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Arabella Black #1
Brooms Away
Fun, wacky with spit-your-drink laugh-out-loud moments, Brooms Away will have you up way past your bedtime.
An enchanted world. A missing sister. And suspects with dangerous supernatural abilities around every corner.
When Arabella Black is swept away to a fantastic and faraway land by her cat, who she thought was an everyday Maine coon, she discovers everything she knew about her life was a lie. The biggest lie of all: she’s not human. Not even close. And to top that off, her sister is missing, her family home is threatened and a mysterious shapeshifter is following her. So what’s a half-banshee, half-dryad to do, but get her sleuth on.
Can Arabella harness her new powers to unlock her family heritage, help her sister and save the family home in this place of secrets and sorcery?
If you like murder with a splash of magic, a dollop of wonder and a cast of quirky characters then you’ll love book one in D. A. Kelly’s new fantasy cozy mystery series.
Unlock the fun of Brooms Away today!
An enchanted world. A missing sister. And suspects with dangerous supernatural abilities around every corner.
When Arabella Black is swept away to a fantastic and faraway land by her cat, who she thought was an everyday Maine coon, she discovers everything she knew about her life was a lie. The biggest lie of all: she’s not human. Not even close. And to top that off, her sister is missing, her family home is threatened and a mysterious shapeshifter is following her. So what’s a half-banshee, half-dryad to do, but get her sleuth on.
Can Arabella harness her new powers to unlock her family heritage, help her sister and save the family home in this place of secrets and sorcery?
If you like murder with a splash of magic, a dollop of wonder and a cast of quirky characters then you’ll love book one in D. A. Kelly’s new fantasy cozy mystery series.
Unlock the fun of Brooms Away today!
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2020
204 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 20, 2024
"Brooms Away kept me intrigued from the very beginning. So many secrets, magic, and unknowns." ~nerdywordyreviews
Arabella Black is a normal, young woman living a pretty boring lifestyle. When out of nowhere, an entity shows up in her apartment living room, explaining that her sister is in trouble and needs her help. Arabella found it odd that her sister had not called her for a while during her travels, but thought little of it. Just when she thought an entity in her livingroom was odd, her cat started talking to her, in English! Then, it is explained to Arabella that her family heritage and lineage are not what she has known them to be and that her sister is in trouble. It is time for Arabella to set out on a brand new adventure to find her, in a new world filled with magic, new rules and deadly consequences. This adventure opens up Arabella's eyes to the reality of her new world. She meets many new magical characters and creatures while looking for her sister and encounters difficult emotional and physical paths. Will Arabella find her sister before it is too late and what does this new life mean for Arabella's future?
D.A. Kelly did a wonderful job writing this story. It is cozy, fun, and intriguing. The details and dialogue that were created for the characters and creatures allow the reader to visually picture them and hear their tones of voice. There are some comical moments in some of the dialect and the descriptions.
I found this a fairly fast read. As more of the story unravelled, I had to keep reading, to learn more and what was next.
The book itself is stunning. There is a wonderful map which helps the reader visualize where in the fantasy world certain settings take place. As well, each chapter starts with a beautifully decorated page.
This is book one of the Arabella Black series. The author has already published book two and I am sure there will be more to come.
If you enjoy a cozy, fantasy, magical mystery, then I encourage you to read Brooms Away.
Arabella Black is a normal, young woman living a pretty boring lifestyle. When out of nowhere, an entity shows up in her apartment living room, explaining that her sister is in trouble and needs her help. Arabella found it odd that her sister had not called her for a while during her travels, but thought little of it. Just when she thought an entity in her livingroom was odd, her cat started talking to her, in English! Then, it is explained to Arabella that her family heritage and lineage are not what she has known them to be and that her sister is in trouble. It is time for Arabella to set out on a brand new adventure to find her, in a new world filled with magic, new rules and deadly consequences. This adventure opens up Arabella's eyes to the reality of her new world. She meets many new magical characters and creatures while looking for her sister and encounters difficult emotional and physical paths. Will Arabella find her sister before it is too late and what does this new life mean for Arabella's future?
D.A. Kelly did a wonderful job writing this story. It is cozy, fun, and intriguing. The details and dialogue that were created for the characters and creatures allow the reader to visually picture them and hear their tones of voice. There are some comical moments in some of the dialect and the descriptions.
I found this a fairly fast read. As more of the story unravelled, I had to keep reading, to learn more and what was next.
The book itself is stunning. There is a wonderful map which helps the reader visualize where in the fantasy world certain settings take place. As well, each chapter starts with a beautifully decorated page.
This is book one of the Arabella Black series. The author has already published book two and I am sure there will be more to come.
If you enjoy a cozy, fantasy, magical mystery, then I encourage you to read Brooms Away.
October 8, 2020
What a fresh take on. paranormal cozy mysteries!
Arabella can see ghosts, she's gotten used to that. When she receives a visit from a ghost telling her that her sister is in trouble, her cat starts talking to her and she finds out that a brownie has been living in her shower drain (eeewww) her life definitely goes sideways!
Arabella soon finds herself in a world that she had no idea even existed. A world where people ride brooms to work, all of the creatures from fairy tales are real, her family home is a mausoleum and evil is real in ways that she never imagined. As Arabella races to find her sisterthere are surprises everywhere.
This story introduces us to a cast of believable characters in a world that is both enchanting and a little dangerous. You will laugh, cry and cheer for this heroine as she uncovers family secrets and struggles to adjust to her new reality. I personally can't wait for book 2!
Arabella can see ghosts, she's gotten used to that. When she receives a visit from a ghost telling her that her sister is in trouble, her cat starts talking to her and she finds out that a brownie has been living in her shower drain (eeewww) her life definitely goes sideways!
Arabella soon finds herself in a world that she had no idea even existed. A world where people ride brooms to work, all of the creatures from fairy tales are real, her family home is a mausoleum and evil is real in ways that she never imagined. As Arabella races to find her sisterthere are surprises everywhere.
This story introduces us to a cast of believable characters in a world that is both enchanting and a little dangerous. You will laugh, cry and cheer for this heroine as she uncovers family secrets and struggles to adjust to her new reality. I personally can't wait for book 2!
October 11, 2020
This is the first book in a new series from D.A. Kelly
It has a set of eclectic characters that each has unique and unusual magical gifts.
Arabella Black receives another unwelcome visitor. She can see and communicate with ghosts.
This one has a message that has her packing her bags to head off and help her sister who is close to dying herself.
Rebecca hadn’t contacted Arabella in a few weeks, which was unusual. Arabella just though she was caught up in her job, traveling to different countries to install IT software for companies.
She gets the shock of her life when she discovers her cat can talk, and that she has had another creature living in the plumbing under her shower.
Harvey, the cat, gets her to gather everything she wants together, and then transports her, her belongings, and the two animals to another world. She learns she is not human as she thought she was for the last 24 years of her life. And now she has to start looking for her sister in a strange world with strange customs and laws.
This was an interesting story; it has developed characters and an original story line.
There is a lot of information at first with the descriptions of all the new characters and their abilities. Once the story gets going the reading becomes much smoother and all the information falls into place and makes sense of everything that’s happening.
It has a set of eclectic characters that each has unique and unusual magical gifts.
Arabella Black receives another unwelcome visitor. She can see and communicate with ghosts.
This one has a message that has her packing her bags to head off and help her sister who is close to dying herself.
Rebecca hadn’t contacted Arabella in a few weeks, which was unusual. Arabella just though she was caught up in her job, traveling to different countries to install IT software for companies.
She gets the shock of her life when she discovers her cat can talk, and that she has had another creature living in the plumbing under her shower.
Harvey, the cat, gets her to gather everything she wants together, and then transports her, her belongings, and the two animals to another world. She learns she is not human as she thought she was for the last 24 years of her life. And now she has to start looking for her sister in a strange world with strange customs and laws.
This was an interesting story; it has developed characters and an original story line.
There is a lot of information at first with the descriptions of all the new characters and their abilities. Once the story gets going the reading becomes much smoother and all the information falls into place and makes sense of everything that’s happening.
October 11, 2020
I have never written a review this is my first time and I have to tell you this book took me an a wonderful journey the characters were really written wonderful and the town is magical, I wanted to read this book in a day but made myself to savior each chapter slowly. This is D.A. Kelly's first book and I hope she writes many more books, she is a wonderful writer and has a great series starting I can't wait for book 2, if you read this hang on for a wonderful journey if I was able I would give this 10 star's.
October 8, 2020
Grimsmead isn’t a Disney fairytale land, Ding.
Well written. Imaginative. Fun. Unique! A cozy about a woman who is a banshad: half banshee, half dryad. I had never seen that before! It was a keep-me-up-way-too-late book! An original spin on the classic young-woman-finds-out-she-has-magic. Very different, with lots of fantasy elements. Lots of different sorts of magic.
Arabella (aka Ding, don’t ask) is still very young, and has got a lot to learn. She’s snarky, funny, and adventurous. This is a cozy mystery, but it does focus a lot on fantasy creatures, and on weird (fun weird!) adventures. You do need some imagination for this story! I loved the characters. What a find this was!
Well written. Imaginative. Fun. Unique! A cozy about a woman who is a banshad: half banshee, half dryad. I had never seen that before! It was a keep-me-up-way-too-late book! An original spin on the classic young-woman-finds-out-she-has-magic. Very different, with lots of fantasy elements. Lots of different sorts of magic.
Arabella (aka Ding, don’t ask) is still very young, and has got a lot to learn. She’s snarky, funny, and adventurous. This is a cozy mystery, but it does focus a lot on fantasy creatures, and on weird (fun weird!) adventures. You do need some imagination for this story! I loved the characters. What a find this was!
February 19, 2021
I love mysteries and laughter, and this book had a brilliant mix of both. Adding in a talking cat with attitude and you have a brilliant start to a new fun series. Highly recommend.
July 8, 2021
Wow! This is a book like no other I've ever read. A mystery, a fantasy, set in a magical world that Arabella finds herself whisked away to after a visit from a ghostly presence warning her of her sister, Rebecca's impending doom. Her sibling is calling for help from a dark, frightening place.
Then we are taken to somewhere which is off the scale in the written word. Grimsmead, which is where our protagonist finds a topsy-turvy world full of fascinating creatures and beings. This story is totally original and Arabella discovers she is a banshad: half banshee and half dryad. She has no idea about any of this as she was removed from here to live on Earth as a baby. With just Harvey, her cat, who just so happens to be an all-talking wonderment full of surprises and Ploggit, a creature who lives in her shower drain, they touch down at the last place her sister stayed. Landing from one world to another with most of her wordly goods via a rug.
It isn't long before Arabella finds herself in trouble, shortly after landing in this weird, monstrous place with stairs leading up and down, full of vegetation and glass walls. I can't even begin to explain this world to you and the search the young woman now takes to find her sister. The description of the plethora of creatures is breathtaking and the author's imagination knows no bounds.
Will she find her sister? With so many twists and turns, danger and suspects, we never know where we are heading to next. Where do I begin? Clever clues are spread out through this mystery and I couldn't begin to describe the surroundings. Think Oz, think Potter, think Labyrinth, think Lion, Witch, Wardrobe, think Fantastic Beasts and anything breathtaking you've ever watched, or read, and you'll find it all here, then some. Great read and worth every one of the 5* and some.
Then we are taken to somewhere which is off the scale in the written word. Grimsmead, which is where our protagonist finds a topsy-turvy world full of fascinating creatures and beings. This story is totally original and Arabella discovers she is a banshad: half banshee and half dryad. She has no idea about any of this as she was removed from here to live on Earth as a baby. With just Harvey, her cat, who just so happens to be an all-talking wonderment full of surprises and Ploggit, a creature who lives in her shower drain, they touch down at the last place her sister stayed. Landing from one world to another with most of her wordly goods via a rug.
It isn't long before Arabella finds herself in trouble, shortly after landing in this weird, monstrous place with stairs leading up and down, full of vegetation and glass walls. I can't even begin to explain this world to you and the search the young woman now takes to find her sister. The description of the plethora of creatures is breathtaking and the author's imagination knows no bounds.
Will she find her sister? With so many twists and turns, danger and suspects, we never know where we are heading to next. Where do I begin? Clever clues are spread out through this mystery and I couldn't begin to describe the surroundings. Think Oz, think Potter, think Labyrinth, think Lion, Witch, Wardrobe, think Fantastic Beasts and anything breathtaking you've ever watched, or read, and you'll find it all here, then some. Great read and worth every one of the 5* and some.
October 15, 2020
I was given this as an advance copy and this is my honest review.
Having read a couple of DA Kelly's short stories, I was prepared for some fabulous craziness. And I wasn't disappointed. Her imagination is off the charts amazing. Her worldbuilding and unique characters are such fun and so fascinating that you sometimes forget there is a plot and just enjoy the mad world she's created.
Looking forward to the rest of the series with Arabella.
(NOTE: it's 4 stars because I expect the next one will be even better and had to leave room)
Having read a couple of DA Kelly's short stories, I was prepared for some fabulous craziness. And I wasn't disappointed. Her imagination is off the charts amazing. Her worldbuilding and unique characters are such fun and so fascinating that you sometimes forget there is a plot and just enjoy the mad world she's created.
Looking forward to the rest of the series with Arabella.
(NOTE: it's 4 stars because I expect the next one will be even better and had to leave room)
October 11, 2020
This is the first mystery case in the Arabella Black paranormal cosy mystery series and I can truly say I was blown away by the setting in which the whodunit case was set. Arabella Black thought she was just a young women who served drinks in a club, lived alone with her cat and who was as normal as they come but she had always seen ghosts, until one day she was visited by a ghost who brought her news about her sister Rebecca being in trouble and needing her help. Then her cat started to talk to her and she discovered a Ploggit lived in her drain and together they opened a portal which took them to the magical fae land of Arahn. There Arabella felt out of her depth as she discovered who or what she truly was, the powers she was supposed to be able to control, the many enemies she seemed to have and the danger she was in from the moment she stepped into this wondrous and magical land, far from Planet Earth and all she knew. However Arabella was not one to back down from a challenge, especially when her only beloved older sister Rebecca’s life was at stake. I absolutely love this first book in the series, so different to other cosy mysteries I have read before. I love the different creatures who live on Arahn even though some of these were quite scary and literally out for her blood. The action is continuous and the snarky humour is a great factor to keep the book light-hearted and fun. I encourage all readers who enjoy a whodunit type of detective story to start reading. I am really looking forward to reading book 2.
October 10, 2020
Arabella has always seen ghosts and she helps them cross over into the light. A ghost named Endraya comes to her and calls her by name and even by her nickname given to years old by her older sister Rebecca which is Ding with a message from and about Rebecca. Rebecca is in trouble in some dark place and she needs Ding's help. Now the ghost has crossed over. Ding is running around her house looking for her keys and phone when Harvey let out this horrible cry!! Harvey she believes is a normal Maine coon cat but she just now finds out the she can talk and to her horror she finds out about the brownie that is living in her shower drain. They need to pack and they need to hurry. They throw everything onto the rug and Ding isn't sure what is going on. They use her jewelry box and the next thing you know you are in entire new world!! This is world were the creatures in the fairy tales are very real. They learn that some monster is trying to steal Ding's family's estate to build condos and hotels. They start looking for Rebecca and questioning everyone that they can to try to find her. Ding finds out that she has magical powers. Ding gets hints and bits of stories where Rebecca might be, it is time to start detective to find and save her. But what will she find out and will she be in time to save her sister??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2020
Brooms Away is the first book in the Arabella Black Paranormal Cozy Mysteries.
Definitely a winner!
The main character, Arabella does not know she comes from a magical realm. She actually thought she was totally human. Boy is she in a for a huge surprise.
Arabella's life is about to change in ways she could not have imagined. First, a ghost appears warning her that her sister Rebecca needs her and that she is in danger. She then learns her cat talks and there has been a creature living in her drain. And, that's not all she now travels with her companions to a magical world.
Will she survive the trip? Will she save Rebecca?
Overall the characters are well-crafted, the scenes are believable, and the story-line is written in a way to grab the reader.
I highly recommend Brooms Away by D.A. Kelly.
Definitely a winner!
The main character, Arabella does not know she comes from a magical realm. She actually thought she was totally human. Boy is she in a for a huge surprise.
Arabella's life is about to change in ways she could not have imagined. First, a ghost appears warning her that her sister Rebecca needs her and that she is in danger. She then learns her cat talks and there has been a creature living in her drain. And, that's not all she now travels with her companions to a magical world.
Will she survive the trip? Will she save Rebecca?
Overall the characters are well-crafted, the scenes are believable, and the story-line is written in a way to grab the reader.
I highly recommend Brooms Away by D.A. Kelly.
October 13, 2020
To be honest, I am not a big magic lover when it comes to cozy mysteries. When I agreed to read the arc I didn’t realise it was a paranormal cozy so I wasn’t expecting to like it too much. Boy, was I wrong! I loved it and read it in one day.
This is a well-written and imaginative story that’s part Harry Potter magic and part Lord of the Rings quest. Arabella is a delightful character. Her three “friends” are loveable and I was worried for them anytime they were in danger. Then I reminded myself it was a book. That’s the mark of gifted storytelling and empathetic writing. I particularly enjoyed the Wizard of Oz references. I’m looking forward to future adventures!
This is a well-written and imaginative story that’s part Harry Potter magic and part Lord of the Rings quest. Arabella is a delightful character. Her three “friends” are loveable and I was worried for them anytime they were in danger. Then I reminded myself it was a book. That’s the mark of gifted storytelling and empathetic writing. I particularly enjoyed the Wizard of Oz references. I’m looking forward to future adventures!
October 11, 2020
What a wonderful start to a new series. Arabella finds herself whisked to a different and magical world, by her cat of all things. To make things more confusing, her cat talks and always could. She also had a strange little creature living in her drain, who clothed himself in what hair went down the shower drain.
Apparently Arabella and her sister are half dryad and half banshee and she originally came from this world - and in fact has magic herself. She always had an affinity with plants, so now she knows why. When she got to the new world she finds that her sister is missing and maybe murdered. Who to trust was the biggest problem and she was surrounded by strange creatures, but she has to find out what happened to her sister.
Apparently Arabella and her sister are half dryad and half banshee and she originally came from this world - and in fact has magic herself. She always had an affinity with plants, so now she knows why. When she got to the new world she finds that her sister is missing and maybe murdered. Who to trust was the biggest problem and she was surrounded by strange creatures, but she has to find out what happened to her sister.
October 11, 2020
Brooms Away is the debut novel in a new cozy mystery series by D.A. Kelly.
This is the first book in a new series from D.A. Kelly
The characters are all unique and well written each with a certain "gift".
Arabella Black is the protagonist and she can see and talk to ghosts! This particular ghost that visited has a message that hits close to home and her family and has Arabella headed on a trip.
I love Harvey, Arabella's talking cat who helps her go to another world. She discovers she is not human.
This story is VERY original as are the characters as Arabella discovers she is banshad: half banshee and half dryad.
There is great world building as well as character development. I REALLY enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series!
This is the first book in a new series from D.A. Kelly
The characters are all unique and well written each with a certain "gift".
Arabella Black is the protagonist and she can see and talk to ghosts! This particular ghost that visited has a message that hits close to home and her family and has Arabella headed on a trip.
I love Harvey, Arabella's talking cat who helps her go to another world. She discovers she is not human.
This story is VERY original as are the characters as Arabella discovers she is banshad: half banshee and half dryad.
There is great world building as well as character development. I REALLY enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series!
October 13, 2020
What a charmingly original story! I loved the whimsy portrayed in the characters, the world, as well as the evil. The diversity of characters and their abilities was intriguing. I loved Arabella’s snark and wit. I loved Harvey and even Ploggit. Heck, I even liked Sneath and Clutter! Those two made me laugh out loud several times! This is quite an auspicious beginning to what promises to be an amazing series! I look forward to future adventures! I loved it!
October 11, 2020
Our amazingly talented author D.A.Kelly takes us to a new world with interesting characters, all the while leading you on this mystery solving experience. Arabella has to find her sister, protect secrets that’s she doesn’t know, and prove her own innocence. Which she does in splendid fashion. She comes into contact with some lively, colorful and obnoxious new friends on this journey. If you love a good storyline, pick up this book.
October 11, 2020
A breath of fresh air!
This is the first thing that I thought while diving in the story.
The book, that I had the pleasure to read as an advanced reader, has a new take on the usual paranormal cozies. The characters, events and setting of the story are unique, and the writing style is fast paced, somewhat reminiscent of the urban fantasy genre.
Kelly is a magnificent word weaver and the saga she is starting promises to capture the reader for a wild ride!
This is the first thing that I thought while diving in the story.
The book, that I had the pleasure to read as an advanced reader, has a new take on the usual paranormal cozies. The characters, events and setting of the story are unique, and the writing style is fast paced, somewhat reminiscent of the urban fantasy genre.
Kelly is a magnificent word weaver and the saga she is starting promises to capture the reader for a wild ride!
October 11, 2020
Since this is the first book in a new series the beginning was a bit slow because the author had to introduce all of the characters and do her world building. After that the pace picked up. I liked the quirkiness of the characters- human and otherwise.
October 11, 2020
Liked it very much! Unique story line, funny characters, good ending. Will definitely be getting next in series. Get this book you won't be disappointet, trust me!
October 9, 2020
Brooms Away is an outlandish paranormal/fantasy cozy mystery. Ghouls and goblins and dryads and banshees are only the "tip of the iceberg" when it comes to quirky characters in this story. So much fun, and a compelling mystery too! Looking forward to the next in this new series!
October 28, 2020
Brooms Away is a tempting invitation into the mysterious underground world, where Arabella Black is desperately searching for clues about the sudden disappearance of her dear sister.
In this new and magical world, every single creature is suspicious. Because of the evil tricks of locals, Arabella’s investigation turns into a life-threatening situation.
Brooms Away is a beautiful but tragic story woven into the dark fantasy world with shapeshifters, goblins, gnomes, and fairies.
I liked the theme of reconnection with ancestral roots and enjoyed seeking hidden meanings behind the magical symbols; there was a lot to admire in this book. Kudos to D.A. Kelly!
In this new and magical world, every single creature is suspicious. Because of the evil tricks of locals, Arabella’s investigation turns into a life-threatening situation.
Brooms Away is a beautiful but tragic story woven into the dark fantasy world with shapeshifters, goblins, gnomes, and fairies.
I liked the theme of reconnection with ancestral roots and enjoyed seeking hidden meanings behind the magical symbols; there was a lot to admire in this book. Kudos to D.A. Kelly!
November 22, 2020
Amazing beginnings
I am in love with this book. I cannot wait for the second! I enjoyed the roller coaster of emotions. I belly laughed, cried and constantly smiled throughout this book. You will fall in love with “Ding” and the whole cast of characters. Arabella finds out so much in a short time about her life, she does this with two fantastic helpers.
I am in love with this book. I cannot wait for the second! I enjoyed the roller coaster of emotions. I belly laughed, cried and constantly smiled throughout this book. You will fall in love with “Ding” and the whole cast of characters. Arabella finds out so much in a short time about her life, she does this with two fantastic helpers.
October 30, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of this magical and captivating mystery. I was immediately pulled in by the vivid and evocative imagery D.A. Kelly laid out, and utterly charmed by the wholly intriguing cast of characters. I reeeeeeally enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the second in the series!!! This is an author you'll definitely want to add to your library!
I found the plot to be entertaining and well-paced, moving right along and bringing ever new pieces of the overarching puzzle with it. I adored the twists and turns as we followed Arabella and, through her eyes and missteps, learned about her new world with her while solving a life-changing mystery.
I don't want to say too much and ruin the surprises, so I'll just say I STRONGLY recommend this book. Strongly. Also, that epilogue; just beautiful.
I found the plot to be entertaining and well-paced, moving right along and bringing ever new pieces of the overarching puzzle with it. I adored the twists and turns as we followed Arabella and, through her eyes and missteps, learned about her new world with her while solving a life-changing mystery.
I don't want to say too much and ruin the surprises, so I'll just say I STRONGLY recommend this book. Strongly. Also, that epilogue; just beautiful.
October 31, 2024
4.5⭐️
Brooms Away by D.A. Kelly was such a fantastical murder mystery. Our FMC of the story is constantly using humor throughout the book which helped keep the story tone more pleasant despite the current predicament. Our FMC finds out that she is from a different world and that her sister is missing. She travels to that realm with her cat Harvey and the little cutie that lives in her bathroom drain named Ploggit. Her sisters boyfriend detains her as a suspect of her murder and the FMC has to proove her innocence while uncovering what happened to her sister.
This book had me turning the pages until I found my self at the very end and crying. The reveal of the mystery both broke my heart and left me relieved at the same time. I loved how D.A. found a way to write the ending as she did.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries absolutely pick this up. I finished this book in a day, I did not want to put it down.
Brooms Away by D.A. Kelly was such a fantastical murder mystery. Our FMC of the story is constantly using humor throughout the book which helped keep the story tone more pleasant despite the current predicament. Our FMC finds out that she is from a different world and that her sister is missing. She travels to that realm with her cat Harvey and the little cutie that lives in her bathroom drain named Ploggit. Her sisters boyfriend detains her as a suspect of her murder and the FMC has to proove her innocence while uncovering what happened to her sister.
This book had me turning the pages until I found my self at the very end and crying. The reveal of the mystery both broke my heart and left me relieved at the same time. I loved how D.A. found a way to write the ending as she did.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries absolutely pick this up. I finished this book in a day, I did not want to put it down.
November 7, 2020
This is the first book in the Arabella Black Mysteries series.
It is heartwarming yet sad and at the same time witty. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and can't wait for book two.
Buy this book and you won't be disappointed.
A really great read.
It is heartwarming yet sad and at the same time witty. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and can't wait for book two.
Buy this book and you won't be disappointed.
A really great read.
October 17, 2020
Brooms Away is the first in a new series by D. A. Kelly. It starts off with Arabella trying to get ready to go to work but ends up with her learning that her life is not what it truly is. She gets a strange message from a ghost that her sister, Rebecca, needs her help and this is when she finds out her life is not what she thinks it is. She finds out that she is from a place called Grimsmead and she was going back with her two guardians. There is will learn all about her lost family and will end up finding her sister. There is murder and suspicion as well as mistrust. Strange things and a new way of life. What happens in the end is just the beginning. Cannot wait for book 2. Come meet Arabella and the folks of Grimsmead.
October 15, 2020
This first full-length offering from Australian Author DA Kelly is a delightful romp through a magical world of her own creation.
Filled with colourful creatures, characters, magical beings, shapeshifters, and a drain dwelling spriggit brownie making clothing from hair.
Then there's the mystery of a talking cat and a missing sister to solve, join the adventures of Arabella Black as she ventures into a world she never knew existed.
It's a 5 coffee cup read for me!
Go and pre-order now wherever you buy your great books from.
Filled with colourful creatures, characters, magical beings, shapeshifters, and a drain dwelling spriggit brownie making clothing from hair.
Then there's the mystery of a talking cat and a missing sister to solve, join the adventures of Arabella Black as she ventures into a world she never knew existed.
It's a 5 coffee cup read for me!
Go and pre-order now wherever you buy your great books from.
March 2, 2021
Wow! Full-on entertainment.
Loved the characters which were varied and well developed. Incredibly involved and you won’t be bored for a minute. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Loved the characters which were varied and well developed. Incredibly involved and you won’t be bored for a minute. Looking forward to the next in the series.
November 2, 2020
Dryads, magical worlds and talking cats
Brooms Away
Arabella Black: Book One
Author: D A Kelly
Release date: 28th Oct
Written in first person, aka single person snark, Brooms Away features the cozy paranormal adventures of Arabella Black, who is constantly annoyed by ghosts, spirits and other spooky stuff.
A perfect release for Halloween week, Arabella is contacted by a ghost sent by her old computer-whizz sister, Rebecca.
Rebecca is alone, hurting, afraid and needs her sister’s help.
With only minimal clues to start, Arabella calls in sick to the the Pandora's Box nightclub and consults the tarot cards.
When she’s convinced they haven't worked, help comes from her cat Harvey, suddenly speaking with a female voice and hedging her along. Arabella finds out that her birth family history is much more convoluted than she realised, and she hasn't imagined the voices of the dead she regularly hears.
Along with her talking cat Harvey, and Ploggit the spriggit brownie - found in questionable places in the bathroom - she has to head to Grimsmead, a place not of this earth, to find her sister Rebecca. And apparently she's also part-dryad and part something else.
D. A. Kelly has created a whole host of colourful characters, including the humanoid ones. As well as Ploggit, who's a sort of mix of Dobby meets the Grinch, there's a 'raxx' Meeks, a cute if gnarly fox-like creature with racoon eyes. There's also grouchy and/or goth gnomes, a sarcastic doormat and satyrs, just for starters.
This is pretty much a journey of self discovery for Arabella as well as a hunt for her missing sibling. On top of finding out she's a magical half breed, she needs to find her inner hero. Thankfully her random magical friends are at hand to help.
The world building is terrific, with some great aspects I expect might be explored in further books. The use of colour, texture and imagery to express the natural world of the dryads is very well done.
I had issues with one of the characters, Thorn, however his ambiguity is explained by the end.
A well constructed, entertaining debut novel in a brand new series with lots of potential, emotion and humour.
Brooms Away
Arabella Black: Book One
Author: D A Kelly
Release date: 28th Oct
Written in first person, aka single person snark, Brooms Away features the cozy paranormal adventures of Arabella Black, who is constantly annoyed by ghosts, spirits and other spooky stuff.
A perfect release for Halloween week, Arabella is contacted by a ghost sent by her old computer-whizz sister, Rebecca.
Rebecca is alone, hurting, afraid and needs her sister’s help.
With only minimal clues to start, Arabella calls in sick to the the Pandora's Box nightclub and consults the tarot cards.
When she’s convinced they haven't worked, help comes from her cat Harvey, suddenly speaking with a female voice and hedging her along. Arabella finds out that her birth family history is much more convoluted than she realised, and she hasn't imagined the voices of the dead she regularly hears.
Along with her talking cat Harvey, and Ploggit the spriggit brownie - found in questionable places in the bathroom - she has to head to Grimsmead, a place not of this earth, to find her sister Rebecca. And apparently she's also part-dryad and part something else.
D. A. Kelly has created a whole host of colourful characters, including the humanoid ones. As well as Ploggit, who's a sort of mix of Dobby meets the Grinch, there's a 'raxx' Meeks, a cute if gnarly fox-like creature with racoon eyes. There's also grouchy and/or goth gnomes, a sarcastic doormat and satyrs, just for starters.
This is pretty much a journey of self discovery for Arabella as well as a hunt for her missing sibling. On top of finding out she's a magical half breed, she needs to find her inner hero. Thankfully her random magical friends are at hand to help.
The world building is terrific, with some great aspects I expect might be explored in further books. The use of colour, texture and imagery to express the natural world of the dryads is very well done.
I had issues with one of the characters, Thorn, however his ambiguity is explained by the end.
A well constructed, entertaining debut novel in a brand new series with lots of potential, emotion and humour.
January 20, 2021
Arabella Black is going through life as best she can. When a ghostly being comes to her and states that her sister Rebecca needs her, Arabella tries to figure out where she could possibly be. Her sister had a job that took her all over the world and when Arabella realized that Rebecca had truly been MIA, fear sets in and a need to find her sister becomes her priority. The questions is where does she start?
Arabella’s life is about to change dramatically if her talking Maine Coon cat Harvey, is any indication. Harvey quickly takes charge explaining what needs to be done, while giving Arabella a hasty background of her life. Arabella was never human. She came from a magical world, in which she must return to in order to help her sister, Rebecca. As Arabella, or Ding, as her sister called her, is thrust into this new magical world she must learn to adapt to her new lifestyle learn new skills, and deal with a host of magical creatures. She is determined to find her sister, but who can she truly trust.
This is a fun, paranormal cozy mystery that I really enjoyed. Brooms Away is filled with adventure as we go with Arabella to the magical land of Grimsmead. Arabella is learning just how strong she can be as she tackles the challenges in finding her sister. The characters are quirky and there were many times their antics had me laughing. For her debut into the cozy genre, Ms. Kelly did a fantastic job combining mystery, and magic. I am looking forward to her next book and further adventures with Arabella and her crew.
Arabella’s life is about to change dramatically if her talking Maine Coon cat Harvey, is any indication. Harvey quickly takes charge explaining what needs to be done, while giving Arabella a hasty background of her life. Arabella was never human. She came from a magical world, in which she must return to in order to help her sister, Rebecca. As Arabella, or Ding, as her sister called her, is thrust into this new magical world she must learn to adapt to her new lifestyle learn new skills, and deal with a host of magical creatures. She is determined to find her sister, but who can she truly trust.
This is a fun, paranormal cozy mystery that I really enjoyed. Brooms Away is filled with adventure as we go with Arabella to the magical land of Grimsmead. Arabella is learning just how strong she can be as she tackles the challenges in finding her sister. The characters are quirky and there were many times their antics had me laughing. For her debut into the cozy genre, Ms. Kelly did a fantastic job combining mystery, and magic. I am looking forward to her next book and further adventures with Arabella and her crew.
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