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Cozy Corgi #9

Malevolent Magic

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Christmas week sparkles with holiday decorations, sweet potato pie, lively tourists, and murder...

Estes Park is a wonderland of twinkling lights and softly falling snow, and Winifred Page wants nothing more than to snuggle up in the mystery room with Watson at her feet--after all, Katie's pastries are tempting pieces of heaven, especially beside a warm fire. But Christmas is fast approaching, and Fred is out on a cold morning visiting neighboring stores and planning a celebration at the Cozy Corgi Bookshop and Bakery.

Fred is welcoming the holiday spirit and appreciating the friendships, love, and support she's found during her first year in her new hometown. But the night's festivities become a scene for local drama, and by morning a trip to the magic shop to collect a present has Fred and Watson stumbling upon a murder scene. In an unexpected twist, Fred is asked to investigate, but the suspect list keeps growing, and every one of them would give Ebenezer Scrooge a run for his money.

With Fred still coming to grips with a recent betrayal, shifting through all the curmudgeons to crack the case may take more holiday magic than she and Watson possess.

1 pages, Audio CD

First published November 14, 2018

439 people are currently reading
265 people want to read

About the author

Mildred Abbott

56 books370 followers
Mildred Abbott writes twisty cozy mysteries filled with humorous and complex characters. Whether brimming with magic or simply an above average dose of curiosity, Mildred's amateur sleuths solve murders with the cutest sidekicks ever.

Fifteen years as a special education teacher and a lifetime of loving rescue dogs results in creating adventures with a ton of heart and the need for lint rollers.

Connect with Mildred Abbott’s Cozy Mysteries on Facebook to catch the latest release and find fellow addicts of books, coffee, and corgis.


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MildredAbbot...

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mildredabbott/

Email: mildredabbottauthor@gmail.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Krystyna.
5,134 reviews54 followers
November 14, 2018
The joys of Christmas

Terrific as always. Watson is as loveable, grumpy and obstinate as ever whilst the human characters are, full, rich and varied. I also adored the screaming rabbit - I wonder what his story is?
Christmas is coming fast and as families come together and old friends meet up tensions boil over. With attitudes from high school now firmly entrenched in their adult persona. When one of latest to arrive is murdered in the magic shop and Susan's brother is arrested, she is shocked when Susan comes to her for help. Help in finding out who actually killed the man. Was it one of the other two members of the clique that used to hang around in high school? Can she solve the mystery before Christmas? The plot is good but the actual ties and relationships between the characters is what makes this stand out for me. An absolutely cracking read.
Profile Image for Shawna Shaheen.
332 reviews23 followers
June 13, 2021
This is the 9th book in series. It has characters with all 8 books in it and new characters too. Except Paulie the Pet owner. It is Christmas and Fred ( Winifred) and Katie are having a Christmas get together for Nick graduation( one of the twins that helps in Cozy Corgi bookstore) a second time Mark( that dresses up like wizard with his older friend Glinda a that think she is a fairy) is on Fred list of suspects. Because a man that he knew Andy was murdered in his shop. Glinda and Fred found him. With Mark passed out with his blood on him. Mark can't remember what happened he was drunk. 4 men Anges Rocky Gerald and Mark were playing some Harry Potter games.and Andy went there unwelcome to shop. And everyone said they were drunk. Susan a police officer (Mark sister) was very unkind to Fred and thought that Fred wanted this to happen to one of Susan family members ( Fred and Susan could not stand each other) the 9th book is not as good as the other books in series. But I highly recommend reading these books. They are a page turner.Watson is a corgi always knows when a body is around. I love how Mildred Abbott describes every fantasy style store that Fred visits in each books. These are exciting plot lines in these books
Profile Image for Antisocial Recluse.
2,711 reviews
November 14, 2018
Christmas in Estes Park is no holiday for poor Fred and Watson. Naturally she stumbles over a murder and ends up in a truce of sorts with Susan Green of all people! It’s a pretty good romp once again, with a plethora of suspects and an annoying bunny. It was the first time I guessed the killer right away but I can’t explain why I picked them before the murder even happened! These stories are always a pleasant break and highly enjoyable. It’s never a hardship revisiting the characters, especially after the stunning revelations of book 8. Those events are still shadowing Fred and affecting the self-confidence she needs to move forward. There is a fair amount of holiday warmth without smothering the storyline, which this Scrooge appreciated. Recommended.
Profile Image for Nina Derr.
309 reviews1 follower
November 18, 2018
Aaah! What a way to leave a book! Absolutely loved it and can't wait for the next! I once again didn't figure out who the killer is and was no where near close to being right this time. This one was a huge shocker and I didn't see it coming.
Profile Image for Kristine .
1,801 reviews12 followers
November 15, 2018
This is another delightful visit to Estes Park. Each book has me feeling as though I’m visiting with friends. The mystery in this book is well crafted and had me guessing until the final reveal. I don’t want to give anything away other than to say this is an enjoyable mystery well worth reading.
Profile Image for Victoria Smiser.
83 reviews2 followers
November 15, 2018
This year Fred’s Cozy Corgi bookstore is carefully and warmly decorated for the holidays, busy with tourists and locals shopping and enjoying Katie’s pastry offerings. Fred goes from shop to shop, with Watson accompanying her (of course) as she invites the merchants to a party at the Cozy Corgi and explains a coupon book she and Katie are suggesting for the stores to participate in. Remembering the difference between this year and last year, Fred knows that the town and the wonderfully diverse, eccentric, and dear members are a part of her extended family and the happy result of the reset on her life. The shop is carefully decorated and filled with warmth, she knows she is at home.
Even Azkaban the magic store is celebrating the Winter Solstice. Trying to fit in with the outrageous magical gifts Fred purchases an extraordinarily expensive snow globe for one of her nieces and orders three more, feeling as if she might be fitting in with the owner and his assistant. Fred does fall in love with the resident rabbit named Mandrake.
The Holiday party brings the merchants and their extended families to the Cozy Corgi. Helped of course by hot mulled cider and Katie’s treats there is a feeling of camaraderie and good will. That is until visiting guests and locals seem to have long hidden issues which are slowly simmering.
Days later, when Fred and Watson arrive to pick up another snow globe, they are greeted with yet another bloody body. Fred’s nemesis Detective Susan Green goes beyond police boundaries and asks Fred to see what she can find out about the murder. Since the body was found at her brother’s magic shop and her brother was arrested on suspicion of murder there was little Susan could do as an officer of the law. Despite her ongoing dislike of Fred and considering her to be an overgrown Nancy Drew, Susan does acknowledge Fred’s successful track record of solving Estes Park’s murders. Susan was certain her brother was innocent, so she grudgingly asks Fred for help.
Despite the festive distractions of the season, Mildred Abbott carefully begins to unravel a long-held rage as Fred gently interviews residents and visitors. The reader is gifted with additional insights to the various merchants and family dynamics. This is a perfect holiday read, enough drama, charm, and quirky personalities to keep your attention, as you too let your own holiday check lists wait for a little while. As Fred wraps up another successful investigation and welcomes a new year, perhaps there is a little surprise for Fred’s heart as the calendar changes. Again, another must read for all Cozy Corgi fans!
Profile Image for Laura Thomas.
1,552 reviews108 followers
January 18, 2020
It’s winter and the town of Estes looks like a charming picture of the fast approaching holidays. Fred is looking forward to snuggling up in her favorite spot by the fire, losing herself in a mystery book. But fate has other plans for her and she’s soon caught up in real murder mystery.

I really felt for Fred. She was still reeling from her shocking discover about someone close to her and she just needed some time to recover, but duty called when someone asks for her help in a murder investigation. She had a hard time getting her groove back as she’s not getting that gut feeling she relies on. It’s even harder as the list of suspects aren’t all that likable. I had faith in Fred. She’d get her mojo back and solve the case.

Mildred has such a way with writing descriptions of this town and it’s people. I can so easily see it and them and wonder if I’d actually recognize some of the characters she depicts if I ever visited there. Wouldn’t that be fun!

I enjoyed following Fred and Watson as they unraveled the clues and caught the culprit. And I had a huge grin on my face after reading the last paragraph. Could what I’d been hoping for finally happen? Lucky for me I had the next book already and dove right in to find out!

I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Profile Image for Grammy 1.
805 reviews18 followers
November 18, 2018
Review by Gloria Lakritz Sr Reviewer & Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
4*****Stars
Book: Malevolent Magic Book #9
Series: Cozy Corgi Mysteries
Author:Mildred Abbott
Publisher: Amazon Digital
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Rated: For All
Release date: November 14th 2018
Page count: 235

I must say this series is addicting ! Just in time for Thanksgiving, Ms Abbott has given the town another mysterious murder in Beautiful Estes Park…..I am sure the town is losing people per capita then say a large metropolis at this point. Lol

This is the first anniversary for our sleuth, Winifred and her corgi Watson , coming to town after a horrible divorce and loss of her business. Choosing this small town to settle and be with family, and opening her own book store.

But she and Katie have come up for a coupon book plan for the shoppe owners to sell for xmas and she and Watson stumble on another dead body. This book takes a poignant turn as the loss of Branson finally shakes her more than she ever imagined making her more human in my opinion…..Watcha got for us next Ms Abbott ?



Profile Image for Debby.
38 reviews
February 23, 2019
It’s Christmas, and Winifred (Fred) Page is getting ready for Christmas at her Cozy Corgi Bookstore. Watson, her lovable grump of a Corgi is by her side … after all, there may be t-r-e-a-t-s along the way. It’s the holidays, a time for families to gather, with the dramas that will follow. This year, it’s not just drama, but murder.

Malevolent Magic is our holiday t-r-e-a-t … while not a tasty one for Watson, we get lots of gossip in one of my favorite places - the world of the Cozy Corgi’s Estes Park. I loved that we get to know some more insights in to the residents, all characters in every sense of the word. If you’ve been reading along, Fred’s nemesis Susan Green steps into the forefront.

I normally try to pace myself with this series and not leave myself waiting for the next book. Fortunately book 11 has a release date of next month, so Im diving right into book10. I can’t wait to see what’s happening next!
Profile Image for Emmalynn.
2,938 reviews29 followers
June 8, 2022
Fred is trying to recover from Branson’s betrayal in the last book, get into the Christmas cheer, move on with her life when bammm she run into another dead body! This it’s directly related to Officer Susan and let the snark games begin.

My one request is for Branson to completely disappear 😁😁
Leo is still awesome
Watson is king of his domain and now has a throne to prove it 😂😂
Fred’s family is awesome and that includes Katie! I love how they take care of and support each other through the ups, downs and constant flights of absolute idiocy 🙄😂

The mystery in the book was an opportunity for Fred and Susan to get to know each other better without Branson being an impediment and also to clear up some misunderstandings.
Profile Image for Deanie Nelder.
1,131 reviews24 followers
March 6, 2020
Christmas in Estes Park isn't such a merry event for several residents, including Fred's nemesis, officer Susan Green, whose brother has been arrested for murder. Fred's possible-future-boyfriend, Park Ranger Leo Lopez is also under stress from his new promotion. Add in some old rivalries, and Fred, Watson, and their 'Scooby Gang' have a lot to work out. In the end, Christmas is about family, and Leo and Katie join Fred's family for a holiday celebration (even if the presents she gives her nieces and nephews could double as murder weapons).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
209 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2018
Malevolent Magic

I enjoyed the book but was a bit disappointed that I figured out who was the murderer early in the book.
That said, the story was well written and we continue to learn bits and pieces about the characters.
I will definitely read the next book!
Profile Image for Nola Arganbright.
1,592 reviews32 followers
July 14, 2019
Family Christmas may not be merry!

A great series. I have enjoyed how the characters and stories have developed. Each book is a stand alone but there seems to be an underlying plot waiting in the background.
55 reviews
November 19, 2018
Wonderful

I love this series. Great characters and a great whodunit! Keeps you guessing. Can't wait for the next one to come out.
31 reviews
Read
November 19, 2018
As always, I loved Mildred's fictional town, her characters, and her plots. I figured it out as soon as I met one of the characters, but that didn't ruin it for me.

May Watson live forever!
Profile Image for Heather.
1,551 reviews9 followers
November 15, 2018
Malevolent Magic

This series just gets better with every new release! And I’m excited about Fred and Leo’s possibilities.the whole town has grown on me and I can’t wait to see what happens next. And I figured out who the killer actually was before Fred, but that didn’t change my enjoyment!
Profile Image for Linda Rainey.
2,348 reviews21 followers
November 16, 2018
Another Great cozy

This latest cozy mystery featuring Fred and Watson gives us plenty of suspense,twists and turns.
I loved the well crafted storyline and amazing characters.
This book is recommended for those who love cozy mysteries.
2 reviews
November 17, 2018
I'm in love with this series!

Being a mystery reader and a dog lover, the Cozy Corgi series keeps me wanting more. I'm so happy I found this author.
Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews319 followers
December 23, 2018
I may have figured out the killer before the murder even happened but I still enjoyed Malevolent Magic. lol

The Gist: Game night turns deadly at the magic shop. *cue creepy maniacal laughter* And Fred's been asked by the local cop to help clear her brother's name.

I continue to enjoy this group of characters led by Fred. Awkward and abrupt she's just a wonderful heroine somehow. Just the right touch of nosy and caring to keep her from being unlikable. A wonderful best friend, endearing young shop helpers, a sexy forest ranger (who might be turning into more, yes, please!). It's an eclectic group but they fit wonderfully together and you just can't help but like them. Even surly officer Green who's constantly at heads with Fred.

The mystery surrounding a murder at the local magic shop was super easy to figure out. Like I said. Before it even happened I pegged the killer. lol That was a first for this series so quite a surprise for me especially after the bombshell last book I didn't see coming. But I still enjoyed the process and Fred poking around here or there.

I'm curious what will happen next and hoping Fred will find a little more romance with the hunky forest ranger and a few less bodies. lol
Profile Image for Samantha Kane.
109 reviews3 followers
March 22, 2019
So this review is for all the books so far.

Cruel Candy book 1 - We met Fred and Watson (her corgi sidekick). This book is sweet but opens with a murder, that should have been scary but it wasn't as we got to see Fred do as Fred was meant to do and solve it. Along the way she made some new friends (two men that might even bring love back into her life if she would only let one of them) and reconnect with her family.

Traitorous Toys book 2 - So Fred has yet to get her dream book shop ready (but it will be soon) to open, but Christmas has arrived and that means shopping with her new best friend Katie. And would you believe it yes she finds another body and yet again starts out to solve it, but in a small town everyone knows everyone's business and Fred has caught the eye of a cretin police sergeant and a park ranger. But Fred still doesn't really want love, she just wants to start afresh and make a place for her and Watson.

Bickering Birds book 3 - So yes another murder and even though Fred has proven herself able to solve case after case Branson (Police sergeant maybe love interest) demands she keep out of it. Now see if anyone is told not to do something what do you think will happen? (Also my love of #TeamBranson hit a snag here) Yes you guessed it and we got to see another side of many people, who knew being in a bird club was so competitive.

Savage Sourdough book 4 - At last The Cozy Corgi is open! And Katie worked her magic and got to open her bakery on the first floor above the book shop! Heaven is pastries and books (well to me it is, I so want to sit in Fred's mystery corner to read). And lets not gush too much over Leo's(park ranger to cute for words) perfect shop opening gift! But all that gets forgotten when murder strikes again and Fred thinks it might be the brother of one police officer Susan Green. To make matters worse Susan isn't a fan of Fred, she also works under Police Sergeant Branson.

Scornful Scones book 5 - Well The Cozy Corgi is a big hit and Fred is ready to just be a book shop owner! If only. But seeing someone choke on a scone sets off Fred's gut, or is she seeing murder. Nope and thanks to Fred past hates get aired again with a body count. Even nearly loosing her uncle Percival. But at least her love life might be back on track (#TeamBranson), apologies said so lets hope Fred will at last give in to love.

Chaotic Corgis book 6 - Summer is here and Fred is happy, that is till her friend Paulie is hurt along with a murdered woman in his shop, Branson demands she stay out of it (#TeamBranson taking a hit again) but Fred needs to help. Not only did she find the body and Paulie but people aren't talking so solving this case is the only way she can get questions answered. But the answers bring up her own past and her late father.

Quarrelsome Quartz book 7 - So now we get to help out two sets of twins, yes two sets and get this they are married to each other. So when one of Fred's step sisters gets arrested for murder Fred of course steps reluctantly at first, and her are we dating are we not relationship with Branson (police sergeant) is helping but I really am not sure what is happening with #TeamBranson. But leaving all of that drama aside Fred saves the day and SHOES!! (You will need to read to understand that statement but I am in awe, SHOES!!)

Wicked Wildlife book 8 - Ok I won't lie people this book broke me, #TeamBranson, #TeamLeo, dirty cops, Flotsam getting kidnapped (One of Paulie's corgis), BRANSON!!!! Ok all I have on this book is that I HURT. My heart broke and it wasn't put back together by the end of it, Milderd Abbott how could you. The only good thing the poachers for now have been stopped.

Malevolent Magic book 9 - Well it wouldn't be Christmas with out a murder and an open and cut case right! Wrong and to make it so much sweeter Susan had to ask Fred for her help. This book helped heal my heart to the point I can say Branson name with wanting to kill him, but the NON KISS... Again Milderd Abbott WHY!!! I will give you a puzzle piece dropping into place, I WANTED THAT KISS!!! I am still to heart sore to not be in morning for #TeamBranson but I so needed that KISS!!

Ok I need to take a break (long enough to write this then I am off to get my hands on the next book) and let my heart heal after all the turns and twists it has been put through. I was taken into Fred's world by Mildred Abbott and have loved every part of it (Ok that is a lie I am still in shock over Branson and just heartbroken). This series The Cozy Corgi Mysteries is just too cute for words, it works because it is innocent yet based around murders! Estes park is described as picturesque and makes you want to visit. But the people Abbott brings to life are what make it. I want to know just as much about them as Fred and Watson. I want to walk down the main street and pop into each shop, then end up back at the Cozy Corgi to buy a book then head upstairs to have a coffee and some cake. To sum up my thoughts i want to get lost in Estes so Fred can help find me (Not murdered please).
Profile Image for Julie Howard.
Author 2 books31 followers
May 17, 2022
I enjoyed this book. This is book nine in what is turning about to be a fun loveable series. I have listened to a number of the books in the series but not necessarily in the right order, so can safely say that that they work great as a standalone. Even through relationships and characters might change slightly with each book, the author keeps you up to date nicely so which ever book you pick up you know you aren't going to have any problems diving back into Estes Park, with the characters you have come to love. Like the eccentric and colourful uncle, the grumpy deputy and of course the king of corgi's Watson. Winifred or Fred is a great main character that puzzles the mystery together nicely and despite investigating a murder still cares about the suspects and her town. The mystery was good and I didn't guess the killer. The Christmas feel to the book had me wanting to sip a mug of hot chocolate while I listened. Can't wait to start the next book.
With Christmas fast approaching Fred and the book shop is full of the festive spirit but a planned social get together with the other business doesn't go to plan. A fight between rival families and old high school grudges take the sparks out of the celebrations. In order to help get her happy feeling back Fred and her Corgi Winston go from shop to shop looking for donations for charity and do some last minute shopping. Instead of magic in the magic shop she finds a dead body. When the owner of the shop is arrested Fred is asked by his sister to investigate, as a deputy she can't do it herself. It's not long before Fred discovers the dead man didn't have many friends left in town, even his own family weren't on the best of terms with him. Can she discover the killer?
I liked the narrator and thought she did a good job of bringing the characters to life.
127 reviews3 followers
December 15, 2018
Murder in a Winter Wonderland

The setting is pure magic , a winter setting , sparkling and perfect for the Christmas tourists. Unfortunately , human nature is human nature so despite the back drop and the superficial Christmassy fancy dress , there are nasty people with old hates and grudges simmering under the surface.
Of course there is a murder for Fred to investigate and a very gripping investigation it turns out to be.
One thing I wonder , is why the author has chosen to have so much "eye rolling" Hardly a page passes but some he or she does just that.
Profile Image for Arow.
633 reviews2 followers
December 31, 2018
Maybe I am in the Christmas spirit or maybe it was just that good, I don't know any more lol. I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of the Cozy Corgi Mystery series. It's Christmas time once again and Fred and Watson have spent a year in their new home. We are introduced to some new character's and a surprising but required friendship (tolerance) is developed. The murder is a bit unexpected and I enjoyed following along on the path to solving it. Can't wait the next in the series to be released.
Profile Image for Sherry Vaughan.
842 reviews10 followers
January 24, 2019
No Holidays for Death

It's Christmas but death is not taking a holiday. This time, the victim is a cruel man who was, and still is a bully. Unfortunately, the supposed murderer is Mark Green, brother to Deputy Susan Green, Fred's least favorite frenemy. Amazingly, Susan gives her carte blanche to do what she does best, solve murders.
Fred and Watson are at it again. The plot has a few twists and turns and, at last, love may be in the air for Fred. Alas, I will have to wait until the end of the month for the next book.
Profile Image for Shari Klase.
Author 6 books2 followers
June 26, 2021
Christmas crime fighting

I wasn't anywhere near Christmas when reading this book. In fact, I was nearing yet another Pennsylvania heat wave but what did it matter? Every installment of this corgi mystery series has me spellbound. Did I mention that these books are probably one of my guilty pleasure, along with true crime stories. Who doesn't love a good murder story? Add a corgi and Christmas and a little magic and you have true perfection. I feel as if I know these people well and can't wait to see what happens with Fred and Leo. I'm pretty sure I know.
188 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2024
Great book as they all have been so far! I'm really enjoying just seeing the characters grow as people. I'm happy to see that Fred and Susan finally seem to be burying the hatchet a little bit, I hope they're able to become friends at some point, even if they're not close ones.

It seems the Fred is finally ready to move on from Branson, which is exciting! Watson was as sassy as always and now has a new throne.

Every book manages to open even more storylines to look forward to and that's what I love about them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Robin Powers.
1,427 reviews35 followers
November 21, 2018
Holidays with Fred, Watson and gang...sign me up! Fred can't seem to escape getting sucked into another murder investigation from the most unexpected direction. As we get further into the series, we really are comfortable with the different personalities in Estes and even the loyalties between certain parties. But with every story, I feel like Fred learns something new about herself or what she originally thought she knew about her neighbors and friends. It really makes every story different and keeps it interesting. I feel invested in all of the relationships in this imaginary town and the different directions they seem to meander off in. It's always an adventure I'm excited to take.
Profile Image for Karel .
201 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2020
Another Interesting Twist!!

It's Christmas time once again in Estes Park and the snow is coming down! The bookstore and the bakery are being inundated with joyful shoppers. However, once again, Fred and Watson discover another murder! After unraveling all the twists and turns, the murderer turns out to be a huge surprise! Also are things starting to steam up between Fred and Leo? And the saga continues!!
Profile Image for Karen-Leigh.
3,011 reviews24 followers
June 28, 2020
Fred and Watson have a tough time trying to figure out this crime as it has way too many red herrings. Adam is the victim, and he isn’t a likable man, and it doesn’t help that he gets help for things that he probably shouldn’t. This case took Fred down so many different paths with a lot of red herrings, as I mentioned earlier, because of how many people she discovered didn’t like the victim and had a motive. A resolution to the conflict between Fred and the Green family.
Profile Image for Carla.
553 reviews3 followers
October 18, 2021
Death by Snowglobe

It's Christmas time and Fred is coming to terms with the past few months. When game night at Alakazam ends in death. A former resident, home for Christmas, is found on the floor of the shop, the owner, brother to officer Susan Green is found in his office covered in the blood of the victim.

As much as Susan dislikes Fred, she asks her to investigate the crime and clear her brother's name. Or put him in jail, whatever the truth may be.

Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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