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Enchanted Bay Mystery #2
A Hex for Danger
The annual Mermaid Festival is the setting for Esme Addison's sunny-yet-sinister second Enchanted Bay mystery, perfect for fans of Heather Blake and Bailey Cates.
The small town of Bellamy Bay has its share of skeletons in its closet, but it isn't used to bodies turning up in the local history museum. After all, this coastal North Carolina town is much like any other...except, of course, for the mermaids.
Helping to run the family business, an herbal apothecary while keeping her supernatural secret hidden is no easy feat for water witch Aleksandra Daniels. But somehow she's still found time to help her friend Celeste, who has her own Caribbean mermaid heritage plan the annual Mermaid Festival. As fun-seekers throng the beaches, Alex gets to know and is intrigued by renowned artist Neve Ryland, who's in town to decorate the local park with a mermaid-themed mural. Celeste, however, is less enamored with the artist, as Neve has been spending entirely too much one-on-one time with her boyfriend Jasper, director of Bellamy Bay's history museum. Then, a reception for Neve ends abruptly when the artist is found dead in his office.
The police investigation nets Celeste who asks Alex to find the true culprit. With the help of her magically-inclined aunt and cousins, Alex dives in to clear her friends name. But there was more to Neve Ryland than met the eye...and Alex fears she may be in way too deep. Will she catch the crook or be next on the hook?
The small town of Bellamy Bay has its share of skeletons in its closet, but it isn't used to bodies turning up in the local history museum. After all, this coastal North Carolina town is much like any other...except, of course, for the mermaids.
Helping to run the family business, an herbal apothecary while keeping her supernatural secret hidden is no easy feat for water witch Aleksandra Daniels. But somehow she's still found time to help her friend Celeste, who has her own Caribbean mermaid heritage plan the annual Mermaid Festival. As fun-seekers throng the beaches, Alex gets to know and is intrigued by renowned artist Neve Ryland, who's in town to decorate the local park with a mermaid-themed mural. Celeste, however, is less enamored with the artist, as Neve has been spending entirely too much one-on-one time with her boyfriend Jasper, director of Bellamy Bay's history museum. Then, a reception for Neve ends abruptly when the artist is found dead in his office.
The police investigation nets Celeste who asks Alex to find the true culprit. With the help of her magically-inclined aunt and cousins, Alex dives in to clear her friends name. But there was more to Neve Ryland than met the eye...and Alex fears she may be in way too deep. Will she catch the crook or be next on the hook?
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First published July 13, 2021
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About the author
Esme Addison
4 books549 followersEver since Esme discovered Nancy Drew, she's wanted to solve mysteries. As a mystery author, she's finally found a way to make that dream come true. A former military spouse, Esme lives in Raleigh, NC with her family.
When she's
not writing, you can find her visiting B&Bs, breweries, wineries, and historical sites.
Esme is a member of Crime Writers Of Color, Sisters in Crime and International Thriller Writers.
When she's
not writing, you can find her visiting B&Bs, breweries, wineries, and historical sites.
Esme is a member of Crime Writers Of Color, Sisters in Crime and International Thriller Writers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
July 8, 2021
An interesting second book in this series about water witches and magic. A lot more information comes out regarding who is descended from mermaids and who has a streak of dragon in them. It is all good fun.
Another of Alex's family members is accused of murder and her boyfriend, Jack, is again too tunnel visioned to investigate properly. It gives Alex a reason to investigate herself but it does make me wonder what she sees in him! Her other male interest, Ryan, has major character issues too. Maybe she needs to look for someone else altogether!
It is a good story with a very involved mystery, lots of magic and a satisfactory conclusion. I am ready for book three.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Another of Alex's family members is accused of murder and her boyfriend, Jack, is again too tunnel visioned to investigate properly. It gives Alex a reason to investigate herself but it does make me wonder what she sees in him! Her other male interest, Ryan, has major character issues too. Maybe she needs to look for someone else altogether!
It is a good story with a very involved mystery, lots of magic and a satisfactory conclusion. I am ready for book three.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 10, 2021
3.5★s
Aleksandra Daniels – Alex – had settled into her new-found family in Bellamy Bay well and helping out at the family herbal apothecary, Botanikals, was something she loved. Her aunt and cousins had welcomed her, and she was immersed in her mermaid heritage, learning her skills and unearthing talents. With the Mermaid Festival coming up, Alex was looking forward to it. But when a visiting artist was found dead, and Alex’s boyfriend, Detective Jack Frazier, fixated on Alex’s friend Celeste as the murderer, Alex knew she had to investigate Neve’s death to clear Celeste’s name.
As Alex dug deeply into various people’s lives and pasts, it was obvious someone was trying to stop her. And Jack wasn’t happy with Alex’s involvement either. But she ignored him, continuing with the help of Pepper, a local journalist. Unearthing the links to Dragons as well as their own Mermaids was proving a little much for Alex – but would she discover the killer before it was too late?
A Hex for Danger is the 2nd in An Enchanted Bay Mystery series by Esme Addison and was light, entertaining and way over the top! Magicals and Mundanes with a sprinkling of Dragons – different but with intriguing characters. I’m wondering where Ms Addison will go next with this series. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Aleksandra Daniels – Alex – had settled into her new-found family in Bellamy Bay well and helping out at the family herbal apothecary, Botanikals, was something she loved. Her aunt and cousins had welcomed her, and she was immersed in her mermaid heritage, learning her skills and unearthing talents. With the Mermaid Festival coming up, Alex was looking forward to it. But when a visiting artist was found dead, and Alex’s boyfriend, Detective Jack Frazier, fixated on Alex’s friend Celeste as the murderer, Alex knew she had to investigate Neve’s death to clear Celeste’s name.
As Alex dug deeply into various people’s lives and pasts, it was obvious someone was trying to stop her. And Jack wasn’t happy with Alex’s involvement either. But she ignored him, continuing with the help of Pepper, a local journalist. Unearthing the links to Dragons as well as their own Mermaids was proving a little much for Alex – but would she discover the killer before it was too late?
A Hex for Danger is the 2nd in An Enchanted Bay Mystery series by Esme Addison and was light, entertaining and way over the top! Magicals and Mundanes with a sprinkling of Dragons – different but with intriguing characters. I’m wondering where Ms Addison will go next with this series. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2021
A fascinating paranormal cozy murder mystery rooted in ancient mythology. Prepare to spend a few hours enthralled! The Sobieski women are mermaid descendants. Protagonist Alex, her Aunt Lidia, and her cousins, Minka and Kamali, prefer to be called healers, and run a popular herbal apothecary—Botanika. Kamali is a police officer and doesn’t normally practice magic. Detective Jack Frazier is Alex’s boyfriend, and doesn’t know she’s a Magical.
When bizarre events begin happening globally; a connection is made to mural artist, Neve Ryland, who’s just unveiled a new mural locally. The women must decide if she is friend or foe. Mythological weapons are tied into the clues for this mystery. Several wealthy, powerful, and dangerous men provide multiple reasons why they can be murder suspects. This is a multi-murder mystery and the author keeps the tension tight as she builds the clever story to a resounding climax of good and evil. Obviously, Author Addison spent a lot of time on research for this story. If you enjoy magical and paranormal elements, you’ll enjoy this cozy mystery.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
When bizarre events begin happening globally; a connection is made to mural artist, Neve Ryland, who’s just unveiled a new mural locally. The women must decide if she is friend or foe. Mythological weapons are tied into the clues for this mystery. Several wealthy, powerful, and dangerous men provide multiple reasons why they can be murder suspects. This is a multi-murder mystery and the author keeps the tension tight as she builds the clever story to a resounding climax of good and evil. Obviously, Author Addison spent a lot of time on research for this story. If you enjoy magical and paranormal elements, you’ll enjoy this cozy mystery.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
April 18, 2021
Magic, mermaids, and a small NC coastal town. All my favorite things mixed up into one series.
February 21, 2021
Welcome back to Bellamy Bay where the local mermaid festival may have real mermaid descendants. And some may have murderous intentions. Well-written cozy with an interesting and well designed paranormal mythology. Of course having engaging characters and a twisty plot is really what makes the book work so well. Rounding up from 4 and a half stars. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2021
Wow, this was a great second installment to the Enchanted Bay Mystery series. I was pulled in right from the very beginning. This is a paranormal cozy mystery so if you are a fan of that genre you'll want to check out this series. The story is creative and engaging with magic, mermaids, and ancient mythology. Alex, the protagonist, her aunt, and her cousins are all descendants of mermaids and live in the town of Bellamy Bay, near the ocean. As part of the town festival, Neve Ryland, a mural artist, is invited to paint and unveil a mural. Shortly after the unveiling, Neve is found murdered. Alex is once again in the position of having to help a family member who is wrongfully suspected of the murder. As she begins to investigate, Alex discovers that there are odd global occurrences tied to Neve and ancient mythological weapons. Added to that are another murder and several powerful wealthy men who provide Alex with a good pool of suspects. As Alex comes closer to the truth she puts herself in danger until all is revealed in a dramatic climax.
This book had me captivated. The story is well-written and it is obvious that the author has done a lot of research into various aspects of the storyline. This series is intriguing to me and hits all the right notes for what I love in a paranormal cozy. I will definitely be returning to Bellamy Bay to see what Ms. Addison has in store next.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through NetGalley.
This book had me captivated. The story is well-written and it is obvious that the author has done a lot of research into various aspects of the storyline. This series is intriguing to me and hits all the right notes for what I love in a paranormal cozy. I will definitely be returning to Bellamy Bay to see what Ms. Addison has in store next.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through NetGalley.
July 15, 2021
Summer has arrived in Bellamy Bay, North Carolina which means it is time for the annual Mermaid Festival. Alex Daniels has settled into town and at her job at Botanika. She is learning to use her gifts and loves spending time with her family. Alex is a member of the festival committee and is creating a special candle for the festival. They are having Neve Ryland create a mermaid mural which will be unveiled at the beginning of the festival. Neve has been spending time with Celeste’s beau, Jasper working on the museum exhibits. It has Celeste feeling insecure and shooting daggers at the beautiful artist. When Neve ends up dead, Celeste is at the top of the suspect list. Alex has no intention of letting her friend take the fall for the crime. Alex sets out find the guilty party with help from her aunt and cousins. A Hex for Danger by Esme Addison is the 2nd book in An Enchanted Bay Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series, but you will be missing out if you do not read A Spell for Trouble. A Hex for Danger is complex and beguiling paranormal cozy mystery. There are some great characters in this story that include Alex, Lidia, Minka, Kamila, Celeste, and Athena. Alex is settling into her new life and feels like she belongs in the charming small town. She enjoys spending time with her family and her boyfriend, Jack Frazier (the local police detective). The mystery is multifaceted, well-plotted, and intriguing. There are several good suspects in this whodunit. I had a good time solving the crime before the tension filled reveal. I like how the mystery ties back to ancient mythology and the Mermaid of Warsaw. I can tell the author did her research for this story. I did feel that A Hex for Danger is a slow starter as we are reintroduced to Alex, her family, the town, and their magical abilities. The pacing increases as you get further into the story. I thought the story was well-written with developed characters. I enjoy visiting Bellamy Bay with its unique residents. I like how the paranormal aspects are woven into the story. It is hard to resist a cozy mystery with magical mermaid descendants. I love the authors vivid descriptions which brings the story to life. We get to learn more about Alex’s maternal history which is fascinating. I am looking forward to the next tale in An Enchanted Bay Mystery series. A Hex for Danger is a spirited tale with mermaids, magic, mayhem, and murder.
May 20, 2021
I loved the first one in this series but this one was missing that little something that made the first one so good. And Alex was annoying; she was pushy and demanding, expecting to be included in interviews with suspects. In a nutshell, she was borderline bratty and it was difficult to like her. The scientific research into DNA was interesting but it wasn’t enough to make me love this. Hoping the next one is better.
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#AHexforDanger #NetGalley
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#AHexforDanger #NetGalley
February 6, 2021
When Alex is confronted by a woman who knows her family’s secret, but seems to want to keep it secret, she is intrigued. Before the two are able to speak again the woman is found murdered, leaving Alex to wonder who else knows the secret.
Rather than telling her family, she sets out to find who murdered the woman and determine if the secret is safe or her family is in danger. This could put Alex in an even more precarious position than just having the secret known, it could end Alex’s life. But she will not be deterred because after all, family is everything.
I really love this series! While only the second book so far, I hope it’s around for many, many years to come. The struggle between good and bad, the need to defend and protect those you care about, and the need to trust and be yourself all resonate throughout the stories, but most of all, it’s about family and I adore the Polish roots this family has. A great read for the true cozy fan!
I really love this series! While only the second book so far, I hope it’s around for many, many years to come. The struggle between good and bad, the need to defend and protect those you care about, and the need to trust and be yourself all resonate throughout the stories, but most of all, it’s about family and I adore the Polish roots this family has. A great read for the true cozy fan!
June 1, 2021
This is the second book in the Enchanted Bay series. Alex and her family are preparing for the mermaid festival in Bellamy Bay. When the artist in charge of the mural is murdered and Alex's friend, Celeste becomes the prime suspect, she sets out to prove who the real killer is. I loved the magical element of this series. Alex 's aunts and cousins are wonderful characters and compliment Alex really well. The mystery was intriguing and I loved how Alex's family history was woven into the story. I can't wait to read more in this series. I received this book from Crooked lane books and netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2021
Overall, this mystery book kept the reader on their toes and was very suspenseful. When you think you know who the killer is, the author would take you on a twist. It was very fun to read this book. I also liked how the mermaids used magical powers throughout the book so it had a little bit of fantasy as well. Since this book is the second in the series, I did not read the first so I felt like I was missing a little bit of information as I was reading. At the end of this book the story does not completely end, as they still have to ‘stop the bad guy’ so the reader would have to wait for book three. I also liked how not only did this book incorporate not just one magical creature (mermaids) but two (dragons) and made them more related to one another in this story; that was quite cool. Usually in a book you only get one or the other. I was actually scared at some points for the characters in the book during some of the suspenseful scenes but it never got to be too gory which is good for me because I do get grossed out easily.
September 10, 2021
I was a little skeptical when I began reading and discovered some interesting things about some of the characters in this book. But my daughter had told me that I'd been stuck in a rut in my reading -- to expand my horizons! So I read on. And, darn it, the story intrigued me! I completely enjoyed both the plot and the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 19, 2025
I enjoyed the second book, but slightly less than the first. The industrial intrigue just turns me off. But still love the characters, and the inclusion of the other mythologies was very interesting.
August 8, 2021
If you enjoy a supernatural cozy mystery, then this book and series will be for you. Aleksandra Daniels has recently returned to Bellamy Bay, North Carolina and found out a secret, she is a water witch. The town is full of people that have descended from creatures of fairytales and myths such as mermaids and dragons. In this story, they are planning the annual Mermaid Festival and Alex is helping her friend Celeste. The committee has hired renowned artist Neve Ryland to paint a mermaid mural at the local park. She seems to be drawn to Alex as well as Celeste's boyfriend Jasper, director of Bellamy Bay's history museum. When Neve is found dead in his office, Celeste is suspected of a crime of passion. As Alex and her relatives begin to investigate, they find out things about Neve that scare them just a bit. Will they find the real killer and can they prove who killed Neve?
I enjoyed the first book in this series and wanted to give this one a try. I found this book had a lot more of the supernatural in it than the first. We learn a lot more about water witches and who descended from mermaids, as well as those who may have some dragon in them. Detective Jack Frazier, Alex's "friend" is a bit more open in his investigating but he never would have solved the mystery without her interference. There were a few suspects and as Alex gets closer, someone is trying to stop her. She does not give up and her tenacious personality puts her in danger a couple of times. I enjoyed getting to know the characters more, and seeing Alex become a part of the community. There is a lot more magic in this one with some more secrets revealed as this story comes to a satisfactory ending. Emily Durante narrates this audiobook and does a nice job with the story. She uses her voice to add emotion and excitement. I have listened to many books she has narrated and am very comfortable with her narration. If you are a fan of cozy mysteries, especially those with magic and witches, then you will enjoy this series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I enjoyed the first book in this series and wanted to give this one a try. I found this book had a lot more of the supernatural in it than the first. We learn a lot more about water witches and who descended from mermaids, as well as those who may have some dragon in them. Detective Jack Frazier, Alex's "friend" is a bit more open in his investigating but he never would have solved the mystery without her interference. There were a few suspects and as Alex gets closer, someone is trying to stop her. She does not give up and her tenacious personality puts her in danger a couple of times. I enjoyed getting to know the characters more, and seeing Alex become a part of the community. There is a lot more magic in this one with some more secrets revealed as this story comes to a satisfactory ending. Emily Durante narrates this audiobook and does a nice job with the story. She uses her voice to add emotion and excitement. I have listened to many books she has narrated and am very comfortable with her narration. If you are a fan of cozy mysteries, especially those with magic and witches, then you will enjoy this series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
April 6, 2021
This is the second book in the Enchanted Bay Mystery series and continues with the story of Aleksandra Daniels (Alex) and how she is living her life in Bellamy Bay as a water witch. If you don’t enjoy books with paranormal aspects in it, then this isn’t for you. However, I would suggest giving it a shot as the characters are well-written and this story is good.
The town of Bellamy Bay is having a Mermaid Festival and an artist named Neve Ryland is in town to create a mermaid-themed mural. Neve causes waves in town by spending too much time with Alex’s friend Celeste’s boyfriend. She also drops a bomb on Alex about the “mermaid gene” and insinuating that she is involved with corporate espionage or knows corporate secrets. Did one of these get her killed? When Celeste becomes the prime suspect in Neve’s death, Alex pulls out all the stops to help clear her friend’s name. There are plenty of suspects in this story as well as many twists and turns in the plot. The characters of Alex, her Aunt Lidia, and cousins Minka and Kamila seem like real people as you read about them and the strong women lead characters are enjoyable.
When I started this book, I realized I had read the first one already and loved it and was thrilled to read the second one early. I enjoyed this story as well as the first, but felt a little frustrated with Alex’s relationship with Jack. I’m not a big fan of love triangles, but I can see her attraction to Dylan and her wondering if it is real or not given the magic he possesses. The magical aspect of the book keeps you on your toes wondering who is good and who is evil. I can’t wait for the next installment to see if the future plot lines I have imagined in my head will come true.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The town of Bellamy Bay is having a Mermaid Festival and an artist named Neve Ryland is in town to create a mermaid-themed mural. Neve causes waves in town by spending too much time with Alex’s friend Celeste’s boyfriend. She also drops a bomb on Alex about the “mermaid gene” and insinuating that she is involved with corporate espionage or knows corporate secrets. Did one of these get her killed? When Celeste becomes the prime suspect in Neve’s death, Alex pulls out all the stops to help clear her friend’s name. There are plenty of suspects in this story as well as many twists and turns in the plot. The characters of Alex, her Aunt Lidia, and cousins Minka and Kamila seem like real people as you read about them and the strong women lead characters are enjoyable.
When I started this book, I realized I had read the first one already and loved it and was thrilled to read the second one early. I enjoyed this story as well as the first, but felt a little frustrated with Alex’s relationship with Jack. I’m not a big fan of love triangles, but I can see her attraction to Dylan and her wondering if it is real or not given the magic he possesses. The magical aspect of the book keeps you on your toes wondering who is good and who is evil. I can’t wait for the next installment to see if the future plot lines I have imagined in my head will come true.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2021
A Hex for Danger is book two in the Enchanted Bay Mystery series. Water witch Aleksandra Daniels is trying to keep her magic hidden while working at her family's herbal apothecary. Alex and friend Celeste, who herself has Caribbean mermaid heritage, have been planning the annual Mermaid Festival. Famous artist Neve, who is in town to decorate the park with a mermaid-themed mural, intrigues Alex but annoys Celeste who feels Neve is spending too much time with Celeste's boyfriend Jasper. A reception for Neve ends with her dead in Jasper's office. With police convinced of Celeste's guilt, Alex steps in to investigate herself.
I particularly enjoyed the town, Alex's magical family, and the fun new magic elements that build on book one. I recommend reading the books in order to best enjoy and understand the character and town connections.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #cozymystery
I particularly enjoyed the town, Alex's magical family, and the fun new magic elements that build on book one. I recommend reading the books in order to best enjoy and understand the character and town connections.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #cozymystery
March 18, 2021
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Alex Daniels is extra busy right now, between helping to run the family business (an herbal apothecary) and helping her friend Celeste plan the annual Mermaid Festival. Then renowned artist Neve Ryland, who is in town to paint a mermaid-themed mural in the park, is found murdered. Celeste is the prime suspect because Neve had been spending so much one-on-one time with Celeste's boyfriend, Jasper. Alex is determined to clear her friend's name, and uncover the true killer.
I realy enjoy this series. It is a fun diversion from the normal set of fantasy characters. Set off the coast of NC, and with a cast of mermaids and dragons, it adds depth to the normal magical element. This is a fun quick read with a great mystery, perfect for anyone who enjoys mysteries or books in the fantasy genre.
Alex Daniels is extra busy right now, between helping to run the family business (an herbal apothecary) and helping her friend Celeste plan the annual Mermaid Festival. Then renowned artist Neve Ryland, who is in town to paint a mermaid-themed mural in the park, is found murdered. Celeste is the prime suspect because Neve had been spending so much one-on-one time with Celeste's boyfriend, Jasper. Alex is determined to clear her friend's name, and uncover the true killer.
I realy enjoy this series. It is a fun diversion from the normal set of fantasy characters. Set off the coast of NC, and with a cast of mermaids and dragons, it adds depth to the normal magical element. This is a fun quick read with a great mystery, perfect for anyone who enjoys mysteries or books in the fantasy genre.
May 1, 2021
A Spell For Trouble was one of my favourite reads of 2020 and I believe A Hex For Danger will be similarly rated.
The setting is utterly delightful. Bellamy Bay is a little coastal town in North Carolina and that itself lends a calming ambiance. However, I do love the scenes set in the family’s apothecary, Botanika. If only I could get my hands on some of those teas and soaps! To jazz things up even more this go around, Minka and Celeste are working on the town’s big annual Mermaid Festival. The descriptions of the Mermaid Ball are simply enchanting and add an extra layer of fun to this book.
The characters once again completely charmed me, especially Aunt Lidia with her sweetness, baking prowess and witchy intuition. But don’t cross anyone in her family or you’ll be seeing her mean side! She’s very much like Celeste’s mom, Josephine, in that regard. Josephine and Celeste break in a touch of Haitian patois and culture with their mixed heritage. I loved that! Cousin Minka’s bubbly personality brings a spark that is only balanced by her sister’s calm astuteness.
And then we come to our main character, Alex, and her love interests. There is the boyfriend, Jack, but there is also a far more interesting connection with fellow witch, Dylan. Book 1 ended with Alex choosing Jack and Book 2 seems to be going that way as well. However, there’s a far stronger connection between Dylan and Alex. Added to that Jack seems to have no openness to Alex’s magical side at all. There’s also the fact that Alex certainly gets all up in the police business, even a bit aggressively so. Dylan might have some other issues but the chemistry is definitely better. Guess it’s pretty obvious who I’m rooting for! I’m not usually a fan if one triangles but this one has me intrigued.
Oh, and the mystery is pretty good too. We have to figure out who killed artist, Neve. There is a lot of evidence piling up against family friend, Celeste, and at a couple points I wondered if she might be guilty after all. However, there are several other viable suspects too, each with a motive and opportunity. Added to that there is a previous murder that may or may not be related and could have been committed by the same person, or maybe not. So juicy! We end up with quite the dramatic reveal, that’s only topped by some revelations made by Dylan after. Exciting.
I wish these books weren’t so far apart. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Overall, A Hex For Danger is a fantastic cozy mystery best suited to those who enjoy a dip into magical worlds.
The setting is utterly delightful. Bellamy Bay is a little coastal town in North Carolina and that itself lends a calming ambiance. However, I do love the scenes set in the family’s apothecary, Botanika. If only I could get my hands on some of those teas and soaps! To jazz things up even more this go around, Minka and Celeste are working on the town’s big annual Mermaid Festival. The descriptions of the Mermaid Ball are simply enchanting and add an extra layer of fun to this book.
The characters once again completely charmed me, especially Aunt Lidia with her sweetness, baking prowess and witchy intuition. But don’t cross anyone in her family or you’ll be seeing her mean side! She’s very much like Celeste’s mom, Josephine, in that regard. Josephine and Celeste break in a touch of Haitian patois and culture with their mixed heritage. I loved that! Cousin Minka’s bubbly personality brings a spark that is only balanced by her sister’s calm astuteness.
And then we come to our main character, Alex, and her love interests. There is the boyfriend, Jack, but there is also a far more interesting connection with fellow witch, Dylan. Book 1 ended with Alex choosing Jack and Book 2 seems to be going that way as well. However, there’s a far stronger connection between Dylan and Alex. Added to that Jack seems to have no openness to Alex’s magical side at all. There’s also the fact that Alex certainly gets all up in the police business, even a bit aggressively so. Dylan might have some other issues but the chemistry is definitely better. Guess it’s pretty obvious who I’m rooting for! I’m not usually a fan if one triangles but this one has me intrigued.
Oh, and the mystery is pretty good too. We have to figure out who killed artist, Neve. There is a lot of evidence piling up against family friend, Celeste, and at a couple points I wondered if she might be guilty after all. However, there are several other viable suspects too, each with a motive and opportunity. Added to that there is a previous murder that may or may not be related and could have been committed by the same person, or maybe not. So juicy! We end up with quite the dramatic reveal, that’s only topped by some revelations made by Dylan after. Exciting.
I wish these books weren’t so far apart. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Overall, A Hex For Danger is a fantastic cozy mystery best suited to those who enjoy a dip into magical worlds.
June 2, 2021
“A Hex for Danger” by Esme Addison the 2nd instalment in the "An Enchanted Bay Mystery". What a great follow up to the last book, I just love the whole mermaid, magical theme in this series. The annual Mermaid Festival is the setting for Esme Addison's sunny-yet-sinister second Enchanted Bay mystery, perfect for fans of Heather Blake and Bailey Cates.
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it over 2 days. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises. The setting of Bellamy Bay was nice and I am a sucker for a cozy set in North Carolina. This series is becoming a favourite and not just cause it centres around mermaids.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends. I am looking forward to book 3!
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it over 2 days. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises. The setting of Bellamy Bay was nice and I am a sucker for a cozy set in North Carolina. This series is becoming a favourite and not just cause it centres around mermaids.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends. I am looking forward to book 3!
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
August 2, 2024
I enjoyed the first book in the series but this one ran off the rails for me. The paranormal elements got much more twee and started acting as sleuthing shortcuts. The heroine's relationship with her cop boyfriend becomes strained because he keeps "arresting her family members" - never mind that her cousin looks guilty as heck and the heroine's only defense of her is "well she couldn't have done it, SHE'S MY COUSIN!" Girl, every killer is somebodies brother, sister, cousin, son, daughter or pet goldfish. Then the author does what I feared she was going to do - she tries to shoehorn in a love triangle where the other guy used black magic on the heroine in the first book and continues to be Shady AF in this book. I kept reading because I wanted to know who did it, but when the dragons showed up I knew that I wouldn't read Book 3 if it ever does appear.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2021
Apparently I did not realize that this was a follow up book. There was at least one before it, so I was a little lost when they referred to things that had happened before. I also had trouble getting into this book, tried to read it a couple of times and put it down before coming back to it. The plot seems to be some what original, The main characters family has a history that dates back to when mermaids (yes, they were a thing) were common place. The family has inherited some magic, such as being able to control water and they are telepathic. Of course, there is the "bad" family in town, who have a history of dragons in their family and the two are at odds. I am not interested enough to continue looking for books from this series.
August 26, 2025
"A Hex for Danger (Enchanted Bay Mystery #2)" by Esme Addison has Alex and her family preparing the annual Mermaid Festival in their town of Bellamy Bay, North Carolina. Kicker is that it's actually mermaid decedents putting on this festival and the non-magicals don't even know it. Someone does know though, and it leads to the sudden death of an artist who was hired to paint a mural for the festival.
Alex feels compelled to investigate since her detective boyfriend is fairly narrow minded once he has a suspect in mind. Honestly, other than he's supposedly good looking and he's just like her dad (she seems to have daddy issues), I don't really get why they're together. She keeps investigating despite threats on her life and him begging her to butt out. While doing this she uncovers more about the magical world as well as the culprit.
Alex feels compelled to investigate since her detective boyfriend is fairly narrow minded once he has a suspect in mind. Honestly, other than he's supposedly good looking and he's just like her dad (she seems to have daddy issues), I don't really get why they're together. She keeps investigating despite threats on her life and him begging her to butt out. While doing this she uncovers more about the magical world as well as the culprit.
February 7, 2021
And here I thought that the Polish immigrants all settled in the upper Midwest! Never knew there was an enclave in South Carolina, and I'd never heard about the mermaid legend of Warsaw. So this history geek had a really great time reading about a magical community within a regular community and the investigation of a murder. Terrific cozy well written with engaging, fun characters. Loved it!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
February 23, 2021
One of my new favorite cozy mystery series! It’s full of twists and turns and red herrings. The characters are well developed and interesting, There are mythical creatures and legends galore! Can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
July 10, 2021
In a quaint town with both the magical and mundane, Neve, a friendly new comer, ends up murdered. Neve knew about the magicals and Alex is convinced there is more behind her death.
This book was so fun! I adored the small town and close knit family aspect. I loved the addition of mermaids and dragons (magicals) all while having a murder to solve and a mystery to uncover. This was such a light hearted change of pace as far as mysteries go! Loved it from beginning to end!
This book was so fun! I adored the small town and close knit family aspect. I loved the addition of mermaids and dragons (magicals) all while having a murder to solve and a mystery to uncover. This was such a light hearted change of pace as far as mysteries go! Loved it from beginning to end!
January 31, 2021
Loved reading this book and series. 1 of my favorite authors
August 2, 2021
Read the first one for Bookclub this summer and had to immediately buy this one! Couldn’t put it down so definitely recommend. Can’t wait for the third book!!
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July 12, 2021This is one of my favorite paranormal cozy mystery series.
To read my full review, go to FreshFiction.com
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to review this book.
To read my full review, go to FreshFiction.com
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to review this book.
February 21, 2021
Esme Addison makes a huge splash with the second book in the Enchanted Bay mysteries !
It's hard for me to write a synopsis without giving too much away so I'll jump into the review! Addison's writing transports the reader to Bellamy Bay flawlessly. Her descriptions of the apothecary shop were so vivid that I felt I could put on my coat, drive downtown, and visit it myself. I want to try everything the shop sells. And the food! Her descriptions are so rich that I started looking up restaurants in my area that sell the food she writes about so I could taste it myself.
I'm glad that we got to revisit reader favorite characters from book one and got introduced to new characters for future books. Without giving much away, I'm looking forward to the new dynamic presented between our main character and one of her childhood friends. As with book one, I was left wanting more but will have to wait patiently for book three 😊 I could definitely see this being turned into a tv series, too.
It's hard for me to write a synopsis without giving too much away so I'll jump into the review! Addison's writing transports the reader to Bellamy Bay flawlessly. Her descriptions of the apothecary shop were so vivid that I felt I could put on my coat, drive downtown, and visit it myself. I want to try everything the shop sells. And the food! Her descriptions are so rich that I started looking up restaurants in my area that sell the food she writes about so I could taste it myself.
I'm glad that we got to revisit reader favorite characters from book one and got introduced to new characters for future books. Without giving much away, I'm looking forward to the new dynamic presented between our main character and one of her childhood friends. As with book one, I was left wanting more but will have to wait patiently for book three 😊 I could definitely see this being turned into a tv series, too.
July 12, 2023
Here's my conspiracy theory: The author of the first book in this series died under mysterious circumstances (appropriately enough) and the publisher didn't want to end the series after one book so they hired someone else to write this second book except the new person sucks.
That's the only explanation I can come up with for why this one was nowhere near as well-written or enjoyable as its predecessor.
Yeah, I'm pretty disappointed, because I had really liked A Spell for Trouble and thought it was a step above most cozy mysteries. But this one was a step (or two or three) back down. The writing itself is quite messy. There are a lot of typographical errors, but I don't really put that on the author. But there are also just a lot of clunky sentences, repeated words within the same sentence, painful dialogue, silly over-the-top emotions, and so on. I liked the main character Alex in the first book, but in this one she was mostly annoying and also came across as kind of dumb. There were too many side characters involved, and I know most cozies have a large cast, but in this case it was overkill, because it ended up seeming like almost every one of them had something to do with the murders.
Speaking of which, the plot was so convoluted! The author really needed to take a few ingredients out of the soup here. And I would have some suggestions for which ones because good Lord, this got so goofy and absurd by the time the reveals start coming. The magical aspects in the first book were fun and well done, but here she just dialed it up to 11 and kept going, and more than once I found myself rolling my eyes and groaning. We get more than one villain monologue scene, and then even after we know what's happened with the central crimes, the story just kept going and going.
I did enjoy Alex's family again and their awesome witchy apothecary shop. The small town vibes were cute and I did think some elements of the mythology aspects were neat. But this really felt phoned in for the most part, or like they accidentally published a first draft that hadn't gone through any revisions. I don't know if there will be more in the series, but I'm not all that eager to continue with it anyway, sad to say.
That's the only explanation I can come up with for why this one was nowhere near as well-written or enjoyable as its predecessor.
Yeah, I'm pretty disappointed, because I had really liked A Spell for Trouble and thought it was a step above most cozy mysteries. But this one was a step (or two or three) back down. The writing itself is quite messy. There are a lot of typographical errors, but I don't really put that on the author. But there are also just a lot of clunky sentences, repeated words within the same sentence, painful dialogue, silly over-the-top emotions, and so on. I liked the main character Alex in the first book, but in this one she was mostly annoying and also came across as kind of dumb. There were too many side characters involved, and I know most cozies have a large cast, but in this case it was overkill, because it ended up seeming like almost every one of them had something to do with the murders.
Speaking of which, the plot was so convoluted! The author really needed to take a few ingredients out of the soup here. And I would have some suggestions for which ones because good Lord, this got so goofy and absurd by the time the reveals start coming. The magical aspects in the first book were fun and well done, but here she just dialed it up to 11 and kept going, and more than once I found myself rolling my eyes and groaning. We get more than one villain monologue scene, and then even after we know what's happened with the central crimes, the story just kept going and going.
I did enjoy Alex's family again and their awesome witchy apothecary shop. The small town vibes were cute and I did think some elements of the mythology aspects were neat. But this really felt phoned in for the most part, or like they accidentally published a first draft that hadn't gone through any revisions. I don't know if there will be more in the series, but I'm not all that eager to continue with it anyway, sad to say.
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