next! I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 4, 2019
Bellafonna and a body. By. Ruby Loren
Book Four In the Witches of Wormwood series
The books opens with Hazel looking around the house she inherited from her unknown father, an undertaking that leaves her with more questions than answers. Returning to her home and shop her life suddenly goes downhill from there onwards. Is she being framed for murder or is it coincidence, does the sudden appearance of her maternal uncle have anything to do with it or are the Witches Council responsible, or is it an as unknown third party or worse, someone else she know? Life is suddenly very interesting and, as usual, Hemlock and Erebus are no help at all, being involved in attempting to begin a new dark cult with themselves as leaders. The books finishes with the introduction of deities into the equation and ends with cliffhanger leaving the reader desperate to read the next book in the series.
Another excellent offering from Ruby Loren, this time in the Witches of Wormwood series. A writer who, unusually in the days of ebooks, writes full length novels which draw you in and ensure that you can't put down your book, or Kindle in my case, until you have reached the final page and uncovered the last unexpected twist in a great storyline.
As usual this can be read on its own or as part of the series. A great writer whose output never fails to amaze with her neverending imagination and creativity in which every book is different from the previous and every series is completely separate from the others. I cannot recommend both writer and books enough.
Book Four In the Witches of Wormwood series
The books opens with Hazel looking around the house she inherited from her unknown father, an undertaking that leaves her with more questions than answers. Returning to her home and shop her life suddenly goes downhill from there onwards. Is she being framed for murder or is it coincidence, does the sudden appearance of her maternal uncle have anything to do with it or are the Witches Council responsible, or is it an as unknown third party or worse, someone else she know? Life is suddenly very interesting and, as usual, Hemlock and Erebus are no help at all, being involved in attempting to begin a new dark cult with themselves as leaders. The books finishes with the introduction of deities into the equation and ends with cliffhanger leaving the reader desperate to read the next book in the series.
Another excellent offering from Ruby Loren, this time in the Witches of Wormwood series. A writer who, unusually in the days of ebooks, writes full length novels which draw you in and ensure that you can't put down your book, or Kindle in my case, until you have reached the final page and uncovered the last unexpected twist in a great storyline.
As usual this can be read on its own or as part of the series. A great writer whose output never fails to amaze with her neverending imagination and creativity in which every book is different from the previous and every series is completely separate from the others. I cannot recommend both writer and books enough.
June 9, 2019
As Hazel tries to work out her place in Wormwood, things keep changing. She dearly misses the crazy aunties who first embraced her as family and tried to guide her - of course done haphazardly & while following their own pursuits.
Nasty Uncle Constantine is back with a vengeance when she pops out of town for a few days. There may also be various news about her birth father, though the story seems unsurprisingly a tangled tale.
Her cat familiar has delusions of grandeur and overinflated plans for world domination. I know few cats who are without such ideas. Does Hemlock have some traction on this ?
Sorting out whom to trust is hard work, and her crazy coven is more burden than help. Their infighting is dangerous and possibly lethal.
Hazel faces a disturbing number of challenges and realm shattering revelations. She reminds me quite a bit of her near neighbor Enchantress / Shifter January Chevalier in that respect. Great power. Some significant connections with friends and family. Hugely deceptive and betraying exchanges. The powerful Shifter had a cameo in the previous book. I am a serious fan of her stories, so would enjoy seeing her again.
Finding her footing and staying on her feet as the ground is shifting, sometimes literally, seems to be an ongoing challenge for poor Hazel. Finding herself and saving the world, or st least her corner of it, seem to be big on her must do list.
And next? More please!
Action, adventure and tangled family, coven, friends/ romance make this a gripping KU read.
Nasty Uncle Constantine is back with a vengeance when she pops out of town for a few days. There may also be various news about her birth father, though the story seems unsurprisingly a tangled tale.
Her cat familiar has delusions of grandeur and overinflated plans for world domination. I know few cats who are without such ideas. Does Hemlock have some traction on this ?
Sorting out whom to trust is hard work, and her crazy coven is more burden than help. Their infighting is dangerous and possibly lethal.
Hazel faces a disturbing number of challenges and realm shattering revelations. She reminds me quite a bit of her near neighbor Enchantress / Shifter January Chevalier in that respect. Great power. Some significant connections with friends and family. Hugely deceptive and betraying exchanges. The powerful Shifter had a cameo in the previous book. I am a serious fan of her stories, so would enjoy seeing her again.
Finding her footing and staying on her feet as the ground is shifting, sometimes literally, seems to be an ongoing challenge for poor Hazel. Finding herself and saving the world, or st least her corner of it, seem to be big on her must do list.
And next? More please!
Action, adventure and tangled family, coven, friends/ romance make this a gripping KU read.
June 9, 2019
Hazel Salem has just had a bomb dropped on her. The question that she has searched for an answer to, for many years has just been answered….”Who is her father?” When a solicitor has stopped in to see Hazel, she not only gets the answer to that age old question, she inherits everything. But even a run down mansion really doesn’t answer the questions to what happened to him and why he was never around.
Hazel has a new mission. To find out more about her father and what happened to him years ago when he disappeared. But if Hazel knew coming back to town after her trip to the mansion was going to land her as a suspect to murder, she may have just stayed away.
Will Hazel find out who is behind the murder before it is too late?
I have to say that each of these books gets better and better. Each book develops more of the Wormwood world and all the crazy antics the characters are up to. The action develops more with each book as well, making these books more exciting and dangerous.
I love all the characters in the series. They are fun, quirky and strange. Hemlock is my favorite. He is a talking cat or shall I say Hazel’s familiar. He is always up to something and constantly getting in trouble. He really is the worst familiar yet. Let us also not forget Hazel’s beloved hellhound, Erebus. Put him together with Hemlock and you got a world of trouble.
I love Hazel. She is such a strong character. I love the small love triangle the author has put her in. I am team Tristan all the way, but I think Sean might be in the lead after this book. Hazel is on the fence.
Overall this book is a fun quirky read. It is set in a paranormal background with many different individuals, witches, demons, hellhounds and talking cats. It has plenty of laughs, secret crushes, deceit and danger to go around. You are sure to love this cozy series.
Be sure to read in order.
Hazel has a new mission. To find out more about her father and what happened to him years ago when he disappeared. But if Hazel knew coming back to town after her trip to the mansion was going to land her as a suspect to murder, she may have just stayed away.
Will Hazel find out who is behind the murder before it is too late?
I have to say that each of these books gets better and better. Each book develops more of the Wormwood world and all the crazy antics the characters are up to. The action develops more with each book as well, making these books more exciting and dangerous.
I love all the characters in the series. They are fun, quirky and strange. Hemlock is my favorite. He is a talking cat or shall I say Hazel’s familiar. He is always up to something and constantly getting in trouble. He really is the worst familiar yet. Let us also not forget Hazel’s beloved hellhound, Erebus. Put him together with Hemlock and you got a world of trouble.
I love Hazel. She is such a strong character. I love the small love triangle the author has put her in. I am team Tristan all the way, but I think Sean might be in the lead after this book. Hazel is on the fence.
Overall this book is a fun quirky read. It is set in a paranormal background with many different individuals, witches, demons, hellhounds and talking cats. It has plenty of laughs, secret crushes, deceit and danger to go around. You are sure to love this cozy series.
Be sure to read in order.
June 13, 2019
🔍Hazel and Hemlock tested to their limits in a town brimming with conflict and looming disaster🔎
June 8, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
😯😈😼💥
Well-written and truly chockful of mysteries! For me, the heroine detective's cat familiar 😼 Hemlock, still sassy after all these witchy, murderous shenanigans, remains the best part of the Wormwood town ensemble of characters. Like in the previous books in this series, there are multiple mysteries and worrying conflicts weaving through the plot. These include a member of the Coven's death that appears to be an attempt to frame heroine potion seller Hazel; an antagonistic business move by a branch of her family; mysterious actions by the town's mayor; the puzzle around Hazel's presumed-dead dad; and a prophecy that puts the whole town of Wormwood in its destructive crosshairs. Lots of twists and turns and surprise reappearances by friend and foe and now Nordic gods enter the scene! Definitely not predictable, but I felt the murder got downplayed in the mix with so many subplots. The story ends with several major issues unresolved, so you'll need to keep with the series to learn the outcome.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 8, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
😯😈😼💥
Well-written and truly chockful of mysteries! For me, the heroine detective's cat familiar 😼 Hemlock, still sassy after all these witchy, murderous shenanigans, remains the best part of the Wormwood town ensemble of characters. Like in the previous books in this series, there are multiple mysteries and worrying conflicts weaving through the plot. These include a member of the Coven's death that appears to be an attempt to frame heroine potion seller Hazel; an antagonistic business move by a branch of her family; mysterious actions by the town's mayor; the puzzle around Hazel's presumed-dead dad; and a prophecy that puts the whole town of Wormwood in its destructive crosshairs. Lots of twists and turns and surprise reappearances by friend and foe and now Nordic gods enter the scene! Definitely not predictable, but I felt the murder got downplayed in the mix with so many subplots. The story ends with several major issues unresolved, so you'll need to keep with the series to learn the outcome.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 8, 2019
Hazel finds out who her father is when she receives an inheritance from him. She goes to check out the old mansion and tries to learn about him and why he disappeared. When she gets back home she finds out a witch in her coven has been murdered and she is the main suspect. Will she be able to find out who the murderer is? How will she go about it? Then her Great Uncle comes to town and sets up a shop across the street from her competing against her. What is he trying to do? Why would he want to put her out of business? What is he after? Then Jesse shows up. That means trouble will follow. He has secrets. Says he has answers but can't tell her. He warns her something is going to happen. But what? This a roller coaster ride that will have you hanging on to your seat with all the twists and turns. You won't want to put it down. So give yourself time to read it in one setting. Well constructed plot and well written.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
April 22, 2021
This is the most significant book in the series so far. Revelations a plenty. Hazel explores a mansion that belonged to her father (or maybe not her father?) There's a new spell shop opening run by a relative who is pretty much evil.
Tristan says he loves her but she's not really ready for that. There's another murder, of course, and it appears that somebody might be trying to frame her. To make things even a whole lot worse it seems the Witch's Council is going to investigate her.
Now if that's not enough to deal with apparently something is going to happening that will result in the total destruction of the entire town in a matter of weeks. The mayor is evil and she considers trading in Hemlock for a regular familiar.
Then the revelations come in. Hemlock is not at all what she thinks he is. Jesse is back and is very definitely not who she things he is. Her cousin isn't who she thinks he is. There's a prophecy, a person who the librarian wants to kill and another move on the part of the Witch's Council.
The best book in an already good book series.
Tristan says he loves her but she's not really ready for that. There's another murder, of course, and it appears that somebody might be trying to frame her. To make things even a whole lot worse it seems the Witch's Council is going to investigate her.
Now if that's not enough to deal with apparently something is going to happening that will result in the total destruction of the entire town in a matter of weeks. The mayor is evil and she considers trading in Hemlock for a regular familiar.
Then the revelations come in. Hemlock is not at all what she thinks he is. Jesse is back and is very definitely not who she things he is. Her cousin isn't who she thinks he is. There's a prophecy, a person who the librarian wants to kill and another move on the part of the Witch's Council.
The best book in an already good book series.
July 8, 2019
Framed and family loyalties
Awesome. Another fine mess! Be warned that this ends on a cliffhanger so I hope it's not too long before the next book. Framed for murder, her despicable family opening a shop across from hers and a mayor that seems to be in the thick of things. Plus truths come out about Jesse and who he and the new librarian really are. With the heartbreaking news, on searching her newly inherited mansion, that her birth was as a result of a deal she also has to come to terms with this. Now it appears that an ancient prophecy is also at play. One that will lead to the destruction of the weird town she loves and all the people in it. Will they find the killer and get any closer to finding out what is happening? Then there are the two human men in her life - which will she choose?
Awesome. Another fine mess! Be warned that this ends on a cliffhanger so I hope it's not too long before the next book. Framed for murder, her despicable family opening a shop across from hers and a mayor that seems to be in the thick of things. Plus truths come out about Jesse and who he and the new librarian really are. With the heartbreaking news, on searching her newly inherited mansion, that her birth was as a result of a deal she also has to come to terms with this. Now it appears that an ancient prophecy is also at play. One that will lead to the destruction of the weird town she loves and all the people in it. Will they find the killer and get any closer to finding out what is happening? Then there are the two human men in her life - which will she choose?
May 20, 2021
Are paranoia and stupidity related? Definitely yes. You can clearly see how people jump to wrong conclusions just because a vial of belladonna was found on the crime scene. But what you don't expect to see is how they continue in their wrong belief even after proof shows that Hazel definitely didn't have anything to do with the murder, since the victim died of something else entirely. And really; she solved 3 murders yet she forgets such an important detail as to remove the presumed murder weapon from the premises?🙄
The killer, as usual was unexpected. And the reason just as ridiculous as the people suspecting Hazel of murder.
As for the unaware instigator aka Constantine Salem, I really thought Hazel should have hexed him with a hippie fashion sense. Too bad she's not any good at hexing people.
The killer, as usual was unexpected. And the reason just as ridiculous as the people suspecting Hazel of murder.
As for the unaware instigator aka Constantine Salem, I really thought Hazel should have hexed him with a hippie fashion sense. Too bad she's not any good at hexing people.
June 7, 2019
When Hazels relatives set up shop across the street from her shop and spell customers into their shop Hazel knows things are just starting to go from bad to worse. Next thing she knows a coven member is killed and surrounded by ancient magical symbols! When Jesse arrives back right after a hot new mysterious librarian Hazel thinks things can’t get any worse because when Jesse shows up so does trouble! She finally discovers who her dad was and before she can investigate who he was and why he disappeared more and more mysteries are thrown her way! This book has lots of action, mystery, and drama not forgetting the amusing Hemlock! I highly recommend this book and this series! It’s a quick and easy read!
June 10, 2019
And then.....
This story in the series answers a lot of the questions raised by Hazel in the earlier stories. Of course, there's a murder or two. The uppity & devious Ghoul sisters are back as is DCI Sean Admiral. Twists & turns abound in every chapter. So much so that I spent four hours in the library reading my Kindle edition because I HAD to find out how it ended. Satisfaction level high, anticipation level for the next saga, even higher!
If you haven't read the Hazel Salem series yet, I would recommend reading them in order to get the most out of stories. For now they're available in KU but the prequel is free (Hemlock & Hedges). But the books are reasonably priced. I suspect this series will be on my re-read list.
This story in the series answers a lot of the questions raised by Hazel in the earlier stories. Of course, there's a murder or two. The uppity & devious Ghoul sisters are back as is DCI Sean Admiral. Twists & turns abound in every chapter. So much so that I spent four hours in the library reading my Kindle edition because I HAD to find out how it ended. Satisfaction level high, anticipation level for the next saga, even higher!
If you haven't read the Hazel Salem series yet, I would recommend reading them in order to get the most out of stories. For now they're available in KU but the prequel is free (Hemlock & Hedges). But the books are reasonably priced. I suspect this series will be on my re-read list.
June 4, 2019
Hazel has inherited her father’s house. But she still doesn’t really know anything about him. After a coven meeting, one of the witches is found dead. Although signs of witchcraft surround the victim, the death itself does not indicate witchcraft. To further complicate Hazel’s life, her great-uncle has set up a competing shop across the street from Hazel’s shop. As the town regards Hazel with suspicion and business at her shop has dropped to nothing, Hazel is left to solve the murder of her fellow witch and the possible demise of her town.
Another great book from Ruby Loren. Although this book can be read as a stand-alone, I do recommend reading the entire series.
Another great book from Ruby Loren. Although this book can be read as a stand-alone, I do recommend reading the entire series.
June 6, 2019
Just how much can Hazel handle? Have you ever felt like the whole world was against you? That has to be how Hazel feels. Thank goodness for the good Detective! It’ll be interesting to see what she does with her surprise inheritance. So many questions, but will she find the answers? It’s hard to know who to trust in this story. A surprise around every corner! There were definitely some twists and turns in this one. Some good things and some bad things, all to keep you interested in seeing what is going to happen next. We’ll need to stay tuned……. I received an ARC of this book, but my opinion is my own.
June 8, 2019
Hazel is in over her head, but that's nothing new. Constantine is still a thorn in her side. Jesse is still missing. Her aunts are still missing. The coven's still a mess. But Hazel perseveres. Sean and Tristan put in appearances. The story takes many unexpected twists and turns. And while the initial murder investigation is, as expected, resolved, so many new questions are formed. I look forward to reading the events which follow in future stories.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Informative. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Informative. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
June 8, 2019
This series just keeps getting better and better.
Hazel is in trouble, big trouble, accused of murder and shunned by the town, she knows she's been framed...but who would do that to her? And why?
Alongside this she is desperate to find out more about her father.
The book is tautly plotted with the threads of several themes neatly intertwined.
New characters are introduced, all of whom have an axe to grind, and old characters reappear. There are also several revelations thrown into the mix.
The future does not look bright for Hazel, or Wormwood. The ending of this book sets the scene for the mayhem to come in book 5.
I can't wait to read it!
Hazel is in trouble, big trouble, accused of murder and shunned by the town, she knows she's been framed...but who would do that to her? And why?
Alongside this she is desperate to find out more about her father.
The book is tautly plotted with the threads of several themes neatly intertwined.
New characters are introduced, all of whom have an axe to grind, and old characters reappear. There are also several revelations thrown into the mix.
The future does not look bright for Hazel, or Wormwood. The ending of this book sets the scene for the mayhem to come in book 5.
I can't wait to read it!
June 12, 2019
I got into trouble for bursting out laughing (out loud) so long twice in the book. Even the bus driver wanted to know what was so funny!!!! Stilts, really? Hopefully you will funny too. Note I think you might need to know characters a bit.
This book is definitely more intense than the previous books in the series. Early on, I thought it might be the end of the series if they were all wrapped up. There are so many plot-line (subplots?) going on that the next book I think I will keep paper and pen handy to keep track, lol.
Definitely need the next book now. Too many things left hanging in the air for me.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
This book is definitely more intense than the previous books in the series. Early on, I thought it might be the end of the series if they were all wrapped up. There are so many plot-line (subplots?) going on that the next book I think I will keep paper and pen handy to keep track, lol.
Definitely need the next book now. Too many things left hanging in the air for me.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
June 17, 2019
In Belladona And A Body Wormwood is fast becoming the town of doom and gloom following the murder of Victoria Aven, a member of Hazel Salem's witch coven. In addition to the usual confrontations between Hazel and various residents of Wormwood the author tosses into Hazel's path a few no-good gods, devils and distant relatives to heat things up!
With Salem Apothecary on the verge of bankruptcy Hazel must once again find a murderer, clear her name AND save Wormwood from almost certain extinction! Grab your popcorn, blanket and your favorite beverage as Belladona And A Body will keep you glued to your seat!
With Salem Apothecary on the verge of bankruptcy Hazel must once again find a murderer, clear her name AND save Wormwood from almost certain extinction! Grab your popcorn, blanket and your favorite beverage as Belladona And A Body will keep you glued to your seat!
June 8, 2019
Things are going really topsy turvy for Hazel.
She inherits a mansion from her father and finds some information about his identity.
The Salem family tries to make her life a misery by opening a health shop right in front of Hazel's, the coven turns on her and Hazel is framed for murder.
If that is not enough somebody is trying to open the gate into another dimension which would bring the downfall of Wormwood.
Nail biting suspense.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
She inherits a mansion from her father and finds some information about his identity.
The Salem family tries to make her life a misery by opening a health shop right in front of Hazel's, the coven turns on her and Hazel is framed for murder.
If that is not enough somebody is trying to open the gate into another dimension which would bring the downfall of Wormwood.
Nail biting suspense.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 9, 2019
I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Hazel finally finds out her dads identity, her great uncle Constantine opens a shop across the street from her's, demanding that she rename her shop is only the beginning of another great story about the goings on in Wormwood. Of course, don't forget Hemlock, he has teamed up with Erebus and now the hi-jinks are double what he managed before. After all, wouldn't you join “The Cult of Hemlock”? I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Hazel finally finds out her dads identity, her great uncle Constantine opens a shop across the street from her's, demanding that she rename her shop is only the beginning of another great story about the goings on in Wormwood. Of course, don't forget Hemlock, he has teamed up with Erebus and now the hi-jinks are double what he managed before. After all, wouldn't you join “The Cult of Hemlock”? I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
June 9, 2019
Hazel has to deal with a sneaky relative moving in across the street. He opens a business that is very similar to Hazel's, hoping to drive her out of business and into his clutches. A witch in Hazels coven is found murdered under suspicious circumstances, and it's up to Hazel and Sean Admiral to figure out what happened before Hazel is successfully framed by the actual murderer.
Hemlock.. oh my word.. this cat makes me laugh out loud hahahaha. I'm not so sure I'd want him as my familiar if I was Hazel. Hemlock definitely adds extra enjoyment to the books.
Hemlock.. oh my word.. this cat makes me laugh out loud hahahaha. I'm not so sure I'd want him as my familiar if I was Hazel. Hemlock definitely adds extra enjoyment to the books.
June 9, 2019
Hazel comes from a family of witches but has unique powers that others do not possess. She has been searching to find out who her father is, dealing with unwelcome family members, not to mention belonging to a coven of witches who just can’t get along. What else could possibly happen? This series is full of interesting characters and an intriguing setting. I wasn’t ready for this book to end...what a great cliffhanger! I can only hope it isn’t long before the next story in this wonderful series is released.
June 10, 2019
Fabulous characters
This series that gets better with each book with fabulous characters like Hemlock and Hedge (ok they are cool cats) and Hazel who is one awesome witch. There are so many twists and turns in this one your head will spin and you will not want to put it down. From receiving an inheritance, becoming a suspect in a murder, dealing with a strange relative, and a host of other challenges Hazel has her hands full. This book was amazing! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This series that gets better with each book with fabulous characters like Hemlock and Hedge (ok they are cool cats) and Hazel who is one awesome witch. There are so many twists and turns in this one your head will spin and you will not want to put it down. From receiving an inheritance, becoming a suspect in a murder, dealing with a strange relative, and a host of other challenges Hazel has her hands full. This book was amazing! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
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