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A Happy Camper Mystery #2
Midnight Spells Murder
Spirit Canyon’s annual Spirit Spooktacular weekend is on, and for local amateur sleuth Zo Jones, it’s boomtime for business at her Happy Camper gift shop . . . until a murderer drops in for a browse.
To celebrate Halloween at the Happy Camper, Zo schedules a talk by successful author and self-proclaimed witch Marianne Morgan. Although Marianne’s benign brand of witchcraft is more about feminine empowerment than black magic, her presence is still not welcomed by everyone. Then on a midnight stroll home, Zo spots what seems to be a new Halloween decoration propped up outside the Happy Camper. What she finds is not a mannequin but a dead Marianne, her lifeless body dressed in traditional witch’s garb. But why would someone send this good witch back to the spirit world permanently?
Soon Zo realizes that plenty of folks have motives for murdering Marianne. What’s worse, nosy TV newsman Justin Castle plans to broadcast a report associating Marianne’s murder with the Happy Camper. Zo calls on her partner in sleuthing, local forest ranger Max Harrington, to help her find the culprit before Justin’s report airs. Otherwise Zo’s business just might go bust. But to catch this killer, Zo will have to risk much more than just her reputation . . .
To celebrate Halloween at the Happy Camper, Zo schedules a talk by successful author and self-proclaimed witch Marianne Morgan. Although Marianne’s benign brand of witchcraft is more about feminine empowerment than black magic, her presence is still not welcomed by everyone. Then on a midnight stroll home, Zo spots what seems to be a new Halloween decoration propped up outside the Happy Camper. What she finds is not a mannequin but a dead Marianne, her lifeless body dressed in traditional witch’s garb. But why would someone send this good witch back to the spirit world permanently?
Soon Zo realizes that plenty of folks have motives for murdering Marianne. What’s worse, nosy TV newsman Justin Castle plans to broadcast a report associating Marianne’s murder with the Happy Camper. Zo calls on her partner in sleuthing, local forest ranger Max Harrington, to help her find the culprit before Justin’s report airs. Otherwise Zo’s business just might go bust. But to catch this killer, Zo will have to risk much more than just her reputation . . .
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2021
45 people are currently reading
1398 people want to read
About the author
Mary Angela
7 books596 followersMary Angela is the author of the Professor Prather academic mystery series, the bestselling Happy Camper cozy mystery series, and several short stories. She also writes the Lady of Letters historical mystery series under the name Mary Winters. When Mary isn’t penning heartwarming whodunits, she’s teaching, reading, traveling, or spending time with her family. She lives in South Dakota with her husband, daughters, and spoiled pets. You can find out more about her loves, including her writing, at MaryAngelaBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
February 19, 2023
Midnight Spells Murder is the 2nd book in the Happy Camper Mysteries written by Mary Angela. I read the first book in this cozy collection last month, and the next one will be published this coming spring. I'm glad to be caught up and plan to read it, as I've enjoyed another series by the author too. These ones take place in South Dakota, where Zo runs a gift shop and gives tours of the nearby haunted canyon. Halloween has arrived in this book, and it's filled with witches, curses, and tons of great fall scenes.
A celebrated author gives a talk at Zo's shop, but she's found dead the next morning, pinned up in a witch's costume and decked out to look quite awful. Marianne didn't seem to have any enemies, but she had fought with another woman and her ex-husband. Was money or blackmail a motivation? As Zo digs deeper, she later wonders whether black magic might be at play. Along the path, she learns of a few more curious suspects, and a missing and torn check leads her to deduce the true killer. Too bad she's almost bludgeoned to death when the discovery is made. And as she's pulling everything together, Zo finds a missing link that possibly helps her discover the identity of one of her biological parents.
A great sophomore installment in the series. Mary Angela brilliantly crafts a story filled with Halloween themes and a beautifully haunted setting. The séance was spooky and truly gave readers a chill. The side stories are taking shape, and I like Zo's awkward relationship with Max, an officer / park ranger of sorts who has some pull in the town. Even the local policeman is being a bit nicer to Zo, and the characters in the series are taking great shape. I was totally shocked when the culprit was revealed, but it made senses as I digested the facts again. Very excited to move on to the next book soon!
A celebrated author gives a talk at Zo's shop, but she's found dead the next morning, pinned up in a witch's costume and decked out to look quite awful. Marianne didn't seem to have any enemies, but she had fought with another woman and her ex-husband. Was money or blackmail a motivation? As Zo digs deeper, she later wonders whether black magic might be at play. Along the path, she learns of a few more curious suspects, and a missing and torn check leads her to deduce the true killer. Too bad she's almost bludgeoned to death when the discovery is made. And as she's pulling everything together, Zo finds a missing link that possibly helps her discover the identity of one of her biological parents.
A great sophomore installment in the series. Mary Angela brilliantly crafts a story filled with Halloween themes and a beautifully haunted setting. The séance was spooky and truly gave readers a chill. The side stories are taking shape, and I like Zo's awkward relationship with Max, an officer / park ranger of sorts who has some pull in the town. Even the local policeman is being a bit nicer to Zo, and the characters in the series are taking great shape. I was totally shocked when the culprit was revealed, but it made senses as I digested the facts again. Very excited to move on to the next book soon!
July 19, 2021
Open for Murder by Mary Angela is the first book in the new cozy A Happy Camper Mystery series while Midnight Spells Murder is the second. Each of these books in the series could be read as a standalone as they each contain their own mystery that was fully solved inside. There is however character development that is and will carry over from book to book of the series for those that follow from the beginning.
The A Happy Camper Mystery series introduced readers to Zo Jones who had studied to be a journalist but decided that wasn’t where she wanted to go with her life. Zo chose to return to Spirit Canyon, South Dakota where she opened up her shop, Happy Camper. The Happy Camper is a gift shop where Zo sells a little bit of everything and even rents out bikes to the tourists.
Open for Murder takes place over Memorial Day weekend in Spirit Canyon and it’s busy season for Zo in her shop. Zo’s best friend, Beth, has returned to the tiny town to reopen her family’s hotel, Spirit Canyon Lodge. Unfortunately for Zo and Beth the festivities of the opening don’t go as planned when a dead body is found and Beth is a suspect in the murder.
Midnight Spells Murder brings Halloween to Spirit Canyon and Zo is excited to host an author in her gift shop, the Happy Camper, who claims to be a witch. Marianne Morgan isn’t about spooky spells but more female empowerment and Zo is excited to have her. However, after Marianne gives her talk Zo stumbles upon her body outside of her shop obviously murdered and posed in a witch hat so Zo vows to find the killer before she becomes suspect number one.
Being someone that is always drawn into many different cozy series by their cute covers I found myself immediately attracted to the A Happy Camper Mystery series. When reading this series though I found it hard to find anything that I really connected to that would make it stand out from the many that I read. Zo was an alright character and those that surrounded her were too but I’m always looking for that spark that makes me fall in love with the characters and setting, usually something quirky and fun and this one didn’t have that wow factor to me. The second book did pick up a slight bit to three and a half stars with getting to know the characters a bit better but I still wasn’t finding anything unique that I loved. There were still solid mysteries involved in both however with so many out there to read I’m unsure I’ll continue on with the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The A Happy Camper Mystery series introduced readers to Zo Jones who had studied to be a journalist but decided that wasn’t where she wanted to go with her life. Zo chose to return to Spirit Canyon, South Dakota where she opened up her shop, Happy Camper. The Happy Camper is a gift shop where Zo sells a little bit of everything and even rents out bikes to the tourists.
Open for Murder takes place over Memorial Day weekend in Spirit Canyon and it’s busy season for Zo in her shop. Zo’s best friend, Beth, has returned to the tiny town to reopen her family’s hotel, Spirit Canyon Lodge. Unfortunately for Zo and Beth the festivities of the opening don’t go as planned when a dead body is found and Beth is a suspect in the murder.
Midnight Spells Murder brings Halloween to Spirit Canyon and Zo is excited to host an author in her gift shop, the Happy Camper, who claims to be a witch. Marianne Morgan isn’t about spooky spells but more female empowerment and Zo is excited to have her. However, after Marianne gives her talk Zo stumbles upon her body outside of her shop obviously murdered and posed in a witch hat so Zo vows to find the killer before she becomes suspect number one.
Being someone that is always drawn into many different cozy series by their cute covers I found myself immediately attracted to the A Happy Camper Mystery series. When reading this series though I found it hard to find anything that I really connected to that would make it stand out from the many that I read. Zo was an alright character and those that surrounded her were too but I’m always looking for that spark that makes me fall in love with the characters and setting, usually something quirky and fun and this one didn’t have that wow factor to me. The second book did pick up a slight bit to three and a half stars with getting to know the characters a bit better but I still wasn’t finding anything unique that I loved. There were still solid mysteries involved in both however with so many out there to read I’m unsure I’ll continue on with the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 9, 2021
Midnight Spells Murder is the second book in the “A Happy Camper Mystery” series and is as good, if not better, than the first book. The Happy Camper shop is bustling, and Halloween is in full swing; Zo is busier than ever and thrilled with everything. When an author agrees to do a talk and book signing at her store, she can’t wait. But when that same author turns up dead among the pumpkins and decorations in front of the store, she soon comes to regret ever having heard of author and witch Marianne Morgan.
The characters in this series are growing in leaps and bounds. Zo and Max are headed towards a great relationship, and the other cast members keep adding humor, intrigue, and more than a little mystery. The location of the town and the businesses are well described and sound like places readers would want to spend more than a few minutes exploring. Adding in Halloween, a witch, The Happy Camper store, and a festival makes this story absorbing and fun. And let’s face it, with the current hot weather most of us are experiencing this summer, this book adds anticipation for the fall season coming, cooler days, sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and holidays.
There are plenty of suspects, antagonists, great clues, and red herrings, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing who the killer is. Readers will have fun trying to figure out the who-done-it right up to the end. The Halloween and witch aspects add fall spice to this story. The Happy Camper shop is in danger of some horrible publicity from a conniving journalist and will have readers up in arms. Midnight Spells Murder is a wonderful read, with multiple relationship intrigue and a mystery that will thrill readers.
The characters in this series are growing in leaps and bounds. Zo and Max are headed towards a great relationship, and the other cast members keep adding humor, intrigue, and more than a little mystery. The location of the town and the businesses are well described and sound like places readers would want to spend more than a few minutes exploring. Adding in Halloween, a witch, The Happy Camper store, and a festival makes this story absorbing and fun. And let’s face it, with the current hot weather most of us are experiencing this summer, this book adds anticipation for the fall season coming, cooler days, sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and holidays.
There are plenty of suspects, antagonists, great clues, and red herrings, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing who the killer is. Readers will have fun trying to figure out the who-done-it right up to the end. The Halloween and witch aspects add fall spice to this story. The Happy Camper shop is in danger of some horrible publicity from a conniving journalist and will have readers up in arms. Midnight Spells Murder is a wonderful read, with multiple relationship intrigue and a mystery that will thrill readers.
May 27, 2021
This is a great addition to this series. Book 2, Midnight Spells Murder, is a fast paced book, that will keep you reading long into the night.
Zo is a strong character, and her gift shop, the Happy Camper, sounds amazing. It’s definitely a shop I would love to visit.
In this book, Zo is getting ready for a book signing, the author being a self proclaimed witch. While a lot of people are skeptical, Zo likes the author, Marianne, and is absolutely devastated when she discovers her body.
It seems there’s a long list of people that might be responsible, but unfortunately for Zo, she’s part of that list.
Zo can’t wait for the police to get to the truth, so she sets off to get some answers.
I really enjoyed the the mystery surrounding Zo’s necklace and her desire to find out who she really is.
Her relationship with Max, the forest ranger, is starting to grow and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes.
The author wove a fabulous story, I was definitely wrong about whodunnit, but she also left plenty of cliffhangers for the next book.
I’m excited to recommend this series to cozy mystery readers like myself.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read this advanced copy.
#MidnightSpellsMurder #NetGalley
Zo is a strong character, and her gift shop, the Happy Camper, sounds amazing. It’s definitely a shop I would love to visit.
In this book, Zo is getting ready for a book signing, the author being a self proclaimed witch. While a lot of people are skeptical, Zo likes the author, Marianne, and is absolutely devastated when she discovers her body.
It seems there’s a long list of people that might be responsible, but unfortunately for Zo, she’s part of that list.
Zo can’t wait for the police to get to the truth, so she sets off to get some answers.
I really enjoyed the the mystery surrounding Zo’s necklace and her desire to find out who she really is.
Her relationship with Max, the forest ranger, is starting to grow and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes.
The author wove a fabulous story, I was definitely wrong about whodunnit, but she also left plenty of cliffhangers for the next book.
I’m excited to recommend this series to cozy mystery readers like myself.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read this advanced copy.
#MidnightSpellsMurder #NetGalley
July 27, 2021
While I missed reading the first book in the series, it certainly didn't impede my enjoyment as the characters and plot were succinctly described enough to dive right in. Zo Jones runs the Happy Camper gift shop hosting a book signing with a self described witch as part of her Halloween activities. Then the witch turns up dead and So starts looking into it. While spending lot of her youth in foster homes, it has made her resilient not bitter. Still she would like to know how she ended up dropped off at the local police station. I imagine her search for info on her birth mother will continue in future books. Her friends and other business owners are interesting as is the beginning of a new relationship with a forest ranger. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2021
I read Open for Murder, the first book in the Happy Camper Mysteries by Mary Angela, and really enjoyed it. So when Midnight Spells Murder came to my attention and I saw that it was a Halloween cozy, I was super excited. And I’m always curious to see if the second book in a series can live up to the first book… and Mary Angela may have written an even better one!
Zo is once again tangled in a murder when the author who had given a book talk about women’s empowerment and is also a witch, turns up murdered outside Zo’s store’s front door. Zo jumps into investigating and while looking for clues she comes across more information about herself and her family. Mary Angela was able to weave these two different mysteries together perfectly.
While running around town talking to suspects, she and the Forest Ranger, Max, get a bit closer, George, her very large, orange tomcat gives everyone a scare, and we get to read about new, very well developed characters in the Happy Camper Mysteries.
Mary Angela shines with her descriptions of the Halloween decorations and festival, as well as all the descriptions of the stores and town and had me wanting Autumn to get here faster this year. The whodunit part will leave readers guessing with lots of red herrings and a killer they may not see coming.
Another great book in the Happy Camper Mysteries and I’m excited to see what adventures Zo gets into in the next book and if we find out more about her long lost family.
Zo is once again tangled in a murder when the author who had given a book talk about women’s empowerment and is also a witch, turns up murdered outside Zo’s store’s front door. Zo jumps into investigating and while looking for clues she comes across more information about herself and her family. Mary Angela was able to weave these two different mysteries together perfectly.
While running around town talking to suspects, she and the Forest Ranger, Max, get a bit closer, George, her very large, orange tomcat gives everyone a scare, and we get to read about new, very well developed characters in the Happy Camper Mysteries.
Mary Angela shines with her descriptions of the Halloween decorations and festival, as well as all the descriptions of the stores and town and had me wanting Autumn to get here faster this year. The whodunit part will leave readers guessing with lots of red herrings and a killer they may not see coming.
Another great book in the Happy Camper Mysteries and I’m excited to see what adventures Zo gets into in the next book and if we find out more about her long lost family.
August 21, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- A festive and charming read!!
I adore holiday themed cozy mysteries. There is just something extra special about them. I also love Halloween, so I was beyond excited to start this one. I was not disappointed. First, the cover is outstanding. The writing was excellent. It held up perfectly as a standalone. It was suitably festive. It was well plotted with plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing. I adored the small town setting. The characters were likable and plenty. We even get a yummy recipe at the end. What more can you ask for? 👍🏻👍🏻
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I adore holiday themed cozy mysteries. There is just something extra special about them. I also love Halloween, so I was beyond excited to start this one. I was not disappointed. First, the cover is outstanding. The writing was excellent. It held up perfectly as a standalone. It was suitably festive. It was well plotted with plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing. I adored the small town setting. The characters were likable and plenty. We even get a yummy recipe at the end. What more can you ask for? 👍🏻👍🏻
**ARC Via NetGalley**
July 14, 2021
Midnight Spells Murder by Mary Angela is book 2 in the “A Happy Camper Mystery” series. What a great follow up to book one, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Spirit Canyon's annual Spirit Spooktacular weekend is on, and for local amateur sleuth Zo Jones, it's boomtime for business at her Happy Camper gift shop . . . until a murderer drops in for a browse.
The story pulled me in right away, I was so engrossed in it that I read in one day. I found myself becoming invested in what happened to Zo and Max as they are likeable characters that work well together plus the budding romance between them you can’t help but be happy. Plus who doesn't love a grumpy Maine Coon cat named "George”
I like how there were several stories woven into this mystery but they flowed seamlessly together. We learned a bit more about Zo’s past when she finds a clue about who her mother might have been. I love this side story about Zo’s parents and can’t wait to see where it goes next.
The mystery itself was well plotted, entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises at the end.
I cant wait for the second instalment in this series, I highly recommend this to cozy lovers.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
Spirit Canyon's annual Spirit Spooktacular weekend is on, and for local amateur sleuth Zo Jones, it's boomtime for business at her Happy Camper gift shop . . . until a murderer drops in for a browse.
The story pulled me in right away, I was so engrossed in it that I read in one day. I found myself becoming invested in what happened to Zo and Max as they are likeable characters that work well together plus the budding romance between them you can’t help but be happy. Plus who doesn't love a grumpy Maine Coon cat named "George”
I like how there were several stories woven into this mystery but they flowed seamlessly together. We learned a bit more about Zo’s past when she finds a clue about who her mother might have been. I love this side story about Zo’s parents and can’t wait to see where it goes next.
The mystery itself was well plotted, entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises at the end.
I cant wait for the second instalment in this series, I highly recommend this to cozy lovers.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
July 14, 2021
Don't you just love the cover? If it makes you want to read the book then listen to thst voice. Midnight Spells Murder is the second book in the Happy Camper cozy mystery series. This one deals with the death of an author after doing a book talk and signing at Zo's gift shop.
The story gave me all the spooky and fall feelings I was looking for. The characters are interesting and enjoyable to read about, even the not so nice ones. Max is definitely a favorite and I love George the cat. It's great to see storylines within the town growing. I was able to guess the killer and was happy about who it was. I also liked the reveal because of the sense of danger.
There is a great secondary mystery along with the murder that I am excited about and makes you further invested in the story and characters. It was a very enjoyable read that also brought smiles with a mention of bees dressed as ghosts. I love that. I can't wait for the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read!
The story gave me all the spooky and fall feelings I was looking for. The characters are interesting and enjoyable to read about, even the not so nice ones. Max is definitely a favorite and I love George the cat. It's great to see storylines within the town growing. I was able to guess the killer and was happy about who it was. I also liked the reveal because of the sense of danger.
There is a great secondary mystery along with the murder that I am excited about and makes you further invested in the story and characters. It was a very enjoyable read that also brought smiles with a mention of bees dressed as ghosts. I love that. I can't wait for the next in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read!
October 22, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Zo Jones owns the Happy Camper Gift Shop and she has special plans for Halloween and Spirit Canyon's annual Spirit Spooktacular. She has invited Marianne Morgan, a self-proclaimed witch and self-help author to give a talk and book signing. Her subject "Embracing Your Inner Witch" isn't about magic or spells but women reclaiming their power. The Spooktacular will also include a pumpkin carving contest, a parade, a costume party, and a Harvest Hike.
Marianne's book talk goes well sans a couple of unwanted interruptions. Later Zo attends an event at her best friend Jules' Spirits & Spirits just down the street. As she heads home she notices a new life-sized witch propped up in front of the Happy Camper. Then she noticed the witch's shoes, she had seen them before. It was no Halloween decoration! It was Marianne Morgan dressed like a witch but she wouldn't be empowering any more women. Marianne was dead and Zo soon finds herself pressed to find her killer. Does she have a ghost of a chance? or will the killer send her to the great beyond?
_____
Zo Jones is a strong protagonist. She is very likable and with her curious nature a good amateur sleuth. Her Maine Coon cat George is quite a cat. He goes on an adventure in this story which probably gave Zo some gray hairs. Her relationship with forest ranger Max continues to evolve. Zo has some great friends in Harley, Beth, and Jules. I enjoy how all the characters interact with each other. They all feel true to life.
Ms. Angela plotted out a captivating murder mystery. With plenty of suspects and twists and turns it was fun to follow along with Zo. I especially liked the hints she received from a very unexpected source. I was surprised when the killer was revealed as was Zo. A piece of evidence was randomly found and then all the clues snapped into place. I loved the spooky takedown.
Zo also has a personal mystery she is trying to solve and finds some major clues in this story to move that investigation forward. This intriguing subplot genuinely adds to each story. I am excited for the continuation.
Midnight Spells Murder is a wonderful Halloween read. Ms. Angela sets the scenes well and brings her characters to life to solve a marvelous mystery. I am looking forward to reading Book 3 Mining for Murder soon.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Zo Jones owns the Happy Camper Gift Shop and she has special plans for Halloween and Spirit Canyon's annual Spirit Spooktacular. She has invited Marianne Morgan, a self-proclaimed witch and self-help author to give a talk and book signing. Her subject "Embracing Your Inner Witch" isn't about magic or spells but women reclaiming their power. The Spooktacular will also include a pumpkin carving contest, a parade, a costume party, and a Harvest Hike.
Marianne's book talk goes well sans a couple of unwanted interruptions. Later Zo attends an event at her best friend Jules' Spirits & Spirits just down the street. As she heads home she notices a new life-sized witch propped up in front of the Happy Camper. Then she noticed the witch's shoes, she had seen them before. It was no Halloween decoration! It was Marianne Morgan dressed like a witch but she wouldn't be empowering any more women. Marianne was dead and Zo soon finds herself pressed to find her killer. Does she have a ghost of a chance? or will the killer send her to the great beyond?
_____
Zo Jones is a strong protagonist. She is very likable and with her curious nature a good amateur sleuth. Her Maine Coon cat George is quite a cat. He goes on an adventure in this story which probably gave Zo some gray hairs. Her relationship with forest ranger Max continues to evolve. Zo has some great friends in Harley, Beth, and Jules. I enjoy how all the characters interact with each other. They all feel true to life.
Ms. Angela plotted out a captivating murder mystery. With plenty of suspects and twists and turns it was fun to follow along with Zo. I especially liked the hints she received from a very unexpected source. I was surprised when the killer was revealed as was Zo. A piece of evidence was randomly found and then all the clues snapped into place. I loved the spooky takedown.
Zo also has a personal mystery she is trying to solve and finds some major clues in this story to move that investigation forward. This intriguing subplot genuinely adds to each story. I am excited for the continuation.
Midnight Spells Murder is a wonderful Halloween read. Ms. Angela sets the scenes well and brings her characters to life to solve a marvelous mystery. I am looking forward to reading Book 3 Mining for Murder soon.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
September 6, 2022
Even though I’ve not (yet) read book number one of this series I read this, book number two. That’s not a crime or venial sin is it? Do I need to go to confession?
In all seriousness this book was fabulous! Without a doubt I will be reading books one and three…and so on? Hopefully? Please Mary Angela, write another book!
I read a lot of books. I also have a memory like a sieve. So I don’t fully remember every book I read…but…I’m fairly confident I can say this is my favorite cozy mystery ever. The protagonist, Zo, a cat mom and shoppe owner is definitely a wonderful protagonist. She only annoyed me once (she lets her cat outdoors. My cats aren’t allowed near our doors…but that’s just me. No judgement). She really was a genuinely wonderful person.
I also loved all the (good) other characters. The baddies were bad, naturally. And those you thought might be bad, were just misunderstood.
I truly loved the mystery. I did not suspect the ending at all. It was so well done. I’m so happy I read this book.
May 28, 2021
I was so pleased when I saw this available on NetGalley. I love reading books out of season. Halloween is my favorite so diving into a spooky Spirit Canyon was sublime. I loved all The descriptions of costumes, pumpkin carvings, and the parade. Zo discovers an important clue to her past at the theater. She and Max have more interaction and it heats up. I’m still not a fan of the chief who seems to try and pin every crime on Zo. George misbehaves in a big way. Midnight Spells Murder was over way too soon for my liking and I’m eagerly awaiting the next book. One of my favorite parts of the book are the motorcycle rides Zo takes through the canyon-pure bliss. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the early read.
May 26, 2022
I got this 200 page book in my Once Upon a Book Club box. I was sure it would be a day read. It was so difficult to get through. It was a Halloween box, and the main character talked about witches, but there weren’t actual hints of magic until the seance… and that was terrible. The writing was pretty juvenile, and I was so glad to be done with it. Sorry. It was bad.
January 15, 2022
Not very well written. Really bogged down in pointless minutiae but also not enough foreshadowing or clues to help you figure it out. An odd amount of focus on customer service skills. Characters are likable enough.
January 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I like the main character and all the others as well. My fav holiday is Halloween so I liked how this mystery centered around that.
October 3, 2024
Such a great read. Quick and well written. Little bit of mystery, magic, and romance. So good!! 🧙
June 19, 2021
Delightful! Check back for my full review.
July 20, 2021
MIDNIGHT SPELLS MURDER by Mary Angela
The Second Happy Camper Mystery
As Halloween approaches Spirit Canyon Zo Jones arranges for local author Marianne Morgan to have a book signing at the Happy Camper. The event is a big success, although not everyone is happy with Marianne's witchy style and brand of feminine empowerment. When Zo sees a life sized witch decoration outside her store she's amazed by its realism...until she realizes it's a very dead Marianne. The local newsman, who acts more like gutter press, has it in for Zo and is trying to create a big news piece, at Zo and her shop's expense. With a lot of gumption and perhaps a little ghostly intervention, Zo will hunt for the killer and find justice for the author with so much promise.
With the action taking place in town and centered more on Zo, the Happy Camper Mystery series finds its groove with its second offering. The Happy Camper shop oozes coziness and the characters seem more connected and in tune with each other. I'm pleased with the development of the secondary characters, each of whom has become more multidimensional with their own raison d'être. The scene with Beth spotting her daughter with a boy still has me laughing, and as for Hattie and her new employee, I'm grinning just thinking about it. I also appreciate how Zo's relationship with Max is evolving.
I enjoyed the mystery and the suspects, two of whom I really wanted to be guilty as I disliked them so much. While not a suspect, "journalist" Justin Castle continues to leave a bad taste in my mouth; a character we can love to hate. I also appreciated the secondary mystery that came when a clue to Zo's birth mom was discovered.
Autumn in Spirit Canyon may bring on the chills, but curling up with a hot beverage and this book will leave you warm inside. Friendship, humor, and happiness combine to make MIDNIGHT SPELLS MURDER a success.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Second Happy Camper Mystery
As Halloween approaches Spirit Canyon Zo Jones arranges for local author Marianne Morgan to have a book signing at the Happy Camper. The event is a big success, although not everyone is happy with Marianne's witchy style and brand of feminine empowerment. When Zo sees a life sized witch decoration outside her store she's amazed by its realism...until she realizes it's a very dead Marianne. The local newsman, who acts more like gutter press, has it in for Zo and is trying to create a big news piece, at Zo and her shop's expense. With a lot of gumption and perhaps a little ghostly intervention, Zo will hunt for the killer and find justice for the author with so much promise.
With the action taking place in town and centered more on Zo, the Happy Camper Mystery series finds its groove with its second offering. The Happy Camper shop oozes coziness and the characters seem more connected and in tune with each other. I'm pleased with the development of the secondary characters, each of whom has become more multidimensional with their own raison d'être. The scene with Beth spotting her daughter with a boy still has me laughing, and as for Hattie and her new employee, I'm grinning just thinking about it. I also appreciate how Zo's relationship with Max is evolving.
I enjoyed the mystery and the suspects, two of whom I really wanted to be guilty as I disliked them so much. While not a suspect, "journalist" Justin Castle continues to leave a bad taste in my mouth; a character we can love to hate. I also appreciated the secondary mystery that came when a clue to Zo's birth mom was discovered.
Autumn in Spirit Canyon may bring on the chills, but curling up with a hot beverage and this book will leave you warm inside. Friendship, humor, and happiness combine to make MIDNIGHT SPELLS MURDER a success.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
July 12, 2021
I loved how they celebrated Halloween in Spirit Canyon with everyone decorating and all the costumes and the parade. Last time, the book was mostly focused on Zo's friend Beth. This time we got to meet Jules another fun and crazy friend of Zo's. I loved how she and Duncan bantered back and forth about her being close to firing him. Personally, I think she's falling for him. And speaking of that, I was happy to see Zo and Max getting closer. She might be developing a little more patience for his by-the-book ranger rules, or maybe he's lightening up a bit. Whichever it is, I like them together and getting along, lol.
Justin the news guy was his annoying self again, but he sure had a surprise coming to him. I hadn't completely guessed the killer, but about the time Zo was realizing who it was, that was when I was getting to it. The showdown was great, and there might have been a little otherworldly help from a recently deceased friend helping them get her some justice. I love the little addition to Max's family too. George cat isn't a fan though lol.
I'm really enjoying this series for the mystery, a little bit of romance, and I actually like hearing about the people in the town and the little side stories like Max helping remove a tick from George or going on one of Zo's hikes. It's just those little things that endear the characters to readers even more. I'm really looking forward to the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Justin the news guy was his annoying self again, but he sure had a surprise coming to him. I hadn't completely guessed the killer, but about the time Zo was realizing who it was, that was when I was getting to it. The showdown was great, and there might have been a little otherworldly help from a recently deceased friend helping them get her some justice. I love the little addition to Max's family too. George cat isn't a fan though lol.
I'm really enjoying this series for the mystery, a little bit of romance, and I actually like hearing about the people in the town and the little side stories like Max helping remove a tick from George or going on one of Zo's hikes. It's just those little things that endear the characters to readers even more. I'm really looking forward to the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
December 26, 2021
Ooof I DNF'd this one. I kept trying to get into it but couldn't get a flow going. I found the writing, characterization, and plot too simple and uninteresting. I found myself bored by the same tensions as the main character tried to solve the murder cozy-mystery style. *Sigh *
January 2, 2024
Even though I had never read the first Happy Camper Mystery, I was still able to enjoy this one without any confusion. The characters were fun and friendly. Midnight Spells Murder is a super cozy, quick read that makes you want to layer on the blankets and keep reading until the end.
September 24, 2022
'Midnight Spells Murder' (A Happy Camper Mystery #2) by Mary Angela.
Rating: 3.25/5.
Review:
I wasn't an overt fan of the first book in the series. It wasn't perfect and I had some issues regarding some plot elements. While I had similar issues with this book as well, the second book feels like an upgrade and does address some of my issues with its predecessor.
One of my major gripes with the first book was the use of dreams and spirits to drive the narrative forward by dropping vital clues about the perpetrator. It felt out of place in a non-fantasy, non-horror setting. The second book, to a similar extent, utilizes spirits in relation to the central mystery. There's help from the spirit world as they drop clues (and much more, if you read the climax scene). I guess that's a part and parcel of a location that is named Spirit Canyon. The paranormal elements are scanty and infrequent, and there are no horror elements within the story - apart from the usual murder, of course. At this point, I'm going to accept this series as a cozy mystery with few paranormal elements.
Despite it all, the book is a cozy mystery as advertised. There's a central mystery with an amateur investigator snooping around, but, quite surprisingly, it doesn't diminish the aura of coziness that the setting generates. Reading about Zo managing her shop, her attempts to reconcile with her birth mother, and the awkward chemistry between her and Max, felt as satisfying as unraveling the mystery.
'Midnight Spells Murder' is not a perfect book. While it has similar flaws to the first book, it has greatly improved upon some. With spirits meddling in the mystery and a convenient climax, this might not seem like a unique mystery story. But it seems to be a great comfort read, something that the world needed when it first came out during the pandemic.
Rating: 3.25/5.
“You can’t hire a lawyer. They cost too much.”
It was true. She didn’t have the money or the time to fight a legal battle right now. But they had to do something. Jules was brainstorming as they spoke. Zo could hear a pencil tapping on the other end of the line.
The tapping stopped. “I got it,” said Jules. “I’ll summon Marianne’s ghost at a séance. She’ll help us solve her murder before the show airs on Friday. And if that doesn’t work, I’ll employ a curse.”
Okay, maybe it wasn’t a pencil. Maybe it was a wand.
Review:
I wasn't an overt fan of the first book in the series. It wasn't perfect and I had some issues regarding some plot elements. While I had similar issues with this book as well, the second book feels like an upgrade and does address some of my issues with its predecessor.
One of my major gripes with the first book was the use of dreams and spirits to drive the narrative forward by dropping vital clues about the perpetrator. It felt out of place in a non-fantasy, non-horror setting. The second book, to a similar extent, utilizes spirits in relation to the central mystery. There's help from the spirit world as they drop clues (and much more, if you read the climax scene). I guess that's a part and parcel of a location that is named Spirit Canyon. The paranormal elements are scanty and infrequent, and there are no horror elements within the story - apart from the usual murder, of course. At this point, I'm going to accept this series as a cozy mystery with few paranormal elements.
Despite it all, the book is a cozy mystery as advertised. There's a central mystery with an amateur investigator snooping around, but, quite surprisingly, it doesn't diminish the aura of coziness that the setting generates. Reading about Zo managing her shop, her attempts to reconcile with her birth mother, and the awkward chemistry between her and Max, felt as satisfying as unraveling the mystery.
'Midnight Spells Murder' is not a perfect book. While it has similar flaws to the first book, it has greatly improved upon some. With spirits meddling in the mystery and a convenient climax, this might not seem like a unique mystery story. But it seems to be a great comfort read, something that the world needed when it first came out during the pandemic.
Hattie stomped over to her desk wearing a shirt that read:
The Past, the Present, and the Future Walked Into a Bar.
It Was Tense.
September 16, 2022
I really liked the characters in this book, but the plot had some strange diversions. More time was spent on the main character, Zo, trying to find her birth mother than on the actual murder mystery itself. Leaps of logic were made that didn't make a lot of sense, particularly around the finding of a necklace at the theatre (Why assume that it was lost around the same time that Zo was born? Couldn't it have been worn for many years and lost at a later time?)
Also, the scene where Zo's very large tom cat was by a waterfall and in threat of being "attacked" by a red-tailed hawk was absolutely ludicrous. A very large cat would be more of a threat to the hawk than the other way around. The hawk would have simply flown off, especially when Max went to the "rescue."
The romance between Zo and Max fell extremely flat. I know this is a cozy mystery, but G-rated would be spicier than what was in the story. I certainly do not consider picking a tick off of a cat to be a life-threatening emergency nor a prelude to a romantic kiss. Maybe it's because I'm not a cat person, but that was just weird and distinctly unromantic to me.
The solving of the murder felt random and out of the blue. Not in a "wow, that was a surprise" way but in a "I'm not sure that makes sense. It feels like the author just picked someone" way. The "supernatural" help from the deceased in solving the murder felt odd too.
This book feels like a missed opportunity. Likeable characters, an interesting murder set-up and then a bunch of dumb sub-plots, lengthy descriptions of mundane things and a murder mystery with very little actual investigation that reachs an unsatisfactory conclusion. *Sigh* I guess you can say that I'm not a "happy camper."
Also, the scene where Zo's very large tom cat was by a waterfall and in threat of being "attacked" by a red-tailed hawk was absolutely ludicrous. A very large cat would be more of a threat to the hawk than the other way around. The hawk would have simply flown off, especially when Max went to the "rescue."
The romance between Zo and Max fell extremely flat. I know this is a cozy mystery, but G-rated would be spicier than what was in the story. I certainly do not consider picking a tick off of a cat to be a life-threatening emergency nor a prelude to a romantic kiss. Maybe it's because I'm not a cat person, but that was just weird and distinctly unromantic to me.
The solving of the murder felt random and out of the blue. Not in a "wow, that was a surprise" way but in a "I'm not sure that makes sense. It feels like the author just picked someone" way. The "supernatural" help from the deceased in solving the murder felt odd too.
This book feels like a missed opportunity. Likeable characters, an interesting murder set-up and then a bunch of dumb sub-plots, lengthy descriptions of mundane things and a murder mystery with very little actual investigation that reachs an unsatisfactory conclusion. *Sigh* I guess you can say that I'm not a "happy camper."
July 21, 2021
I was happy to dive into Midnight Spells Murder, the second instalment of the 'A Happy Camper' mystery series set in Spirit Canyon, South Dakota, featuring former journalist Zo Jones. I got to meet Zo in book one, Open for Murder who in this story, Midnight Spells Murder, has invited Marianne Morgan an author and a self-acclaimed witch to her gift shop to give a talk. The event is in celebration of Halloween and will include a pumpkin carving contest and a costume party, hosted by Zo, but not everyone likes Marianne's special brand of witchcraft, borne out when Marianne is found dead.
This was a compelling, absorbing cozy mystery. As Zo goes about town speaking to suspects and fact-finding, she and Max Harrington, the Forest Ranger, team up, and there are a few new characters to keep things fresh. Zo's very large adopted tomcat, George caused a stir, the mystery was involved and the killer was someone I didn't expect. I will be watching out for book three and look forward to spending more time with Zo, Jules (Zo's friend since their schooldays), George and Max in Spirit Canyon.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
This was a compelling, absorbing cozy mystery. As Zo goes about town speaking to suspects and fact-finding, she and Max Harrington, the Forest Ranger, team up, and there are a few new characters to keep things fresh. Zo's very large adopted tomcat, George caused a stir, the mystery was involved and the killer was someone I didn't expect. I will be watching out for book three and look forward to spending more time with Zo, Jules (Zo's friend since their schooldays), George and Max in Spirit Canyon.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 29, 2022
This would work really well as a cozy murder mystery on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries but as a book this just fell really short.
This was not written well at all and contained way too much filler that didn't move the plot along in any way. I did find that the setting/Halloween vibes were really on point and for such a short book, the characters were fleshed out enough that I found I actually cared about them. I also didn't figure out who the murderer was and their motivations made sense so I feel really annoying for not loving this but oh well.
This was also technically the second book in this series and while I didn't read the first, enough was explained and the story was light enough that you could easily jump in with this one, BUT the journey the main character, Zo, goes on outside of the murder solving does progress in each book. Will I be reading them in the future? Probably not but honestly maybe, who knows, idk. The cute setting may pull me back in.
This was my first cozy mystery book and I definitely hope that this book is an anomaly and not the norm for the genre because I so want to love it.
This was not written well at all and contained way too much filler that didn't move the plot along in any way. I did find that the setting/Halloween vibes were really on point and for such a short book, the characters were fleshed out enough that I found I actually cared about them. I also didn't figure out who the murderer was and their motivations made sense so I feel really annoying for not loving this but oh well.
This was also technically the second book in this series and while I didn't read the first, enough was explained and the story was light enough that you could easily jump in with this one, BUT the journey the main character, Zo, goes on outside of the murder solving does progress in each book. Will I be reading them in the future? Probably not but honestly maybe, who knows, idk. The cute setting may pull me back in.
This was my first cozy mystery book and I definitely hope that this book is an anomaly and not the norm for the genre because I so want to love it.
July 7, 2021
I fell in LOVE with this book!!!! There is a book 1, but I loved the fact that after reading book 2, which is this one I didn’t really miss so much, the recap to book 1 in this book was amazing, straight to the point, I felt like I read the first one lol. Anyway let’s talk about this book, which I LOVED.
Zo, and the crew are amazing!!!! They are magical, witchy, and adventurous and so supportive and amazing I loved them all, even Max and Duncan being non witchy men. The mystery of what happened to Marianne was crazy, right when you thought you knew who did it, the story shifts and then everything starts to make sense.
I really enjoyed the humor, the mystery, that little bit of romance, and the town in general…. Even the mystery of Zo’s past??? Ugh!!! Mary Angela left me hanging there, I can’t wait for another book!! There has to be!!!!!!
Thanks Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Zo, and the crew are amazing!!!! They are magical, witchy, and adventurous and so supportive and amazing I loved them all, even Max and Duncan being non witchy men. The mystery of what happened to Marianne was crazy, right when you thought you knew who did it, the story shifts and then everything starts to make sense.
I really enjoyed the humor, the mystery, that little bit of romance, and the town in general…. Even the mystery of Zo’s past??? Ugh!!! Mary Angela left me hanging there, I can’t wait for another book!! There has to be!!!!!!
Thanks Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
January 15, 2022
This book got me in the mood for Halloween – but it’s sadly only January.
I didn’t read the first book in the A Happy Camper Series, but made it through Midnight Spells Murder without problems. I loved the sweet Halloween cover and the town’s Halloween decorations and traditions. The author describes the town and its surroundings thoroughly, and I picture it as really beautiful, especially in autumn and winter.
In fact, I didn’t like the investigation. There were just some lucky moments combined to a random catch in the end. It didn’t feel like a mystery. But I was surprised about the ending and didn’t see it coming. There was a second story about Zo’s past, which I liked.
The characters are likeable, and I really enjoyed the short, but funny appearances of the supporting characters like Zo’s neighbor.
I didn’t read the first book in the A Happy Camper Series, but made it through Midnight Spells Murder without problems. I loved the sweet Halloween cover and the town’s Halloween decorations and traditions. The author describes the town and its surroundings thoroughly, and I picture it as really beautiful, especially in autumn and winter.
In fact, I didn’t like the investigation. There were just some lucky moments combined to a random catch in the end. It didn’t feel like a mystery. But I was surprised about the ending and didn’t see it coming. There was a second story about Zo’s past, which I liked.
The characters are likeable, and I really enjoyed the short, but funny appearances of the supporting characters like Zo’s neighbor.
July 23, 2021
This is the second in the Happy Camper series. I enjoyed this one as much as the first! The storyline and romance are progressing nicely. In this edition, fall has arrived and Zo is doing a book signing at her shop for a local author, who just happens to be a witch. The signing goes well and Zo is happy to have made a new friend, when she finds the author dead and propped up outside her store, with a witches hat on. Zo, with help from her friend Beth and hunky forest ranger, Max has to find the killer. The local news anchor, Justin has his eyes set on pinning the murder on her and making a huge deal of it on the broadcast. Zo feels that her livelihood is on the line with his looming broadcast date and starts poking around.
I love reading about the store, the characters and the progression of Zo learning about her past and possibly finding some clues about her mom! Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I love reading about the store, the characters and the progression of Zo learning about her past and possibly finding some clues about her mom! Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 22, 2021
You hear about those books that people "can't put down." If you are a cozy fan, or enjoy small town fiction, or holiday mysteries this will be that book for you.
I had the cat telling me in no uncertain terms that he demanded to be fed and I casually replied, "Just more more chapter." Wrong answer, both for me and my twenty pound cat.
Several chapters later I was trying to figure out how to continue reading and open then pour his food.
I don't want to tell you the plot of the book. My mini spoiler is that an animal goes missing and I COULD NOT stop reading at that point.
The story covers a murder on Halloween, people who are not who they seems on the surface, some mild flirting, a whole range of emotions, both for the reader and in the characters, yummy snacks, and so much more!
You will not be disappointed if you pick up this book but be prepared to spend some time. You will be drawn into the town, drawn to the people there, and want to find someplace like it in your real life.
There is a continuing mystery so I can not wait to read the next book in this series.
I had the cat telling me in no uncertain terms that he demanded to be fed and I casually replied, "Just more more chapter." Wrong answer, both for me and my twenty pound cat.
Several chapters later I was trying to figure out how to continue reading and open then pour his food.
I don't want to tell you the plot of the book. My mini spoiler is that an animal goes missing and I COULD NOT stop reading at that point.
The story covers a murder on Halloween, people who are not who they seems on the surface, some mild flirting, a whole range of emotions, both for the reader and in the characters, yummy snacks, and so much more!
You will not be disappointed if you pick up this book but be prepared to spend some time. You will be drawn into the town, drawn to the people there, and want to find someplace like it in your real life.
There is a continuing mystery so I can not wait to read the next book in this series.
June 6, 2021
Super solid follow to book 1; this is quickly starting to become one of my favourite series! They’ve followed up on the events from book 1, and are taking any romantic notions slowly. On top of that, I’m starting to feel like Zo and the Officer are feeling things out, and they might even collaborate in future books. The mystery was fun, I liked the spiritual aspect as well; enough to be intriguing, but not too much to make it hokey. I wonder if that will stay around for the next book. Oh, and it’s nice to learn more about Zo and I look forward to learning even more about her both parents.
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