What do you think?
Rate this book
Amanda Cadabra Mysteries #4
Amanda Cadabra and The Rise of Sunken Madley
Amanda finds a body at The Grange. Accident or murder? It matters; she has no alibi.
But a far more serious problem is afoot. Amanda has cast one spell too many against a human. Now there is no stopping the attack of the Flamgoynes on Sunken Madley. When they will strike, who will come to her aid, how she will defend the village, she knows not. The key to her promised Home Guard is the mysterious Viola, whose identity is a secret.
They are coming. Can she buy the intrepid Inspector Trelawney the hour he needs to complete his own dangerous mission? Was it the Flamgoyes who sent her unpleasant family over the Cornish cliff all of those years ago? Can Amanda find Viola in time? In the moment of truth, will she stand alone as her recurring dream shows her? Or will she see The Rise of Sunken Madley?
Action, adventure, humour, spies, ghosts, murder and revelations abound in this climactic tale.
"The tension in this quintessentially English cozy paranormal mystery franchise just stepped up a notch; I couldn't stop reading."
But a far more serious problem is afoot. Amanda has cast one spell too many against a human. Now there is no stopping the attack of the Flamgoynes on Sunken Madley. When they will strike, who will come to her aid, how she will defend the village, she knows not. The key to her promised Home Guard is the mysterious Viola, whose identity is a secret.
They are coming. Can she buy the intrepid Inspector Trelawney the hour he needs to complete his own dangerous mission? Was it the Flamgoyes who sent her unpleasant family over the Cornish cliff all of those years ago? Can Amanda find Viola in time? In the moment of truth, will she stand alone as her recurring dream shows her? Or will she see The Rise of Sunken Madley?
Action, adventure, humour, spies, ghosts, murder and revelations abound in this climactic tale.
"The tension in this quintessentially English cozy paranormal mystery franchise just stepped up a notch; I couldn't stop reading."
335 pages, ebook
First published September 28, 2019
40 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Holly Bell
8 books30 followersCat adorer and chocolate lover, Holly Bell is a photographer and video maker when not writing. Holly lives in the UK and is a mixture of English, Scottish, Cornish and Welsh, among other ingredients.
Whilst being an enthusiastic novel reader, Holly has had a lifetime's experience in writing non-fiction. Amanda Cadabra and The Hidey-Hole Truth was her first official venture into the realms of fiction and after adding a further five books to the series, there is no looking back in the foreseeable future.
Her favourite animal is called Bobby. He is a black cat. Purely coincidental. Of course.
Whilst being an enthusiastic novel reader, Holly has had a lifetime's experience in writing non-fiction. Amanda Cadabra and The Hidey-Hole Truth was her first official venture into the realms of fiction and after adding a further five books to the series, there is no looking back in the foreseeable future.
Her favourite animal is called Bobby. He is a black cat. Purely coincidental. Of course.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 24, 2022
Rarely have I enjoyed a book series more.
Since I lived there as a child, I’ve been captivated by all things British. In fact, I set aside all but the absolutely necessary and binged the six books in the series so far. As of this writing, Amazon incorrectly repeats Book 1 as Book 7, leaving me bitterly disappointed when I finished Book 6 and immediately wanted to plunge ahead.
The books are delightful. I both feared for the characters’ well-being and laughed along with them. The books are somewhat unusual in the genre because the protagonist isn’t an orphan, hasn’t had her life implode, and doesn’t inherit a bookstore/bakery/mansion/bed and breakfast from an unknown, wealthy relative. She doesn’t come upon her abilities suddenly and with surprise when she turns 16 or 18 or by accident. The books grow gradually and very naturally, expanding along their own storyline while creating new mysteries to be solved, without the repetition of essentially the same theme in book after book after book, ad nauseam.
They are timelessly British. The language and interaction between the characters is formally polite while maintaining affection and familiarity, with little modern popular language to spoil the mood. In other words, courteously old fashioned but set in today’s world. I also congratulate the author on her vocabulary.
The author manages to create depth in each character that I was able to relate to - I would seriously consider moving to Sunken Madly if it actually existed. The languages breathe life into the stories, and the names of places and people deserve a special mention for their creativity. Kudos, too, to the characters for drinking positive gallons of tea and the author’s lovely description of what is included in each meal. What truly British book could realistically leave out these details?
I not only highly recommend this entire series, I am waiting with baited breath for the next book. It can’t come soon enough. And, although he’s not quite a Tempest, my own ‘iddle bo fluffums may need a very special treat, just because.
FYI: To avoid writing six separate reviews, I shall be submitting this one for each of the other five books. I started the next immediately after finishing the previous one and didn’t want to stop my enjoyment of the read.
Since I lived there as a child, I’ve been captivated by all things British. In fact, I set aside all but the absolutely necessary and binged the six books in the series so far. As of this writing, Amazon incorrectly repeats Book 1 as Book 7, leaving me bitterly disappointed when I finished Book 6 and immediately wanted to plunge ahead.
The books are delightful. I both feared for the characters’ well-being and laughed along with them. The books are somewhat unusual in the genre because the protagonist isn’t an orphan, hasn’t had her life implode, and doesn’t inherit a bookstore/bakery/mansion/bed and breakfast from an unknown, wealthy relative. She doesn’t come upon her abilities suddenly and with surprise when she turns 16 or 18 or by accident. The books grow gradually and very naturally, expanding along their own storyline while creating new mysteries to be solved, without the repetition of essentially the same theme in book after book after book, ad nauseam.
They are timelessly British. The language and interaction between the characters is formally polite while maintaining affection and familiarity, with little modern popular language to spoil the mood. In other words, courteously old fashioned but set in today’s world. I also congratulate the author on her vocabulary.
The author manages to create depth in each character that I was able to relate to - I would seriously consider moving to Sunken Madly if it actually existed. The languages breathe life into the stories, and the names of places and people deserve a special mention for their creativity. Kudos, too, to the characters for drinking positive gallons of tea and the author’s lovely description of what is included in each meal. What truly British book could realistically leave out these details?
I not only highly recommend this entire series, I am waiting with baited breath for the next book. It can’t come soon enough. And, although he’s not quite a Tempest, my own ‘iddle bo fluffums may need a very special treat, just because.
FYI: To avoid writing six separate reviews, I shall be submitting this one for each of the other five books. I started the next immediately after finishing the previous one and didn’t want to stop my enjoyment of the read.
July 18, 2021
I may be biased with this one, as Holly asked me to edit it. However, I'd already become a fan of her writing style while reading the previous two Amanda Cadabra books - Amanda Cadabra and The Hidey-Hole Truth and Amanda Cadabra and The Cellar of Secrets.
I think this it the best adventure to date for Amanda, Detective Trelawney and the fabulous villagers of Sunken Madley!
I'd recommend Amanda Cadabra and The Rise of Sunken Madley to fans of cosy mysteries. Especially readers who like a paranormal or magical aspect woven in. I'm looking forward to see what adventures Holly writes for Amanda and her fabulous cat, Tempest, next.
I think this it the best adventure to date for Amanda, Detective Trelawney and the fabulous villagers of Sunken Madley!
I'd recommend Amanda Cadabra and The Rise of Sunken Madley to fans of cosy mysteries. Especially readers who like a paranormal or magical aspect woven in. I'm looking forward to see what adventures Holly writes for Amanda and her fabulous cat, Tempest, next.
February 20, 2020
Wow! So Good
The Amanda Cadabra series is has everything for a truely great series. There is depth that I rarely find in paranormal mysteries with excellent twist and turns. The mixture of humor and mystery was just right. The quirky humor was smart in a way that made me love the characters more. I'm an advocate of finding the humor in life and this series does it with a flare. This fourth books was my favorite so far because the overall mystery of the series built to this book. I'm an avid reader and this was just a step above most mysteries I've read. The mysteries were so well- thought-out, as well. Loved it!
The Amanda Cadabra series is has everything for a truely great series. There is depth that I rarely find in paranormal mysteries with excellent twist and turns. The mixture of humor and mystery was just right. The quirky humor was smart in a way that made me love the characters more. I'm an advocate of finding the humor in life and this series does it with a flare. This fourth books was my favorite so far because the overall mystery of the series built to this book. I'm an avid reader and this was just a step above most mysteries I've read. The mysteries were so well- thought-out, as well. Loved it!
September 9, 2020
A grand entry in the series that has the overarching mystery mixing with a current one in ways that continue to make for an interesting and fun read. Amanda, the Inspector, and others have to face a great threat to the town and try to solve more than one past mystery. The stories we are written with great humor, characters,, and an intriguing plot that dangles information but plays fair with the reader. One might not get all of the mystery but it makes sense after it is explained. I highly recommend the series and this entry but I do think it will make more sense to read the books in order.
June 17, 2020
Books 1234.
Well!I'm disappointed that this tale is left hanging in such a way.I would imagine that we're witnessing the beginning of a very much longer epic tale. Very consistent, and very engaging. Please keep the stories coming.I have skipped the glossaries because I'm very much aware of the British genre. I don't much like this texting,so I will encourage you to continue.I am not at all good at social media,so I can't do all the correspondence you request,but please keep up the good work!
Well!I'm disappointed that this tale is left hanging in such a way.I would imagine that we're witnessing the beginning of a very much longer epic tale. Very consistent, and very engaging. Please keep the stories coming.I have skipped the glossaries because I'm very much aware of the British genre. I don't much like this texting,so I will encourage you to continue.I am not at all good at social media,so I can't do all the correspondence you request,but please keep up the good work!
May 21, 2021
A bit silly but still entertaining. I wish dearly that every single guy (every single one, darn it!) would stop falling for her, though. the magic bits are fun .... but the mystery was the weakest part of this book imo. Nonetheless I will probably read the next one anyway. 🤷♀️
December 19, 2021
Wonderful
Don't, etc the cover art fool you! While suitable for YA readers, this is a well written and complex mystery series. There is an overarching series plot, but the individual books end cleanly.
Don't, etc the cover art fool you! While suitable for YA readers, this is a well written and complex mystery series. There is an overarching series plot, but the individual books end cleanly.
February 10, 2023
Please sort the text
Wherever italics are used the text has changed colour to blue and is horrible to decipher... please get the editing sorted... it's absolutely awful like this... especially for those of us with impaired vision.
Wherever italics are used the text has changed colour to blue and is horrible to decipher... please get the editing sorted... it's absolutely awful like this... especially for those of us with impaired vision.
August 10, 2020
One of the best series I have read. Brilliant characters, fabulous story. Can't wait for the next book.
December 5, 2021
Amanda saves the village with the mysterious Viola’s timely intervention; plus we must not forget Tempest in all his magical majesty! Wonderful escapism!
January 3, 2022
I continue to enjoy the series.
I enjoyed the character development that occurs in these books. I also enjoy reading about the magic that makes so much sense in someways.
I enjoyed the character development that occurs in these books. I also enjoy reading about the magic that makes so much sense in someways.
July 12, 2022
Still has me
To think, I almost have up on this series after book one. So glad that I stuck with it. Each book seems to get better.
To think, I almost have up on this series after book one. So glad that I stuck with it. Each book seems to get better.
November 30, 2019
Amanda's adventures just keep on coming! Amanda and the Inspector are recovering from their last adventure, but already Amanda has to figure out how to protect her town from the Flamgoynes. Grandma and Grandpa have been fairly silent on this one, except to tell her that Viola will provider her with help. But who is Viola? Plus the Inspector has his own mystery and adventure to deal with. Amanda is determined to protect Sunken Madley, and right now it looks like only her faithful Tempest will be there.
This adventure is another homerun by Holly Bell! It is a super blend of mystery, romance, laughter, adventure, and spirit. Holly Bell will keep you cheering for Sunken Maldey and waiting for the next book to arrive!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This adventure is another homerun by Holly Bell! It is a super blend of mystery, romance, laughter, adventure, and spirit. Holly Bell will keep you cheering for Sunken Maldey and waiting for the next book to arrive!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2019
Can an asthmatic furniture restorer save the village?
A wonderful read. Absolutely terrific. Built up the tension well, kept it going, gave us answers to questions we had and then left us with even more questions. Loved it! Great dialogue, wonderful imam and emotion. Characters that spring of the page and a cat who has a (how shall we put it politely) a deprecated view of humans and the role they play.
The attack is coming soon but she has no clue how to fight for her beloved village except to find the one person who might give her a clue. That's if she can find that person. Right now her investigation is.going nowhere. Add in new books, a murder, new people in the village, loads of ghost, murders past and present, an upcoming battle and memories. Will she and her Inspector survive? Will she get help in her fight? Who is the killer or are there more than one? Will her cat, Tempest, get Natasha's attention?
A wonderful read. Absolutely terrific. Built up the tension well, kept it going, gave us answers to questions we had and then left us with even more questions. Loved it! Great dialogue, wonderful imam and emotion. Characters that spring of the page and a cat who has a (how shall we put it politely) a deprecated view of humans and the role they play.
The attack is coming soon but she has no clue how to fight for her beloved village except to find the one person who might give her a clue. That's if she can find that person. Right now her investigation is.going nowhere. Add in new books, a murder, new people in the village, loads of ghost, murders past and present, an upcoming battle and memories. Will she and her Inspector survive? Will she get help in her fight? Who is the killer or are there more than one? Will her cat, Tempest, get Natasha's attention?
August 26, 2020
I have read all four of the Amanda Cadabra books and highly recommend them. Most books in the “Cozy Mystery” genre are a bit silly. But this series is absolutely captivating. I anxiously await the 5th book, to be finished soon.
The characters are complex and show growth in their personalities as the book progresses. The story is fascinating. The many twists and turns are a real page turner. I always try to remember the “little” things in mystery books because they often return later in the story as important clues. But this author is so skilled in her craft that I actually would forget about something until it “showed” up later in the story, adding to the mystery or explanation of the plot.
The characters are complex and show growth in their personalities as the book progresses. The story is fascinating. The many twists and turns are a real page turner. I always try to remember the “little” things in mystery books because they often return later in the story as important clues. But this author is so skilled in her craft that I actually would forget about something until it “showed” up later in the story, adding to the mystery or explanation of the plot.
October 21, 2019
Holly books gets better and better. I love this series.
I’m in love too with Sunken Madley. I feel I know those who are part of Amanda’s life. It’s how you’d want a village to be. I want to go there, the only way I have to get there is to read Holly’s books.
This book has humour, intrigue and a hell of a battle.
Will Amanda win? will she survive? Full of drama and magic.A special mention of Tempest, the much more than a cat, he’s a bit of a hero.
Of course there is a murder too, as well as elderly ladies dancing on pianos.
Great read.
I’m in love too with Sunken Madley. I feel I know those who are part of Amanda’s life. It’s how you’d want a village to be. I want to go there, the only way I have to get there is to read Holly’s books.
This book has humour, intrigue and a hell of a battle.
Will Amanda win? will she survive? Full of drama and magic.A special mention of Tempest, the much more than a cat, he’s a bit of a hero.
Of course there is a murder too, as well as elderly ladies dancing on pianos.
Great read.
Read
October 21, 2019Awesome Sauce
Each book gets better and better. Although I didn't like this book cover, suddenly Amanda looked way to middle aged and thick or fat if you will. Hard to see her as a hero, when she's suddenly sprouted 20 years and put on 5 stone from the first cover. This series is well written, deeply involved, wonderful characters, a joy to read. I am looking forward to more, read and enjoy!
Each book gets better and better. Although I didn't like this book cover, suddenly Amanda looked way to middle aged and thick or fat if you will. Hard to see her as a hero, when she's suddenly sprouted 20 years and put on 5 stone from the first cover. This series is well written, deeply involved, wonderful characters, a joy to read. I am looking forward to more, read and enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews