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Cupcakes and Sorcery #1
Magic, Murder & Mistletoe
ASIN moved from less recent edition here
Heather is looking forward to another quiet Christmas with her dogs. However, her plans get a touch waylaid when someone sees fit to stick a knife in the Earl of Denbigh. To make things even better, magic is in the air, and it’s not the festive kind.
Being the only two magic users at the scene of the crime, suspicion falls on Heather and the compelling stranger, Sinéad. If they want to prove their innocence, they’ll have to work together. Just one problem: Sinéad is a sorcerer, and Heather is a witch... and everyone knows that witches and sorcerers don’t get along.
Things escalate when someone starts sabotaging their investigation, but Sinéad is determined to see the case through to the bitter end, and Heather won’t let her do it alone. Can they catch the killer before the killer catches up to them?
Heather is looking forward to another quiet Christmas with her dogs. However, her plans get a touch waylaid when someone sees fit to stick a knife in the Earl of Denbigh. To make things even better, magic is in the air, and it’s not the festive kind.
Being the only two magic users at the scene of the crime, suspicion falls on Heather and the compelling stranger, Sinéad. If they want to prove their innocence, they’ll have to work together. Just one problem: Sinéad is a sorcerer, and Heather is a witch... and everyone knows that witches and sorcerers don’t get along.
Things escalate when someone starts sabotaging their investigation, but Sinéad is determined to see the case through to the bitter end, and Heather won’t let her do it alone. Can they catch the killer before the killer catches up to them?
101 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
32 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Jane
6 books30 followersEllen Jane (also known as E.J. Phillips) is an Australian indie author of wlw romance. She loves writing about LGBTQ women who experience complex lives, emotions, needs, and desires. Her books are written for people who crave love stories where friendship is just as important as romance, and who want to experience cosy warmth with a hint of mystery, magic, and emotion.
You can find her writing under two pen names: Ellen Jane, and E.J. Phillips. If you like light, cosy wlw romance suffused with magic and mystery, Ellen Jane is the pen name for you. If you prefer something a little heavier, and you like your wlw romance tinged with magic and tender angst, E.J. Phillips is the one you want.
You can find her at www.ellenjanephillips.com or on Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr as @ellenjanewrites.
You can find her writing under two pen names: Ellen Jane, and E.J. Phillips. If you like light, cosy wlw romance suffused with magic and mystery, Ellen Jane is the pen name for you. If you prefer something a little heavier, and you like your wlw romance tinged with magic and tender angst, E.J. Phillips is the one you want.
You can find her at www.ellenjanephillips.com or on Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr as @ellenjanewrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 15, 2019
This is a sweet cozy mystery with witches and sorcerers and a side of romance.
Heather is an adorable (and quite powerful) culinary witch, who helps people find missing objects. While on a job, she witnesses the murder of the Earl of Denbigh. Since a charm seems to have been used for the crime, she and the only other magic person in the room, a beautiful and elegant sorcerer named Sinéad, are arrested. Proving their innocence is quite easy, but when Sinéad wants to find out who committed the murder and pinned it on her, Heather can’t stop herself from offering her help. Even though witches and sorcerers don’t get along that well.
For such a short story, the mystery works quite well, and there’s plenty of time for the characters to develop. Heather is earnest and optimistic, while Sinéad is sharp-tongued yet kind. I’m looking forward to meeting with them again in book 2, A Hive of Secrets and Spells.
Heather is an adorable (and quite powerful) culinary witch, who helps people find missing objects. While on a job, she witnesses the murder of the Earl of Denbigh. Since a charm seems to have been used for the crime, she and the only other magic person in the room, a beautiful and elegant sorcerer named Sinéad, are arrested. Proving their innocence is quite easy, but when Sinéad wants to find out who committed the murder and pinned it on her, Heather can’t stop herself from offering her help. Even though witches and sorcerers don’t get along that well.
For such a short story, the mystery works quite well, and there’s plenty of time for the characters to develop. Heather is earnest and optimistic, while Sinéad is sharp-tongued yet kind. I’m looking forward to meeting with them again in book 2, A Hive of Secrets and Spells.
February 1, 2020
Magic, Murder & Mistletoe by Ellen Jane is the first in the Cupcakes and Sorcery series. The cozy atmosphere reminded me of Jill McKnight’s Borage where magic and good food go hand in hand. Also the small English country village setting has a similar feel.
Heather is a culinary witch who is very good at finding things that have gone missing. Her magic potions and salves are quite powerful, keeping her in good stead with the villagers. Even visiting sorcerer Sinéad is impressed (and that is high praise because witches and sorcerers usually don’t mix). Their first meet at a party is frosty at best and when they are witness to a very public murder they are pulled into the investigation. First as suspects and later as investigative partners. But it’s far from smooth sailing for the two magic makers.
It was a very enjoyable read with (as a cozy promises) little to no drama. I thought the author did a good job with the cast and pacing. The magic was fun and Heather’s trio of big dogs formed a loveable distraction when the situation got tense (but not too tense because it’s a cozy, remember?). Heather is easy to love and sorcerer Sinéad is an interesting (and somewhat prickly) puzzle. I hope to get to know them even better in book 2.
f/f it’s a gentle romance so no hanky panky
Themes: a kitchen witch and a sorcerer don’t really mix, or do they?
4 Stars
Heather is a culinary witch who is very good at finding things that have gone missing. Her magic potions and salves are quite powerful, keeping her in good stead with the villagers. Even visiting sorcerer Sinéad is impressed (and that is high praise because witches and sorcerers usually don’t mix). Their first meet at a party is frosty at best and when they are witness to a very public murder they are pulled into the investigation. First as suspects and later as investigative partners. But it’s far from smooth sailing for the two magic makers.
It was a very enjoyable read with (as a cozy promises) little to no drama. I thought the author did a good job with the cast and pacing. The magic was fun and Heather’s trio of big dogs formed a loveable distraction when the situation got tense (but not too tense because it’s a cozy, remember?). Heather is easy to love and sorcerer Sinéad is an interesting (and somewhat prickly) puzzle. I hope to get to know them even better in book 2.
f/f it’s a gentle romance so no hanky panky
Themes: a kitchen witch and a sorcerer don’t really mix, or do they?
4 Stars
September 11, 2019
This is a really cute cozy mystery that involves magic, witches, and dogs.
Heather is a witch in a world that acknowledges magic while also treating her as a minority. She has a penchant for finding lost items though so she's useful and gainfully employed.
She's the narrator of our story and has a bubbly optimism that lends itself to a lighter tone as she gets stuck in the middle of a murder mystery. Her unexpected sorcerer sidekick, who acts as a nice counter balance to Heather and serves as her romantic interest, also offers an element of an f/f romance to the story but it's very PG.
Despite a murder occurring, the vibe of the read is mainly good feels and it takes place during the Christmas holiday so there's a seasonal quality, too.
On the whole, it's a fun little book and I recommend. If the author turns this into a series, I'd happily read it.
This is available on Kindle Unlimited and, at just a bit more than 100 pages, it's a quick read.
3.75 stars
Heather is a witch in a world that acknowledges magic while also treating her as a minority. She has a penchant for finding lost items though so she's useful and gainfully employed.
She's the narrator of our story and has a bubbly optimism that lends itself to a lighter tone as she gets stuck in the middle of a murder mystery. Her unexpected sorcerer sidekick, who acts as a nice counter balance to Heather and serves as her romantic interest, also offers an element of an f/f romance to the story but it's very PG.
Despite a murder occurring, the vibe of the read is mainly good feels and it takes place during the Christmas holiday so there's a seasonal quality, too.
On the whole, it's a fun little book and I recommend. If the author turns this into a series, I'd happily read it.
This is available on Kindle Unlimited and, at just a bit more than 100 pages, it's a quick read.
3.75 stars
July 21, 2019
4🌟
When Heather accidentally gets tangled up in a mysterious murder, she reluctantly agrees to help Sinéad with her private investigation to catch the offender and clear her name.
Magic, Murder Mistletoe is a hilarious and fluffy Christmas-y read. It has all your favourite tropes: blonde/brunette, enemies to friends to lovers, bed sharing. The characters are much more than you initially think they are as well as funny in their own ways - Heather can be rather ridiculous and Sinéad is a queen of sarcasm and clap backs. They gradually let go of the initial resentment caused by their magic status and find out how well they work together. The romance is well-paced and develops in a realistic way considering that the book takes place in a very short time span and the small number of pages.
The mystery is pretty well developed for a short book and certainly has some twists and turns. The characters have their reasons to get involved in the investigation other than simple curiosity which keeps them motivated in the moments of doubt and keeps the story neatly tied together.
When Heather accidentally gets tangled up in a mysterious murder, she reluctantly agrees to help Sinéad with her private investigation to catch the offender and clear her name.
Magic, Murder Mistletoe is a hilarious and fluffy Christmas-y read. It has all your favourite tropes: blonde/brunette, enemies to friends to lovers, bed sharing. The characters are much more than you initially think they are as well as funny in their own ways - Heather can be rather ridiculous and Sinéad is a queen of sarcasm and clap backs. They gradually let go of the initial resentment caused by their magic status and find out how well they work together. The romance is well-paced and develops in a realistic way considering that the book takes place in a very short time span and the small number of pages.
The mystery is pretty well developed for a short book and certainly has some twists and turns. The characters have their reasons to get involved in the investigation other than simple curiosity which keeps them motivated in the moments of doubt and keeps the story neatly tied together.
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January 3, 2019
3.5 Stars for this humorous, lighthearted mystery with magic and a bit of romance.
In this world there is magic and two types of wielders - "Witchcraft is so much simpler than sorcery: take something that is already there and make it stronger, better, different. Sorcerers' magic altered people, emotion. Witches are considered much less powerful than Sorcerers.
Heather is a witch who's specialty is potions, salves and elixirs. She crashes a high society party to investigate and clear her friend's name in a recent theft at the manor. Only at the party the Duke is mysteriously murdered and Heather and a powerful, tall and gorgeous Sorcerer, Sinead are arrested. Heather and Sinead join forces to find the true murderer. Heather and later Sinead suspects that Heather must have some sorcerer linage because her powers are too strong to be an ordinary witch.
I would love to read more with Heather and Sinead. Oh and of course more of Teddy, Bear & Lucifer. It is an interesting world that Ellen Jane has created. I wouldn't mind visiting it again. Christmas has passed, but I think I will read her 2018 Christmas short story that is unrelated to this book, A Match Made At Christmas.
In this world there is magic and two types of wielders - "Witchcraft is so much simpler than sorcery: take something that is already there and make it stronger, better, different. Sorcerers' magic altered people, emotion. Witches are considered much less powerful than Sorcerers.
Heather is a witch who's specialty is potions, salves and elixirs. She crashes a high society party to investigate and clear her friend's name in a recent theft at the manor. Only at the party the Duke is mysteriously murdered and Heather and a powerful, tall and gorgeous Sorcerer, Sinead are arrested. Heather and Sinead join forces to find the true murderer. Heather and later Sinead suspects that Heather must have some sorcerer linage because her powers are too strong to be an ordinary witch.
I would love to read more with Heather and Sinead. Oh and of course more of Teddy, Bear & Lucifer. It is an interesting world that Ellen Jane has created. I wouldn't mind visiting it again. Christmas has passed, but I think I will read her 2018 Christmas short story that is unrelated to this book, A Match Made At Christmas.
December 23, 2020
A really amusing cosy mystery with Witches and Sorcerers and some truly fun magic and humour. Plus a sweet ff/wlw romance starting. Kindle Unlimited.
This is a really wonderfully creative story that I really enjoyed! It's about an hour and a half. I look forward to the full length novel, next! (It says it's about 4 hours).
We meet Heather who is a very able witch, mostly to do with infusing things into her baking, or utilizing potions and salves. We first meet her rubbing a salve onto wallpaper to literally make the walls talk! Who would have thought conversation with the wall flowers on the paper could be so enlightening or amusing?
Sorceress Sinéad notices this, despite Heather also having potioned her dress to try and make herself blend into the background and have her go unnoticed. So both are intrigued with the other from the get go. Then a murder happens at the party they are attending, and because there is a magic element related to it, the two of them become suspects!
Heather is a sweet but lonely girl, her parents who were woodworkers and also witches who infused magic into their creations have now passed. She has 3 huge doggos for company, though. Sinéad is an artist by trade and able to infuse her paintings and sketches with spell and emotion, and is just in town for a short time. But now she has been framed, she is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, and wants Heather's help.
I found it all quite riveting to learn about the magic and uses in this modern yet magically regulated world. The mystery aspect was slightly predictable, but at the same time it's a cosy mystery, so you don't exactly want it to be too convoluted, either.
I enjoyed seeing Heather and Sinéad get to know each other and utilized various magic in their investigation. There isn't a huge Christmas element, just moreso set in the depth of winter, and set before the festive day with a party at the end with magically infused crackers/bon-bons which I found thoroughly amusing. So you can absolutely read it any time. I would recommend you give it a try, if it's a genre you enjoy!
This is a really wonderfully creative story that I really enjoyed! It's about an hour and a half. I look forward to the full length novel, next! (It says it's about 4 hours).
We meet Heather who is a very able witch, mostly to do with infusing things into her baking, or utilizing potions and salves. We first meet her rubbing a salve onto wallpaper to literally make the walls talk! Who would have thought conversation with the wall flowers on the paper could be so enlightening or amusing?
Sorceress Sinéad notices this, despite Heather also having potioned her dress to try and make herself blend into the background and have her go unnoticed. So both are intrigued with the other from the get go. Then a murder happens at the party they are attending, and because there is a magic element related to it, the two of them become suspects!
Heather is a sweet but lonely girl, her parents who were woodworkers and also witches who infused magic into their creations have now passed. She has 3 huge doggos for company, though. Sinéad is an artist by trade and able to infuse her paintings and sketches with spell and emotion, and is just in town for a short time. But now she has been framed, she is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, and wants Heather's help.
I found it all quite riveting to learn about the magic and uses in this modern yet magically regulated world. The mystery aspect was slightly predictable, but at the same time it's a cosy mystery, so you don't exactly want it to be too convoluted, either.
I enjoyed seeing Heather and Sinéad get to know each other and utilized various magic in their investigation. There isn't a huge Christmas element, just moreso set in the depth of winter, and set before the festive day with a party at the end with magically infused crackers/bon-bons which I found thoroughly amusing. So you can absolutely read it any time. I would recommend you give it a try, if it's a genre you enjoy!
September 14, 2019
4.5 ⭐️ for this gentle, magic, murder mystery.
A sweet but combative witch meets a seemingly uptight sorcerer. And a murder has to be solved. This is a really sweet novella, with no violence (apart from a polite murder), a fun cast, good magic, and sweet romance.
It’s short, with good pacing, just enough detail to paint the picture, some witty writing and characters that I liked at first... line (?).
I think it’s free on KU.
A sweet but combative witch meets a seemingly uptight sorcerer. And a murder has to be solved. This is a really sweet novella, with no violence (apart from a polite murder), a fun cast, good magic, and sweet romance.
It’s short, with good pacing, just enough detail to paint the picture, some witty writing and characters that I liked at first... line (?).
I think it’s free on KU.
December 25, 2017
3.5
I would love to see more of Heather and Sinead!
I would love to see more of Heather and Sinead!
December 21, 2017
A fun, cute murder mystery short story set at Christmas time with LGBTQ main characters and a cozy inn and a little of romance and MAGIC. Super cute, despite the murder, and only a small amount of drama. Perfect if you're looking for a quick, light holiday read that's different from the typical holiday romance novellas to help you read your Goodreads goal!
November 29, 2017
Magic, Murder & Mistletoe is a quick read that keeps you wanting more. Right from the start, the main character, Heather, is in the wrong place at the right time. Well, right to be accused of murder, anyway. Which is when she meets the beautiful Sinead, who, at first glance, is everything Heather is not—elegant, graceful, upper class, and a Sorcerer.
Right off the bat, Ellen Jane grabbed my attention with these two characters and their witty banty. There are two storylines running through this. One is the murder mystery, and the second is the romance, and each is appealing in and of themselves. Ellen Jane manages to keep the tone light, and often funny, while still presenting well-rounded characters and giving them each an interesting depth and background that made me really invested in their story.
The mystery itself was great. I'm usually really good at determining the murder early on in stories, but I honestly had no idea with this one! It kept me guessing until the very end, but then looking back, of course, it all made sense. It's rare for me not to have some idea of who the killer is, so I was quite impressed.
This is a great story, with talking wallpaper, three floofy hellhounds, and a whole cast of interesting characters. I'd definitely recommend it.
Right off the bat, Ellen Jane grabbed my attention with these two characters and their witty banty. There are two storylines running through this. One is the murder mystery, and the second is the romance, and each is appealing in and of themselves. Ellen Jane manages to keep the tone light, and often funny, while still presenting well-rounded characters and giving them each an interesting depth and background that made me really invested in their story.
The mystery itself was great. I'm usually really good at determining the murder early on in stories, but I honestly had no idea with this one! It kept me guessing until the very end, but then looking back, of course, it all made sense. It's rare for me not to have some idea of who the killer is, so I was quite impressed.
This is a great story, with talking wallpaper, three floofy hellhounds, and a whole cast of interesting characters. I'd definitely recommend it.
December 24, 2017
This is really That™ book, truly. What a lovely short read, just in time for the holidays. the romance was just perfect and realistic -- who doesn't love that bed sharing trope. Sinéad being so soft to Heather is my favorite thing and the magic was to die for. I have a soft spot for magical worlds and this sort of magical realism: talking wallpaper, talking cookies; it made me want to slow down and take in this world but at the same time read as fast as I can.
September 20, 2019
This was a warm, cozy and gentle novella, with a traditional sort of seasonal murder mystery (the Earl of Denbigh has been stabbed at a fancy society party just before Christmas!) combined with romantic fantasy (as a witch and a female sorcerer team up to solve the magic-linked crime and, of course, fall in love, albeit in a very gentle and understated way), and I'm so glad that it's the first in a series. I loved the banter, I felt my shoulders relax as I sank into the story, and I'm really looking forward to more of Heather and Sinéad's adventures.
April 6, 2021
This is a cute cozy mystery with magic and baked goods... in other words, right up my alley! Though I will admit, I wasn't aware at first that it was going to be a cozy mystery. I had somehow expected more of a romance and less of a mystery. (Not that this is a problem; I love cozy mysteries.) The characters are a lot of fun, the setting is as believable as any contemporary+magic could be expected to be, and the whodunnit was complicated enough that though I had guesses and came to some conclusions before the MCs did, I was never so far ahead of them that I got annoyed. This was a really fun book! Many thanks to Sammie for the rec on this one.
November 26, 2019
I feel bad giving another book 2 stars in a row but I couldn’t connect with anything in this - not the characters or the romance. The story and world were unique, but I was promised a cute f/f romance in a Christmas-y setting and I got none of that. I basically skimmed the entire thing so it would be over and done with.
rep: sapphic mcs, f/f romance
rep: sapphic mcs, f/f romance
December 30, 2017
A quick, exciting mystery with a fun supernatural twist. Both main characters were really likable. Good f/f romantic plot. The backdrop of the holiday season made it really warm and happy. Great book. I’d love to read more about these characters.
December 24, 2017
Cute and Fluffy
This was a great quick, cute, and clean read for the holidays. I loved the use of magic in a modern setting: enchanting paintings to evoke feelings, and making biscuits that could change hair colour or sooth a person. It’s a concept I’ve been wanting to see a lot more of in fiction. I think a great sequel/ spin off would be a cozy mystery set in a cafe.
This does loose a star because there were key elements about the mystery that were really, really obvious, and should have lead to conclusions essentially immediately. That was quite frustrating. However, I read this for the fluff and setting, not for an Agatha Christie intense mystery, so I didn’t mind too much.
This was a great quick, cute, and clean read for the holidays. I loved the use of magic in a modern setting: enchanting paintings to evoke feelings, and making biscuits that could change hair colour or sooth a person. It’s a concept I’ve been wanting to see a lot more of in fiction. I think a great sequel/ spin off would be a cozy mystery set in a cafe.
This does loose a star because there were key elements about the mystery that were really, really obvious, and should have lead to conclusions essentially immediately. That was quite frustrating. However, I read this for the fluff and setting, not for an Agatha Christie intense mystery, so I didn’t mind too much.
December 30, 2017
This grew on me. At the very beginning, I was already mentally preparing a terrible one-star review and in the end, I grew attached to Heather, Sinéad, Teddy, Bear and Lucifer.
The writing is not the greatest and the plot is not incredibly innovative but it's a well-crafted one, very enjoyable to read during the festive season, and I enjoyed the witch/sorcerer duality.
3 and 1/2 stars, really, but I'm rounding it up to 4 because of the lesbian storyline.
The writing is not the greatest and the plot is not incredibly innovative but it's a well-crafted one, very enjoyable to read during the festive season, and I enjoyed the witch/sorcerer duality.
3 and 1/2 stars, really, but I'm rounding it up to 4 because of the lesbian storyline.
November 24, 2017
Magic, Murder & Mistletoe was such a delightful read! I really liked the balance of holiday fluff and mystery. It kept me in my toes without unnecessary drama or conflict. The pacing was well done and the plot was neither overbearing or loose. The writing felt very smooth and easy-flowing. The story and characters were gripping enough that i ended up finishing way quicker than intended!
The magical world building here might be my favorite. Power dynamics, a bit of historical context, ingrained prejudices (and overcoming them!), different type of magic users and methods, their integration into society... They were all well-thought out and plotted, and made up for such a wide and enchanting world. I particularly liked different techniques they used for magic, they were so wonderful and rich. I loved the idea of combining magic with arts and crafts. The descriptions of Sinèad’s paintings were especially gorgeous.
Heather’s job as a small-scale magical detective was also really creative, i loved that idea and the emotional attachment she had to her profession through her parents! The case she and Sinèad worked on was also very gripping and engaging. Just the right amount of complexity and mystery. I was curious about how dark the murder mystery aspect could get, but it didn’t eclipse over the general light and fun atmosphere. It wasn’t obvious either! I kept trying to piece together what had happened and why, right along with them. I had some suspicions, but not enough to figure things out and i was still surprised by the twists.
Heather and Sinèad though! Their contrasting personalities made up for such fun banter to read, and it made the points where they met in between all the more sweeter. I really liked the slow and steady build of their relationship. I loved the moments where Heather, and we, saw through Sinèad’s cool/professional persona. She was just as sweet and dorky as Heather, they fit together so well! They were both wonderful, loveable characters individually and together. I also really enjoyed getting to read about many multi-faceted female characters in the story. :)
I also can’t not mention the giant puppy babies. The “Cerberus with more legs” pack deserve an honorable mention. They were so unbeliveably cute and the perfect matchmakers. <3
The magical world building here might be my favorite. Power dynamics, a bit of historical context, ingrained prejudices (and overcoming them!), different type of magic users and methods, their integration into society... They were all well-thought out and plotted, and made up for such a wide and enchanting world. I particularly liked different techniques they used for magic, they were so wonderful and rich. I loved the idea of combining magic with arts and crafts. The descriptions of Sinèad’s paintings were especially gorgeous.
Heather’s job as a small-scale magical detective was also really creative, i loved that idea and the emotional attachment she had to her profession through her parents! The case she and Sinèad worked on was also very gripping and engaging. Just the right amount of complexity and mystery. I was curious about how dark the murder mystery aspect could get, but it didn’t eclipse over the general light and fun atmosphere. It wasn’t obvious either! I kept trying to piece together what had happened and why, right along with them. I had some suspicions, but not enough to figure things out and i was still surprised by the twists.
Heather and Sinèad though! Their contrasting personalities made up for such fun banter to read, and it made the points where they met in between all the more sweeter. I really liked the slow and steady build of their relationship. I loved the moments where Heather, and we, saw through Sinèad’s cool/professional persona. She was just as sweet and dorky as Heather, they fit together so well! They were both wonderful, loveable characters individually and together. I also really enjoyed getting to read about many multi-faceted female characters in the story. :)
I also can’t not mention the giant puppy babies. The “Cerberus with more legs” pack deserve an honorable mention. They were so unbeliveably cute and the perfect matchmakers. <3
November 21, 2017
A quiet small-town Christmas is interrupted when an Earl is murdered at a party. Everyone is a suspect; especially the two magic users that were in attendance.
Heather is a culinary witch that specializes in finding lost things and Sinéad is a sorcerer that specializes in art and emotions. The two couldn't be more different, but somehow they will have to find a way to move past their prejudices and work together to find the killer before anyone else becomes a victim.
And if they can learn to appreciate each other's talent in the process? That would be even better.
Magic, Murder, and Mistletoe...the story really does have it all, along with twists that keep you guessing. You're immediately drawn into the world Ellen Jane has created and you don't want to leave honestly.
Heather and Sinéad are wonderful characters that have depth and personality, and they feel real. The whole town is a character in itself which makes it easy to put yourself alongside the character and in the scenes; it makes it easy to see all of it as you read.
The writing is...I don't have words. It's subtle and beautiful and wonderful. Its easy to read, and easy to get so drawn in that you forget youre supposed to be doing real-life things lol. Ellen Jane's writing really does bring everything to life in amazing ways-like the subtle ways you learn hints of the characters from their interactions instead of dialogue sometimes, she /shows/ you instead of simply /telling/ you.
Nothing about this feels forced or overdone, it just flows naturally and she's given magic new uses as opposed to things you may normally expect.
Formatting was very well done, as was the editing. I didn't have any problems with either which makes for an even better reading experience.
I did receive an advanced copy for an honest review and I'm glad I did because I truly loved it and would in fact buy it. I mean, a well written, incredible story with awesome chatacters, AND no major errors? What's not to love? I do hope she continues this story in another book because I would love to see more with Heather and Sinéad, as well as more from Ellen Jane. Come on guys, Magic, Murder, and Mistletoe is definitely worth reading!
Heather is a culinary witch that specializes in finding lost things and Sinéad is a sorcerer that specializes in art and emotions. The two couldn't be more different, but somehow they will have to find a way to move past their prejudices and work together to find the killer before anyone else becomes a victim.
And if they can learn to appreciate each other's talent in the process? That would be even better.
Magic, Murder, and Mistletoe...the story really does have it all, along with twists that keep you guessing. You're immediately drawn into the world Ellen Jane has created and you don't want to leave honestly.
Heather and Sinéad are wonderful characters that have depth and personality, and they feel real. The whole town is a character in itself which makes it easy to put yourself alongside the character and in the scenes; it makes it easy to see all of it as you read.
The writing is...I don't have words. It's subtle and beautiful and wonderful. Its easy to read, and easy to get so drawn in that you forget youre supposed to be doing real-life things lol. Ellen Jane's writing really does bring everything to life in amazing ways-like the subtle ways you learn hints of the characters from their interactions instead of dialogue sometimes, she /shows/ you instead of simply /telling/ you.
Nothing about this feels forced or overdone, it just flows naturally and she's given magic new uses as opposed to things you may normally expect.
Formatting was very well done, as was the editing. I didn't have any problems with either which makes for an even better reading experience.
I did receive an advanced copy for an honest review and I'm glad I did because I truly loved it and would in fact buy it. I mean, a well written, incredible story with awesome chatacters, AND no major errors? What's not to love? I do hope she continues this story in another book because I would love to see more with Heather and Sinéad, as well as more from Ellen Jane. Come on guys, Magic, Murder, and Mistletoe is definitely worth reading!
February 15, 2018
This was a really sweet read. The murder mystery aspect was really interesting (if a bit predictable) and I really enjoyed both the protagonists, the nice way they worked together and the three enormous dogs. I was sad when the book was over because I'd appreciate about maybe 5 more books set in this world with these characters.
October 16, 2019
An easily digestible book if you want to take your mind somewhere else where magic and mystery coalesce into a cute and delightful read. Got a couple hours? Pick up Magic, Murder & Mistletoe. Kick back with your beverage of choice and prepare to be lured in and charmed, maybe have a chat with the geraniums while you're at it. They could use the company.
January 24, 2021
A nice short read about witch, sorcerer and mysterious murder during christmas season. It was entertaining and i enjoyed it alots :)
April 7, 2024
This is one of those eBook only lesbian romances where parts are confusing and robotic in a way that feels kinda cut-and-pasted together, or like segments were filled in with AI? IDK. I'm not saying it's without heart, just that it was convoluted in some places, hard to imagine what the characters were really like both physically and personality-wise, there wasn't really any world-building, their motivations are not explained... Great idea for a world and a story but I wish it had been fleshed or workshopped a LOT more. It's also funny that this is how I felt, and then looking back the cover has these weird faceless women on it - is that AI? It's for sure weird. It definitely smacks of "we pumped this out and couldn't afford to find cover art for it". Anyway, it was very short. The title is odd - very quickly you completely forget this is set around Christmas until I think there's maybe a kiss under the mistletoe at the end? Also, I'll say, this is clearly meant to be an "antagonists to lovers" setup but the antagonism is weak (because the characters are merely sketches/ciphers) and it goes to "love" without any angst, explanation, sparks or romance or anything... it's quite odd. Also, I think there's like, zero sex, which let's be real, is mostly why people suck down lesbian romances so fast they have reached the bottom of the list and gotten to the "Kindle Unlimited Free Books that could have been written partially by AI" section, amiright? Is that just me? Anyway. Is chatGPT like, SFW only or something? 2.5/5? Better than 2 (it was OK) but less than (I liked it) by a small margin. Too bad GR doesn't have half-stars?
EDIT: I just saw this on the book profile - which by the way on GR has a much better cover, WITH faces?
"You can find her writing under two pen names: Ellen Jane, and E.J. Phillips. If you like light, cosy wlw romance suffused with magic and mystery, Ellen Jane is the pen name for you. If you prefer something a little heavier, and you like your wlw romance tinged with magic and tender angst, E.J. Phillips is the one you want."
I checked to see if I had somehow read the same book but in the "cozy" format, and I think I have? Like, should I try the other version? Or just other books by the same author under the other pen name? Something about this seems weird, but, I'll explore a bit further. I'm intrigued...
PS I realize I am always super critical of all of the lesbian romances I read. I'm not sure why - I'm not asking for much from them, lol. They are all more or less OK. I guess when I'm just trying to think of what to say, my first thoughts are "Well what did/didn't you like about it?" or more accurately, what I didn't like and wish had been better. Sorry, I'm maybe just a critical/negative person. ::shrug::
EDIT: I just saw this on the book profile - which by the way on GR has a much better cover, WITH faces?
"You can find her writing under two pen names: Ellen Jane, and E.J. Phillips. If you like light, cosy wlw romance suffused with magic and mystery, Ellen Jane is the pen name for you. If you prefer something a little heavier, and you like your wlw romance tinged with magic and tender angst, E.J. Phillips is the one you want."
I checked to see if I had somehow read the same book but in the "cozy" format, and I think I have? Like, should I try the other version? Or just other books by the same author under the other pen name? Something about this seems weird, but, I'll explore a bit further. I'm intrigued...
PS I realize I am always super critical of all of the lesbian romances I read. I'm not sure why - I'm not asking for much from them, lol. They are all more or less OK. I guess when I'm just trying to think of what to say, my first thoughts are "Well what did/didn't you like about it?" or more accurately, what I didn't like and wish had been better. Sorry, I'm maybe just a critical/negative person. ::shrug::
December 8, 2019
A painting that causes you to murder someone instead of kissing someone? Someone’s spell went wrong.
Heather went to the party to find a piece of jewelry. Instead she ends up in the middle of a murder investigation and defending a gorgeous sorcerer from murder. Joining forces with the mysterious Sinéad to help clear her name ends up putting Heather right into the killer’s crosshairs.
I have to confess I read book two before I read this one so I know how this turned out before I read it (laugh). Magic, Murder & Mistletoe (Amazon, B077S9N4DX, 2017) by Ellen Jane is a novella so I do not want to spoil any of it by giving away too many details. There are twists, turns, and magic afoot. Magic is a fun read and a quick mystery.
I also confess that I did guess the killer, but that could be because of years of Lifetime movies (laugh). It does not take away from the fun of the mystery or of the beginnings of the romance of Heather and Sinéad.
Now if you read my second review, I said I could not really address their romance until I read book one. Jane does deal with their romance more in Book Two and the real issues of their relationship. I will say overall: uhaul. (Normally there would be my usual palm to the face emoji after this (laugh).)
Jane’s mysteries are quick and fun to read. Heather and Sinéad have the potential to be a great magical couple. I cannot wait to read the next one and see where everyone goes from here. ✶✶✶✶
Heather went to the party to find a piece of jewelry. Instead she ends up in the middle of a murder investigation and defending a gorgeous sorcerer from murder. Joining forces with the mysterious Sinéad to help clear her name ends up putting Heather right into the killer’s crosshairs.
I have to confess I read book two before I read this one so I know how this turned out before I read it (laugh). Magic, Murder & Mistletoe (Amazon, B077S9N4DX, 2017) by Ellen Jane is a novella so I do not want to spoil any of it by giving away too many details. There are twists, turns, and magic afoot. Magic is a fun read and a quick mystery.
I also confess that I did guess the killer, but that could be because of years of Lifetime movies (laugh). It does not take away from the fun of the mystery or of the beginnings of the romance of Heather and Sinéad.
Now if you read my second review, I said I could not really address their romance until I read book one. Jane does deal with their romance more in Book Two and the real issues of their relationship. I will say overall: uhaul. (Normally there would be my usual palm to the face emoji after this (laugh).)
Jane’s mysteries are quick and fun to read. Heather and Sinéad have the potential to be a great magical couple. I cannot wait to read the next one and see where everyone goes from here. ✶✶✶✶
November 29, 2017
This novella is intriguing and the characters spark from the first moment you meet them on the page. The world-building is intriguing - if not always fully fleshed out or consistent - and I loved the little touches which elevate the novella into a very Christie-esque cozy murder mystery. I would have liked the story to proceed at a slower pace, giving more time to events (especially at the beginning) so that we are more invested in the death at the beginning, and get to know Sinead and Heather on a deeper level. It would have been nice to be introduced to Heather's usual day before the party started so we could get to know her business and life and the way she thinks. A longer conversation with Sinead before Heather impulsively decides to support a woman she doesn't like, would have helped with issues of verisimilitude. Similarly, throughout the novel, Heather and Sinead switch quickly from acrimony to friendliness and back again with seemingly no real motivation, which was a bit frustrating. Quibbles aside, this is an enjoyable read - ideally suited for a rainy or snowy evening with a mug of hot chocolate.
December 29, 2017
An affectionate 2 star rating. Reading this, I kept thinking I want this story as a graphic novel (was it the cute cover that put the idea in my head?). What the story lacks in polish, it makes up for in charm. It delivers on the cosiness, there's genuine warmth to the storytelling, and the magical system is utterly delightful. But, though I found the heroine Heather sympathetic, I did not like how her "voice" was rendered as the focalizer. For one thing, there was occasional reliance on hackneyed sitcom-y phrasings which pulled me out of that quaint small town setting. Secondly, Heather kept flagging clues for the reader, and yet, despite her sleuthing experience, failed to discover whodunnit before this reader. But, yeah, this could make such a sweet graphic novel.
January 9, 2021
Magic, Murder & Mistletoe: 4.5 Stars
[7.04 - Amazing!]
I adored this novella ♥ Heather and Sinéad have stolen my heart.
Teddy, Bear and Lucifer did too obviously!!
This was a mystery novella set in a fantasy world featuring a sapphic romance and it delivered on all aspects. The Mystery was a lot of fun and very well paced. I was scared 100 pages wouldn't be enough to get a good investigation going but this novella did a great job with it.
I also loved the witches and sorcerer aspects of this book - fantasy and mystery only mesh with me if I know where the possibilities lay - and it was perfectly fine here. It helped too that I fell in love with both our main characters individually as well as their romance.
[7.04 - Amazing!]
I adored this novella ♥ Heather and Sinéad have stolen my heart.
Teddy, Bear and Lucifer did too obviously!!
This was a mystery novella set in a fantasy world featuring a sapphic romance and it delivered on all aspects. The Mystery was a lot of fun and very well paced. I was scared 100 pages wouldn't be enough to get a good investigation going but this novella did a great job with it.
I also loved the witches and sorcerer aspects of this book - fantasy and mystery only mesh with me if I know where the possibilities lay - and it was perfectly fine here. It helped too that I fell in love with both our main characters individually as well as their romance.
November 13, 2018
Can’t wait for more with Heather and Sinead!
This is such a fun start to a series I can’t wait to read more of. The whole book has an atmosphere of lightness and warmth despite the murder mystery. It feels like Christmas in the pages.
Heather is so relatable and I loved her quirks, dogs, and how authentic she was to herself and her magic. We see Sinead through Heather’s eyes and so we see her as chic, put together, self assured, because those are things Heather doesn’t see in herself. But she is human, despite being quite sexy.
Together they are a dynamic and engaging pairing and I’m really looking forward to reading more adventures with them!
This is such a fun start to a series I can’t wait to read more of. The whole book has an atmosphere of lightness and warmth despite the murder mystery. It feels like Christmas in the pages.
Heather is so relatable and I loved her quirks, dogs, and how authentic she was to herself and her magic. We see Sinead through Heather’s eyes and so we see her as chic, put together, self assured, because those are things Heather doesn’t see in herself. But she is human, despite being quite sexy.
Together they are a dynamic and engaging pairing and I’m really looking forward to reading more adventures with them!
December 15, 2019
Cute and fluffy, as promised. This could have been quite a bit longer—there's not really space for a lot of background or development of secondary characters. I'd thought this was a romance, but it's really a cozy with a wee bit of romance slipped in (sweet but not cloying).
I don't think I'm going to continue with the series, because I'm not so much into cozies these days (I seem to prefer the blood-everywhere-and-lots-of-people-dying thrillers, which, hmm, is a bit of a 180, isn't it?), but it made for a fun holiday-season speed read.
I don't think I'm going to continue with the series, because I'm not so much into cozies these days (I seem to prefer the blood-everywhere-and-lots-of-people-dying thrillers, which, hmm, is a bit of a 180, isn't it?), but it made for a fun holiday-season speed read.
January 6, 2018
"Sinéad's eyes dropped again to Heather's mouth, a question there, and before Heather could think about it too deeply, she leaned forward in the still, quiet night and caught Sinéad in a kiss."
A super sweet and cozy F/F mystery set at Christmas time. A witch and a sorcerer need to solve a mystery after both are framed as suspects. There is magic, bed sharing, three adorable dogs, and all kinds of fun shenanigans. Exactly what I needed this weekend.
A super sweet and cozy F/F mystery set at Christmas time. A witch and a sorcerer need to solve a mystery after both are framed as suspects. There is magic, bed sharing, three adorable dogs, and all kinds of fun shenanigans. Exactly what I needed this weekend.
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