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Potion Commotion
A charming paranormal cozy mystery filled with clever twists and turns.
Step into the world of Gwynevere Merry and Evelyn Moody as they attempt to catch an elusive murderer that seems to be able to predict their every move. A frightfully fun read filled with friendship, deception, magic, and oh yes... murder.
Praise for Potion Commotion
"I loved this one! Solving a murder mystery while on the run and facing great danger adds quite a bit of tension and it keeps the reader on edge. Combine that with the faster pacing and you have a story that could easily be read in one sitting" - Nikki
"Great book! A scary, yet fun read – very balanced: dramatic, suspenseful, funny and poignant." - Christine
Step into the world of Gwynevere Merry and Evelyn Moody as they attempt to catch an elusive murderer that seems to be able to predict their every move. A frightfully fun read filled with friendship, deception, magic, and oh yes... murder.
Praise for Potion Commotion
"I loved this one! Solving a murder mystery while on the run and facing great danger adds quite a bit of tension and it keeps the reader on edge. Combine that with the faster pacing and you have a story that could easily be read in one sitting" - Nikki
"Great book! A scary, yet fun read – very balanced: dramatic, suspenseful, funny and poignant." - Christine
- GenresCozy Mystery
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
41 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
T. Lockhaven
9 books56 followersYou can blame my 7th grade English teacher, Mr. Ownby. I began writing mysteries in middle school, with gripping titles like, The Secret in the Swamp and The Ghost of Hollow Lake—Mr. Ownby, would kindly read them, and then encourage me to keep writing and reading the classics. His words, "Some day I'll be reading your mysteries with the rest of the world," inspired me.
Forty years later, I was able to fulfill my dreams and become a full-time writer. When I began writing, I decided that my books would be a safe-haven from the real world. My children's series, which I write under Thomas Lockhaven, all have strong messages of perseverance, thinking outside the box, friendship and loyalty. I have a daughter, and as I work through my manuscripts, I always try to imagine what I can say to inspire and entertain at the same time.
For my cozy readers, I spent much of my life traveling to small coastal towns in North Carolina and then later in my life to the coastal towns in New England. I've always loved the idiosyncrasies of the locals, and I've always wanted to bring them to life in a book series. My Coffee House Sleuths stories are just that. And just like my children's books, I endeavor to write stories that are clean, with very little violence and no profanity. I do my best to help people disappear from the craziness of life, even if just for a little while.
I currently live in Boston, but my dream is to move to a small coastal town, stare out over the ocean, and to let the words flow. I have an incredible wife who constantly inspires and encourages me, and an amazing daughter who is my most harsh, but loving critic. As I said earlier, my passion is to write and to continually improve and perfect my craft. For those of you who read my books, I humbly thank you. For those of you who have never read my books, I welcome you with open arms.
Forty years later, I was able to fulfill my dreams and become a full-time writer. When I began writing, I decided that my books would be a safe-haven from the real world. My children's series, which I write under Thomas Lockhaven, all have strong messages of perseverance, thinking outside the box, friendship and loyalty. I have a daughter, and as I work through my manuscripts, I always try to imagine what I can say to inspire and entertain at the same time.
For my cozy readers, I spent much of my life traveling to small coastal towns in North Carolina and then later in my life to the coastal towns in New England. I've always loved the idiosyncrasies of the locals, and I've always wanted to bring them to life in a book series. My Coffee House Sleuths stories are just that. And just like my children's books, I endeavor to write stories that are clean, with very little violence and no profanity. I do my best to help people disappear from the craziness of life, even if just for a little while.
I currently live in Boston, but my dream is to move to a small coastal town, stare out over the ocean, and to let the words flow. I have an incredible wife who constantly inspires and encourages me, and an amazing daughter who is my most harsh, but loving critic. As I said earlier, my passion is to write and to continually improve and perfect my craft. For those of you who read my books, I humbly thank you. For those of you who have never read my books, I welcome you with open arms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 29, 2025
Entertaining relationship magic listening 🎧😯
This kindle ebook novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book one of two
She is sent to town for her dad. When she returns she finds her mother dead and her father missing. She is the prime suspect and the fun begins.
I would highly recommend this series and author to readers looking for a quick read of non stop action and misdirection family and friends relationships adventures lies magic 😏🙃 2025 😯😀
This kindle ebook novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book one of two
She is sent to town for her dad. When she returns she finds her mother dead and her father missing. She is the prime suspect and the fun begins.
I would highly recommend this series and author to readers looking for a quick read of non stop action and misdirection family and friends relationships adventures lies magic 😏🙃 2025 😯😀
June 18, 2021
This is the first book in this series. It's a charming paranormal cozy mystery filled with twists and turns, laughter, and most of all, friendship.
Gwynevere is practicing her skills in preparing potions so as to be admitted to the Ashen Academy. She's a young witch, full of life, full of fun, and looking forward to her future.
She and her familiar, a rat named Samuel, run into problems when a dead body is found. Running when the police come knocking at door, she finds herself in a town where magic is forbidden. However, she does meet a half-witch with a cat familiar, Rufus.
When another body is found, Gwyn finds herself closer to be taken into custody ... but she's innocent... isn't she?
This is a real departure from my preferred genre, and I wasn't sure what I'd get ... but I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written charming paranormal cozy mystery filled with twists and turns, laughter, a bit of suspense, and most, of all, friendship and family. The characters are fun to follow and I got a real hoot out of the familiars. This book is for both teens and adults.
Many thanks to the authors for the digital copy of this cozy mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Gwynevere is practicing her skills in preparing potions so as to be admitted to the Ashen Academy. She's a young witch, full of life, full of fun, and looking forward to her future.
She and her familiar, a rat named Samuel, run into problems when a dead body is found. Running when the police come knocking at door, she finds herself in a town where magic is forbidden. However, she does meet a half-witch with a cat familiar, Rufus.
When another body is found, Gwyn finds herself closer to be taken into custody ... but she's innocent... isn't she?
This is a real departure from my preferred genre, and I wasn't sure what I'd get ... but I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written charming paranormal cozy mystery filled with twists and turns, laughter, a bit of suspense, and most, of all, friendship and family. The characters are fun to follow and I got a real hoot out of the familiars. This book is for both teens and adults.
Many thanks to the authors for the digital copy of this cozy mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
June 2, 2021
Loved it. Not generally the normal cozy I tend to read but it swept me along before I could say, toad's eyes and the blood of a virgin... seriously good story. Love Gwynevere's character, a witch in training and the things she gets up to seeking the truth when a murder strikes close to home.
The author has a fabulous way with words and you get involved in the story in every aspect. Loved the other character involved too, such as Samuel.
A cozy witchy tale with werewolves thrown into the mix, intriguing storyline with lots of twists and turns in equal measure, what more could you ask for?
The author has a fabulous way with words and you get involved in the story in every aspect. Loved the other character involved too, such as Samuel.
A cozy witchy tale with werewolves thrown into the mix, intriguing storyline with lots of twists and turns in equal measure, what more could you ask for?
June 2, 2021
I was very impressed with the writing of this book. I loved how they tied together different styles of magic and magical creatures.
While the crime parts weren't particularly showing I found that it had a more gentle nature to it and showed more of a young adult style. Definitely felt very cozy as while they talk about the crime they don't really go into the detail that is in most crime books.
The characters were a lot of fun especially Gwynevere and Evelyn. They both were unique and powerful in their own right. Thomas I also really liked a lot as he seemed to be one of the solid characters who would be able to help his child and make sure that she would always be protected.
This book is amazing and I really am hoping that more of these books come out as I want to read more about Ashen and it's magical academy. Those characters just scream out to me that there is more to their stories.
While the crime parts weren't particularly showing I found that it had a more gentle nature to it and showed more of a young adult style. Definitely felt very cozy as while they talk about the crime they don't really go into the detail that is in most crime books.
The characters were a lot of fun especially Gwynevere and Evelyn. They both were unique and powerful in their own right. Thomas I also really liked a lot as he seemed to be one of the solid characters who would be able to help his child and make sure that she would always be protected.
This book is amazing and I really am hoping that more of these books come out as I want to read more about Ashen and it's magical academy. Those characters just scream out to me that there is more to their stories.
June 1, 2021
” Potion Commotion- Merry and Moody witch cozy mysteries- Book 1” By T. Lockhaven With S.T. White is a tale of one Gwynevere Merry ..a half-blooded witch dhampir ... her mouse familiar Samuel...and her parents Adelaide & Adonis Merry from the magical realm city of Ashen and Evelyn Moody fledgling witch...her feline familiar Rufus and her father Thomas Moody from the human realm city of Yorkshire. Mystery has surrounded the young girls even before they were born...and has only intensified since then....especially as both are on the cusp of the full potential of their adult powers. Malevolent forces stalk their every move and neither understands why...and as the disturbing demise of one of their loved ones brings the two girls together ...magical sparks start to fly...and when the magic dust settles ...nothing for any of them will ever be the same. Read and see. Much enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.
June 2, 2021
Gwendolyn Merry is a young dampire witch living with her witch mother and vampire father in Ashen, magical town. Her mother has her prepare a potion then adds another ingredient to complete it. Gwendolyn's father sends her to the Mayor's office with a letter for him. Upon her return, she finds her mother dead from poison and her father gone. The police accuse her and her father of the crime. Gwendolyn escapes and when she returns home finds it trashed and the potion spilled. She manages to drink it and is transported to the human world. There she finds her half sister and her sister's human father. Soon they are all being hunted in both worlds. Can they all elude their prusures and find out what happened and who is behind it?
I am voluntarily reviewing this book after receiving it free from Story Origin.
I am voluntarily reviewing this book after receiving it free from Story Origin.
June 1, 2021
Potion Commotion is an interesting, well written, fantasy mystery. Gwynevere and Samuel, her familiar, together with Evelyn and Rufus, her familiar) flit between the magic and non magical worlds while on the run from the authorities as they try to solve some murders while growing into their abilities. The book is quite fast paced and I could not put it down.
June 1, 2021
bit of tension and it keeps the reader on edge murder mystery Great book! A scary, yet fun read its a must for all children to read There’s another murder and the police are closing in but who is doing the dirty deeds ,
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2021
A touch of fantasy, throw in a mystery and stir it with a witch’s broom and you have a really fun story. You can sit back and forget your troubles while you read this book. Highly recommend to all cozy mystery lovers.
June 2, 2021
This is the first time I have read anything by this author but I will definitely be finding more of his works. This was a very interesting and entertaining story. I can’t wait to read more on this series.
June 1, 2021
This is an imaginative and intriguing new series! I enjoyed the world in this immensely and the characters are original and delightful! I look forward to reading more adventures with Gwynevere and Evelyn! I loved it!
May 31, 2021
I enjoyed this cute witchy mystery. The young witch characters were interesting and I look forward to their further adventures. I received this book free and chose to make a voluntary, unbiased review.
October 3, 2021
An explosive adventure that is so charming and mysterious while bringing one vibrant character after another into this dramatic tale of discovery and heartbreak. I started reading on my back deck,continued while making dinner, eating dinner then finish once again on my back deck. I just couldn't let it rest until it's last brilliant chapter. Acquire " Potion Commotion " so you yourself can enjoy it as much as I have. Kat
June 3, 2021
Nonstop action pack, full of twist and turn, fun and exciting cozy paranormal mystery!!!
Potion Commotion is the first book in Merry and Moody Witch Cozy Mysteries Series and it is the first book that I read by T. Lockhaven and S.T. White.
Gwynevere Merry is a witch's apprentice living in Ashen, magical town with her witch mom and vampire dad. Her world is turning upside down when her mother died from poison; she and her vampire father are accused of her mother's dead, she and her albino rat familiar, Samuel, need to escape to human world. She find Evelyn Moody, her half sister, along with Evelyn's black cat familiar, Rufus, and Evelyn's father, Thomas. Gwynevere and Evelyn need to find the murderer and mystery behind their mother's dead to clear Gwynevere and her dad names? Along the way they learn, practice, and grown into their powers and Evelyn learn that she is a sombre suprimsmo.
I think it's so cute that Gwynevere's familiar is a rat instead of cat or owl ^-^ I really enjoy this book, it's hard to put down, it's a fast-paced story line that keeps you entertained as you try to figure out what would happen next, the twists and turns were abundant in this adventurous paranormal cozy mystery. It is very entertaining and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Potion Commotion is the first book in Merry and Moody Witch Cozy Mysteries Series and it is the first book that I read by T. Lockhaven and S.T. White.
Gwynevere Merry is a witch's apprentice living in Ashen, magical town with her witch mom and vampire dad. Her world is turning upside down when her mother died from poison; she and her vampire father are accused of her mother's dead, she and her albino rat familiar, Samuel, need to escape to human world. She find Evelyn Moody, her half sister, along with Evelyn's black cat familiar, Rufus, and Evelyn's father, Thomas. Gwynevere and Evelyn need to find the murderer and mystery behind their mother's dead to clear Gwynevere and her dad names? Along the way they learn, practice, and grown into their powers and Evelyn learn that she is a sombre suprimsmo.
I think it's so cute that Gwynevere's familiar is a rat instead of cat or owl ^-^ I really enjoy this book, it's hard to put down, it's a fast-paced story line that keeps you entertained as you try to figure out what would happen next, the twists and turns were abundant in this adventurous paranormal cozy mystery. It is very entertaining and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2021
Gwynevere is sent by her father to take a letter to his boss and when she returns, her whole world is torn apart. I’m not saying anymore as I don’t want to give any spoilers.
Although not my normal sort of read, I enjoyed this. There is magic and mythical creatures throughout and these made it an entertaining story. Good characters throughout and you can’t help but get hooked by the storyline.
I am certainly looking forward to reading more.
Although not my normal sort of read, I enjoyed this. There is magic and mythical creatures throughout and these made it an entertaining story. Good characters throughout and you can’t help but get hooked by the storyline.
I am certainly looking forward to reading more.
June 2, 2021
First book in a new series.
What if the world you were in is a lie? You are bumbling around, no one to guide you on you "powers" that you are developing, not always having control of? Your parent is not able to help you. You suddenly discover you have a sister? she too, has "powers" she is learning to control, potions that she is able to make, that is what brough you together. Gwynevere and Evelyn are sisters, they have the same Mother-different fathers.
One grew up with some privilege, the other in poverty. Yet they bonded, and together they are going to learn how to control their powers, and be a family. Mabey a scool to help them?
What if the world you were in is a lie? You are bumbling around, no one to guide you on you "powers" that you are developing, not always having control of? Your parent is not able to help you. You suddenly discover you have a sister? she too, has "powers" she is learning to control, potions that she is able to make, that is what brough you together. Gwynevere and Evelyn are sisters, they have the same Mother-different fathers.
One grew up with some privilege, the other in poverty. Yet they bonded, and together they are going to learn how to control their powers, and be a family. Mabey a scool to help them?
June 13, 2021
Potion Commotion was so much fun to read. It has mystery, murder, fantasy which all together keeps you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait read more from this author
June 3, 2021
much more than a simple witch discovering her skills and coming of age story.
This is a paradigm and realm re-defining story
Magic and laws and legends surrounding it vary widely.
Stereotypes, skills, worlds and families take on different perspectives and components
Humor meets psychological thriller meets cozy witches story
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a paradigm and realm re-defining story
Magic and laws and legends surrounding it vary widely.
Stereotypes, skills, worlds and families take on different perspectives and components
Humor meets psychological thriller meets cozy witches story
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2021
This book is an exciting read with so many twists and turns. I love strong female characters and this book does not disappoint. There are lots of pieces to think about and it is a quick read with well written details.
June 2, 2021
Gwynevere and Evelyn . . .
This is a different approach to cozy mysteries. The character development and world-building in this story is excellent. The story line is action-packed, holding the full attention of the reader as the story unfolds while Gwynevere Merry and Evelyn Moody race to outrun the powerful and fierce monsters that are closing in behind them.
Will Gwynevere and Evelyn be able to capture the clever murderer that somehow appears able to calculate every move they are going to make? Grab your copy and see how a touch of magic helps them… or are they running too fast to even get to use it? With the girls growing into their powers, there are all sorts of possibilities opening up for this series. The reader will never know what to expect next – and to me, that’s the definition of a perfect mystery!
This is a different approach to cozy mysteries. The character development and world-building in this story is excellent. The story line is action-packed, holding the full attention of the reader as the story unfolds while Gwynevere Merry and Evelyn Moody race to outrun the powerful and fierce monsters that are closing in behind them.
Will Gwynevere and Evelyn be able to capture the clever murderer that somehow appears able to calculate every move they are going to make? Grab your copy and see how a touch of magic helps them… or are they running too fast to even get to use it? With the girls growing into their powers, there are all sorts of possibilities opening up for this series. The reader will never know what to expect next – and to me, that’s the definition of a perfect mystery!
June 1, 2021
Quite a good story. Gwynevere's life is turned topsy-turvy when a bizarre set of circumstances leave her in a sticky situation. Evelyn's is nearly destitute. And everything unravels from there. The girls make an interesting pair of naïve, magical, amateur detectives blundering about looking for answers all the while being chased by powerful monsters. Filled with strong emotions. Overall quite good, however, it doesn't quite appeal to my heart enough for five stars.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Great world building. Haunting. Page-turner. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Great world building. Haunting. Page-turner. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
June 17, 2021
Gwynevere and her familiar rat Samuel, flee their paranormal town when she is suspected of her mothers death. She finds her half-sister Evelyn and her familiar cat Rufus, and they try to figure out who the killer really is. Both girls are learning their powers and bumbling through some situations, but they have determination and each other for support.
The characters are terrific, with great backstories and the determination to drive forward. The storyline has plenty of action, twists and surprises to keep you guessing at the outcome. Loved the sisters and can not wait to read more of this wonderful group. Well done start to this new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are terrific, with great backstories and the determination to drive forward. The storyline has plenty of action, twists and surprises to keep you guessing at the outcome. Loved the sisters and can not wait to read more of this wonderful group. Well done start to this new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2021
Potion Commotion is the first book in the Merry and Moody Witch Cozy Mysteries Series. While this is not my usual choice of cozy mystery, I quickly got absorbed into the story. When Gwynevere Merry’s mother, who is a witch, is found murdered by poison, the police immediately target her father who is a vampire as the killer. Gwynevere who is a witch in training has to go on the run when the police also start looking for her. The story gets more exciting with a portal into the nonmagical world, the discovery of a half sister and the race to discover the killer before they fall victim to the authorities. Very fast paced and I look forward to the next book in the series.
October 18, 2021
After teenage Gwenevere finished her potion, her mother mixed something into it. Then Gwenevere went to see her father who handed her a letter for the Mayor of Ashen. When Gwenevere arrived home after her delivery, her father was gone and her mother was dead. After being shut into her room, Gwenevere magicked herself out of her room and over to where the potion her mother finished was sitting on the table so she tasted it and found herself transported somewhere else where she met her half-sister. This story was fun to read and kept me laughing throughout the teenage travails. Highly recommended.
May 2, 2022
This is an excellent paranormal cozy mystery for YA/Teens. I am not the target audience but I enjoyed the storyline which had some great touches if a little short. The characters are excellent Gwynevere and Evelyn teenage witches growing up in very different circumstances but linked in an unexpected way. The authors pack a lot of action I to the story and it moves at a very fast pace. I look forward to reading more about these girls as there are a few loose ends left dangling at the end of this first book.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2024
Fun fun fun
A perfect children's Halloween read.
Gwynevere, an apprentice witch has her life thrown into turmoil when her vampire father supposedly murders her witch mother.
Using the last potion that her mother was teaching her to make, Gwynevere finds herself transported out of the magical world of Ashen (filled with magical creatures) to Yorkshire - a place where using magic can get you into trouble.
In Yorkshire is a secret witch called Evelyn... The two discover they have a lot in common.
Fun read with magic and mystery.
A perfect children's Halloween read.
Gwynevere, an apprentice witch has her life thrown into turmoil when her vampire father supposedly murders her witch mother.
Using the last potion that her mother was teaching her to make, Gwynevere finds herself transported out of the magical world of Ashen (filled with magical creatures) to Yorkshire - a place where using magic can get you into trouble.
In Yorkshire is a secret witch called Evelyn... The two discover they have a lot in common.
Fun read with magic and mystery.
June 16, 2021
Life is going well for her as she gets ready to try to get into school but it is all about to come crashing down? A murder happens and she is accused of it so she makes a run for it. She goes to a new town where magic is banned. What if another murder happens? Can she prove she is innocent? Follow her to find out
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2024
Disappointing
The fantasy elements are interesting, but the mystery is weak. There are too many discrepancies, contradictions, simplistic relationships, and convenient reveals. The plot is pushed forward only because the main protagonist heedlessly drinks an unknown potion. The motivations of the villains are stupid and their execution is sloppy. The protagonists solve nothing. They run around until they're rescued.
The fantasy elements are interesting, but the mystery is weak. There are too many discrepancies, contradictions, simplistic relationships, and convenient reveals. The plot is pushed forward only because the main protagonist heedlessly drinks an unknown potion. The motivations of the villains are stupid and their execution is sloppy. The protagonists solve nothing. They run around until they're rescued.
July 11, 2021
This book was so original! That’s hard to find in a cozy mystery. I was totally surprised by the story, all through the book! The characters are easy to fall in love with and the plot kept me reading nonstop. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2025
Convoluted YA urban fantasy
Convoluted is an understatement. Gwynevre is half vampire. She's also a witch in training, following in her mother's footsteps. There is a death. She and her vampire father are accused of murder. She flees to another world. Then convolution really starts. Meh.
Convoluted is an understatement. Gwynevre is half vampire. She's also a witch in training, following in her mother's footsteps. There is a death. She and her vampire father are accused of murder. She flees to another world. Then convolution really starts. Meh.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews