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A Magical Mane Mystery #2
Bowling Blunder
Ellie thought her investigation days were over.
After finding herself in a new town, discovering a body in her cornfield, and nearly being murdered, she would have been fine never investigating another crime.
When a friend invites her bowling, she thinks it’ll just be a fun night out with the girls.
Boy, was she wrong.
Now, someone else is dead and two of the suspects have asked Ellie to help clear their names . . . using her magic.
Will Ellie be able to harness the power of her magical color-changing hair? Or will she be left in the dark with a murderer roaming around?
After finding herself in a new town, discovering a body in her cornfield, and nearly being murdered, she would have been fine never investigating another crime.
When a friend invites her bowling, she thinks it’ll just be a fun night out with the girls.
Boy, was she wrong.
Now, someone else is dead and two of the suspects have asked Ellie to help clear their names . . . using her magic.
Will Ellie be able to harness the power of her magical color-changing hair? Or will she be left in the dark with a murderer roaming around?
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2021
275 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Stella Bixby
63 books567 followersStella Bixby is a native Coloradan who loves to snowboard, pluck at the guitar, and play board games with her family. She was once a volunteer firefighter and a park ranger, but now spends most of her time making up stories and trying to figure out what to cook for dinner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 31, 2022
2nd installment in this series and I am enjoying it so much. Great characters and a very good mystery...but I had a little bit of a problem keeping the suspects sorted out...
Can't wait for the next one.
Can't wait for the next one.
April 28, 2021
Bowling Blunder
Magical Mane Mystery Series, Book #2
Stella Bixby
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Ellie thought her investigation days were over.
After finding herself in a new town, discovering a body in her cornfield, and nearly being murdered, she would have been fine never investigating another crime.
When a friend invites her bowling, she thinks it’ll just be a fun night out with the girls.
Boy, was she wrong.
Now, someone else is dead and two of the suspects have asked Ellie to help clear their names . . . using her magic.
Will Ellie be able to harness the power of her magical color-changing hair? Or will she be left in the dark with a murderer roaming around? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is still trying to settle in with her pet pig, Penelope, and her VW microbus, Mona, on her farm. She is making friends , which she never really had before. She even gets invited to go bowling with friends, and she goes to have a good time. But things do not work out as planned, and someone is killed at the bowling alley. When she is asked to find the killer to clear someone’s name, she cannot refuse. Sne might need some help from her friends, and Penelope, if she hopes to solve it. And maybe figure out her changing hair colors and learn to control it.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick, easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing, and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place and eavesdropping on conversations. The mystery was well plotted and had enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was not hundred percent certain who the culprit was until the reveal at the end.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a touch of magic in it. Both of the books in this series were highly entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Magical Mane Mystery Series, Book #2
Stella Bixby
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Ellie thought her investigation days were over.
After finding herself in a new town, discovering a body in her cornfield, and nearly being murdered, she would have been fine never investigating another crime.
When a friend invites her bowling, she thinks it’ll just be a fun night out with the girls.
Boy, was she wrong.
Now, someone else is dead and two of the suspects have asked Ellie to help clear their names . . . using her magic.
Will Ellie be able to harness the power of her magical color-changing hair? Or will she be left in the dark with a murderer roaming around? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is still trying to settle in with her pet pig, Penelope, and her VW microbus, Mona, on her farm. She is making friends , which she never really had before. She even gets invited to go bowling with friends, and she goes to have a good time. But things do not work out as planned, and someone is killed at the bowling alley. When she is asked to find the killer to clear someone’s name, she cannot refuse. Sne might need some help from her friends, and Penelope, if she hopes to solve it. And maybe figure out her changing hair colors and learn to control it.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick, easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing, and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place and eavesdropping on conversations. The mystery was well plotted and had enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was not hundred percent certain who the culprit was until the reveal at the end.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a touch of magic in it. Both of the books in this series were highly entertaining.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
May 20, 2021
Bowling blunder by Stella Bixby.
Magical mane mystery book 2.
Another brilliant read in this series. I love Ellie. She's my favourite character. I love this series. Story and characters. 5*.
Magical mane mystery book 2.
Another brilliant read in this series. I love Ellie. She's my favourite character. I love this series. Story and characters. 5*.
March 16, 2021
Ellie is still getting into the swing of things in her new home of Cliff Haven, Iowa, even though there are still persistent rumours that she's a witch and that she's responsible for bringing crime to the town's doorstep. It doesn't help that during a game of bowling the lights go out and a member of a visiting bridal party is found dead and one of her neighbours is missing. Even though she'd been warned off investigating when she's asked to look into things, she can't help getting involved.
So this is the second in the Magical Mane series featuring Ellie Vanderwick and her magical hair. I would recommend reading the first in the series Downward Death as it links into this story.
Bowling Blunder is a fun mystery, with great characters and plenty of clues and misdirection to keep you guessing.
The book is full of wonderful characters, from the older townspeople to Ellie herself. She's really grown since the last book, not quite giving up so easily and trying to make some friends and put down some roots.
There's also a mysterious new character in this novel and maybe a potential love interest in the form of Xander. Hopefully, we'll see more of him in novels to come!
I really enjoyed the way this book built on the first and improved the pace. There's honestly never a dull moment in this novel, I absolutely flew through it!
Bowling Blunder is a must if you love your mysteries on the gentler side. I can't wait to read more from this series!
So this is the second in the Magical Mane series featuring Ellie Vanderwick and her magical hair. I would recommend reading the first in the series Downward Death as it links into this story.
Bowling Blunder is a fun mystery, with great characters and plenty of clues and misdirection to keep you guessing.
The book is full of wonderful characters, from the older townspeople to Ellie herself. She's really grown since the last book, not quite giving up so easily and trying to make some friends and put down some roots.
There's also a mysterious new character in this novel and maybe a potential love interest in the form of Xander. Hopefully, we'll see more of him in novels to come!
I really enjoyed the way this book built on the first and improved the pace. There's honestly never a dull moment in this novel, I absolutely flew through it!
Bowling Blunder is a must if you love your mysteries on the gentler side. I can't wait to read more from this series!
March 28, 2021
As a follow up to Downward Death Bowling Blunder hits the spot perfectly. It is such an easy read and I couldn’t put it down. It was definitely a grab a cuppa and expect to read the whole book in a single sitting kind of read.
Ellie and Penelope are incredibly likeable and it was lovely to start seeing more of the town and wider characters.
In a world of stress, lockdowns and other worries this is the perfect escape. I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Ellie and Penelope are incredibly likeable and it was lovely to start seeing more of the town and wider characters.
In a world of stress, lockdowns and other worries this is the perfect escape. I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
April 22, 2023
Entertaining read!
Good mystery, with a bit of depth add to the known characters and few new ones introduced. Ellie is slightly frustrating in the beginning with her denial of her obvious powers, but she thankfully embrace them in the second half of the book. All in all it has been an absorbing read, with nice surprises, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
Good mystery, with a bit of depth add to the known characters and few new ones introduced. Ellie is slightly frustrating in the beginning with her denial of her obvious powers, but she thankfully embrace them in the second half of the book. All in all it has been an absorbing read, with nice surprises, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
January 23, 2021
Ellie doing what she does best!! I like to try to predict what her hair is going to do!!
March 13, 2021
Elle and Penelope are back and fitting nicely into life in her grandmother’s house. Of course she stumbles across a murder and has to solve it. Love this small town and it’s quirky residents. We get to meet a few (and mysterious) new ones too. Looking forward to more of Cliff Haven and it’s residents!
March 24, 2021
Age/Trigger Warnings:
Safe for YA readers as the deaths are not graphic in nature, there's no spice, etc.
Storyline Review: Another wonderful fun mystery! If you haven't read the first book in the series, Downward Death, you need to as there is a good bit of character building in the first one and only a few reminders of the first book in this one. I welcome a good "whodunnit" and Stella always keeps me guessing. I feel like I came close to knowing who did it and eventually guessed it right around the time it clicked with Ellie & Jake. That makes me satisfied with the book. I have to admit, this is a great series that gives you the light hearted Hallmark feel with a little flirting and enough drama to keep things interesting. The story was wrapped up nicely but still left it open for another installment in the series.
Character Review: Ellie is back again and crushing it with her "magical mane". She claims she's not a witch but has to deal with the superstitious people and a little bit of judgement. If she's great at something, people claim she's magical. I love and appreciate how this character has grown and changed from the last book, from being someone who lives out of her van, Mona, with her pig, Penelope, to someone who has friends in a small farm town. New in the story is Xander, a flirtatious new guy in town and possibly a warlock. This character's development is very subtle and I'm eager to see what his story is in the next book. He's got a bad boy vibe and an electric touch when he and Ellie touch. I wonder what that is leading to in future books!
Writing Review: Stella is a wonderful writer. I didn't see any errors, and the story flowed nicely. It reads like it's been professionally edited. Majority of the characters were developed in the first book so there's no issues with the back stories. There was a lot of interesting details, but there has to be in a murder mystery.
Additional Notes: If you want a small town, murder mystery series that takes it easy on your emotions, I definitely suggest reading this series. Stella is a wonderful writer and this book is safe for YA readers. Can't wait to read what's next!
*I was given a free advanced reader copy with expectations of a complete and honest review. This review is not paid for by the author and the words written are mine alone*
Storyline Review: Another wonderful fun mystery! If you haven't read the first book in the series, Downward Death, you need to as there is a good bit of character building in the first one and only a few reminders of the first book in this one. I welcome a good "whodunnit" and Stella always keeps me guessing. I feel like I came close to knowing who did it and eventually guessed it right around the time it clicked with Ellie & Jake. That makes me satisfied with the book. I have to admit, this is a great series that gives you the light hearted Hallmark feel with a little flirting and enough drama to keep things interesting. The story was wrapped up nicely but still left it open for another installment in the series.
Character Review: Ellie is back again and crushing it with her "magical mane". She claims she's not a witch but has to deal with the superstitious people and a little bit of judgement. If she's great at something, people claim she's magical. I love and appreciate how this character has grown and changed from the last book, from being someone who lives out of her van, Mona, with her pig, Penelope, to someone who has friends in a small farm town. New in the story is Xander, a flirtatious new guy in town and possibly a warlock. This character's development is very subtle and I'm eager to see what his story is in the next book. He's got a bad boy vibe and an electric touch when he and Ellie touch. I wonder what that is leading to in future books!
Writing Review: Stella is a wonderful writer. I didn't see any errors, and the story flowed nicely. It reads like it's been professionally edited. Majority of the characters were developed in the first book so there's no issues with the back stories. There was a lot of interesting details, but there has to be in a murder mystery.
Additional Notes: If you want a small town, murder mystery series that takes it easy on your emotions, I definitely suggest reading this series. Stella is a wonderful writer and this book is safe for YA readers. Can't wait to read what's next!
*I was given a free advanced reader copy with expectations of a complete and honest review. This review is not paid for by the author and the words written are mine alone*
October 29, 2024
Bowling Blunder
Magical Mane Mystery Series, Book 2
By: Stella Bixby
Narrated by: Shannon Nicole Locke
No Blunder Here! I Five Star Loved!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 10-28-24
Ellie has her hands full, what with teaching a bridal party to belly dance, townsfolk insisting she’s a “witch” and trying to tame that magical mane of hers … the last thing she needs is another body! But, that’s exactly what she gets when the lights come back on in “Bowling Blunder” a delightfully charming, magically entertaining, “who done it” mystery! I am loving getting to know the inhabitants of Cliff Haven as I listen to this beautifully written, magnificently narrated series! These characters are fascinating! They feel deeply, they get mad, they seek revenge, and they sometimes forgive! Along the way there’s laughter, tears, sometimes love … and the occasional grudge - well okay, more than occasional! In short, they act like REAL, living, breathing people … those we all know … some we’d like to hold dear, some we’d like to forget and some we’d love to … well that could get me into the same pickle as … lips zipped! I’m not giving THAT away! This plot is not only engaging and engrossing, it’s delightfully loaded with twists and more than a few surprises! I’m not going to give any of that away either! I did have my suspicions, and when all was revealed I was close, but alas - no cigar! But was I disappointed? NOOOOO! The ride was a blast, it all made perfect sense, and I’d had the BEST time listening to this BRILLIANTLY entertaining story! What really made this one come alive in my minds eye was the narration! I love it when you can “feel” the characters as you listen, when every character voiced creates a mental picture so beautifully, so vibrantly ALIVE that you can “SEE” the story as it plays out! This was all that and more! Perfectly timed, perfectly paced and perfectly executed, truly bringing the author’s vision to beautiful life! Five fantastic stars in all categories! I LOVED it!
Magical Mane Mystery Series, Book 2
By: Stella Bixby
Narrated by: Shannon Nicole Locke
No Blunder Here! I Five Star Loved!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 10-28-24
Ellie has her hands full, what with teaching a bridal party to belly dance, townsfolk insisting she’s a “witch” and trying to tame that magical mane of hers … the last thing she needs is another body! But, that’s exactly what she gets when the lights come back on in “Bowling Blunder” a delightfully charming, magically entertaining, “who done it” mystery! I am loving getting to know the inhabitants of Cliff Haven as I listen to this beautifully written, magnificently narrated series! These characters are fascinating! They feel deeply, they get mad, they seek revenge, and they sometimes forgive! Along the way there’s laughter, tears, sometimes love … and the occasional grudge - well okay, more than occasional! In short, they act like REAL, living, breathing people … those we all know … some we’d like to hold dear, some we’d like to forget and some we’d love to … well that could get me into the same pickle as … lips zipped! I’m not giving THAT away! This plot is not only engaging and engrossing, it’s delightfully loaded with twists and more than a few surprises! I’m not going to give any of that away either! I did have my suspicions, and when all was revealed I was close, but alas - no cigar! But was I disappointed? NOOOOO! The ride was a blast, it all made perfect sense, and I’d had the BEST time listening to this BRILLIANTLY entertaining story! What really made this one come alive in my minds eye was the narration! I love it when you can “feel” the characters as you listen, when every character voiced creates a mental picture so beautifully, so vibrantly ALIVE that you can “SEE” the story as it plays out! This was all that and more! Perfectly timed, perfectly paced and perfectly executed, truly bringing the author’s vision to beautiful life! Five fantastic stars in all categories! I LOVED it!
March 15, 2021
I absolutely love this book and series in it's entirety. Stella Bixby outdid herself with this one. I especially loved how this book, unlike the first, was in first person POV. I think that perspective makes it that much better.
In this book, Ellie has settled into her new home and is preparing to take part in annual festivities. At this same time, PJ's surviving widow, Samantha, is in a heated court battle with his mother, Bonnie, over the property that would have been his had he survived. Samantha is also part of a college friend's wedding party whose all members were all in town for the bride's bachelorette week.
Ellie is still working at the café and Bex invites her to go to the bowling alley with her and her friends later that evening. Ellie reluctantly agrees, even though some of Bex's other friends don't like her because they think she's a witch.
Anyway, while at the bowling alley, Ellie is on a winning streak. Then all the lights go out and when they come back on, one of the girls from the bridal party is laying on the floor dead. The two prime suspects are Bonnie and Samantha. Both women ask Ellie to look into the death.
Throw into this mix a new detective that has told Ellie to butt out and a new mysterious man named Xander who shows a strong interest in Ellie and you have a extremely interesting story that will keep you hanging on until you finish it. Definitely can't wait until the next one!! My new favorite series!!!!!!
In this book, Ellie has settled into her new home and is preparing to take part in annual festivities. At this same time, PJ's surviving widow, Samantha, is in a heated court battle with his mother, Bonnie, over the property that would have been his had he survived. Samantha is also part of a college friend's wedding party whose all members were all in town for the bride's bachelorette week.
Ellie is still working at the café and Bex invites her to go to the bowling alley with her and her friends later that evening. Ellie reluctantly agrees, even though some of Bex's other friends don't like her because they think she's a witch.
Anyway, while at the bowling alley, Ellie is on a winning streak. Then all the lights go out and when they come back on, one of the girls from the bridal party is laying on the floor dead. The two prime suspects are Bonnie and Samantha. Both women ask Ellie to look into the death.
Throw into this mix a new detective that has told Ellie to butt out and a new mysterious man named Xander who shows a strong interest in Ellie and you have a extremely interesting story that will keep you hanging on until you finish it. Definitely can't wait until the next one!! My new favorite series!!!!!!
March 15, 2021
I was able to read an ARC of the book last week and I'm happy to share my opinions, which as per usual are all mine!
This book is on the shorter side, so it's great for a nice weekend read. There are quite a few female characters so you might want to read this when you have time to focus on it over a day or two instead of reading it in snatches of free time here and there over a long period of time.
One of the reasons I find this series so entertaining is that we the reader are learning about Ellie's magic alongside her and it's so fun to see what happens next! It's a delightful tension in the story. Also, the themes of Ellie's search for belonging and acceptance continue in this book and you just have to root for her to flourish in this small Iowa town. I enjoyed how the town is now turning to her to solve crimes even as she says she doesn't have the right skill set, looks like the town knows her better than she knows herself!
As a runner, I was both amused and horrified by the Trot and Tater race. I could NOT eat a bucket of mashed potatoes at the finish line of a race.
The ending of Bowling Blunder is super sweet and I'm excited to read what happens in book three. I'm definitely hoping for more scenes with Ellie and the mystery motorcycle man!
4.5 stars!
This book is on the shorter side, so it's great for a nice weekend read. There are quite a few female characters so you might want to read this when you have time to focus on it over a day or two instead of reading it in snatches of free time here and there over a long period of time.
One of the reasons I find this series so entertaining is that we the reader are learning about Ellie's magic alongside her and it's so fun to see what happens next! It's a delightful tension in the story. Also, the themes of Ellie's search for belonging and acceptance continue in this book and you just have to root for her to flourish in this small Iowa town. I enjoyed how the town is now turning to her to solve crimes even as she says she doesn't have the right skill set, looks like the town knows her better than she knows herself!
As a runner, I was both amused and horrified by the Trot and Tater race. I could NOT eat a bucket of mashed potatoes at the finish line of a race.
The ending of Bowling Blunder is super sweet and I'm excited to read what happens in book three. I'm definitely hoping for more scenes with Ellie and the mystery motorcycle man!
4.5 stars!
December 2, 2023
Even though the lead character tries to solve the murder (my most hated plot device) I enjoyed this book. Ellie is adjusting to life in a house and becoming part of the community- even making some friends. Ellie's mysterious and crazy hair changes color and curls and acts as a warning device or sign of contentment is fascinating. And I love Penelope the miniature pig She is very attuned to Ellie's thoughts and also tries to steer Ellie toward clues or in a certain direction. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Amazon synopsis:
Ellie's detective days may have seemed like a gutter ball, but she's about to knock down some serious pins. Whether she likes it or not.
Just when she thinks she can take a break from sleuthing, a new murder mystery rolls her way. Ellie must strike fast to bring the killer to justice.
But that's not all she's got on her plate. She's also teaching a lively group of bachelorette ladies to belly dance, dealing with her magical mane acting up, and training for the local Trot-n-Tater race. Plus, a handsome and mysterious man has magically appeared and seems to know more about her powers than she does.
Can Ellie bowl over the competition at the Trot-N-Tater and solve the case? Or will she find herself in the gutter with no way out?
Amazon synopsis:
Ellie's detective days may have seemed like a gutter ball, but she's about to knock down some serious pins. Whether she likes it or not.
Just when she thinks she can take a break from sleuthing, a new murder mystery rolls her way. Ellie must strike fast to bring the killer to justice.
But that's not all she's got on her plate. She's also teaching a lively group of bachelorette ladies to belly dance, dealing with her magical mane acting up, and training for the local Trot-n-Tater race. Plus, a handsome and mysterious man has magically appeared and seems to know more about her powers than she does.
Can Ellie bowl over the competition at the Trot-N-Tater and solve the case? Or will she find herself in the gutter with no way out?
November 1, 2023
Ellie didn't grow up with a lot of friends but she is slowly building a community in her new town. She's got her group of older ladies that run and take her yoga classes. She's also got Bex who she works with at the diner. Slowly but surely, she is making a place for herself. Yes, there are still people who accuse her of being a witch (her hair changes color/style with her emotions) but she knows that she wants to stay. It's just too bad that there's been another murder. This time at the local bowling alley.
Ellie's ex-boyfriend's fiancee (yep), Samantha, is still in town and trying to argue that his property should go to her instead of the man's mother (he died in the previous book in this series.) Samantha is also a part of a bachelorette weekend that is somehow also in this same small town. It is one of the bridesmaids who gets murdered.
Is the mystery solution a little convoluted? Yes. Is the magic starting to get a little wild (we meet Xander, a warlock, in this book)? Yes. Am I going to keep reading this series? Heck yes. I want to see where it goes.
Ellie's ex-boyfriend's fiancee (yep), Samantha, is still in town and trying to argue that his property should go to her instead of the man's mother (he died in the previous book in this series.) Samantha is also a part of a bachelorette weekend that is somehow also in this same small town. It is one of the bridesmaids who gets murdered.
Is the mystery solution a little convoluted? Yes. Is the magic starting to get a little wild (we meet Xander, a warlock, in this book)? Yes. Am I going to keep reading this series? Heck yes. I want to see where it goes.
March 3, 2021
Ellie and Penelopy are settling into their new lives on her grandmother's farm.
With a bridal party in town, they rope Ellie into giving them lessons as part of their entertainment.
When one of them overhears Ellie being invited to a Black Light bowling night.
They decide to go also as the Bride to Be enjoys bowling.
When the lights suddenly go out, everyone is stumbling around until the lights come back on only to have someone let loose a scream.
It appears one of the bridesmaids has been murdered, and Ellie's neighbor is being accused.
Ellie is once again in the midst of a murder investigation.
This is another fun story from Cliff Haven, Iowa.
There are developed characters, some laughs, and a whole cast of characters whose antics keep the pages turning.
This is the second story of this series, and while I did enjoy the first one somewhat.
This one solidified my interest in continuing with it.
With a bridal party in town, they rope Ellie into giving them lessons as part of their entertainment.
When one of them overhears Ellie being invited to a Black Light bowling night.
They decide to go also as the Bride to Be enjoys bowling.
When the lights suddenly go out, everyone is stumbling around until the lights come back on only to have someone let loose a scream.
It appears one of the bridesmaids has been murdered, and Ellie's neighbor is being accused.
Ellie is once again in the midst of a murder investigation.
This is another fun story from Cliff Haven, Iowa.
There are developed characters, some laughs, and a whole cast of characters whose antics keep the pages turning.
This is the second story of this series, and while I did enjoy the first one somewhat.
This one solidified my interest in continuing with it.
March 22, 2021
When is a girls' bowling night not what it seems? When it turns into a murder investigation and your friend is the main suspect!
I love Ellie! A different MC than we're used to from Bixby, Ellie is not yet comfortable with her "magic" and keeps it under her hat - quite literally - whenever possible. In this episode - the second in the Magical Mane Mysteries - we find Ellie embroiled in a series of murders and the locals are expecting HER to solve them. In doing so, Bixby has our intrepid sleuth learning more about her powers and also learning that her new friends and family will always look out for her.
Bowling Blunder reads well as a stand-alone of course, but if you're like me, you'll want to catch up with Book One because you WILL be waiting for each next adventure as Bixby releases them!
[I was fortunate to receive a copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. The opinions herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
I love Ellie! A different MC than we're used to from Bixby, Ellie is not yet comfortable with her "magic" and keeps it under her hat - quite literally - whenever possible. In this episode - the second in the Magical Mane Mysteries - we find Ellie embroiled in a series of murders and the locals are expecting HER to solve them. In doing so, Bixby has our intrepid sleuth learning more about her powers and also learning that her new friends and family will always look out for her.
Bowling Blunder reads well as a stand-alone of course, but if you're like me, you'll want to catch up with Book One because you WILL be waiting for each next adventure as Bixby releases them!
[I was fortunate to receive a copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. The opinions herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
March 8, 2021
Bowling Blunder is the next installment in the Magical Mane Mystery series and it is a perfect afternoon escape. With each book the story gets better and better. The regular characters are developing quickly and realistically. And new characters are added with the pace of the story in ways that make sense and make the story so very enjoyable. Even Penelope and Mona are developing more and more personality. The answers to some of the questions from the first book are forthcoming with enough clues to the rest to keep you coming back for more. Ellie is finding her place in the world and finally feels like she has a family. Ms. Bixby does an incredible job of evoking feelings as she describes what Ellie is feeling. I can hardly wait for the next book!
March 16, 2021
Bowling Blunder is the second book in the Magical Mane Mystery Series by Stella Bixby. Ellie and her pet pig, Penelope, are just as charming in this book as in the first book. The author brought many of the same characters back from book one and, it gives an authentic feel to Cliff Haven, Iowa. The story was written well, the mystery was believable, we learn more about what the colors mean that Ellie’s hair changes too, and we are introduced to Xander. The author’s writing style is light, funny, and an easy read. I would recommend that you read book one first, as the carry over from book one to book two would flow easier for you.
Thank you to Stella Bixby for the opportunity to read this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book. My review is made voluntarily and entirely my own opinion.
Thank you to Stella Bixby for the opportunity to read this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book. My review is made voluntarily and entirely my own opinion.
April 23, 2024
This is the second book in the Magical Mane Mystery Series, a magical cozy mystery! I love this series! Ellie's sleuthing is entertaining. She is such a wonderful character, smart, sunshine and strong. She has a cute pig named Penelope. The plot is well crafted, intriguing, and captivating, filled with murders, intrigue and twists and turns. I liked the humor in the story. The cast of supporting characters is impressive. Shannon Nicole Locke did a spectacular job bringing this story to life. She has a beautiful voice, and an outstanding range of voices. I enjoyed it. I love the small town vibes. Looking forward to listening to Spotlight Scanda, the next book in the series. I highly recommend this series!
September 10, 2024
This is the second book in the Magical Mane Mystery series. Our MC Ellie Vanderwick, her piggy Penelope and VW van Mona, are settling into town. Ellie is out for bowling night with the girls when the lights go out and someone from a bridal shower is murdered. Ellie thinks the main suspect is innocent, so she sets about trying to find the killer. I really enjoyed this. Ellie was still smart, and Penelope is still an utter delight.
There's also a mysterious new man in town, Xander, who may be a potential love interest. Hopefully, we'll see more of him in novels to come!
Another excellent, and fun, cozy mystery. Definitely recommend this series for fans of animal sidekicks, cozy mysteries and a little magic.
There's also a mysterious new man in town, Xander, who may be a potential love interest. Hopefully, we'll see more of him in novels to come!
Another excellent, and fun, cozy mystery. Definitely recommend this series for fans of animal sidekicks, cozy mysteries and a little magic.
March 24, 2021
This second addition to the Magical Mane series introduces intriguing new tidbits about Ellie's magic while spinning a satisfyingly twisty mystery. Ellie has her hands full between training for the Trot-and-Tater and witnessing a bachelorette party gone wrong. In the midst of these dilemmas steps a new character who may hold some clues to Ellie's past. I was equally engaged by the mystery plot and the far more mysterious possible connections to Ellie's magic. I eagerly await the next the series!
Disclaimer: I received and ARC for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
Disclaimer: I received and ARC for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2021
Go Bowling with some friends and wind up sucked into a murder.
That seems to be the way things work in Ellie's life.
This book kept me reading and I finished it rapidly only to want to know more.
Who is this dark man Xander?
I can't wait to find out more in the next book!
If you want a fun, loveable mystery come and check out Bowling Blunder.
While you do not need to read the first book in the series to enjoy this book, I do suggest you read book 1 and then book 2 since there are quite a few mentions in this book of things that happened in book 1.
Nice Clean Read for younger teens and anyone else who wants to just enjoy the story and characters.
That seems to be the way things work in Ellie's life.
This book kept me reading and I finished it rapidly only to want to know more.
Who is this dark man Xander?
I can't wait to find out more in the next book!
If you want a fun, loveable mystery come and check out Bowling Blunder.
While you do not need to read the first book in the series to enjoy this book, I do suggest you read book 1 and then book 2 since there are quite a few mentions in this book of things that happened in book 1.
Nice Clean Read for younger teens and anyone else who wants to just enjoy the story and characters.
March 28, 2021
This second installment of the series is a great, quick, fun and easy ready. I finished it in less than a day!
Ellie has settled into life and her routine in Cliffe Haven with her trusty sidekicks Penelope the pig and Mona the motor van. She comes to terms with her special skills and implores these to solve not one, but 2 murders of members of a bachelorette party.
She also is learning more of her heritage whilst the search for her mom continues. She also meets a handsome warlock Xander and the seed is planted for a potential budding love interest between the two...I wait to see.
A wonderful cozy mystery series that is well written with developing and interesting characters.
Ellie has settled into life and her routine in Cliffe Haven with her trusty sidekicks Penelope the pig and Mona the motor van. She comes to terms with her special skills and implores these to solve not one, but 2 murders of members of a bachelorette party.
She also is learning more of her heritage whilst the search for her mom continues. She also meets a handsome warlock Xander and the seed is planted for a potential budding love interest between the two...I wait to see.
A wonderful cozy mystery series that is well written with developing and interesting characters.
April 18, 2021
This is the second book featuring these characters. A gentle mystery with an array of likeable individuals - including the newly introduced Xander who may or may not be a future love interest.
We didn’t learn that much more about Ellie’s past in this book but hopefully will do in future books but the affectionate writing - even towards the less likeable characters - is charming and endearing. It’s almost like a warm hug of a book which I enjoyed very much. If there are future books I’d love there to be more about the histories of the various characters in the town - as I am sure there are interesting stories to be told there. I look forward to the next book.
We didn’t learn that much more about Ellie’s past in this book but hopefully will do in future books but the affectionate writing - even towards the less likeable characters - is charming and endearing. It’s almost like a warm hug of a book which I enjoyed very much. If there are future books I’d love there to be more about the histories of the various characters in the town - as I am sure there are interesting stories to be told there. I look forward to the next book.
April 22, 2021
A great second book in the cozy mystery series about Ellie and her amazing magical hair. I enjoyed reading the first book in the series ‘Downward Death’, and this didn’t disappoint as a sequel. I loved finding out more about Ellie and seeing her develop as a character, as well as gaining more of an insight into the other characters we met in the first book. Although this can be read as a standalone story, I would recommend reading the first book, otherwise it might get a bit confusing with all the different characters. In this story, we begin to learn more about Ellie’s special abilities, and I am looking forward to finding out how these develop in book three!
December 7, 2022
Good
Ellie is getting settled into her new home, and making new friends as she does so. It’s not long though, before she ends up near the scene of another murder. Asked by a neighbour to help, Ellie, her magical mane, and her pet pig Penelope are on the case!
Another enjoyable tale in this series, in which we meet some new characters, and discover some new mysteries. Alas Ellie’s family is still the biggest mystery (she really needs to tell everyone that she has no knowledge about her family at all!), but she’s getting good at figuring the rest of it out.
If you enjoy a paranormal cosy mystery, then this is a thoroughly enjoyable series you’ll love to read.
Ellie is getting settled into her new home, and making new friends as she does so. It’s not long though, before she ends up near the scene of another murder. Asked by a neighbour to help, Ellie, her magical mane, and her pet pig Penelope are on the case!
Another enjoyable tale in this series, in which we meet some new characters, and discover some new mysteries. Alas Ellie’s family is still the biggest mystery (she really needs to tell everyone that she has no knowledge about her family at all!), but she’s getting good at figuring the rest of it out.
If you enjoy a paranormal cosy mystery, then this is a thoroughly enjoyable series you’ll love to read.
April 13, 2024
it was intriguing to again read about Ellie and the special folks and things that make up her chosen family, and her sadness at missing out on some elements of having blood kin around, especially for special moments
watching someone else get a proud dad hug, or a mom arrangement of clothes, or do sister stuff can leave your unhugged self feeling a bit chilled
a variety of prejudices seem to exist in this book world - some of color, some anti witch- and some folks seem to not have filters like that at all
windy, wicked, or warm, this is a fun and interesting place to visit
I am looking forward to getting to find out more about Ellie and those around her
watching someone else get a proud dad hug, or a mom arrangement of clothes, or do sister stuff can leave your unhugged self feeling a bit chilled
a variety of prejudices seem to exist in this book world - some of color, some anti witch- and some folks seem to not have filters like that at all
windy, wicked, or warm, this is a fun and interesting place to visit
I am looking forward to getting to find out more about Ellie and those around her
March 14, 2021
I was so excited to read the second book in A Magical Mane Mystery series to see what Ellie, Mona (her VW van), and pet pig Penelope were up to. The characters are all relatable and just what you'd think a small town would be like. I did feel like this book was more of a tease to prepare you for the third book because of a new character, Xander, that showed up being just as mystical as Ellie and her hair. This book had twists and turns, which I love, and doesn't really "end" until the very last page. I can't wait until book three to see where we all go from here.
March 16, 2021
Ellie is beginning to settle into her grandmother's house and into the small community around her. The ladies of Cliff Haven have taken her under their wing and she has been helping them with their workouts. But soon Ellie finds there are a few people who are not very accepting of her and she encounters even more than she bargained for when going on a bowling outing with Bex. Who would have thought going bowling would lead to murder? Ellie finds herself immersed in another murder investigation. Add to that a sexy, hot guy with a motorcycle and you have a heck of a great book.
March 21, 2021
Stella Bixby has done it again, I mean how she is able to write such charming clean cozey murder mysterys with so much emotion and allure into the world of Ellie,her pet pig and her paranormal life in a small midwest town .Keeping you entertained and enthralled page after page with an array of both old and new vibrant characters causing mayhem ,mischief and murder. A perfect stress reliever after a long day of work or a great entertainment for any time of the day or evening. Acquire " Bowling Blunder " today so you yourself can enjoy it as much as I have. 😏🙂Kat
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