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Western Woods Mystery #7.5
Curses and Candy Canes: A Paranormal Mystery Christmas Anthology
Are you ready for more spellbinding cozy mysteries filled with magic, furry familiars, and paranormal fun?
Then conjure some cocoa from your cauldron and dive into this enchanting collection of holiday mysteries from 15 of your favorite witchy authors!
Don't forget to put this feel-good Christmas anthology on your wish list!
Includes short stories from:
Amorette Anderson
April Aasheim
Emma Adams
Misty Bane
Morgana Best
Stephanie Damore
Danielle Garrett
Nikki Haverstock
Erin Johnson
Ava Mallory
Tegan Maher
Samantha Silver
Jenna St. James
K.M. Waller
Regina Welling & Erin Lynn
Then conjure some cocoa from your cauldron and dive into this enchanting collection of holiday mysteries from 15 of your favorite witchy authors!
Don't forget to put this feel-good Christmas anthology on your wish list!
Includes short stories from:
Amorette Anderson
April Aasheim
Emma Adams
Misty Bane
Morgana Best
Stephanie Damore
Danielle Garrett
Nikki Haverstock
Erin Johnson
Ava Mallory
Tegan Maher
Samantha Silver
Jenna St. James
K.M. Waller
Regina Welling & Erin Lynn
547 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2019
223 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Tegan Maher
98 books344 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 64 reviews
November 9, 2019
I really enjoyed this Christmas short story. Granted it might seem a little early for Christmas but in reality, you can have Christmas anytime. Hope you read it.
November 17, 2019
Book 1) Witch in Need Ellie Adams
Allisa’s family is coming for Christmas. Blair is helping get the apartment decorated.
When Blair leaves to go to her companies party, Alissa and her aunt show up because they need Blairs talent to know if someone is telling the truth. The Christmas turkey has disappeared, and Aunt Jeannie is far from pleased.
Not only do they need to find the missing turkey, they now have to corral two snowmen that were spelled to be sentient that are also missing.
This is a fun and entertaining story.
Book 2) Snowflakes, Cakes & Deadly Stakes Erin Johnson
Imogen Banks is with her new husband Hank & his family in a run down castle deep in woods.
When Santa fall out of the chimney dead, they discover that the dead man isn’t their cousin, but the gardener. Did someone kill the wrong man? And why did they want the man playing Santa dead to start with.
This is supposed to be a stand alone story, but it leaves too many questions to qualify.
Imogen is a baker, she has a living flame that lives in a lantern that can move around and even talk to others. How is the flame alive? If the flame goes out, can it be restarted? Or is it gone for good? If it goes out, will Imogen still be a baker?
Hank is from a line of royalty. His dad is a criminal, and he and Imogen are uncomfortable talking about it. Did his dad abscond the throne, and someone else take over rulership? Is his dad in prison? Was he kicked out and barred from reentering the country in which he ruled?
Book 3) Toy Time Tragedy Jenna St. James
Lexi, from Jenna’s time traveling witch series is sent back to the late 1990’s. An employee of a toy store was killed, and Lexi has to find how who did it.
This is another fun addition to this series.
Book 4) Twisted Tinsel Time Ava Mallory
I neither liked not did I dislike this story. I found it to be more confusing than anything.
A ghosts shows up at Mariana’s, but everyone can see him. He’s somehow in-between realms.
Mariana travels back to 1970, to meet an aunt that may or may not be an actual aunt. She is also a ghost. There’s a feud between Mariana’s aunt, and ghostly mother over a cookie recipe. And every time a particular cookie recipe is used, or thought of being used the male ghost will show up.
Book 5) Magick Mistletoe April Aasheim
There’s a thief in Dark Root. Money is disappearing from all of the registers in town. I n top of that, old Mrs. Porter dies and Eve is arrested for her murder.
This was a fun story, it kept my interest and had fun characters.
Book 6) Time to get Jolly M.M. Waller
When one of Lily Rose familiar friends loses the ability to shift, she and her witch set out to learn what happened. What they learn is disconcerting. Hunter has been hexed. And possibly by someone without magical abilities.
Book 7) A Snowball's Chance in Spell ReGina Welling & Erin Lynn
Faerie fight takes out Santa’s sleigh. Non witch witch to be blamed for releasing faerie weapon.
While looking for all the lost reindeer, Lexi manages to bring hope to several people
Is a witch actually a witch if she doesn’t have any powers?
Book 8) The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special Amorette Anderson
This story is part of a series I don’t follow.
I won’t read this one and it will not affect my rating choice for this collection
Book 9) Time For A Christmas Curse Stephanie Damore
Michael and Vee travel to the past to find out why Christmas has disappeared from the town of Holiday.
This was a fun short story, and the culprit was the last person you’d suspect.
Book 10) The Christmas Crisis Tegan Maher
It’s pure chaos when Santa decides to retire. The only hope is for Destiny to rekindle the Christmas spirit for him. Before he loses more that he planned on.
Book 11) Twelve Spells of Christmas Samantha Silver
This was a cute story, but the editors or the review team both dropped the ball on this one.
Ellie tosses Amy the wand to do the Spell gone wrong spell, Then she points a different wand at Amy, and says a spell directed at herself?
Book 12) The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party Nikki Haverstock
An enjoyable story, and one from one of my favorite authors, and series.
Although this one is not a Christmas story, unless you count the fact that Ella got out of attending a party to work.
Book 13) Hex the Halls Danielle Garrett
Santa id heading to Beechwood Harbor to help store up Christmas magic so he can make his annual trip. Will he find the magic? Or will Christmas be gone forever.
Allisa’s family is coming for Christmas. Blair is helping get the apartment decorated.
When Blair leaves to go to her companies party, Alissa and her aunt show up because they need Blairs talent to know if someone is telling the truth. The Christmas turkey has disappeared, and Aunt Jeannie is far from pleased.
Not only do they need to find the missing turkey, they now have to corral two snowmen that were spelled to be sentient that are also missing.
This is a fun and entertaining story.
Book 2) Snowflakes, Cakes & Deadly Stakes Erin Johnson
Imogen Banks is with her new husband Hank & his family in a run down castle deep in woods.
When Santa fall out of the chimney dead, they discover that the dead man isn’t their cousin, but the gardener. Did someone kill the wrong man? And why did they want the man playing Santa dead to start with.
This is supposed to be a stand alone story, but it leaves too many questions to qualify.
Imogen is a baker, she has a living flame that lives in a lantern that can move around and even talk to others. How is the flame alive? If the flame goes out, can it be restarted? Or is it gone for good? If it goes out, will Imogen still be a baker?
Hank is from a line of royalty. His dad is a criminal, and he and Imogen are uncomfortable talking about it. Did his dad abscond the throne, and someone else take over rulership? Is his dad in prison? Was he kicked out and barred from reentering the country in which he ruled?
Book 3) Toy Time Tragedy Jenna St. James
Lexi, from Jenna’s time traveling witch series is sent back to the late 1990’s. An employee of a toy store was killed, and Lexi has to find how who did it.
This is another fun addition to this series.
Book 4) Twisted Tinsel Time Ava Mallory
I neither liked not did I dislike this story. I found it to be more confusing than anything.
A ghosts shows up at Mariana’s, but everyone can see him. He’s somehow in-between realms.
Mariana travels back to 1970, to meet an aunt that may or may not be an actual aunt. She is also a ghost. There’s a feud between Mariana’s aunt, and ghostly mother over a cookie recipe. And every time a particular cookie recipe is used, or thought of being used the male ghost will show up.
Book 5) Magick Mistletoe April Aasheim
There’s a thief in Dark Root. Money is disappearing from all of the registers in town. I n top of that, old Mrs. Porter dies and Eve is arrested for her murder.
This was a fun story, it kept my interest and had fun characters.
Book 6) Time to get Jolly M.M. Waller
When one of Lily Rose familiar friends loses the ability to shift, she and her witch set out to learn what happened. What they learn is disconcerting. Hunter has been hexed. And possibly by someone without magical abilities.
Book 7) A Snowball's Chance in Spell ReGina Welling & Erin Lynn
Faerie fight takes out Santa’s sleigh. Non witch witch to be blamed for releasing faerie weapon.
While looking for all the lost reindeer, Lexi manages to bring hope to several people
Is a witch actually a witch if she doesn’t have any powers?
Book 8) The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special Amorette Anderson
This story is part of a series I don’t follow.
I won’t read this one and it will not affect my rating choice for this collection
Book 9) Time For A Christmas Curse Stephanie Damore
Michael and Vee travel to the past to find out why Christmas has disappeared from the town of Holiday.
This was a fun short story, and the culprit was the last person you’d suspect.
Book 10) The Christmas Crisis Tegan Maher
It’s pure chaos when Santa decides to retire. The only hope is for Destiny to rekindle the Christmas spirit for him. Before he loses more that he planned on.
Book 11) Twelve Spells of Christmas Samantha Silver
This was a cute story, but the editors or the review team both dropped the ball on this one.
Ellie tosses Amy the wand to do the Spell gone wrong spell, Then she points a different wand at Amy, and says a spell directed at herself?
Book 12) The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party Nikki Haverstock
An enjoyable story, and one from one of my favorite authors, and series.
Although this one is not a Christmas story, unless you count the fact that Ella got out of attending a party to work.
Book 13) Hex the Halls Danielle Garrett
Santa id heading to Beechwood Harbor to help store up Christmas magic so he can make his annual trip. Will he find the magic? Or will Christmas be gone forever.
December 16, 2019
Some fun stories, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had been familiar with some of the series. I hadn't realised that all the stories were tie-ins.
Some of the stories could have done with a bit more editing as well - there was some clumsy phrasing and a few typos that had me re-reading sentences a few times to try to figure out the meaning.
Some of the stories could have done with a bit more editing as well - there was some clumsy phrasing and a few typos that had me re-reading sentences a few times to try to figure out the meaning.
November 14, 2019
As this is an anthology, I will update my review as I read more.
I just enjoyed The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party by Nikki Haverstock. I haven’t read the Casino Witch Mysteries. I really need to. I devoured this story and want to know more of Bear and Ella. The mystery was so interesting with information on criminal acts in the mage community. The story was a quick read and I believe it was partly because I was fascinated with the storyline. I am looking forward to more stories.
I was entranced with A Snowball’s Chance in Spell by ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn. This mother-daughter writing team wrote a magical tale that touched me. I love the magic of Christmas and faeries have always been the most interesting creatures to me. The combination was enchanting. Add in glimpses of reindeer personalities and I was delightfully surprised! This was one of those stories you didn’t want to end so you try to read slower but can’t. Prepare yourselves for a most magical time.
I just enjoyed The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party by Nikki Haverstock. I haven’t read the Casino Witch Mysteries. I really need to. I devoured this story and want to know more of Bear and Ella. The mystery was so interesting with information on criminal acts in the mage community. The story was a quick read and I believe it was partly because I was fascinated with the storyline. I am looking forward to more stories.
I was entranced with A Snowball’s Chance in Spell by ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn. This mother-daughter writing team wrote a magical tale that touched me. I love the magic of Christmas and faeries have always been the most interesting creatures to me. The combination was enchanting. Add in glimpses of reindeer personalities and I was delightfully surprised! This was one of those stories you didn’t want to end so you try to read slower but can’t. Prepare yourselves for a most magical time.
November 17, 2019
Grab your cocoa, get cozy and have yourself a witchy holiday! This is the perfect time to check out fourteen new authors all in one place for a taste of each of the lady’s cozy witch series. Even if you are already familiar with some, you are in for a treat with this collection of stories. Below are reviews of just three of these great stories.
Witch in Need - Elle Adams
Blair is a fairly new witch with an unusual talent, the ability to tell if someone is truthful. How can a talent like that be trouble? Come to Fairy Falls and spend Blair’s first witchy Christmas with her to find out.
Blair’s cat, Sky, isn’t a fan of crowds, especially not in his home. Blair isn’t that fond of them either but since this is her flat mate and best friend Alissa’s family they can’t be avoided. Her boss is also throwing an impromptu Christmas eve party. When the time comes to leave, she’s almost happy to go. Alissa’s family is large, loud and made up of almost entirely PHD’s of one sort or another.
If things were not already crazy enough, the frozen turkey for the family dinner goes missing from the flat, and the sentient snowmen her boss arranged for the office party wander off. Blair becomes responsible for solving both problems!
Toy Time Tragedy - Jenna St. James
Imagine working for an agency that sent you time traveling to solve cold-cases! More than one of these talented authors has just such an agency. Step into some seventies threads and get ready to jump through time!
Lexi is a witch working for the Agency of Paranormal Peculiarities. She travels wherever she is assigned to solve murders unsolved by the police. Her new assignment comes at a bad time, just before a Christmas party. But never fear, whenever she finishes her work, she will arrive back home exactly when she left.
Lexi’s new assignment is sending her to work in a toy store in the nineteen seventies. A stocker for the store was killed and his murder never solved. Lexi arrives just a few days before Christmas and in time to go with her supervisor to find the body!
There is a lot going on in this place just below the surface. Toys are being withheld from the floor and sold on the black market. There is even a competition to see which stocker can fill their list of toys first each week. Could the answer to the murder lie in the stockroom?
A Wild Goat Chase – Amorette Anderson
It is Christmas Eve in Hillcrest and our favorite coven of student witches has a coven meeting just before the community tree lighting ceremony. These four friends started out as a knitting circle before one of them inherited the book that started their magical journey.
Join them on a merry Christmas Eve adventure because in Hillcrest things seldom seem to go according to our witches’ plans!
Marley and Penny are anticipating a fun afternoon at the big craft fair held in the church basement every year. Later the coven will get together, all four of them, to exchange gifts and maybe perform some holiday magic. Right now, though, Penny the coven leader is more worried about shopping. As usual, she has put off gift buying until the last moment. In fact, she hasn’t gotten a single present!
But distraction abounds during the holidays. First Penny and Marley stop to view the church’s outdoor Nativity. Someone different has put it together this year. The girls get caught up watching the baby goat who is part of the display. Then they have to visit Annie at her knitted goods booth. Of course, after that, there are donuts.
In the meantime, something has happened to the baby goat. At some point it has gone missing! The owner is distraught and Penny and Marley volunteer to help find the little guy. Who better for the job than Penny, a P. I? Did the baby goat just chew through his rope and wander away? Or could someone have taken him? Will Penny have time to find him and still make it shopping?
Witch in Need - Elle Adams
Blair is a fairly new witch with an unusual talent, the ability to tell if someone is truthful. How can a talent like that be trouble? Come to Fairy Falls and spend Blair’s first witchy Christmas with her to find out.
Blair’s cat, Sky, isn’t a fan of crowds, especially not in his home. Blair isn’t that fond of them either but since this is her flat mate and best friend Alissa’s family they can’t be avoided. Her boss is also throwing an impromptu Christmas eve party. When the time comes to leave, she’s almost happy to go. Alissa’s family is large, loud and made up of almost entirely PHD’s of one sort or another.
If things were not already crazy enough, the frozen turkey for the family dinner goes missing from the flat, and the sentient snowmen her boss arranged for the office party wander off. Blair becomes responsible for solving both problems!
Toy Time Tragedy - Jenna St. James
Imagine working for an agency that sent you time traveling to solve cold-cases! More than one of these talented authors has just such an agency. Step into some seventies threads and get ready to jump through time!
Lexi is a witch working for the Agency of Paranormal Peculiarities. She travels wherever she is assigned to solve murders unsolved by the police. Her new assignment comes at a bad time, just before a Christmas party. But never fear, whenever she finishes her work, she will arrive back home exactly when she left.
Lexi’s new assignment is sending her to work in a toy store in the nineteen seventies. A stocker for the store was killed and his murder never solved. Lexi arrives just a few days before Christmas and in time to go with her supervisor to find the body!
There is a lot going on in this place just below the surface. Toys are being withheld from the floor and sold on the black market. There is even a competition to see which stocker can fill their list of toys first each week. Could the answer to the murder lie in the stockroom?
A Wild Goat Chase – Amorette Anderson
It is Christmas Eve in Hillcrest and our favorite coven of student witches has a coven meeting just before the community tree lighting ceremony. These four friends started out as a knitting circle before one of them inherited the book that started their magical journey.
Join them on a merry Christmas Eve adventure because in Hillcrest things seldom seem to go according to our witches’ plans!
Marley and Penny are anticipating a fun afternoon at the big craft fair held in the church basement every year. Later the coven will get together, all four of them, to exchange gifts and maybe perform some holiday magic. Right now, though, Penny the coven leader is more worried about shopping. As usual, she has put off gift buying until the last moment. In fact, she hasn’t gotten a single present!
But distraction abounds during the holidays. First Penny and Marley stop to view the church’s outdoor Nativity. Someone different has put it together this year. The girls get caught up watching the baby goat who is part of the display. Then they have to visit Annie at her knitted goods booth. Of course, after that, there are donuts.
In the meantime, something has happened to the baby goat. At some point it has gone missing! The owner is distraught and Penny and Marley volunteer to help find the little guy. Who better for the job than Penny, a P. I? Did the baby goat just chew through his rope and wander away? Or could someone have taken him? Will Penny have time to find him and still make it shopping?
November 9, 2019
❄️☃️🌬⛪️🌊 5 stars ✨
ARC Curses and Candy Canes, The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special by Amorette Anderson
First edition. November 7, 2019.
Copyright © 2019 Amorette Anderson.
Read on: iBooks, KyBook (1, 2, & 3), SmashWords, Kobo, TotalReader, Good Reads, and others as I find them. This book was presented to me for an ARC review.
Started: 7 November 2019.
Finished: 8 November 2019.
Amazon: ?
Title:
Vanity, procrastination, and magic . . . .
A fill in Nativity designer, a paranoid old standby, a sprained wrist, an apparent “ white “ van < in Colorado, with snow on the ground, > and an all seeing wise owl start the day. How do our intrepid detectives start following the wrong lead so fast?
Okay the original Nativity builder is smart enough to step back away from the limelight when she sprained her wrist. The fact that she acts as though her replacement should fall flat on her face is sheer vanity.
White vans in snow country don t tend to stay white in the winter.
The owl setting high up in a tree < well perched > likely sees everything that happened.
So why did the detectives run off on a wild goat chase?
They eventually figure it out, complete with the < semi mandatory (hey, it s winter, Christmas, AND there s plenty of ammunition -snow- on the ground! ) > snowball fight or so.
It s great to know that Hillcrest has it s own supply of old fashioned Christmas magic -even the little kid/goat was using it- along with the willingness to use it. These type of villages, towns and -burgs seem to be disappearing across America; so if you re lucky enough to live in one ~~ enjoy it and do your part to maintain it!
Have yourself a wonderful Holiday Season ! ! ! !
Live life,
John Shrek Walters
ARC Curses and Candy Canes, The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special by Amorette Anderson
First edition. November 7, 2019.
Copyright © 2019 Amorette Anderson.
Read on: iBooks, KyBook (1, 2, & 3), SmashWords, Kobo, TotalReader, Good Reads, and others as I find them. This book was presented to me for an ARC review.
Started: 7 November 2019.
Finished: 8 November 2019.
Amazon: ?
Title:
Vanity, procrastination, and magic . . . .
A fill in Nativity designer, a paranoid old standby, a sprained wrist, an apparent “ white “ van < in Colorado, with snow on the ground, > and an all seeing wise owl start the day. How do our intrepid detectives start following the wrong lead so fast?
Okay the original Nativity builder is smart enough to step back away from the limelight when she sprained her wrist. The fact that she acts as though her replacement should fall flat on her face is sheer vanity.
White vans in snow country don t tend to stay white in the winter.
The owl setting high up in a tree < well perched > likely sees everything that happened.
So why did the detectives run off on a wild goat chase?
They eventually figure it out, complete with the < semi mandatory (hey, it s winter, Christmas, AND there s plenty of ammunition -snow- on the ground! ) > snowball fight or so.
It s great to know that Hillcrest has it s own supply of old fashioned Christmas magic -even the little kid/goat was using it- along with the willingness to use it. These type of villages, towns and -burgs seem to be disappearing across America; so if you re lucky enough to live in one ~~ enjoy it and do your part to maintain it!
Have yourself a wonderful Holiday Season ! ! ! !
Live life,
John Shrek Walters
November 18, 2019
Time to get Jolly and The Wild Goat Chase
I read K.M. Waller Time to get Jolly and Amorette Anderson The Wild Goat Chase. I will edit my review when I’ve read more of the stories.
These two stories were great!!!
K.M. Waller Time to get Jolly
What a great story!
Nuala is still on the sidelines, on maternity leave from the agency, not being able to time-travel because she’s pregnant. Six months now, and she still has to tell Seth that one of the twins will be a witch girl (and the other a non-witch boy).
This close to Christmas Nuala, an empath witch, is picking up on a lot of stress. Sometimes I think I’m an empath too, always picking up on other people’s emotions. It’s one of the reasons I love Nuala so much; I can relate. I feel a connection.
No, she can’t time-travel right now, but that doesn’t mean Nuala’s magic isn’t needed. This time, there’s a curse she needs to help remove. What a great story!
Amorette Anderson The Wild Goat Chase
Such a fun story!
Penny has not bought a single Christmas gift - and it’s Christmas Eve. She hopes to strike gold at the church craft fair. But first she and her friend Marley take a look at the Nativity scene. There’s a cute baby goat who’s attracting lots of attention. As cute as the goat is, of course Turkey (Penny’s familiar) believes cats are even cuter. And then mayhem. The goat is missing! Did he get goatnapped or did he escape on his own?
In typical Penny style, this is a hilarious story. It’s always a joy to visit Penny and her friends, I mean coven. Such a fun story! And I actually think Penny’s people skills are improving!
I read K.M. Waller Time to get Jolly and Amorette Anderson The Wild Goat Chase. I will edit my review when I’ve read more of the stories.
These two stories were great!!!
K.M. Waller Time to get Jolly
What a great story!
Nuala is still on the sidelines, on maternity leave from the agency, not being able to time-travel because she’s pregnant. Six months now, and she still has to tell Seth that one of the twins will be a witch girl (and the other a non-witch boy).
This close to Christmas Nuala, an empath witch, is picking up on a lot of stress. Sometimes I think I’m an empath too, always picking up on other people’s emotions. It’s one of the reasons I love Nuala so much; I can relate. I feel a connection.
No, she can’t time-travel right now, but that doesn’t mean Nuala’s magic isn’t needed. This time, there’s a curse she needs to help remove. What a great story!
Amorette Anderson The Wild Goat Chase
Such a fun story!
Penny has not bought a single Christmas gift - and it’s Christmas Eve. She hopes to strike gold at the church craft fair. But first she and her friend Marley take a look at the Nativity scene. There’s a cute baby goat who’s attracting lots of attention. As cute as the goat is, of course Turkey (Penny’s familiar) believes cats are even cuter. And then mayhem. The goat is missing! Did he get goatnapped or did he escape on his own?
In typical Penny style, this is a hilarious story. It’s always a joy to visit Penny and her friends, I mean coven. Such a fun story! And I actually think Penny’s people skills are improving!
November 16, 2019
My review is of The Wild Goat Chase by Amorette Anderson.
Penny Banks, her familiar, Turkey along with her best friend Marley Green and her familiar, Skili, are off to a crafts fair at Hillcrest Church. Penny, again this year, has not purchased any Christmas gifts for her friends and they are scheduled to meet at Annie's cafe at 5 p.m. tonight to exchange gifts. Penny is looking forward to shopping for those gifts at the craft fair. Again this year as in year's past there is a Nativity scene in front of the church. In previous years it has been done by Meredith Kipp. However, due to Meredith's injury, it was done this year by Katie Knap. There is a bigger crowd looking at the Nativity scene this year. When Penny and Marley get closer they see why. Katie has tied up her pet goat, Blaze, at the Nativity scene and everyone is busy watching the cute goat and his antics. That is until Melissa Chidwick, Melissa's Munchies food truck, pulls up across from the church and everyone hustles over to get some of Melissa's fresh donuts and hot apple cider. While everyone is not looking Blaze's rope is cut and he is missing. Now instead of Christmas shopping Penny and Marley find themselves involved in a Christmas Eve case.
What follows is a true heartfelt story about the true meaning of Christmas -- helping others.
This is a great story by Amorette Anderson. It is a short, must read for everyone who loves Christmas and helping others.
I received an advance copy. This is my honest review!
Penny Banks, her familiar, Turkey along with her best friend Marley Green and her familiar, Skili, are off to a crafts fair at Hillcrest Church. Penny, again this year, has not purchased any Christmas gifts for her friends and they are scheduled to meet at Annie's cafe at 5 p.m. tonight to exchange gifts. Penny is looking forward to shopping for those gifts at the craft fair. Again this year as in year's past there is a Nativity scene in front of the church. In previous years it has been done by Meredith Kipp. However, due to Meredith's injury, it was done this year by Katie Knap. There is a bigger crowd looking at the Nativity scene this year. When Penny and Marley get closer they see why. Katie has tied up her pet goat, Blaze, at the Nativity scene and everyone is busy watching the cute goat and his antics. That is until Melissa Chidwick, Melissa's Munchies food truck, pulls up across from the church and everyone hustles over to get some of Melissa's fresh donuts and hot apple cider. While everyone is not looking Blaze's rope is cut and he is missing. Now instead of Christmas shopping Penny and Marley find themselves involved in a Christmas Eve case.
What follows is a true heartfelt story about the true meaning of Christmas -- helping others.
This is a great story by Amorette Anderson. It is a short, must read for everyone who loves Christmas and helping others.
I received an advance copy. This is my honest review!
November 16, 2019
Amorette Anderson's The Wild Goat Chase is the only story I have read in this anthology, but I'm sure it's just a taste of the other stories in Curses and Candy Canes that are just as entertaining as this one.
In typical Penny fashion, it’s Christmas Eve and she has not bought a single Christmas gift. No fear, the church craft fair will have everything she needs. Before she can start shopping, her best friend Marley wants to check out the Nativity scene. They quickly spot a cute baby goat prancing around and entertaining everyone with his antics. When everyone is momentarily distracted, the goat vanishes. Did he escape on his own, or did someone take him? They quickly join others to look for Blaze the goat. They quickly discover two families won't have a happy Christmas unless Blaze is found. And time is running out for Penny and her Christmas shopping.
I did receive an advance copy of this story from the author and this is my honest review.
In typical Penny fashion, it’s Christmas Eve and she has not bought a single Christmas gift. No fear, the church craft fair will have everything she needs. Before she can start shopping, her best friend Marley wants to check out the Nativity scene. They quickly spot a cute baby goat prancing around and entertaining everyone with his antics. When everyone is momentarily distracted, the goat vanishes. Did he escape on his own, or did someone take him? They quickly join others to look for Blaze the goat. They quickly discover two families won't have a happy Christmas unless Blaze is found. And time is running out for Penny and her Christmas shopping.
I did receive an advance copy of this story from the author and this is my honest review.
November 17, 2019
I havent read all these stories but I have read several works by a number of the contributing authors and they have all been excellent so I am sure they will stay true to course I have enough confidence in them that I am sure this book might even become a holiday tradition if you would only give it a chance.
That said I want to tell you about one story I have read The Wild Goat Chase by Amorette Anderson.
Folks you have to read this cute little Christmas tale. You simply can NOT pass this one up. Are you frustrated that Christmas holidays is lost in commercialism and of the greed that starts before Halloween...then read this tale as Penny tries to find a missing goat. It brings back the spirit of the holiday in a small town where the best gifts are still home made. Where neighbors talk to each other and know each otbers names. And where Christmas magic is a gift of compassion. Yes little Tim blessings on us all. Each and every one.
That said I want to tell you about one story I have read The Wild Goat Chase by Amorette Anderson.
Folks you have to read this cute little Christmas tale. You simply can NOT pass this one up. Are you frustrated that Christmas holidays is lost in commercialism and of the greed that starts before Halloween...then read this tale as Penny tries to find a missing goat. It brings back the spirit of the holiday in a small town where the best gifts are still home made. Where neighbors talk to each other and know each otbers names. And where Christmas magic is a gift of compassion. Yes little Tim blessings on us all. Each and every one.
November 9, 2019
I have only read one story in this collection entitled The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special. If that is indicative of the entire collection ( and I have no reason to think it isn’t) then this will be a runaway best seller.
This story surrounds a goat that disappears and Penny and Marley decide to find out what happened.
This story epitomizes the true spirit of Christmas and I believe that if people would really remember that and practice it in their everyday daily lives the world would certainly be better for it! Those who hate in this country and others would find their beliefs at odds with how they should conduct their lives and hopefully then change their behavior and maybe we could really have peace on earth good well towards man.
I recommend this collection to everyone ! Young and old alike will enjoy this story!
This story surrounds a goat that disappears and Penny and Marley decide to find out what happened.
This story epitomizes the true spirit of Christmas and I believe that if people would really remember that and practice it in their everyday daily lives the world would certainly be better for it! Those who hate in this country and others would find their beliefs at odds with how they should conduct their lives and hopefully then change their behavior and maybe we could really have peace on earth good well towards man.
I recommend this collection to everyone ! Young and old alike will enjoy this story!
November 18, 2019
The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special by Amorette Anderson
This is this author's contribution to the anthology.
Penny has a mystery to solve. What happened to the goat that was entertaining people. She is supposed to be buying Christmas presents (last minute).
Happy to say that no one dies in this mystery. Christmas spirit abounds. The girls have no magic but the season to do.
Very cute story about a nativity scene and what it means to each person.
I feel sorry for the poor goat!!!!
Turkey? What is up with you? Sleeping on the job or does your new girlfriend have your mind elsewhere? Thought you kept Penny together. Next year do better?
If the above is confusing then you need to read this wonderful series. You can their lessons at the same time.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
Time To Get Jolly by K M Waller
This is this author's contribution.
My heart goes out to poor Hunter. Thank goodness, he has friends willing to help him. Even one waddling through pregnancy with twins. Hey can we share those friends, please?
Very short story. Can be read in one sitting. It was over before I knew it.
This story has a strong moral to it for me. We all need to learn to accept our own abilities and others their abilities. Changing people or harming them to fit our vision just does not work! Okay enough of my soapbox!!!
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book
This is this author's contribution to the anthology.
Penny has a mystery to solve. What happened to the goat that was entertaining people. She is supposed to be buying Christmas presents (last minute).
Happy to say that no one dies in this mystery. Christmas spirit abounds. The girls have no magic but the season to do.
Very cute story about a nativity scene and what it means to each person.
I feel sorry for the poor goat!!!!
Turkey? What is up with you? Sleeping on the job or does your new girlfriend have your mind elsewhere? Thought you kept Penny together. Next year do better?
If the above is confusing then you need to read this wonderful series. You can their lessons at the same time.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
Time To Get Jolly by K M Waller
This is this author's contribution.
My heart goes out to poor Hunter. Thank goodness, he has friends willing to help him. Even one waddling through pregnancy with twins. Hey can we share those friends, please?
Very short story. Can be read in one sitting. It was over before I knew it.
This story has a strong moral to it for me. We all need to learn to accept our own abilities and others their abilities. Changing people or harming them to fit our vision just does not work! Okay enough of my soapbox!!!
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book
December 27, 2019
All of the stories were stand alone expect for Twisted Tinsel Time, that short was mostly just confusing and not a short story at all. If you know Ava Mallory and her books it would probably be fun back story, character information though.
It was fun to discover new cozy mystery authors to check out via a holiday bundle. Being introduced into each world was exciting, and I loved the various spins each story took. I had no idea "time travel cold case sleuth" was a type of cozy mystery so that was also fun to discover.
I DNF The Christmas Crisis (santa retiring) & A Snowball's Chance in Spell (hunting down reindeer) they were just a bit over the top for me.
I picked this bundle up because of Erin Johnson, (my favorite cozy mystery author) and her story was exactly what I've come to expect. So glad to get to read about Imogen again, satisfied my fix a bit. ha.
It was fun to discover new cozy mystery authors to check out via a holiday bundle. Being introduced into each world was exciting, and I loved the various spins each story took. I had no idea "time travel cold case sleuth" was a type of cozy mystery so that was also fun to discover.
I DNF The Christmas Crisis (santa retiring) & A Snowball's Chance in Spell (hunting down reindeer) they were just a bit over the top for me.
I picked this bundle up because of Erin Johnson, (my favorite cozy mystery author) and her story was exactly what I've come to expect. So glad to get to read about Imogen again, satisfied my fix a bit. ha.
November 11, 2019
Curses and Candy Canes, A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special: The Wild Goat Chase by Amorette Anderson.
This story takes place during the Christmas season and a goat suddenly disappears. Penny and Marley take on the case because everybody else is busy with the Christmas fair. They go around asking questions and finding some clues. It is a true Christmas story that makes you realize what Christmas is all about and when they discover how and why the goat disappeared, some of the ladies instead of getting mad come to the aid of this person. It just shows you how the true Christmas spirit comes out during this season.
This story takes place during the Christmas season and a goat suddenly disappears. Penny and Marley take on the case because everybody else is busy with the Christmas fair. They go around asking questions and finding some clues. It is a true Christmas story that makes you realize what Christmas is all about and when they discover how and why the goat disappeared, some of the ladies instead of getting mad come to the aid of this person. It just shows you how the true Christmas spirit comes out during this season.
November 16, 2019
This is a great set of cozies to get a feel for different authors. My review is based on the short by Amorette Anderson called The Case of the Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special.
This is a really quick read, great for anyone who hasn’t gotten to know the series regarding Penny Banks and the town of Hillcrest. It’s a fun story, and although some of the mystery is obvious, some of it is not quite. The characters are a wonderful group of people, and you won’t need to have read the rest of the series to read her short.
I received a free copy of the story by Amorette Anderson and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This is a really quick read, great for anyone who hasn’t gotten to know the series regarding Penny Banks and the town of Hillcrest. It’s a fun story, and although some of the mystery is obvious, some of it is not quite. The characters are a wonderful group of people, and you won’t need to have read the rest of the series to read her short.
I received a free copy of the story by Amorette Anderson and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
November 16, 2019
I was given an ARC copy of "The Case Of The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special" by Amorette Anderson 😍
This short read is a really enjoyable read by Amorette.
It features all of the women from her Hillcrest series, but mainly Penny and Marley. Who have to solve the mystery of the missing goat 🐐, yes you did read that right goat 😂😂
You'll enjoy it if you enjoy the Hillcrest series, this is just a short spin off from that series. Although you don't have to have read the series to enjoy this book, it can be read as a standalone book, as it doesn't relate or link to any of the book's.
I'd definitely recommend this book as a quick read 😍😍💞💞
This short read is a really enjoyable read by Amorette.
It features all of the women from her Hillcrest series, but mainly Penny and Marley. Who have to solve the mystery of the missing goat 🐐, yes you did read that right goat 😂😂
You'll enjoy it if you enjoy the Hillcrest series, this is just a short spin off from that series. Although you don't have to have read the series to enjoy this book, it can be read as a standalone book, as it doesn't relate or link to any of the book's.
I'd definitely recommend this book as a quick read 😍😍💞💞
November 9, 2019
MY REVIEW: THE WILD GOAT CHASE: A HILLCREST WITCH CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
This short story was amazing. The characters are adorable. Each one has a distinct personality. Turkey is working on his bravery skills and is able to obtain a clue. This story has Christmas spirit. There is kindness and forgiving. It has humor and sorrow. It flows well and has a cute story. There are some twists and surprises. I love that the whole town goes to the church for a craft fair and tree lighting ceremony.
This short story was amazing. The characters are adorable. Each one has a distinct personality. Turkey is working on his bravery skills and is able to obtain a clue. This story has Christmas spirit. There is kindness and forgiving. It has humor and sorrow. It flows well and has a cute story. There are some twists and surprises. I love that the whole town goes to the church for a craft fair and tree lighting ceremony.
November 16, 2019
My review is for Amorette Anderson's book "The Wild Goat Chase". Another story about Penny and her coven, this one happening on Christmas Eve. Penny is trying to do some Christmas shopping, but first she and Marley want to see the nativity with the cute baby goat🐐! Alas, he is not there - has he been "kid"napped OR wandered off? A cute story that will delight readers of cozy mystery.
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
November 16, 2019
I think this short story had a very sweet message to all. Christmas is a special time and while not everyone can enjoy lavishing their kids with presents, there are those out there with caring hearts that are willing to forget some (small) injustices and still help if they can. Christmas has become so commercialized that hearing a sweet story about the true meaning is nice to read. Being close to those you care about is so much more important than purchasing items to buy someone else's love/friendship.
Thank you Amorette!!!
Arc
Thank you Amorette!!!
Arc
November 17, 2019
This review is only for "The Case of the Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special". I very much enjoyed this Christmas short story. I am very familiar with the characters, as I have read all of Amorette Anderson's books. A little goat, who was part of a nativity scene, goes missing - apparently stolen. The whole town looking for it and of course Penny and Marley take the lead in this case. The story was intriguing and had a very happy ending with a special bit of Christmas good will.
November 23, 2019
I just love Christmas! And I love paranormal fiction books so this anthology checks all my boxes. I especially love Amorette Anderson’s Hillcrest witches and Stephanie Danmore’s Time traveling witch Vee who works for the Bureau of Paranormal Particularities. And this anthology has introduced me to Ellie Adams’ Blair and Fairy Falls; Lexi and her familiar Rex the Rat and many others.
These are well written, time absorbing paranormal mysteries that could keep you busy for longer than the 12 days of Christmas. Highly Recommended 5/5
These are well written, time absorbing paranormal mysteries that could keep you busy for longer than the 12 days of Christmas. Highly Recommended 5/5
November 8, 2019
I am writing a review for the story "The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special" by Amorette Anderson. This was a very short story and it was fantastic. It was a wild goat chase during the Christmas time season. Well written and consistent with Amorette's writings. I would certainly recommend this story and I am sure the book is going to be great. Tegan is a great author also as I am sure the majority of these authors are.
November 11, 2019
The Wild Goat Chase: A Hillcrest Witch Christmas Special - This is a delightful short story involving Penny’s Christmas Eve adventure. Penny and her friends are learning to be witches. As Penny and Marley go to the church for the craft fair, they’re entranced with the nativity scene which is complete with a live goat. When the goat is kidnapped, Penny needs to drop her shopping to find the goat. Great characters and an even better story.
November 21, 2019
Such a great collection of authors in this anthology! I read the stories from three of my favorites - Tegan Maher, Danielle Garrett and Erin Johnson - all of which were great stories, holiday visits with some of my favorite characters, funny and well-written. Several of the other authors I have heard of but not yet read, so I am looking forward to reading more stories in the collection soon. Can't go wrong with this set of holiday cheer!
November 28, 2019
This is a great set that needs to be added to anyone’s library!
Every story is set with a Christmas theme but the plots are different. What a joy to have some quick reading for each book. I especially liked the Hillcrest saga Because I had been following that series and it really give me a check over as well is it warm fuzzy feeling. Enjoy these novels because each is it’s own reward.
Every story is set with a Christmas theme but the plots are different. What a joy to have some quick reading for each book. I especially liked the Hillcrest saga Because I had been following that series and it really give me a check over as well is it warm fuzzy feeling. Enjoy these novels because each is it’s own reward.
December 22, 2019
A great way to get in the holiday mood
I enjoyed this collection as it featured some of my favorite authors. I especially loved the story about finding Santa's reindeer and Santa at the tiki bar. At a holiday party I told some friends and they bought three book! Of course it was a work party and I am the boss......
My only complaint is that there were too many time travel stories. I'm not a fan of them but hey may be an absolute joy for others.
I enjoyed this collection as it featured some of my favorite authors. I especially loved the story about finding Santa's reindeer and Santa at the tiki bar. At a holiday party I told some friends and they bought three book! Of course it was a work party and I am the boss......
My only complaint is that there were too many time travel stories. I'm not a fan of them but hey may be an absolute joy for others.
December 1, 2019
Time to Get Jolly by K.M. Waller
Time traveling witch, Nuala is back in time for this Christmas short. She’s 3 months away from having twins but still making time to help a fellow witch whose familiar is stuck in dog form. Since Seth is human, Nuala is anticipating that her twins will be a girl witch and a boy human so helping fellow witch Ginnie, whose sister Nell is human, might give her some insight on how to help the twins once they’re born. Familiar Lily Rose is awesome. Such a fun character. Fun quick read. Love Nuala and can’t wait to read more of her adventures.
Snowflakes, Cakes & Deadly Stakes by Erin Johnson
Erin Johnson is a new author for me so I didn’t know what to expect. When I read “Christmas goes from deck the halls, to where’s the rum balls?” I knew I was going to love it. Such wonderful characters and hilarious moments. I adore the idea of a flame as a sidekick. How original. Great characters, great mystery, great ending. Can’t wait to read the series with these folks.
Toy Time Tragedy by Jenna St. James
Such a fun story. I love love love Rex and I’m definitely not a rat person at all but he is totally the perfect teammate. Lexi is smart! Can’t ask for a better combo. Cute mystery with Tickle My Tummy. Fun 90s references. We need more Lexi and Rex!!
Time For A Christmas Curse by Stephanie Damore
Oh my gosh, how perfect is this story with time traveling witches from 2 different time periods that are now together as a couple. Vee and Michael make it work and are a great couple in romance and in the witch work. “It was a long-distance relationship to the extreme.” A fun Christmas mystery, the town of Holiday haven’t had December 25th, Christmas, in many years. Jumps from the 24th to the 26th. I did not suspect the culprit at all. A perfect quick Christmas story.
Twisted Tinsel Time by Ava Mallory
Sadly, I did not enjoy this. I really don’t like the main character, Mariana, and found the story confusing.
The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party by Nikki Haverstock
I haven’t read anything else by Nikki Haverstock but this story sure had me hooked. Ella and Bear were a great team and Ella’s cat sure came through for her. The mystery was great and can’t wait to read more from this series.
Time traveling witch, Nuala is back in time for this Christmas short. She’s 3 months away from having twins but still making time to help a fellow witch whose familiar is stuck in dog form. Since Seth is human, Nuala is anticipating that her twins will be a girl witch and a boy human so helping fellow witch Ginnie, whose sister Nell is human, might give her some insight on how to help the twins once they’re born. Familiar Lily Rose is awesome. Such a fun character. Fun quick read. Love Nuala and can’t wait to read more of her adventures.
Snowflakes, Cakes & Deadly Stakes by Erin Johnson
Erin Johnson is a new author for me so I didn’t know what to expect. When I read “Christmas goes from deck the halls, to where’s the rum balls?” I knew I was going to love it. Such wonderful characters and hilarious moments. I adore the idea of a flame as a sidekick. How original. Great characters, great mystery, great ending. Can’t wait to read the series with these folks.
Toy Time Tragedy by Jenna St. James
Such a fun story. I love love love Rex and I’m definitely not a rat person at all but he is totally the perfect teammate. Lexi is smart! Can’t ask for a better combo. Cute mystery with Tickle My Tummy. Fun 90s references. We need more Lexi and Rex!!
Time For A Christmas Curse by Stephanie Damore
Oh my gosh, how perfect is this story with time traveling witches from 2 different time periods that are now together as a couple. Vee and Michael make it work and are a great couple in romance and in the witch work. “It was a long-distance relationship to the extreme.” A fun Christmas mystery, the town of Holiday haven’t had December 25th, Christmas, in many years. Jumps from the 24th to the 26th. I did not suspect the culprit at all. A perfect quick Christmas story.
Twisted Tinsel Time by Ava Mallory
Sadly, I did not enjoy this. I really don’t like the main character, Mariana, and found the story confusing.
The Case of the Criminal Christmas Party by Nikki Haverstock
I haven’t read anything else by Nikki Haverstock but this story sure had me hooked. Ella and Bear were a great team and Ella’s cat sure came through for her. The mystery was great and can’t wait to read more from this series.
November 16, 2019
I read the book by Amorette Anderson. It was cute story with Penny who really saved Christmas. As she helps find a pet goat on Christmas Eve, she learns what really matters. If you have read any of the other books with Penny Banks you will enjoy this short story too.
*I received a free copy of this book via author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
*I received a free copy of this book via author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
November 17, 2019
I've read several of these stories and so far my favorite is "The Case of the Wild Goat Chase" by Amorette Anderson. It's a fun little story and the animals are so cute! I've enjoyed reading these stories and can't wait to finish the rest.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 17, 2019
If you like your holidays seasoned with a little something magical, furry, or downright wackily supernatural this is a great read for you!
13 authors for you to meet or greet - they make the holidays oh so sweet!
Sense of fun and humor required!
Sit back and enjoy fuzzy, magical, goat-napping mysteries and mayhem!
Awesome KU read!
13 authors for you to meet or greet - they make the holidays oh so sweet!
Sense of fun and humor required!
Sit back and enjoy fuzzy, magical, goat-napping mysteries and mayhem!
Awesome KU read!
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