Of Curses and Charms

Sister Witches of Raven Falls #2

by Nyx Halliwell

I can see the future, but it can’t help me save my sisters. Or can it?

I’m Summer Whitethorne and I can see the future. Except when it comes to my sisters.

I couldn’t stop an evil entity from taking our mom, and my ‘gift’ feels like a curse since I can’t use it to protect Spring, Autumn, and Winter either. My desire to stay close to home wars with my yearning for marriage and a family of my own someday, but I there’s no way I can leave my sisters.

A vintage necklace gifted to me from handsome antiques dealer, Hopper Caldwell, triggers the Sight and reveals the fact a dark wizard is in town – and may have murdered his wife. Now, she needs me to get the bottom of it and avenge her death.

Hopper is the perfect accomplice in my undercover sleuthing, and while I try to keep him at arm’s length, I’ll admit, I’m head over pentacle for the guy. If only he wasn’t off limits. He’s perfect for me, but I’ve seen his future and know he’s destined to marry another.

When our not-so-covert investigation brings the dark wizard to Conjure’s doorstep, I’ll need my superior charmcasting to avert disaster. With the help of my phoenix familiar, Cinders, can I keep my sisters—and Hopper—out of the dark wizard’s grasp? Or will my gift of clairvoyance curse us all?


Clean read.
Genre: paranormal cozy mystery series / witch cozy mystery / women amateur sleuth / cozy crafts and hobbies mysteries / amateur sleuth mysteries / psychic thrillers / ghost thrillers / small town cozy mysteries

Sister Witches of Raven Falls Cozy Mystery Series
Of Potions and Portents (Book 1)
Of Curses and Charms (Book 2)
Of Stars and Spells (Book 3)
Of Spirits and Superstition (Book 4)

Of Curses and Charms is the second book in the Sister Witches of Raven Falls Cozy Mystery Series. Join a set of magickal sisters as they solve paranormal mysteries that fans of Charmed, Hocus Pocus, and The Good Witch will love. ***Bonus recipes and craft instructions in every book!

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Paranormal, Witches, Magic, Fiction

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 24, 2019

Reviews

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Curses and Charms by Nyx Halliwell is book two in this witch cozy mystery series and even better than the first book.

This is Summer's story as she struggles with her fear of being ridiculed by Hopper, a man that she has slowly been falling in love with, if she tells him about her witchy gifts. She is also pursuing black magick in their small community. Spring, Autumn, Winter, Summer and their Dad must come together to solve this mystery. A quickly paced story laced with strong relationships, love and magick that was an engaging and fun afternoon read. Oh, and I loved how Godfrey saved the day for the kittens. He may often be snooty and filled with self-importance but what cat isn't?

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer, one of the Whitethorne witches, can see the future, but not when it concerns those she loves most, her sisters. However, there's another in that category, the man she's envisioned being more than friends with, but his destiny...yeah, she can see that, and it doesn't seem to include her.

Hopper has wanted Summer since the moment he met her, but their friendship is important to him. But there comes a point when you have to take the risk, and that time is now. Especially after seeing how she reacted to a gift he wanted her to have. He always knew she was special, but this is beyond his wildest imaginations. Of course, it doesn't lessen how he feels about her.

As they work together to solve a mystery, they not only grow closer, but the ability to fight what's between them fades. Will they get the chance to explore their feelings? Or will the danger surrounding them prove too much to survive?

One-click now and follow along as two people meant to be together must choose whether to fight destiny or embrace it.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**

[Jeanie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of Curses and Charms was even more delightful and heart-tugging than the first book in the Sister Witches of Raven Falls Cozy Mystery series. Nyx Halliwell combines a sweet romance with a tense mystery to once again entrance us with the the four Whitethorne sisters and their world. Summer pulls from nature to bring healing to her community but it is her gift of touch that is the center of the mystery. A ring brings a frightening vision of murder that she feels compelled to investigate. Her good friend, the awesome antiques dealer Hopper Caldwell, discovered the piece of jewelry at an estate sale and he insists on aiding in the investigation. It is pretty obvious that he is enchanted by the young witch but he is also protective of her and is interested in the murder. The mystery was fascinating and I would never have figured out most of the elements, yet they fit quite reasonably.
The only point that bothered me was Summer's mental insistence that she would never have children, one assumes that she doesn't want to pass on her "gift" of touch but it is not stated and it is used as an apparent excuse to not let herself become too attached to Hopper, but I didn't feel that that element was played out well for as much as it was mentioned. Maybe I just missed something because in her other writing personna, Ms. Halliwell does an almost perfect job of tying up all elements of her story.

[Kristy Halseth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a bit better than the first book. VERY short still, but I felt like there was a bit more substance. Or maybe it was because I wasn't so distracted by a backstory that I feel I am missing. Like it was picking up from another book but it was labeled book one. I just felt things worked a bit better in this book than book one.

The downside is that these books are so short and each one focuses on a different sister, that I feel like each one really isn't getting enough character development, neither is their love interest. With the shortness of the books, it also feels like they don't know if they want to be a mystery or a romance. They are labeled cozy mysteries, and a lot of mysteries have a bit of romance thrown in, but they feel more like romances with a little bit of mystery thrown in.

Two novellas make about one book. I think that if each were longer, with more development of the mystery and the characters, they would fit much better as cozy mysteries. The author also doesn't seem to want people to be the bad guys in this series. In both the first two books, she manages to make the people who were supposed to be the bad guys not so bad and everything is really the fault of the supernatural. Which may be another reason the books feel more like paranormal romances than mysteries.

[Lise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! And I’m enjoying this series so much. I’m a little late in reading it since it ends on the Summer Solstice☀️and I’m trying to read the series at the appropriate times throughout the year but I’m okay with that. I like these sisters a lot. I appreciate that they have each other’s backs no matter what. I also appreciate that the author has done the research necessary about the gems, herbs, reiki, etc. that are talked about and/or used in these books. I’ve read other “witchy” books where it’s apparent the author really knows nothing about the crystals or herbs they throw into their stories and that is certainly not the case here.

Ms. Halliwell knows her stuff and happily educates her readers about some crystals, shares recipes and even some ideas for having a Fairy Party of your own at the end of this book. Thank you! This is a lovely series that I look forward to continuing this Autumn, my favorite season. See you around Samhain. 🎃

[Sue Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please note that this is almost exactly the same review as I wrote for the first book of this new and awesome series! If you like all things "witchy" then you are going to love this new series by Nyx Halliwell! When I write a review, I don't reveal the story. A book is so much better when you find out how things play out by reading it for yourself. This book was so much fun. This very imaginative and creative book takes you on a journey full of surprises filled with twists and turns at the flip of each page. I love cozy mysteries and a cozy mystery about a family of witches is even better. If you want to dive into a book that offers great entertainment, then hurry and grab this book. While you are at it, you need to pre-order the rest of the series. I'm sure that you will enjoy it as much as I did! Happy Reading!

[Heidi Bourbeau · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5
I enjoy this series. It is a sweet and easy read. Not a huge amount of world or character building. It is told in a very current time arc. This book is less then 200 pages. If you are looking for something to ready on a rainy day, something that you can put your mind on autopilot, then I highly recommend this book and this series. I will continue once I clear out my "currently reading" list.

[Darlingmichie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving the series!

This installment in the series is Summer’s story. We are back with the Whitethorne sisters and this time they face an unknown dark magick user. This book also shows us more of the beautiful sisterhood and their connection. Love this book and can’t wait for the next one.

[Darlena D Doak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it.

This book has a little bit of everything. Magic, adorable animals, sisters who love and care about each other. It has a wicked little twist. And best of all some humor. Love the little sight twist from Summer

[Dena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fascinating because the sisters are so close and they seem to be in sync. I loved how they grouped together to protect each other. I saw more of the dynamic of the group in this second installment and I believe I will see more as the other sister’s stories are told.

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun continuation

I enjoyed seeing the sisters again and the focus on a different sister. I also liked the mystery, it ended up twisting around a couple of times. I'm looking forward to the next book.

[Charlene Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanting

Great story about sisters who are magical and the town they live in. Love the recipes that are included. Highly recommend

[Deserthomemaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars, but I’m rounding down because, although I enjoyed it, I don’t think this story was as well developed as the previous book in this series. Also, Ms. Halliwell needs to find a better editor.

[GARY FOREMAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paranormal at its romantic Best

A story romantically told with all the good stuff! Love in the making, mystery and danger plus an action pace to keep you glued to the pages.

[Alayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable mystery, but full of proofreading problems. In particular at one stage the heroine, Summer, is referred to as Spring, twice in two paragraphs.

[Sheri Jesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series! This book is about Summer and is just as fab as the 1st book. I didn't think that one could be topped but this one is every bit as good.

[Mary Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read. Good information on crystals. Good flow to the story.

[Loretta Maines · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read.

Just bought the next book in this series and can't wait to start reading it! So glad I four Nyx Halliwell's books!

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually really hate the cover art but this is such a good world to get sucked into!

[IzzyISH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Curses and Charms is the second book in the Sister Witches of Raven Falls Cozy Mystery Series. Summer Whitethorne is featured along with her friend Hopper in this paranormal mystery. Summer’s talent is the ability to see the future with the exception of her family members. She is also psychometric which gives her the ability to see and feel what the last person who touched an object not only felt but saw. When Hopper gives her a special necklace, she sees and feels what the last woman felt when last she wore it. Summer gets such negative vibes from it that she feels the need to find out what happened to this woman before the dark force comes after her and her sisters.

This series has it all: interesting characters, mystery, magick, and a little romance. I was pulled in from the very beginning and before I knew it, it was over. I really enjoy the Whitethorne family, their familiars, and love interests as well. I enjoyed how they all work together to fight off the evil threatening them and their town.

This book can be read as a stand-alone book; however, I believe you will want to read the entire series as it unfolds and learn about each sister, their familiars and love interests and what they each bring to the community and Conjure, the family shop. I do like that Ms. Halliwell doesn’t just write the story around the current characters she is featuring, but brings into it characters that we were introduced to in the past as well as those whose stories are yet to be told.


I was provided an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review that is my own.

[Amy R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of Curses and Charms by Nyx Halliwell is another great story in the Sister Witches of Raven Falls series. In this installment we follow Summer as she gets mixed up with some black magick that she isn't quite sure how to handle. I am always amazed at the stories that Halliwell comes up with. They are so outside of my imagination that while reading this I am just in awe of the plot, ideas, details, feelings, and all the descriptions that make you feel as though you are part of the story.

Summer and Hopper are circling around each other. Summer holds back because of visions she sees of the future and thinks there is no way the two of them will end up together. I love how Hopper makes it clear to Summer of his intentions and never leaves her side when things get tough.

As with the first book in the series, we are treated to lots of magic, excitement, fun little animals, sibling love, and a whole lot more. If you are looking for a magical mystery that is quite entertaining story, give Of Curses and Charms a read!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like everything about these books. They can talk to animals and see spirits. I love that they all take care of each other and the forest they live in. I like that it is Oregon. I lived in Oregon. Summer is the witch in this book. She gets feelings through touch so she must wear gloves. She is interested in Hopper, an antique collector, who brings her a necklace which when she touches sends her into a faint. She sees the events happening to the former owner who is now dead but you don’t know the real story until you read the book. This book is interesting because there are so many witches around. Even the old lady down the road. I expect that in the next book they will be able to permanently trap the demon and free their mother but it may take a few more adventures. Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter all witches with different skills but when joined together, they are super powerful. I expect that there is a man out there for Winter. We'll have to wait and see what Book 4 brings. I am starting it next. Great series.

[Rosemary K · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sister Witches Of Raven Falls are embroiled in another cozy mystery. This time Summer Whitethorn, a fire witch, takes the lead when an Victorian necklace triggers her vision. There is dark magic and danger surrounding it. I was glad that the sisters are caring and protective. I wanted them to defeat the evil that is stalking them and for Summer to achieve her heart's desire with Hopper. He is an amazing hero. He loves Summer and supports her even as he he learns of her heritage. I enjoyed Of Curses and Charms. The story moves swiftly and is filled with unexpected surprises. I was happy to be here for this Sister Witches adventure. I'm hooked and I definitely don't want to miss the next confrontation with the Beast. Nyx Halliwell has written interesting characters that I want to know more about. I'm looking forward to my next visit with the Whitethornes.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm back in Raven Falls for book 2 and I couldn't be happier. Nyx Halliwell has created a wonderful supernatural cozie series that I am seriously loving...

Of Curses and Charms is Summer Whitethorn's story, Summer is the sister who can see the future but even she has her limitations... Seeing the future is not always what it's cracked up to be and honestly for Summer what's the point if she can't use her gift to save the ones she loves...

I love Summer she is a total sweetheart and at times a totally confused sweetheart but hey we are not all perfect and Summer will find her way in the end probably a lot sooner if she lets the dashing Hopper fully into her life because she should have figured out by now he is not going anywhere and sometimes visions are wrong or the message is not interpreted right...

Summer and her awesome family are here for another exciting supernatural adventure and it's going to be amazing.

[Mary Lou Webb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every witch has her day

And it's Summer's turn now. Will she find true love only to have to give it up? Will her lace gloves protect her? How will she tell Hopper that she can't be with him? And why are the demons attacking her? She doesn't believe she's the strongest of the sisters.

A delightful second book in a series made for fun. Each book can be read stand alone with its own mystery, yet connected by the overarching arc of the demon that killed their mother six months earlier and which the sisters have contained beneath the earth. The plots are consistent, the characters friends we've just met, and the setting charming. I highly recommend the series as a great summer read.

[Linda Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Hopper is an interesting character and I loved how he interacted with Summer as their fledgling relationship develops. While they dance around each other, Summer is convinced that there is an element of dark magick that must be stopped. To do this, all the sisters, and their father, work together...along with an unlikely ally. Add in a group of adorable kittens to the mix, and this book is just a fun read.

If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book This is the author's second book in this series and can't wait to read what she creates next. She is on my must read authors' list.

[Jennifer Soppe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read for this cozy mystery series

Summer, a magickal witch, and Hopper, antique store owner with a secret of his own, are determined to help each other with their individual pursuits. As the story progresses Nyx Halliwell’s Of Curses and Charms is another great read for this cozy mystery series, Sister Witches of Raven Falls. I love how she keeps delving deeper into the history of the small town while exploring the magickal world she has created. I am eagerly awaiting Autumn and Winter’s books.

I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.

[Niken Widyastuti · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series and it’s as delightful as the first. Here we get to know Summer deeper, a magickal witch with perpetual sunny character. Of course, along with Hopper, the antique shop owner who had loved her from the start. Along with developing relationship, Summer, her sisters and father realised there’s something wrong brewing, and they had to race with time to contain it.

An easy and enjoyable read so worth of your time.

I was provided a complimentary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. I've been looking forward to this one after getting a little taste of Summer and Hopper in the first book. Once I started reading this one it was hard to put down. I love the whole premise of the book. The sisters trying to figure out how to help their mom and then add in the mystery about a elderly woman's death. This one keeps you on the edge of your seat. I loved the box of kittens. It shows a sweet side of Hopper. I'm going to be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.

[Linda Rimer-Como · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving this series! The story line is full of mystery and suspense along with determination and growing attraction. The characters are unique and have wonderful connections throughout. This author keeps you engaged in an exceptionally entertaining story. Highly recommend this book!

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.