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Moonstone Bay #6

Brewing Up a Storm

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Storm season has hit Moonstone Bay and with it comes a whole lot of trouble.
Hadley Hunter thinks she’s ready for what’s to come, but she’s not. Before the storms can wreak havoc on her life, though, she has something even more frightening to deal with … lunch with her boyfriend Galen Blackwood’s mother.
Despite her best intentions, things don’t go as smoothly as Hadley envisioned. Before she has a chance to deal with that, though, the storms bring another surprise in the form of an unconscious woman on the beach and a yacht that keeps appearing (and then disappearing) with each subsequent storm.
Hadley can’t wrap her head around what’s happening, especially when news breaks regarding the identity of the individual who was found in front of the lighthouse. It seems she’s the wife of a very rich and powerful man … who disappeared a year before. In addition to that, the couple had two daughters with them at the time their boat fell off the map. What happened to them?
It’s a race against time for Hadley and her motley band of paranormal friends. They must find the yacht and uncover every horrible secret one family has managed to bury beneath a deep blue sea … and they have to do it with a monster on their tails.
At the heart of almost every family is love. At the heart of this one is despair. Somehow, Hadley will have to overcome her worst fears to become the best witch she possibly can.
Here’s hoping she’s up to the challenge.

324 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 5, 2020

1101 people are currently reading
251 people want to read

About the author

Amanda M. Lee

309 books2,907 followers
When I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.

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5 stars
1,982 (64%)
4 stars
778 (25%)
3 stars
266 (8%)
2 stars
34 (1%)
1 star
16 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
12 reviews
November 2, 2020
A skimmer

Disappointing. It started off with the author continually forgetting who the biggest villain was in the Cupid convention mystery. That was jarring. Then Hadley devolved into an even whinier, nosier version of Aisling Grimlock from her Grimlock series. The continual, childish sexual banter between Hadley and Galen was incredibly boring. Galen’s constant failed attempts to coerce Hadley to act responsibly by declaring his everlasting love and anticipated eternal grief should she manage to stupid herself into dying was cringeworthy. Her most interesting characters, Hadley’s grandparents, didn’t show at all. Hadley’s original intention to “learn her trade” was abandoned to just “fly by the seat of her pants” and luck her way out of trouble. I would urge Ms. Lee to slow down her book production; a little more quality over quantity.
Profile Image for Cryogenic Fire.
230 reviews3 followers
August 8, 2020
Obnoxious

I really didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous books. The lead character came across as obnoxious, repugnant and downright irritating. I wanted to give her a damn good shame and tell her to grow the heck up and behave like the grown woman she is. It took away from what is otherwise a decent story.
Profile Image for Jaime.
31 reviews
April 18, 2021
Horrible Hadley and the Spoilers

Getting through this one almost killed me.
Hadley is just younger Aisling from the Grimlock books now. She’s arrogant, pouty, nosey as hell, rarely listens to reason, etc.
At least Aisling grew up a bit in the Death Gate series.

I’ve never wanted to slap a fictional character so much. Her persistent need to know EVERYTHING about everyone gets old.
Every 10 pages or so, the same conversation between Galen and Hadley occurs: He yells at her about being scared to lose her, she argues back, he says he’s sorry, they make up. He yells all the time. Then makes her feel bad. It’s a borderline abusive relationship. Seriously, I think it actually occurred every 10-15 pages. It’s literally filler at this point and I found myself skimming through it so I could finish the story.
Every few pages, Galen and Hadley talk about having sex. It’s filler. Like, we get it. They are horny all day, everyday. They make their friends want to gag.

There’s so much filler and not enough story.
I’m seriously debating whether I should try to read any more of this series. I may have to dump it just like the Winchester witch series. Landon and Galen are cut from the same cloth but at least Hadley doesn’t spiral and start crying about losing Galen like Bay does with Landon.

Also, why is Hadley spending her days following Galen around instead of learning more about her powers? Is she just gonna continuing ‘vibing it’?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
April 20, 2023
While the characters in these books can be annoying, I almost stopped reading this book when Hadley kept bugging Lilac and Booker about their relationship. She was so childish, ignorant and rude, to a point that I would not even want to know this person, let alone have a relationship with them. To tell her boyfriend he had to get the information out of Booker, because she is just so curious. She is too much in everyone else's business. There is a point to being curious, and she crosses it to downright rude and intrusive. Her and Galen's relationship is childish and puke worthy. I read a lot of this author's work and liked it, but I really don't like this series or the main characters in it.
Profile Image for Suzi.
121 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2022
Done with this series. Hadley is so obnoxious, nosy, childish etc. She always demands to get her way no matter what. She and Galen are the most annoying couple. Its a shame as I like her grandparents, Wesley and ghost May, and the other characters, Booker a cupid, Lilac half demon, Aurora a siren etc. Hadley is nothing more than a narcissist and a headache.
451 reviews3 followers
January 1, 2022
This is an intriguing read from start to finish.

I love the twists and turns of this series and I have to admit this one was actually more fun to read than the last one. The characters keep surprising me, just when you think they fave found their niche and the story will just keep revolving around them as they are, they evolve to a whole new level and the storyline bursts with a completely new or enhanced direction. I only have one issue with this series and it started in a miniscule way but has grown to the point I have to point out why I reduced my rating. There are way to many inconsistencies in the story now. Conversations that were had in previous books are now being twisted and the wrong characters named or involved in certain instances and that totally messes with the reading flow; especially when something is being written in like it has never been covered or discussed or is even a new event that hasn't happened before. I totally love this series, so yes it pains me to write that but I won't lie in a review.
562 reviews4 followers
August 17, 2020
Another enjoyable read

A fun and entertaining series. Lots of action, thrills and sarcastic humour mixed in with magic and monsters. Love the characters and their dynamic relationships. Highly recommend.
455 reviews5 followers
September 25, 2020
Sea Hags and Gollum’s

I really enjoyed this book. The characters continue to grow and the interaction between them is fun. I like that new characters are being added and they provide good background to the characters and the island. I look forward to the next book.
208 reviews6 followers
July 13, 2020
I gave this 5 stars for all the other characters in the book not Hadley. This book made me really annoyed with her and her attitude. When constantly telling Galen ‘No’ and ‘I’ll do what I want’ and bugging Lilac and Booker I really started to dislike her. Galen is trying to look out for her and be considerate she wasn’t doing well in some parts of the book. He was trying to take care of and do his job. I think she was acting overly spoiled and downright bitchy. With Aislings character, in the the reaper series, it worked as a person we knew who she was she was spoiled and entitled and the people in her life treated her as such. Hadley is supposed to be a novice in magic and down to earth but is inquisitive. She challenges Galen which great don’t roll over and show your belly to the alpha right away. But she was making me feel like ‘Dude just walk away she is gonna be a headache she is just not worth it’ the way she treated Lilac and Booker was just rude and disrespectful.
I love Galens mom. Yes she was over the line yes she has a lot to make up for yes she needs to get a grip and stop playing games. But I feel she really does love her son. She just doesn’t know how to show it well. Maybe this is how she was raised so that’s what she does. I am hoping she starts to relax a little and maybe the stick up her butt will start to come out. But who knows I’m not the writer and for all we know she good be evil like Bookers mom she just thinks she is better at planning and scheming
233 reviews1 follower
July 12, 2020
Good addition

Nice continuation of the series. I have to say that Hadley needs an attitude adjustment, she was not very caring about the feelings of other people. Love Booker and hope he gets his happy ending. Story was interesting, again I would love to have more backstory on the paranormals.
287 reviews
July 13, 2020
Solid mystery but... (3.8 stars)

Increasingly annoying banter between Galen and Hadley. This happened in Ms. Lee’s other series where the main characters become caricatures of themselves, if that makes sense. Where each defining element of their personality becomes the only one played out (Hadley’s stubbornness, Galen’s protectiveness, etc).
867 reviews7 followers
August 15, 2020
I've had trouble warming up to the characters in this series. Hadley is not very multi-dimensional. She's pretty whiney and self-centered. Oh, a heart of gold, so long as she always gets her way in the end. I've decided with this book, however, that the standout relationship is between Galen and Booker. Those two are a hoot and totally dysfunctional.
40 reviews
July 16, 2020
Selfishness

Could not even finish this book after all the nosiness Hadley had into Booker's love life. She thinks she deserves to know everything and control everybody. She needs to grow up or she will be like Galen's mother or dead.
Profile Image for Misty.
1,306 reviews30 followers
July 19, 2020
Hadley, Galen, Booker, Aurora, and Lilac go on a new adventure. When someone washes up on the beach without their memory they try to identify her, but when her daughter shows up they are pretty sure they are members of the family that disappeared a year prior. While the mystery evolves around this family, Galen and Hadley head out to meet Galen's mother. He warned her it was going to be horrible and it was everything he said it was going to be. Who feeds guests cucumber sandwiches for lunch?

They come to discover that the Sea Hag took the family and wanted payment to allow them to pass. The family was scared of the storm they were currently in and weren't brave enough to do anything so the youngest daughter sacrificed herself. Only the Sea Hag had different plans for her. So it is up to Hadley to help her and figure out where they've been for the last year. Could it be like the Bermuda Triangle?

This book was different than the rest of the Moonstone Bay books, yet still good. We've seen Hadley grow as a witch, she's still not trained, but goes on instinct. Her friends have seen her do things that should be impossible, but yet its fun to watch this character grow and find out who she really is. Meeting Galen's mom was interesting, and I'm glad it finally happened, however I think as time goes on I think she is going to be trouble for Hadley. I am also interested to find out what is going on between Booker and Lilac... they're hiding something and its more than helping each other setup a dating app profile. I am looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Mike Lewis.
1,761 reviews8 followers
July 12, 2020
Extraordinarily entertaining supernatural cozy mystery series

A small tropical island somewhere off the coast of Florida or thereabouts. Hidden from the human world and populated by as well as visited by supernaturals from all around the world. Follow along as our cast of characters seek out The culprits of murders crimes and other mysteries. Our main character did not even know she was a witch until someone recently. She inherited a lighthouse that her grandmother owned and as she leaves her human life behind and goes to check out the lighthouse. She soon find out that the island is full of supernatural beings. Then she finds out she is actually a witch and meets the ghost of her granny. The adventure continues on from there. Her boyfriend is the local sheriff and she has two really good friends one is a Cupid and the antagonist friend of her boyfriend. The other is a demon hybrid that owns a local beach bar. Follow along with the extraordinary cast of characters and an entertaining storyline. The fun and the mystery never stop. Check it out
Profile Image for Loretta TheMoodyRedhead.
1,065 reviews4 followers
October 21, 2021
Hadley really grates on my nerves. She is constantly taking things the wrong way when anyone is just trying to tell her to be careful. She acts like they say that simply because she’s a woman. “Why? Because I’m a woman and can’t handle myself?!” No, Hadley, it’s because you run headlong into danger and risk your life on an hourly basis! It has nothing to do with you being a woman. Jiminy.

This was an interesting one and cool because a few new magical paranormal creatures were introduced. (Kelpie, golem, sea hag). I’m learning about all kinds of things.

And what’s this about a couple of friends that are “helping each other” out? Will they show that they are more than “just friends”? Guess we’ll find out in future books. And I have to agree with Booker when he told Hadley, “It’s none of your business.” It was none of her business! I hope in the next book she’s less whiny, because ugh.

Next book is Long, Hot, Witchy Summer (A Moonstone Bay Cozy Mystery Book 7)
Profile Image for Angela Griffin.
1,690 reviews5 followers
January 5, 2021
Engrossing and entertaining

This well-conceived story has it all! There are plenty of persons (dead, accounted for, and missing) to add to the intrigue, as well as potential time slips and Bermuda Triangle-esque questions, a need to separate fact from myth, repeated attacks on Hadley, a near-death experience, and a (possibly) not-so-monstrous monster that come together to create an absolutely fascinating mystery. And Hadley expected meeting her boyfriend's awful mother to be the worst she'd have to endure! Galen, Booker, Lilac, and Aurora are fun characters and loyal comrades in arms, which is fortunate for Hadley; sometimes, a gal can only get by with a little help from her friends...
Profile Image for Cathy P.
1,790 reviews9 followers
July 20, 2020
Brewing up a Storm

Hadley final meets Galen's mom Marjory. It doesn't exactly go as planned. Looking forward to next book, I need to see who is bright, Galen or Hadley on the direction of Marjorys interest in the relationship. Lots of mayhem in this book and it was fun to follow. Galen is breaking a lot of islanders hearts. Booker is great as usual and may have something coming along as well. Loved meeting new island characters and the progression of everyone's relationships. Makes for a great read.
4 reviews
August 30, 2023
very disappointed

Some things were pleasant about this authors writing. However nothing could help overcome the extreme awfulness that was her lead characters. She has a lead who is selfish, entitled, awful to others, and has no respect for others boundaries. It was uncomfortable distasteful and altogether unlikeable. This story and books would have been good if the lead was written as a kinder and better person. To much focus on sex as well. That was absolutely boring and completely repetitive. Waste of writing talent.
Profile Image for Amy L. .
186 reviews6 followers
June 6, 2025
Hadley is acting like an idiot. Why would she think she could save a woman from drowning when a flipping siren is the one saving the woman from drowning?! She’s an irresponsible spoiled brat!

And Galen. He’s not a very good sheriff. The needs of one do not outweigh the needs of many.

I’m getting pretty annoyed with all the lovey dovey crap, too. We get it. You love each other. Get over yourselves.

And Hadley, again, keep your nose in your own business instead of Lilac and Booker. I mean, seriously, what a crummy friend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
233 reviews
January 5, 2026
OK book. Much I disliked. Only good parts were the progress in the mystery & trouble.
Galen overreacts to too many things, even though he claims to love Hadley as she is, he's still trying to change & control her movement. I would hate a controlling boyfriend.
Also Hadley is unable to maintain a fight for long; Galen fails to tell Hadley an important fact about his mother & she gives in to him when he blackmail her. It's really disappointing that she has a weak inner strength yet is a powerful witch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jana Gundy.
1,919 reviews17 followers
July 8, 2020
Another great book in an awesome series

With all of the books this author writes, it would be easy to overlook some or think they will all be the same. Well, I can attest that that is not the truth! Hadley is so different than any other character right along with her love, Galen and all of her friends. There is the snark, sarcasm, witty banter, humor and mystery we all look for plus just something extra special that makes this series out of this world!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
211 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2020
Wow! Out of the box read!

First off, I love this series! It has everything you could as for. This story however keeps the reader guessing and trying to figure it out - at least I did. It’s a rollercoaster ride for sure. Several different plot lines all going and soon all come together. It’s difficult leaving a review without spoilers.

Highly recommend this series. And this author!
Profile Image for Amanda Jane.
1,337 reviews10 followers
July 13, 2020
Hadley's back in top form

Meeting Galen's mother.

Moving in together officially.

Rescuing a family.

Keeping everyone on their toes as she charges around determined to crack the mystery surrounding the missing boat and captain. Hadley won't be stopped, or wrapped in cotton wool, when she's attacked. She's going to drive Galen crazy but she just wants to help and her FOMO won't let anything drop even when it could push away her best friends!
11 reviews
July 13, 2020
Brewing Up a Storm

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Fast paced and funny! I didn't want to put it down. I'm so sad now that it's done. I can't wait for the next one! Please say it will be out soon! I've read this entire series and they just keep getting better. It made me laugh out loud and also held me spellbound in my seat! Thank you to my favorite author for your continued great stories that you weave!
30 reviews
July 15, 2020
love moonstone bay series

I ways read this series. Whenever a new book in t series is released I get it. Always good character development. Nice story line. Fun read. I like all the characters and the situations that they get into. As the series continues the secondary characters are more flushed out and all of them become people you would like to meet. I know I would like to visit Moonstone Bay.
8 reviews
July 22, 2020
Another great book in the series

I love each of your series and read them all. I enjoy the honesty of your characters, and the plots. I also like that your characters aren't perfect. Sometimes they get whiny, sometimes stubborn, sometimes nosy, etc, and anyone who says they haven't had moments like these are lying to themselves. Keep making me laugh out loud while reading your books so I can keep startling my husband!
31 reviews
September 4, 2020
You Are Going to Want to Visit !Moonstone Bay!!!

This is a great series!! Yes, as the author states, there is a lot of snark and sarcasm but in my opinion it just makes the characters more realistic. This novel goes a bit heavier into screwed up family dynamics (even if it does mess up with the ending of the Cupid convention). The stories are easy to read and fun. They flow along but you do need to read them in order and include the Cupid short story.
507 reviews3 followers
July 8, 2020
Fun series!

This is a fun storyline set on a primarily paranormal island off the coast of Florida. Some Hadley didn't find out that she was a witch until coming to the island, she is still learning her magic and about the other paranormals on the island. The characters are well developed and the plot and subplots move quickly. Can't wait for the next adventure!
Profile Image for Gail Daley.
Author 43 books20 followers
July 9, 2020
Excellent Story

This was an enjoyable read. And I did enjoy it despite my growing conviction that Hadley, in addition to holding the typical teenagers belief in her own immortality, is not very bright. She is old enough to know better but apparently doesn’t. The mystery was engaging and fun.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews

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