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Haunted Lodge Cozy Mysteries #3.5 (Candy Apples and Curses)
Curses and Cauldrons: A Paranormal Halloween Mystery Anthology
Looking for fun, spooky Halloween mysteries? Then you'll be spellbound by this paranormal cozy collection crafted by more than a dozen of your favorite witchy authors.
We've brewed up this Halloween anthology packed with brand new mysteries featuring your favorite magical characters. Conjure up a copy, and see if you can figure out what's going bump in the night!
We've brewed up this Halloween anthology packed with brand new mysteries featuring your favorite magical characters. Conjure up a copy, and see if you can figure out what's going bump in the night!
628 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2019
254 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Tegan Maher
97 books341 followersI was born and raised in the South and even hung my motorcycle helmet in Colorado for a few months. I've always had a touch of wanderlust and have never feared just packing up and going on new adventures, whether in real life or via the pages of a great book.
When I was a little girl, I didn't want to grow up to be a writer—I wanted to raise unicorns and be a superhero. When those gigs fell through, I chose the next best thing: creating my own magical lands filled with adventure, magic, humor, and romance.
I live in Florida with my two dogs and when I'm not writing or reading, I'm racing motorcycles with my taller, more handsome half, hanging out at the beach, or binge-watching anything magical on Netflix.
I'm eternally grateful for all the people who help make my life what is today - friends, readers, family. No woman is an island.
To become a part of my readers group and learn about my new releases, giveaways, and other exciting news, check out my website at www.teganmaher.com.
When I was a little girl, I didn't want to grow up to be a writer—I wanted to raise unicorns and be a superhero. When those gigs fell through, I chose the next best thing: creating my own magical lands filled with adventure, magic, humor, and romance.
I live in Florida with my two dogs and when I'm not writing or reading, I'm racing motorcycles with my taller, more handsome half, hanging out at the beach, or binge-watching anything magical on Netflix.
I'm eternally grateful for all the people who help make my life what is today - friends, readers, family. No woman is an island.
To become a part of my readers group and learn about my new releases, giveaways, and other exciting news, check out my website at www.teganmaher.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 8, 2019
Curses and Cauldrons
Book 1) Hauntings & Hardcovers by Elle Adams
A young witch, I’m assuming she’s a novice opens a door, that’s pretending to be a mirror. But the door really isn’t a door, it’s a corridor that’s cursed.
Having opened the door, Rory let the ghost out of the corridor, only the ghost is also a poltergeist who is enjoying causing as much destruction as possible.
There’s two crazy aunts, I think one cousin, and also the matron of the library. More ghosts, a vampire, and the grim reaper in residence.
There’s honestly too much going on in this story. It’s confusing and hard for me to keep any of it straight. I would recommend reading at least the first book in the series before reading this one to get some background to the characters. There’s some great slapstick comedy in it also.
Book 2) Time for Tricks by Ava Mallory
This one is a companion to the Witch in Time stories.
Four books by four authors about witches who go back to a past time to solve a crime that had happened. They only have 7 days to complete their task.
So far I’ve only read one of this series and plan to read the rest.
Mariana Galvin is sent back to 1985 to solve the case of a killer ghost. She didn’t want to go, but her mom (who is a ghost) had volunteered her.
This one was an enjoyable story and I may read hers in the series next.
Book 3) Cobbler, Curios, & Curses by Bella Falls
This one is an unusual but well told story.
Ruby Jewell’s family is charged with keeping enchanted and dangerous items out of non-magical people. When a visitor touches a cursed item, it takes the entire Jewell family, including the ghost and vampire boyfriend along with the help of a visiting tracker to make things right again.
Bella Falls is a new author for me. She’s one of five authors in this set I hadn’t heard of before.
Book 4) Better Off Undead by Misty Bane
I haven’t been reading paranormal stories for that long. I’m starting to get used to the vampires.
I’ve never been a fan of zombies. This one is not for me.
Book 5) Time Witch on the Sidelines by K.M. Waller
This is another tie in to the Witch in Time series.
Nuala Walsh is sidelined from doing work for the agency due to being pregnant. While helping to sort case files she comes across a cold case involving a local missing woman. When she questions one of the women who may have known her, she gets the runaround and discovers the woman not only knew the missing lady, but was still in contact with the original detective on the case.
Nuala earns some good hard lessons about rules and the reason they are there. She also barely escapes being removed from her job permanently.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Book 6) Runaway Bride Time by Jenna St. James
Another of the Witch in Time add-ons.
This was a fun mystery. But I really hope Ms. James doesn’t return to the early 1970’s again. I grew up then, and although the terms “Groovy” & “You dig” were used in that timeframe. They were not used as often as they are in this story.
Lexi Sanders, along with her rat familiar Rex, is sent to 1973 Pennsylvania, to a honeymoon resort to try and figure out who killed two young women. The only catch is she has 48 hours to do it in instead of the usual 7 days.
Book 7) The Case of the Murdered Moose by Nikki Haverstock
This one is from Nikki’s Casino Witch Mysteries. An extremely fun series which I’ve read all of.
Ella is going with Vanessa to take six-year-old Bitty, (one of Vanessa’s cousins) Trick or Treating.
When they reach one of the houses, they find Bear, one of Ella’s mentors their working a case. And he needs her help. Ella, you see. Has the unique ability to see a magical crime, as it happened.
Bear lets Ella do the big reveal, and it’s done with a bit too much zealousness.
This is one of my all-time favorite series. These are well established characters, a bit of humor. This one is probably my second favorite in the series. It’s much lighter than the last few books have been, and Ella didn’t have to deal with the normal stresses she has faced in many of the last ones.
Book 8) A Graveyard Gala by Danielle Garrett
The ghost are having a gala in the public graveyard. Someone uses a strange form of magic that freezes them all and will send them off the other world by midnight if Evangeline, Holly and the gang can’t do something.
This was a fun story by a new to me author. I will need to read at least one more of hers to see if I will continue reading her stories. The major problem I had was some of the characters would switch places in what they were doing, or would answer a question that they themselves had asked as if someone else had asked it. The other issue was one of the characters being referred to as a she, then a he. This character switched genders about four times.
Book 9) Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best
Adeline Bloomwood is a witch. Like all paranormal beings in Australia, she fears being noticed by the Australian Visa Control. When Jackson Scott of said AVC walks into her shop asking about a neighboring store, Adeline is pretty sure the gig is up. The owner of the store was murdered, and she found the body.
Adeline gets help in trying to solve the murder by her familiar – a cat named Pudding, and two vampires named Ursula and Isabel. The sooner the case is solved and the AVC, especially Jackson Scott is out of there, the better for everyone! Maybe?
Another fun first story from Morgana Best. It has the expected well-developed characters, humor, and solid story I’ve come to expect from her.
The only thing I personally didn’t care for is the cat has the ability to talk like a normal person. I’m okay with the books where cat’s talk to each other, and even other species, even cats that talk telepathically I’m okay with. After all, all animals have their own language system. But animal to human oral communication is just weird. Unless it’s one of the bird species that are known for their abilities to speak.
If you like the Silver Hollow series by Leighann Dobbs. You will like this one.
Book 10) Found Haunting ReGina Welling
Everly Dupree assist the recently departed crossing over. Nick Mason’s truck is pulled from the scene of an accident, everyone just assumed is that he finally got his just due. When Everly sees him at the side of the road, she knows it wasn't just an accident.
This was a fun story from Regina Welling, it's one of the better written stories in the series with defined characters, a little humor and one of the more entertaining stories for me.
The only thing I did not like about the story, was when she did the reveal. It was the first time the killer's name had been mentioned. Even though he had been referenced, and I was pretty sure who she was talking about, it was the same for me as bringing in a brand-new character at the end of the story who is the murderer.
Book 11) No Time to Waste by Stephanie D’amore
Stephanie Damore also continues with her Witch in Time series. I’ve read her first one in this series and really enjoyed it.
Vee is heading to 1987 where a warlock has been murdered. Mr. Herrington was not liked by anyone in the community. Neither the coven that had kicked him out, not the shifters that lived nearby. Vee just needs to find out exactly who disliked Mr. Horrible Herrington the most.
Book 12) The Case of the Cursed Hat by Amorette Anderson
I read this one with trepidation. I had previously read several from this world and had become disenchanted with the main character. Now, let's see if she’s changed any?
It was a somewhat better story than the last one I read. My problem with Penny was she never seems to grow any. For a 20 something witch? She still acts like a preteen.
Book 13) This one is from Mona Marple’s contribution in the Witches in Time storyline. I have not read A Devil of a Time yet.
This one was a very fun story, well developed characters, a solid plot line, and a few surprises included. It was also enough to let me know that I will not be continuing this particular series of hers. I do like her Mystic Springs series.
The main character comes from a family of black widows. They only need a man to continue the family line, then they kill him. That’s not something that I care to read, and not just because it’s the males that they kill. They are serial killers and need to be put down themselves. They’re supposed to be bringing killers to justice, Where’s the justice for their own partners and fathers?
It would be justice to have someone jump back in time to investigate one of the deceased spouses cause of death. As it is? I’m not really sure that I’ll be reading the rest of the Witch in Time series knowing that the Agency of Paranormal Peculiarities cares more about protecting its own than it does about actual justice for everyone.
Book 14) The Mystery of Ice Pond Road: A Children of Dark Root Paranormal Mystery Short April Aasheim.
The children of Dark Root are gifted with different gifts that help them solve long past crimes, and help the future generations.
This was the first story I read from April Aasheim. It was an enjoyable story that also has a good bit of compassion for others in it.
Book 15) Candy Apples and Curses Tegan Maher
When Toni and Dee come across a box of things they believe to be from a Voo-doo priestess, some really bad things start happening. Can they break the curse in time for the big festival to start.
This was also my first book from Tegan Maher. It’s a fun story, but was really a little short for me to get a good grip on her writing style.
If I had read these stories individually, I would have given seven of them 5 stars, two of them 4 stars, four of them three or even one star, and one did not appeal to me.
Book 1) Hauntings & Hardcovers by Elle Adams
A young witch, I’m assuming she’s a novice opens a door, that’s pretending to be a mirror. But the door really isn’t a door, it’s a corridor that’s cursed.
Having opened the door, Rory let the ghost out of the corridor, only the ghost is also a poltergeist who is enjoying causing as much destruction as possible.
There’s two crazy aunts, I think one cousin, and also the matron of the library. More ghosts, a vampire, and the grim reaper in residence.
There’s honestly too much going on in this story. It’s confusing and hard for me to keep any of it straight. I would recommend reading at least the first book in the series before reading this one to get some background to the characters. There’s some great slapstick comedy in it also.
Book 2) Time for Tricks by Ava Mallory
This one is a companion to the Witch in Time stories.
Four books by four authors about witches who go back to a past time to solve a crime that had happened. They only have 7 days to complete their task.
So far I’ve only read one of this series and plan to read the rest.
Mariana Galvin is sent back to 1985 to solve the case of a killer ghost. She didn’t want to go, but her mom (who is a ghost) had volunteered her.
This one was an enjoyable story and I may read hers in the series next.
Book 3) Cobbler, Curios, & Curses by Bella Falls
This one is an unusual but well told story.
Ruby Jewell’s family is charged with keeping enchanted and dangerous items out of non-magical people. When a visitor touches a cursed item, it takes the entire Jewell family, including the ghost and vampire boyfriend along with the help of a visiting tracker to make things right again.
Bella Falls is a new author for me. She’s one of five authors in this set I hadn’t heard of before.
Book 4) Better Off Undead by Misty Bane
I haven’t been reading paranormal stories for that long. I’m starting to get used to the vampires.
I’ve never been a fan of zombies. This one is not for me.
Book 5) Time Witch on the Sidelines by K.M. Waller
This is another tie in to the Witch in Time series.
Nuala Walsh is sidelined from doing work for the agency due to being pregnant. While helping to sort case files she comes across a cold case involving a local missing woman. When she questions one of the women who may have known her, she gets the runaround and discovers the woman not only knew the missing lady, but was still in contact with the original detective on the case.
Nuala earns some good hard lessons about rules and the reason they are there. She also barely escapes being removed from her job permanently.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Book 6) Runaway Bride Time by Jenna St. James
Another of the Witch in Time add-ons.
This was a fun mystery. But I really hope Ms. James doesn’t return to the early 1970’s again. I grew up then, and although the terms “Groovy” & “You dig” were used in that timeframe. They were not used as often as they are in this story.
Lexi Sanders, along with her rat familiar Rex, is sent to 1973 Pennsylvania, to a honeymoon resort to try and figure out who killed two young women. The only catch is she has 48 hours to do it in instead of the usual 7 days.
Book 7) The Case of the Murdered Moose by Nikki Haverstock
This one is from Nikki’s Casino Witch Mysteries. An extremely fun series which I’ve read all of.
Ella is going with Vanessa to take six-year-old Bitty, (one of Vanessa’s cousins) Trick or Treating.
When they reach one of the houses, they find Bear, one of Ella’s mentors their working a case. And he needs her help. Ella, you see. Has the unique ability to see a magical crime, as it happened.
Bear lets Ella do the big reveal, and it’s done with a bit too much zealousness.
This is one of my all-time favorite series. These are well established characters, a bit of humor. This one is probably my second favorite in the series. It’s much lighter than the last few books have been, and Ella didn’t have to deal with the normal stresses she has faced in many of the last ones.
Book 8) A Graveyard Gala by Danielle Garrett
The ghost are having a gala in the public graveyard. Someone uses a strange form of magic that freezes them all and will send them off the other world by midnight if Evangeline, Holly and the gang can’t do something.
This was a fun story by a new to me author. I will need to read at least one more of hers to see if I will continue reading her stories. The major problem I had was some of the characters would switch places in what they were doing, or would answer a question that they themselves had asked as if someone else had asked it. The other issue was one of the characters being referred to as a she, then a he. This character switched genders about four times.
Book 9) Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best
Adeline Bloomwood is a witch. Like all paranormal beings in Australia, she fears being noticed by the Australian Visa Control. When Jackson Scott of said AVC walks into her shop asking about a neighboring store, Adeline is pretty sure the gig is up. The owner of the store was murdered, and she found the body.
Adeline gets help in trying to solve the murder by her familiar – a cat named Pudding, and two vampires named Ursula and Isabel. The sooner the case is solved and the AVC, especially Jackson Scott is out of there, the better for everyone! Maybe?
Another fun first story from Morgana Best. It has the expected well-developed characters, humor, and solid story I’ve come to expect from her.
The only thing I personally didn’t care for is the cat has the ability to talk like a normal person. I’m okay with the books where cat’s talk to each other, and even other species, even cats that talk telepathically I’m okay with. After all, all animals have their own language system. But animal to human oral communication is just weird. Unless it’s one of the bird species that are known for their abilities to speak.
If you like the Silver Hollow series by Leighann Dobbs. You will like this one.
Book 10) Found Haunting ReGina Welling
Everly Dupree assist the recently departed crossing over. Nick Mason’s truck is pulled from the scene of an accident, everyone just assumed is that he finally got his just due. When Everly sees him at the side of the road, she knows it wasn't just an accident.
This was a fun story from Regina Welling, it's one of the better written stories in the series with defined characters, a little humor and one of the more entertaining stories for me.
The only thing I did not like about the story, was when she did the reveal. It was the first time the killer's name had been mentioned. Even though he had been referenced, and I was pretty sure who she was talking about, it was the same for me as bringing in a brand-new character at the end of the story who is the murderer.
Book 11) No Time to Waste by Stephanie D’amore
Stephanie Damore also continues with her Witch in Time series. I’ve read her first one in this series and really enjoyed it.
Vee is heading to 1987 where a warlock has been murdered. Mr. Herrington was not liked by anyone in the community. Neither the coven that had kicked him out, not the shifters that lived nearby. Vee just needs to find out exactly who disliked Mr. Horrible Herrington the most.
Book 12) The Case of the Cursed Hat by Amorette Anderson
I read this one with trepidation. I had previously read several from this world and had become disenchanted with the main character. Now, let's see if she’s changed any?
It was a somewhat better story than the last one I read. My problem with Penny was she never seems to grow any. For a 20 something witch? She still acts like a preteen.
Book 13) This one is from Mona Marple’s contribution in the Witches in Time storyline. I have not read A Devil of a Time yet.
This one was a very fun story, well developed characters, a solid plot line, and a few surprises included. It was also enough to let me know that I will not be continuing this particular series of hers. I do like her Mystic Springs series.
The main character comes from a family of black widows. They only need a man to continue the family line, then they kill him. That’s not something that I care to read, and not just because it’s the males that they kill. They are serial killers and need to be put down themselves. They’re supposed to be bringing killers to justice, Where’s the justice for their own partners and fathers?
It would be justice to have someone jump back in time to investigate one of the deceased spouses cause of death. As it is? I’m not really sure that I’ll be reading the rest of the Witch in Time series knowing that the Agency of Paranormal Peculiarities cares more about protecting its own than it does about actual justice for everyone.
Book 14) The Mystery of Ice Pond Road: A Children of Dark Root Paranormal Mystery Short April Aasheim.
The children of Dark Root are gifted with different gifts that help them solve long past crimes, and help the future generations.
This was the first story I read from April Aasheim. It was an enjoyable story that also has a good bit of compassion for others in it.
Book 15) Candy Apples and Curses Tegan Maher
When Toni and Dee come across a box of things they believe to be from a Voo-doo priestess, some really bad things start happening. Can they break the curse in time for the big festival to start.
This was also my first book from Tegan Maher. It’s a fun story, but was really a little short for me to get a good grip on her writing style.
If I had read these stories individually, I would have given seven of them 5 stars, two of them 4 stars, four of them three or even one star, and one did not appeal to me.
September 5, 2019
I am reviewing an arc of Time To Jump by Mona Marple. The story features Felicity from the Witch In Time Mysteries. This time we go back to 1947, New York. I enjoyed reading this story. I thought the author did a great job capturing society at that time. The mystery was excellent, surprising me at the reveal. I loved the ending. I am looking forward to reading the rest, (some of my favorite authors are in this set!), of the stories. I have already preordered it for my fall reading.
Review of an ARC of Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best. I recently fell in love with a series, (His Ghoul Friday), by this author and now want to read everything she writes. I loved Battle of the Hexes. This story is set in Australia and our sleuth is Adeline Bloomwood. She lives in a town with other magical beings, unknown to the mundane residents. She has a familiar, who I adore, named Pudding. One thing I love is that the author includes an explanation of the different spellings and a list of Australian slang and terms, (some of these are so fun, I’m going to use them). I’m never lost when I read her books. The stories have to be short but don’t let that stop you. I had a fun time reading this mystery. The time flew by as I read. I want to tell you all about it. I’m dying to. But you won’t have any reason to read it if I do. I’m so hoping this isn’t the last we hear of Adeline, Pudding and some other interesting characters I’ll let you discover.
*This review will be edited later to include all the stories.*
Review of an ARC of Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best. I recently fell in love with a series, (His Ghoul Friday), by this author and now want to read everything she writes. I loved Battle of the Hexes. This story is set in Australia and our sleuth is Adeline Bloomwood. She lives in a town with other magical beings, unknown to the mundane residents. She has a familiar, who I adore, named Pudding. One thing I love is that the author includes an explanation of the different spellings and a list of Australian slang and terms, (some of these are so fun, I’m going to use them). I’m never lost when I read her books. The stories have to be short but don’t let that stop you. I had a fun time reading this mystery. The time flew by as I read. I want to tell you all about it. I’m dying to. But you won’t have any reason to read it if I do. I’m so hoping this isn’t the last we hear of Adeline, Pudding and some other interesting characters I’ll let you discover.
*This review will be edited later to include all the stories.*
August 1, 2019
My review is for Time to Jump by Mona Marple.
I really enjoy Flick, the main character in this story. If you haven't read A Devil of a Time I highly suggest it. Flick is a time traveling witch that solves cold cases.
In this novella she is traveling back to New York to 1947 to solve a cold case, a supposed suicide which turns out to be murder.
I really enjoyed the story as it is action packed and Flick "jumps" right back in time. Clever play on words for the title. The setting is so authentic I felt like I was right there in New York. The mystery is tight and really surprised me up until the end.
This novella impressed me as it is hard to craft such a well written mystery in a short story. I enjoyed every minute of this story and I do hope we see Flick in future books from this author.
I also look forward to reading the rest of the stories from some fabulous cozy mystery authors.
I really enjoy Flick, the main character in this story. If you haven't read A Devil of a Time I highly suggest it. Flick is a time traveling witch that solves cold cases.
In this novella she is traveling back to New York to 1947 to solve a cold case, a supposed suicide which turns out to be murder.
I really enjoyed the story as it is action packed and Flick "jumps" right back in time. Clever play on words for the title. The setting is so authentic I felt like I was right there in New York. The mystery is tight and really surprised me up until the end.
This novella impressed me as it is hard to craft such a well written mystery in a short story. I enjoyed every minute of this story and I do hope we see Flick in future books from this author.
I also look forward to reading the rest of the stories from some fabulous cozy mystery authors.
October 29, 2022
This book was a compilation of 15 different stories by different authors. Some good, some not so good. It’s always difficult to evaluate a book when there are so many different authors. It was overall a fun Halloween read.
September 8, 2019
What a great read to get ready for Halloween! A terrific collection of varying stories involving witches, shifters, ghosts, and their familiars.
Hauntings & Hardcovers by Elle Adams is about a family's magical library. Rory finds an unexpected mirrored door, and is told not to go in that it's cursed. When a ghost makes an appearance in her room, and begs Rory to help her, Rory decides to do just that and risks looking for a book that is rumored to kill everyone who reads it.
Time For Tricks by Ava Mallory is about Mariana Galvin just wants to retire from time travel and crime solving, but her dead mother has other plans. Mariana gets volunteered to solve a case in a bar. She is told that one of the ghosts hates women, and has killed three of them, and is referred to as Evil Edna. When Evil Edna lures Mariana and locks her in the cooler. After escaping, Mariana's mama placed a spell on everyone to fall asleep, leaving Mariana and Edna to talk and learned why Edna can't move on.
Cobbler, Curios, & Curses y Bella Falls is about Ruby Mae Jewell and her family. Ruby has done a spell to make sure the things they are selling had no curses. But when one of a visiting duo opens a box, and has a curse placed on him. Ruby, Ruby's boyfriend, Luke, and Chari set out to find a way to stop the curse.
Better Off Undead by Misty Bane is about Shay Graves, whose family owns the only funeral business in town, which the cemetery is rented out for a wedding. When hands, arms and heads start popping up from the graves and the wedding is overcome with Zombies. Shay and her Aunt Hattie need to round the Zombies up and returned them to their rightful graves.
Time Witch on the Sidelines by K.M. Waller is about Nuala Walsh is keeping a secret from her non-paranormal boyfriend. Nuala gets to work in a time traveling warehouse, that is loaded with unsolved cases. Going through the boxes, Nuala pulls a file and feels that she can help solve the case. Nuala's good intentions could actually cause more harm than good because things aren't always what they seem.
Runaway Bride Time by Jenna St. James is about Lexi a time traveling witch with a rat familiar, Rex. Lexi gets sent back to the year 1973 as a jilted bride to help solve a case of two dead bodies that was never solved. Rex is mighty helpful in a fight, he becomes a ninja! Too funny!
The Case of the Murdered Moose by Nikki Haverstock is about Ella who is asked to help on a case. She enters Suzanna Adams home, who was just about to make an announcement when the heir she was going to pick suddenly died. All family was present, so Ella will do a reading to get a vision of the murder scene. I found it interesting that all the heirs to be had to dress up in costumes that mirrored their characteristics.
A Graveyard Gala by Danielle Garrett centers around a witch Holly Boldt, her shifter friend, Adam, and Evangeline, who all get talked into going to a ghost gala party. Everything is going well, until suddenly all the ghosts, including a ghost cat, Flapjack, are frozen in place. Flapjack's owner, Scarlet Sanderson, a ghost whisperer, managed to use her powers to bring Flapjack back, but unable to do so for the other ghosts. Adam is called and shifts, using his nose, he leads them next to a gravestone and they dig up a box. Based on a clue they found they all head to speak with someone and try to find a way to break the spell. I love Flapjack, what a spunky ghost cat!
Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best is about a witch hunter, who involves Adeline Bloomwood, a witch into his plan to hunt for a killer. Witch hunters are known to be the enemy, because if they discover someone with paranormal powers, then they send them off never to be heard from again. Adeline is a witness to a scene of a crime, after seeing a nun running away. She's not taken seriously by the cops, and surprisingly, the witch hunter does take her seriously, but can she continue to hide the fact from him that she is a witch?
Found Haunting by ReGina Welling is about Everly Dupree, who helps the dead find peace. When Everly gets roped into helping during last minute finding a solution to create a maze. It is learned that Nick Mason, has died in an accident. Nick shows up and knows that Everly can see him, and he needs her help and believes it's the secret he's been keeping that is preventing him from moving on.
No Time To Waste by Stephanie Damore is about Vee Harper, a time traveling witch that solves cold cases. She travels back to 1987 dressed as a witch, and lands after the crime has been committed. She breaks in to snoop noticing evil magic imprints, but when a cop enters and finds her, she has to use a little magic to escape. Then she bumps into Frank, an alpha shifter. After sizing each other up, they decide to work together and head for a Coven, to speak with Betty. Her tracing spell leads to a surprising house.
The Case of The Cursed Hat by Amorette Anderson is about Penny Banks, a witch PI, who is getting ready to celebrate Halloween and is looking for a costume, when a delivery is made to the store. The store owner, opens a trunk to find a hat, and offers it to Penny to go with her costume. As Penny gets ready and puts on the hat, she is transfixed and wakes up with her friend, Marley pinning her arms to the ground. Marley at first thinking Penny was joking when she tried to choke her, but soon realized it was no joke. They discover the hat is cursed, and the wearer kills, then send the hat to someone else. They come up with a plan to fool the hat.
Time To Jump by Mona Marple is about Felicity Octavia Geraldine Warner, a time traveling witch sent back to the year 1947. She enters the time, as a wedding is taking place, and witnesses someone trying to disrupt the wedding. She, hears just enough, and runs after Mr. Lee. After catching up with him, she pretends to know his daughter, that has committed suicide by jumping off the Empire State Building. Her father, Mr. Lee, knows his daughter did not do it and points to a letter that isn't her handwriting. Felicity investigates interviewing one after another, and learns some surprising facts.
The Mystery of Ice Pond Road: A Children of Dark Root Paranormal Mystery Short by April Aasheim is about four children who are friends, two brothers who each have special gifts. Marshall has visions, and Montana, has powers. While getting stranded with their Aunt Ruth Anne, she tells them a scary story about how three boys disappeared and found in the pond. When Montana, steals a flyer, and Marshall keeps getting visions of someone asking for help. The kids set out at night to do their own investigating. I love the spookiness of the story!
Candy Apples and Curses by Tegan Maher is about Toni and Dee getting ready for Halloween party and find a box with a shrunken head and other items. Maisey, the ghost roommate, tells the tale of a Creole girl, Dominga, who practiced voodoo stuff. When Toni and Dee start to have a little bad luck, they start to look up ways to counter voodoo!
Hauntings & Hardcovers by Elle Adams is about a family's magical library. Rory finds an unexpected mirrored door, and is told not to go in that it's cursed. When a ghost makes an appearance in her room, and begs Rory to help her, Rory decides to do just that and risks looking for a book that is rumored to kill everyone who reads it.
Time For Tricks by Ava Mallory is about Mariana Galvin just wants to retire from time travel and crime solving, but her dead mother has other plans. Mariana gets volunteered to solve a case in a bar. She is told that one of the ghosts hates women, and has killed three of them, and is referred to as Evil Edna. When Evil Edna lures Mariana and locks her in the cooler. After escaping, Mariana's mama placed a spell on everyone to fall asleep, leaving Mariana and Edna to talk and learned why Edna can't move on.
Cobbler, Curios, & Curses y Bella Falls is about Ruby Mae Jewell and her family. Ruby has done a spell to make sure the things they are selling had no curses. But when one of a visiting duo opens a box, and has a curse placed on him. Ruby, Ruby's boyfriend, Luke, and Chari set out to find a way to stop the curse.
Better Off Undead by Misty Bane is about Shay Graves, whose family owns the only funeral business in town, which the cemetery is rented out for a wedding. When hands, arms and heads start popping up from the graves and the wedding is overcome with Zombies. Shay and her Aunt Hattie need to round the Zombies up and returned them to their rightful graves.
Time Witch on the Sidelines by K.M. Waller is about Nuala Walsh is keeping a secret from her non-paranormal boyfriend. Nuala gets to work in a time traveling warehouse, that is loaded with unsolved cases. Going through the boxes, Nuala pulls a file and feels that she can help solve the case. Nuala's good intentions could actually cause more harm than good because things aren't always what they seem.
Runaway Bride Time by Jenna St. James is about Lexi a time traveling witch with a rat familiar, Rex. Lexi gets sent back to the year 1973 as a jilted bride to help solve a case of two dead bodies that was never solved. Rex is mighty helpful in a fight, he becomes a ninja! Too funny!
The Case of the Murdered Moose by Nikki Haverstock is about Ella who is asked to help on a case. She enters Suzanna Adams home, who was just about to make an announcement when the heir she was going to pick suddenly died. All family was present, so Ella will do a reading to get a vision of the murder scene. I found it interesting that all the heirs to be had to dress up in costumes that mirrored their characteristics.
A Graveyard Gala by Danielle Garrett centers around a witch Holly Boldt, her shifter friend, Adam, and Evangeline, who all get talked into going to a ghost gala party. Everything is going well, until suddenly all the ghosts, including a ghost cat, Flapjack, are frozen in place. Flapjack's owner, Scarlet Sanderson, a ghost whisperer, managed to use her powers to bring Flapjack back, but unable to do so for the other ghosts. Adam is called and shifts, using his nose, he leads them next to a gravestone and they dig up a box. Based on a clue they found they all head to speak with someone and try to find a way to break the spell. I love Flapjack, what a spunky ghost cat!
Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best is about a witch hunter, who involves Adeline Bloomwood, a witch into his plan to hunt for a killer. Witch hunters are known to be the enemy, because if they discover someone with paranormal powers, then they send them off never to be heard from again. Adeline is a witness to a scene of a crime, after seeing a nun running away. She's not taken seriously by the cops, and surprisingly, the witch hunter does take her seriously, but can she continue to hide the fact from him that she is a witch?
Found Haunting by ReGina Welling is about Everly Dupree, who helps the dead find peace. When Everly gets roped into helping during last minute finding a solution to create a maze. It is learned that Nick Mason, has died in an accident. Nick shows up and knows that Everly can see him, and he needs her help and believes it's the secret he's been keeping that is preventing him from moving on.
No Time To Waste by Stephanie Damore is about Vee Harper, a time traveling witch that solves cold cases. She travels back to 1987 dressed as a witch, and lands after the crime has been committed. She breaks in to snoop noticing evil magic imprints, but when a cop enters and finds her, she has to use a little magic to escape. Then she bumps into Frank, an alpha shifter. After sizing each other up, they decide to work together and head for a Coven, to speak with Betty. Her tracing spell leads to a surprising house.
The Case of The Cursed Hat by Amorette Anderson is about Penny Banks, a witch PI, who is getting ready to celebrate Halloween and is looking for a costume, when a delivery is made to the store. The store owner, opens a trunk to find a hat, and offers it to Penny to go with her costume. As Penny gets ready and puts on the hat, she is transfixed and wakes up with her friend, Marley pinning her arms to the ground. Marley at first thinking Penny was joking when she tried to choke her, but soon realized it was no joke. They discover the hat is cursed, and the wearer kills, then send the hat to someone else. They come up with a plan to fool the hat.
Time To Jump by Mona Marple is about Felicity Octavia Geraldine Warner, a time traveling witch sent back to the year 1947. She enters the time, as a wedding is taking place, and witnesses someone trying to disrupt the wedding. She, hears just enough, and runs after Mr. Lee. After catching up with him, she pretends to know his daughter, that has committed suicide by jumping off the Empire State Building. Her father, Mr. Lee, knows his daughter did not do it and points to a letter that isn't her handwriting. Felicity investigates interviewing one after another, and learns some surprising facts.
The Mystery of Ice Pond Road: A Children of Dark Root Paranormal Mystery Short by April Aasheim is about four children who are friends, two brothers who each have special gifts. Marshall has visions, and Montana, has powers. While getting stranded with their Aunt Ruth Anne, she tells them a scary story about how three boys disappeared and found in the pond. When Montana, steals a flyer, and Marshall keeps getting visions of someone asking for help. The kids set out at night to do their own investigating. I love the spookiness of the story!
Candy Apples and Curses by Tegan Maher is about Toni and Dee getting ready for Halloween party and find a box with a shrunken head and other items. Maisey, the ghost roommate, tells the tale of a Creole girl, Dominga, who practiced voodoo stuff. When Toni and Dee start to have a little bad luck, they start to look up ways to counter voodoo!
September 2, 2019
This review is for book one, Hauntings and Hardcovers by Elle Adams. Rory finds herself stalked by a ghost of a young girl, throw in a poltergeist bent on causing havoc, a decades old murder and secret passageways and your in for a humorous, fun time. I thoroughly enjoyed this story , with its quirky characters especially the crow and owl. I haven’t read any previous Library Witch books but will be adding to my TBR pile. A fabulous story by an author I will definitely follow in the future.
September 1, 2019
Time To Jump is a short story written by Mona Marple as part of this anthology.
Flick Is a witch that travels back to the year 1947 in New York to solve a cold case. I enjoyed the story and the time period in my favorite city. Interesting mystery that will keep you guessing.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Opinions are my own.
Flick Is a witch that travels back to the year 1947 in New York to solve a cold case. I enjoyed the story and the time period in my favorite city. Interesting mystery that will keep you guessing.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Opinions are my own.
August 30, 2019
Battle of the Hexes
Morgana Best
Adeline finds Harrison, the man who owns the pawn shop next door, dead in his shop. Before she knows it, she's embroiled in an investigation that just might be dangerous. She even has a couple of friends helping. I love the characters in this zany cozy. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to reading more from this author.
Time to Jump
Mona Marple
Felicity is a time traveling witch. Her assignments consist of jumping back in time and solving a mystery. She doesn't know what the mystery is ahead of time. She has to figure that out too. This time, she's sent to 1947 and ends up at a wedding. Soon enough, she hears the ex-fiancé, Ann, committed suicide and her father doesn't believe it. There's a couple of other people that don't believe it either, even though there was a note. Leave it to Felicity to investigate and find out what really happened. I'm not usually big on short stories, but I love this one. It has a good plot and characters and tells the whole story with a definite end. I'm looking forward to more of these. They're so much fun to read!
Candy Apples and Curses
Tegan Maher
Toni and Dee are going through decorations for their first Halloween party at the B&B. Strange things start happening after that and with Halloween right around the corner, they're beginning to feel cursed. This is definitely a cool short story and I'm looking forward to the next full length Haunted Lodge cozy!
Morgana Best
Adeline finds Harrison, the man who owns the pawn shop next door, dead in his shop. Before she knows it, she's embroiled in an investigation that just might be dangerous. She even has a couple of friends helping. I love the characters in this zany cozy. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to reading more from this author.
Time to Jump
Mona Marple
Felicity is a time traveling witch. Her assignments consist of jumping back in time and solving a mystery. She doesn't know what the mystery is ahead of time. She has to figure that out too. This time, she's sent to 1947 and ends up at a wedding. Soon enough, she hears the ex-fiancé, Ann, committed suicide and her father doesn't believe it. There's a couple of other people that don't believe it either, even though there was a note. Leave it to Felicity to investigate and find out what really happened. I'm not usually big on short stories, but I love this one. It has a good plot and characters and tells the whole story with a definite end. I'm looking forward to more of these. They're so much fun to read!
Candy Apples and Curses
Tegan Maher
Toni and Dee are going through decorations for their first Halloween party at the B&B. Strange things start happening after that and with Halloween right around the corner, they're beginning to feel cursed. This is definitely a cool short story and I'm looking forward to the next full length Haunted Lodge cozy!
October 14, 2019
“Curses and Cauldrons” earns 5/5 Magical Mystery Tours...Engaging and Entertaining!
They’re Heeere! I am always excited about the release of the annual “magical” mystery anthology. The “Curses and Cauldrons” collection highlights many of my favorite authors (Tegan Maher, ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn, Ava Mallory, Nikki Haverstock, Danielle Garrett, Morgana Best, Stephanie Damore, Amorette Anderson, Mona Marple, April Aasheim) and some new ones I have started to explore (Elle Adams, Bella Falls, Misty Bane, K.M. Waller, Jenna St. James). Fifteen engaging “treats” to take the “trick” out of your Halloween with plenty of witches, magic, intrigue, and a bit of humor. Each author takes a few of their already established characters and pen them into another mysterious challenge in stories of magic, creatures, and mayhem...oh, my! Short stories, yes, but not short on engaging entertainment. Every single authors highlights wonderful characters using varied narratives, but full of descriptive language, entertaining dialogue, and lots of magic and mayhem! Enjoy!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
They’re Heeere! I am always excited about the release of the annual “magical” mystery anthology. The “Curses and Cauldrons” collection highlights many of my favorite authors (Tegan Maher, ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn, Ava Mallory, Nikki Haverstock, Danielle Garrett, Morgana Best, Stephanie Damore, Amorette Anderson, Mona Marple, April Aasheim) and some new ones I have started to explore (Elle Adams, Bella Falls, Misty Bane, K.M. Waller, Jenna St. James). Fifteen engaging “treats” to take the “trick” out of your Halloween with plenty of witches, magic, intrigue, and a bit of humor. Each author takes a few of their already established characters and pen them into another mysterious challenge in stories of magic, creatures, and mayhem...oh, my! Short stories, yes, but not short on engaging entertainment. Every single authors highlights wonderful characters using varied narratives, but full of descriptive language, entertaining dialogue, and lots of magic and mayhem! Enjoy!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
August 26, 2019
Cackles and Cauldrons – by Morgana Best
This story is set in Australia where paranormals are controlled by the AVC and confined to an island. When the shop owner next door is killed and a AVC officer shows up to investigate, you can imagine witch Adeline’s dismay. The fact that the AVC officer is a hunk complicates the issue. When asked about seeing anything regarding the murder next door, Adeline says she saw a nun running down the street.
As you can tell this is a funny mystery with lots of great characters. Enjoy!
A Time to Jump - by Mona Marple
Felicity, better known as Flick, is a time-traveling witch. She travels back in time to solve cold cases. In this case, she ends up in 1947 at a wedding with a very pregnant bride. An unwanted guest begins yelling about his daughter. This is the mystery Felicity was sent back to solve.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It’s well-written and an interesting puzzle.
This story is set in Australia where paranormals are controlled by the AVC and confined to an island. When the shop owner next door is killed and a AVC officer shows up to investigate, you can imagine witch Adeline’s dismay. The fact that the AVC officer is a hunk complicates the issue. When asked about seeing anything regarding the murder next door, Adeline says she saw a nun running down the street.
As you can tell this is a funny mystery with lots of great characters. Enjoy!
A Time to Jump - by Mona Marple
Felicity, better known as Flick, is a time-traveling witch. She travels back in time to solve cold cases. In this case, she ends up in 1947 at a wedding with a very pregnant bride. An unwanted guest begins yelling about his daughter. This is the mystery Felicity was sent back to solve.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It’s well-written and an interesting puzzle.
August 1, 2019
I read Time to Jump by Mona Marple (part of this Anthology) as an arc.
For a novella, the author was able to tell a complete story and keep your interest. I love the idea of time travel, and this story rights a wrong as well (there's your mystery). What I really enjoyed is how the author was able to make a comparison of the difference between the women of 1947 and today by telling it through the eyes of her main character. Adding a bit of witchcraft and family conflict from the present gave interest and depth. I am looking forward to reading more in this series and the rest of the books in the Anthology.
For a novella, the author was able to tell a complete story and keep your interest. I love the idea of time travel, and this story rights a wrong as well (there's your mystery). What I really enjoyed is how the author was able to make a comparison of the difference between the women of 1947 and today by telling it through the eyes of her main character. Adding a bit of witchcraft and family conflict from the present gave interest and depth. I am looking forward to reading more in this series and the rest of the books in the Anthology.
September 3, 2019
I have just read Mona Marple's contribution to this anthology after receiving it as an ARC. Normally, I don’t enjoy “historic” mysteries, however, if more were written in this style, I would read them in a heartbeat!! I do love a cold case story this one has the heroine (a time traveling witch) jump back in time to solve a cold case from 1947. I love the character, Felicity. This novella captured me from the beginning and kept me reading to the surprising end! My favorite part is that the story is light, yet full of mystery. I am buying the whole book, because if all the stories are as interesting and fun as Mona Marple’s it is sure to be totally enjoyable.
August 4, 2019
I read the story Time to Jump (so far) in this Anthology. What a great story. I love the concept of time jumping. Felicity fends very well, fitting into 1947, making friends with suspects and getting to the truth of the cold case of Ann's "suicide". Mona does a great job of engaging the reader right away, telling an interesting story, and not giving away the ending. I can't wait to read the more of Felicity stories or the the full anthology.
I received an ARC of this story and voluntarily provided this review.
I received an ARC of this story and voluntarily provided this review.
September 3, 2019
This is an excellent paranormal Anthology. There were many stories about different types of witches including those who time traveled to solve cold cases using their different powers. Most of the witches had interesting familiars who were cats, with their own abilities, a rat, a dragon, and an owl. There were a number of ghosts along the way with intriguing personalities. There was plenty of humor in the stories along with solving crimes and preventing mayhem. This is a perfect Anthology to read during the Halloween Season! It’s also the only Anthology I have read from cover to cover.
September 22, 2019
A great anthology to get you into the Halloween spirit! I immediately read the stories from three of my favorite authors (Tegan Maher, Danielle Garrett and Bella Falls). Each was a quick visit with my favorite characters from their series and all equally good reads. I have heard of some of the other authors, but a few are new to me so I am looking forward to finishing the collection soon with some new reads. I would definitely recommend this anthology, so grab a copy, a pumpkin-spiced beverage and enjoy a little reading time!
December 23, 2019
The Christmas stories in this book were wonderful. I loved the authors and the stories and they left that warm Christmasy feeling at the end of each book. I think personally they should be reviewed individually but since it is a set I will just say that there is something for everyone in this book. If you love fun mysteries to solve, with a touch of paranormal, mostly witches, then you should pick this book up. The stories are short enough that you can pick it up and read one, two or the whole book in a few hours or days depending on your reading speed. Happy Holidays all.
September 2, 2019
I was given an ARC of "Time to Jump," one of the stories in Curses and Cauldrons. Mona Marple wrote an engaging, fast-paced time-traveling whodunit.
I enjoyed every page of this story - the characters, setting, and mystery were all top-notch.
I will update my review after I have read the rest of the anthology. If they all live up to the promise of "Time to Jump," I will be happily keeping the five-star rating.
I enjoyed every page of this story - the characters, setting, and mystery were all top-notch.
I will update my review after I have read the rest of the anthology. If they all live up to the promise of "Time to Jump," I will be happily keeping the five-star rating.
September 4, 2019
So far I've only read Battle of the Hexes by Morgana Best but there are many that I will get to very soon! I really needed the guaranteed laughs and crazy characters I expect to find in her writing, and no disappointment! The only sane one is the witch, except for the murdered guy. She wants to help the government agent solve the murder and more, but knows she has to be very careful not to get caught out as a witch or she will be sent to Tartarus Island! Great fun!
September 6, 2019
What a terrific collection of stories about things strange and spooky! Many favorite authors all in one location! I love Halloween and these stories make me enjoy the essence of the holiday whenever I read one. My favorite was Morgana Best's Battle of the Hexes, followed closely by Jenna St James story Runaway Bride Time. Honestly? They all are wonderful! Don't miss this outstanding collection!
October 4, 2019
Fun reading
I bought the anthology because I love them, I’m a fan of Morgan’s Best and it’s almost Halloween. I enjoyed all the stories. They were longer than most anthologies but that just helped to give better insight into the characters. I was happy with the quality of the stories. Only one of them had flaws better editing would have helped. I was intrigued but the number of time travel stories. Very good introduction to the authors.
I bought the anthology because I love them, I’m a fan of Morgan’s Best and it’s almost Halloween. I enjoyed all the stories. They were longer than most anthologies but that just helped to give better insight into the characters. I was happy with the quality of the stories. Only one of them had flaws better editing would have helped. I was intrigued but the number of time travel stories. Very good introduction to the authors.
July 26, 2019
I read Mona Marple’s Time to Run. A time traveling witch that solves mysteries - love it!! I really enjoyed it! There were enough twists and turns to keep it interesting, but not too many to lose interest. If this story is any indication what the other stories are like, it will be a fabulous book! I can’t wait to read more from Mona Marple!
July 28, 2019
I have finished reading Mona Marple’s contribution to this anthology after receiving it as an ARC and decided to voluntarily review it. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Felicity, the main character, goes back in time to the 1940s. It was well-written with a surprise ending. I have pre-ordered the book and look forward to reading the entire thing.
July 29, 2019
This review is for Mona Marple's "Time To Jump"
This short story is a true page turner. It gets into the mystery straight away as the main character "jumps" into the past to solve a cold crime. Whilst it's a fast moving story, the reader is left turning page after page as their own mind moves into "solve it" mode. I absolutely loved every minute of it! Great story!
This short story is a true page turner. It gets into the mystery straight away as the main character "jumps" into the past to solve a cold crime. Whilst it's a fast moving story, the reader is left turning page after page as their own mind moves into "solve it" mode. I absolutely loved every minute of it! Great story!
July 31, 2019
I read Time to Jump by Mona Marple which is part of this Anthology. Felicity travels to 1947 to solve a murder of someone she has never met or is connected to. I enjoyed how she just jumps back into time, into a scene she doesn't know and blends in with the environment. She immerses herself in the scene and with the people and solves the case.
August 24, 2019
My review is for "Battle of the Hexes" by Morgana Best.
You have murder, a witch, vampires, nuns, and bad guys. There is a character that always messes up words which provides comic relief, and a sassy cat familiar that talks too much. Add all this up and you have another great story by Morgana Best.
You have murder, a witch, vampires, nuns, and bad guys. There is a character that always messes up words which provides comic relief, and a sassy cat familiar that talks too much. Add all this up and you have another great story by Morgana Best.
September 12, 2019
Puts the treat in Trick or Treat
I love these holiday themed anthologies and this one doesn't disappoint. Not only are a lot of my favourite paranormal cosy authors in here but a few that are new to me. So now there's another TBR pile I can happily start. I think the only reason I'd want to be in my 20's again is so I would have more time to read books like this one.
I love these holiday themed anthologies and this one doesn't disappoint. Not only are a lot of my favourite paranormal cosy authors in here but a few that are new to me. So now there's another TBR pile I can happily start. I think the only reason I'd want to be in my 20's again is so I would have more time to read books like this one.
September 14, 2019
My review on Time To Jump by Mona Marple. This story is about a time traveling witch. I thought enjoyed this short mystery set in 1947 New York Felicity finds herself and fits right in I loved how she just rolled with it and figured out she had to solve a cold case. I loved the characters I would recommend.
I received a copy from the author for a honest review.
I received a copy from the author for a honest review.
September 23, 2019
I was so excited to get this anthology! It has some of my favorite authors. April Aasheim (spelling?) , Ava Mallory and Morgana Best, just to name a few. And who could go wrong with some Halloween stories from them? The only bad thing I have to say about it all is that I wish I would’ve taken a week off work just to sit and read it nonstop!
October 16, 2019
This is a collection of Halloween Short Stories from some favorite authors as well as some new for me. I loved seeing some old friends like the witches from a Witch in Time series! I really enjoyed all the stories except for one. I didn't think it was bad enough for me to lower the overall rating. I also found a new author or 2 while reading this book! Happy Halloween!
November 1, 2019
I'm not going to review each short in this book. I will say some are better than others and the ones I enjoyed a lot I'm going to search out their other stories and try and get into the series' but we'll see how they pan out.
This was a nice Halloween anthology that although I don't love Halloween it was nice to read around this time of year!
This was a nice Halloween anthology that although I don't love Halloween it was nice to read around this time of year!
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