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Kitchen Witch Mysteries #0.5
Chili Cauldron Curse
New York Times bestselling author Lynn Cahoon introduces a new heroine with her own special brand of culinary magic in this novella to introduce her Kitchen Witch series.
When Mia Malone’s grandmother asks her to take a week away from her restaurant job and come to Magic Springs, Idaho, she’s happy to oblige. Like Mia, Grans has witchcraft running through her veins, and life with her is never boring. Plus, the cause is a good one—helping Grans get the local food bank up and running again. But there’s an unappetizing surprise in store. While Mia is knee-deep in boxes of donated produce, she encounters the body of Dorian Alexander.
Dorian was a warlock, leader of the local coven. He was also her Grans’ new beau. There’s no potion that’ll make this trouble disappear. But if Mia wants to keep her Grans—now a prime suspect—from serving a spell in prison, she’ll have to unearth the real killer fast. . . .
When Mia Malone’s grandmother asks her to take a week away from her restaurant job and come to Magic Springs, Idaho, she’s happy to oblige. Like Mia, Grans has witchcraft running through her veins, and life with her is never boring. Plus, the cause is a good one—helping Grans get the local food bank up and running again. But there’s an unappetizing surprise in store. While Mia is knee-deep in boxes of donated produce, she encounters the body of Dorian Alexander.
Dorian was a warlock, leader of the local coven. He was also her Grans’ new beau. There’s no potion that’ll make this trouble disappear. But if Mia wants to keep her Grans—now a prime suspect—from serving a spell in prison, she’ll have to unearth the real killer fast. . . .
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First published August 25, 2020
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About the author
Lynn Cahoon
105 books2,370 followersNYT and USA Today bestselling author, Lynn Cahoon, writes the Tourist Trap, Cat Latimer, Farm-to-Fork, Kitchen Witch, Survivors' Book Club, the Haunted Life, and the Bainbridge Island cozy mystery series. No matter where the mystery is set, readers can expect a fun ride Sign up for her newsletter at www.lynncahoon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
May 29, 2024
This is a paranormal cozy mystery, and this is the 0.50 book in the Kitchen Witch Mystery series. This is novella to introduce us to the Kitchen Witch series. I really enjoy Cozy mystery that has Witches. This is a short book that just lets us meet the characters, but I do not think it goes really into the mystery. I did not think it would. The book has made me want to pick up the first book in the series when it comes out, so I guess it did the job it was made to do. There is a chili recipe at the end of the book, and I cannot wait to try it. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington Books) or author (Lynn Cahoon) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
May 28, 2021
Chili Cauldron Curse is the prequel novella in the Kitchen Witch Mysteries written by Lynn Cahoon. I've read and caught up fully on two of Cahoon's series in the past, and since I enjoy her writing, I decided to start another, of which there are plenty. I saw this book and the first full-length novel being promoted last year, but I passed given I had too much on my TBR and am fickle when it comes to fairy/fantasy/magic in my cozies. I prefer the realistic kind, assuming so much murder in a small town is realistic; hahaha. But I pushed myself to give it a chance this week when I received her latest in the series as an ARC on NetGalley. Since I must read books in order, I purchased this one and borrowed the next from the library, to see how I felt about the series.
Mia Malone, residing not too far from Boise, Idaho, has some magic in her. She's gotten it from her grandmother, known affectionately as Grans. Mia has returned home to their small town to help Grans help another friend get a food bank set up properly. But when she returns, not only does the place have a horrendous stench, but Grans's new boyfriend is found dead... and there is evidence that another witch had something to do with it. Few know about the magic in their town, and Mia is determined not to let their secrets get out. She investigates the death, butting heads with the local cop she knew from high school. Her boyfriend's younger sister is also visiting, and she learns the secret. How's it all gonna turn out?
I enjoyed the book, but it's not the ideal match for me so far. I have WAY too many questions about the role of magic and what the rules are in terms of what Mia can and can't do. I want to know the limitations, and so... I struggle in these types of settings. That said, the writing is strong. The characters have potential. The murder mystery made sense. I'm going to read the first full-length novel next, to keep everything straight in my head. Assuming I like this one, I'll buy the next half-novella and then I can read the newest one coming out later this year on NetGalley. But after 4 books, or 2 books and 2 short novellas, I'll know if I want to continue it or stick with the author's other series. I also think I heard she has a new one coming out at some point too. Exciting!
Mia Malone, residing not too far from Boise, Idaho, has some magic in her. She's gotten it from her grandmother, known affectionately as Grans. Mia has returned home to their small town to help Grans help another friend get a food bank set up properly. But when she returns, not only does the place have a horrendous stench, but Grans's new boyfriend is found dead... and there is evidence that another witch had something to do with it. Few know about the magic in their town, and Mia is determined not to let their secrets get out. She investigates the death, butting heads with the local cop she knew from high school. Her boyfriend's younger sister is also visiting, and she learns the secret. How's it all gonna turn out?
I enjoyed the book, but it's not the ideal match for me so far. I have WAY too many questions about the role of magic and what the rules are in terms of what Mia can and can't do. I want to know the limitations, and so... I struggle in these types of settings. That said, the writing is strong. The characters have potential. The murder mystery made sense. I'm going to read the first full-length novel next, to keep everything straight in my head. Assuming I like this one, I'll buy the next half-novella and then I can read the newest one coming out later this year on NetGalley. But after 4 books, or 2 books and 2 short novellas, I'll know if I want to continue it or stick with the author's other series. I also think I heard she has a new one coming out at some point too. Exciting!
July 13, 2020
CHILI CAULDRON CURSE by Lynn Cahoon is the prequel to the Kitchen Witch cozy mystery series. It is set mostly in Magic Springs, Idaho and this is the first book that I have read by this author. Since this is a novella, it is introducing the reader to the main character Mia, her grandmother (Grans) and a few of the people in the small community.
The book is well-written with characters that have some depth and there is an interesting plot. However, due to the short length of the book, the mystery was resolved rather quickly.
The characters are compelling, fascinating, and felt three-dimensional. There was enough at stake to keep me engaged throughout the story. The world-building was good and gave a clear sense of place. Themes include family, relationships, volunteerism, magic, and much more.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read. I would recommend it to those that enjoy witch cozy mysteries and are looking for a new series to start. I look forward to reading the next book in this series as well as checking out this author’s other series.
Thanks to Kensington Books and Lynn Cahoon for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The book is well-written with characters that have some depth and there is an interesting plot. However, due to the short length of the book, the mystery was resolved rather quickly.
The characters are compelling, fascinating, and felt three-dimensional. There was enough at stake to keep me engaged throughout the story. The world-building was good and gave a clear sense of place. Themes include family, relationships, volunteerism, magic, and much more.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read. I would recommend it to those that enjoy witch cozy mysteries and are looking for a new series to start. I look forward to reading the next book in this series as well as checking out this author’s other series.
Thanks to Kensington Books and Lynn Cahoon for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
August 15, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse is a quick, fun introduction to Lynn Cahoon's new paranormal cozy mystery series, Kitchen Witch Mysteries. We meet Mia Malone, a kitchen witch who is back in her hometown of Magic Springs, Idaho, to assist her grandmother and her friend in getting the local food bank in order before the new school year begins. When local coven leader, Dorian Alexander, who also happens to be her grandmother's boyfriend, is found dead in the food bank, Mia becomes determined to find the culprit. Will she be able to solve the murder and get the food bank up and running again?
This delightful prequel was a great way to introduce the characters and give readers a feel of the community. The mystery was a little light, but that's to be expected given the length of the story. It still kept me guessing and the killer's identity was a surprise to me.
All in all, I have heard nothing but wonderful things about this author's books and look forward to continuing on with this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This delightful prequel was a great way to introduce the characters and give readers a feel of the community. The mystery was a little light, but that's to be expected given the length of the story. It still kept me guessing and the killer's identity was a surprise to me.
All in all, I have heard nothing but wonderful things about this author's books and look forward to continuing on with this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2020
The opening book for a new series, Chili Cauldron Curse sets up the scene and the main characters for future books.
I usually enjoy a good witchy cosy and this has the makings for an entertaining series. I did wonder why the author chose to start with a novella because its shorter length meant it did not have a lot of depth. The characters popped on and off the page without making much impression and the mystery was brief and easy to guess.
Still all the basics were there for a promising series and I will certainly watch out for the next book. (I am very concerned actually about the poor cat!)
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I usually enjoy a good witchy cosy and this has the makings for an entertaining series. I did wonder why the author chose to start with a novella because its shorter length meant it did not have a lot of depth. The characters popped on and off the page without making much impression and the mystery was brief and easy to guess.
Still all the basics were there for a promising series and I will certainly watch out for the next book. (I am very concerned actually about the poor cat!)
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 11, 2021
Chili Cauldron Curse by Lynn Cahoon is a prequel novella to the new paranormal cozy Kitchen Witch Mysteries series. As with most cozy series this first novella does have it’s own mystery to solve so it can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. Of course the character development in this one will carry over to the rest of the series.
Mia Malone has traveled back to her hometown of Magic Springs, Idaho at the urging of her grandmother Mia fondly calls Grans. Mia’s family is far from normal with Mia inheriting her Grans magical abilities and she now uses that witchcraft to create her tasty culinary treats.
Mia quickly jumps in when she arrives in Magic Springs helping Grans get ready to open a local food bank up. However, Mia can’t help but notice a particular nasty smell coming from the boxes of food. Instead of some spoiled wares though Mia comes across a dead body and when her Grans becomes suspect #1 Mia knows she needs to find the real killer.
I have been a fan of Lynn Cahoon’s Farm-to-Fork Mystery series for a while now and have wanted to read more from her so of course I was excited to see a new series starting. This one is different from what I have read seeing that it has a paranormal twist with the protagonist being a witch so I was really excited to get going. My one complaint with this opener was it only being a novella it goes by really quickly so I felt like I’d barely gotten to know anyone in the series just yet. I’m going to give this opener three and a half stars simply because while I enjoyed it I was left wanting to know more still.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Mia Malone has traveled back to her hometown of Magic Springs, Idaho at the urging of her grandmother Mia fondly calls Grans. Mia’s family is far from normal with Mia inheriting her Grans magical abilities and she now uses that witchcraft to create her tasty culinary treats.
Mia quickly jumps in when she arrives in Magic Springs helping Grans get ready to open a local food bank up. However, Mia can’t help but notice a particular nasty smell coming from the boxes of food. Instead of some spoiled wares though Mia comes across a dead body and when her Grans becomes suspect #1 Mia knows she needs to find the real killer.
I have been a fan of Lynn Cahoon’s Farm-to-Fork Mystery series for a while now and have wanted to read more from her so of course I was excited to see a new series starting. This one is different from what I have read seeing that it has a paranormal twist with the protagonist being a witch so I was really excited to get going. My one complaint with this opener was it only being a novella it goes by really quickly so I felt like I’d barely gotten to know anyone in the series just yet. I’m going to give this opener three and a half stars simply because while I enjoyed it I was left wanting to know more still.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this...it was no surprise I would because I read the first one and loved it!
I’m interviewing Lynn Cahoon this Sunday @ 2pm on my channel. It’s live so everybody is welcome to join into the discussion and the fun!!
I’m interviewing Lynn Cahoon this Sunday @ 2pm on my channel. It’s live so everybody is welcome to join into the discussion and the fun!!
January 30, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Chili Cauldron Curse introduces us to Mia Malone and her grandmother. Mia has come to Magic Springs for a week to help reorganize a local food pantry. Mia and Gran are witches like many other residents of Magic Springs. Like Dorian Alexander, a local warlock and special friend oF Mia’s grandmother. Sadly a weird odor at the food pantry leads to a very dead Dorian Alexander. Gran is the police’s prime suspect. It may take more than a little magic to find the killer but Mia is not going to let her Gran do the time when she didn’t do the crime.
I liked Mia right away but felt bad for all the changes she was going to have to adjust to before the story came to an end. I enjoyed the strong relationship she has with her grandmother and the way she took her boyfriend’s sister under her wing. Mia has a huge heart and it is her natural instinct to help people. I know part of that is because she is a kitchen witch but beyond that, she is a caring person.
The mystery was a little light but I love novellas like this because we can get to know enough about the characters before we dive into the first full-length mystery. It opens up time in the new story to give readers a more complex mystery. We get a peek into what time of sleuth Mia is going to be while still leaving room to explore what it means to be a kitchen witch.
I love the way Ms. Cahoon blends humor into her stories. This time Gran’s magic takes a surprising turn that had me giggling for several pages.
Chili Cauldron Curse was an engaging little story giving us a wonderful taste of what to expect from the Kitchen Witch Mysteries. I finished this book and escaped right into One Poison Pie
Chili Cauldron Curse introduces us to Mia Malone and her grandmother. Mia has come to Magic Springs for a week to help reorganize a local food pantry. Mia and Gran are witches like many other residents of Magic Springs. Like Dorian Alexander, a local warlock and special friend oF Mia’s grandmother. Sadly a weird odor at the food pantry leads to a very dead Dorian Alexander. Gran is the police’s prime suspect. It may take more than a little magic to find the killer but Mia is not going to let her Gran do the time when she didn’t do the crime.
I liked Mia right away but felt bad for all the changes she was going to have to adjust to before the story came to an end. I enjoyed the strong relationship she has with her grandmother and the way she took her boyfriend’s sister under her wing. Mia has a huge heart and it is her natural instinct to help people. I know part of that is because she is a kitchen witch but beyond that, she is a caring person.
The mystery was a little light but I love novellas like this because we can get to know enough about the characters before we dive into the first full-length mystery. It opens up time in the new story to give readers a more complex mystery. We get a peek into what time of sleuth Mia is going to be while still leaving room to explore what it means to be a kitchen witch.
I love the way Ms. Cahoon blends humor into her stories. This time Gran’s magic takes a surprising turn that had me giggling for several pages.
Chili Cauldron Curse was an engaging little story giving us a wonderful taste of what to expect from the Kitchen Witch Mysteries. I finished this book and escaped right into One Poison Pie
January 1, 2021
Novella introducing some of the cast in the Kitchen Witch Mystery cozy series. The story was okay, however, I finished it feeling like I still have no idea what a kitchen witch is....
October 9, 2020
A novella prequel to a new series by Lynn Cahoon. I'll be interested to check out the next one. Not a fan of the narrator.
June 10, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse by Lynn Cahoon is a delightful novella of witchiness, cozy murder mystery, and cooking all wrapped up in one. I don’t believe that I’ve read anything by this author before, but a short mystery from Kensington Publishers sounded like just the thing to read.
The story takes place with a chili cook off. Mia, our main character, runs the event in terms of cleaning up a food bank for her grandmother, whose a practicing Wiccan. Magic runs in the family, however Mia’s not near as powerful as her grams, though she tries. When she volunteers to assist in running the food bank to help feed the poor, with the chili cook off upcoming as an event, she doesn’t bargain on finding a dead body right before the event’s set to take place…the body belonging to Dorian Alexander, who happens to be her grandmother’s boyfriend.
Threats abound, magic occurs, and cats get inhabited by ghosts in this delightful cozy mystery. This was a fun paranormal mystery, with a spark of potential romance sideplot that was interesting to me as well. With a recipe in back for chili that I’m intrigued in trying one day during the winter holidays, I highly recommend this novella for those in the mood for a fun, light hearted read. I’m pleased to give this five stars, and I’m definitely going to keep reading more from this author in the future.
The story takes place with a chili cook off. Mia, our main character, runs the event in terms of cleaning up a food bank for her grandmother, whose a practicing Wiccan. Magic runs in the family, however Mia’s not near as powerful as her grams, though she tries. When she volunteers to assist in running the food bank to help feed the poor, with the chili cook off upcoming as an event, she doesn’t bargain on finding a dead body right before the event’s set to take place…the body belonging to Dorian Alexander, who happens to be her grandmother’s boyfriend.
Threats abound, magic occurs, and cats get inhabited by ghosts in this delightful cozy mystery. This was a fun paranormal mystery, with a spark of potential romance sideplot that was interesting to me as well. With a recipe in back for chili that I’m intrigued in trying one day during the winter holidays, I highly recommend this novella for those in the mood for a fun, light hearted read. I’m pleased to give this five stars, and I’m definitely going to keep reading more from this author in the future.
November 24, 2020
Mystery got resolved a bit too quickly but it was a nice introduction to the characters. Intrigued enough to read more in the series.
*read for free with Kindle Unlimited *
*read for free with Kindle Unlimited *
June 18, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse is a quick, fun novella by author Lynn Cahoon. It is set in Idaho and introduces the reader to Mia, Grans, and the rest of the cast of her upcoming new series, the Kitchen Witch Mysteries. As the title suggests, there is a paranormal element to this new series, which I don't mind at all. Mia is relatable and the type of character that I believe I will enjoy as the series progresses. She heads home to visit her Grans and winds up with more than she bargains for - a volunteer project organizing the town food bank and a dead body. The story progresses nicely and we are introduced to a number of the town's citizens, some of whom I imagine will make reoccurring appearances in the series. The mystery was not as well developed as some of her other novellas, and Mia didn't do all that much in terms of sleuthing, but I thought this was a nice way to introduce the characters and provide a backstory before jumping into the first full-length book in the series.
I enjoyed the read and it made me curious and interested in reading the first book due out early next year. This author is a favorite of mine and I am always willing to try something new. This is a departure for her usually cozy mysteries, in that there is a paranormal element. I'm looking forward to seeing what she brings us with this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the read and it made me curious and interested in reading the first book due out early next year. This author is a favorite of mine and I am always willing to try something new. This is a departure for her usually cozy mysteries, in that there is a paranormal element. I'm looking forward to seeing what she brings us with this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
June 13, 2020
When Mia Malone’s grandmother asks for help, Mia has no problem helping out. She takes some time away from her boyfriend and job in Boise, Idaho and heads to Magic Springs, Idaho. Mia is more than happy to help her grandmother get the local food bank in shape as well as help with the chili cook off.
Magic Springs is a special place filled with witchcraft. Mia’s grandmother has magical powers and so does Mia. Her grandmother’s new boyfriend, Dorian Alexander, is a warlock and leader of their local coven. Things turn horrible when Mia finds his dead body in the food bank.
All eyes turn towards Mia’s grandmother as the prime suspect, but Mia knows she’s innocent. She vows to find the real killer, but quickly learns that Dorian had quite a few enemies to choose from.
Lynn Cahoon is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers, so I was thrilled to see she started a new series. This is a novella, a prequel to her new Kitchen Witch series. It’s a fast read and gives readers a chance to meet a whole new cast of characters. It’s just a taste of what I think will be a delightful paranormal cozy mystery series.
I liked Mia and her grandmother right off the bat. They are strong women who don’t back down. They are surrounded by a quirky supporting cast.
The story is mixed with mystery, humor and magic. This looks to be a fun series and I’m looking forward to reading the first full length book of the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Magic Springs is a special place filled with witchcraft. Mia’s grandmother has magical powers and so does Mia. Her grandmother’s new boyfriend, Dorian Alexander, is a warlock and leader of their local coven. Things turn horrible when Mia finds his dead body in the food bank.
All eyes turn towards Mia’s grandmother as the prime suspect, but Mia knows she’s innocent. She vows to find the real killer, but quickly learns that Dorian had quite a few enemies to choose from.
Lynn Cahoon is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers, so I was thrilled to see she started a new series. This is a novella, a prequel to her new Kitchen Witch series. It’s a fast read and gives readers a chance to meet a whole new cast of characters. It’s just a taste of what I think will be a delightful paranormal cozy mystery series.
I liked Mia and her grandmother right off the bat. They are strong women who don’t back down. They are surrounded by a quirky supporting cast.
The story is mixed with mystery, humor and magic. This looks to be a fun series and I’m looking forward to reading the first full length book of the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2021
Oooh! I can tell this is going to be a great series!!
August 31, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse by Lynn Cahoon has Mia Malone in Magic Springs, Idaho. She has taken a week off work at her grandmother’s request to help get the Magic Springs Food Bank into shape before school begins. The place smells from rotting produce and Mia is quick to use a spell to help locate the offending items. The next day, the smell is back. While searching for the source, Mia finds the body of Dorian Alexander, the local coven leader and her grandmother’s new beau. When Gran becomes the prime suspect, Mia begins her own investigation. The killer, though, does not take kindly to Mia interference. Has Mia cast her last spell? Chili Cauldron Curse is a prequel to the Kitchen Witch Mysteries (Book .5). I thought the book was well-written with steady pacing and interesting characters. There are three main characters that we are introduced to (Mia, Gran, and Christina). The author took the time to establish them and gave them depth. I look forward to learning more about Mia, Gran, and Christina Adams. I enjoyed the paranormal aspect. Mia is a kitchen witch. We only learn a little about the craft in this novella. I am intrigued and eager to know more especially about Mia’s kitchen witch doll, Gloria. The mystery was light, but that is to be expected with such a short story. I enjoyed following Mia as she investigated, gathering clues, and listing the suspects. Magic Springs, Idaho seems like a magical town that I look forward to exploring more in this series. I thought Chili Cauldron Curse was an engaging cozy mystery. I look forward to reading One Poison Pie. Chili Cauldron Curse is a magical tale with a wiped out warlock, a chili cook-off contest, a higgledy-piggledy food bank, a hesitant helper, and a romance at the end of its rope.
July 1, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse is a fun short novella. If you are a fan of cozy mysteries, you know Lynn Cahoon knows how to weave a good cozy, create well-rounded characters and craft a twisting and intriguing plot. The paranormal was a bit heavy for me, but that's just me. If paranormal cozies are your thing, you owe it to yourself to get a copy of this book!
August 4, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse an introduction to the Kitchen Witch Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon. Once again I think Lynn Cahoon has a hit series in the making! I absolutely love her Tourist Trap and Cat Latimer Mystery series, this will surely be a new favourite by this author.
Welcome to Magic Springs, Idaho. Having been to Idaho I could picture the area where the story is taking place and I found myself engrossed in the story and really enjoying the characters. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns that kept me guessing till the very end.
What a great way of introducing us to the main characters Mia, Grans, and Mr. Darcy the cat familiar. I can’t wait for ONE POISON PIE to be released. I highly recommend this new series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
Welcome to Magic Springs, Idaho. Having been to Idaho I could picture the area where the story is taking place and I found myself engrossed in the story and really enjoying the characters. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns that kept me guessing till the very end.
What a great way of introducing us to the main characters Mia, Grans, and Mr. Darcy the cat familiar. I can’t wait for ONE POISON PIE to be released. I highly recommend this new series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
September 2, 2020
This was such an awesome beginning for a new series, and it looks like one of my favorite authors has another hit series on her hands! :) ! All I can say is, I can't wait for January now that I've met Mia and her Grans. Christina, Mia's boyfriend's sister kind of grew on me too. She was very chill about the idea of Mia and Grams being witches, so at least there was no worry that she'd freak and tell her mom who already thought Mia was strange. Grams wasn't letting her be a slacker either and made her pull her weight around the house.
It was a shame that the person killed was actually someone nice, but that made Grans and Mia even more determined to find out who the culprit was. I liked how Mia and Christina worked together toward the end. Mia had a showdown with the killer, and the person responsible for telling the police was someone that surprised me. I'm very anxious for that first book to come out!
It was a shame that the person killed was actually someone nice, but that made Grans and Mia even more determined to find out who the culprit was. I liked how Mia and Christina worked together toward the end. Mia had a showdown with the killer, and the person responsible for telling the police was someone that surprised me. I'm very anxious for that first book to come out!
April 8, 2021
There is a sense of fun and light-hearted mystery in Chilli Cauldron Curse. I love Mia, the protagonist who is a witch whose magical power is cooking and making delicious food. And her eccentric grandmother.
Mr. Darcy Mia's cat gets possessed by Mia's grandmother's boyfriend.
There is a great plot in the story with the chili cook-off and helping the witchy community with a food drive. And the touch of a potential romance is exciting.
I'm excited to read more as this was a quick prequel to the series.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC to this book. This was an honest review.
Mr. Darcy Mia's cat gets possessed by Mia's grandmother's boyfriend.
There is a great plot in the story with the chili cook-off and helping the witchy community with a food drive. And the touch of a potential romance is exciting.
I'm excited to read more as this was a quick prequel to the series.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC to this book. This was an honest review.
June 28, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse by Lynn Cahoon is a prequel/introduction to Ms. Cahoon's new magical cozy mystery series, Kitchen Witch Mysteries.
This was a quick and easy to read introduction to Mia, Grans and the community of Magic Springs, Idaho. Being a novella length book the mystery was resolved quickly and without Mia actually doing anything more than stumbling into a conversation. I'm already looking forward to spending more time with Mia and Grans in Magic Springs.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
This was a quick and easy to read introduction to Mia, Grans and the community of Magic Springs, Idaho. Being a novella length book the mystery was resolved quickly and without Mia actually doing anything more than stumbling into a conversation. I'm already looking forward to spending more time with Mia and Grans in Magic Springs.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
June 9, 2021
An intriguing new series by one of my favorite authors has me sitting up and begging for more! Mia has taken time off from her job in Boise to help her grandmother get the local food pantry organized and ready to go before school starts, but a finding a dead body puts a damper on that plan especially when that dead body turns out to be the current leader of the local witches coven and Mia's grandmother's new beau. Excellent character development, although a few characters are too well developed and leave you disliking them greatly such as the childish younger sister of Mia's unsupportive boyfriend...yeah, he's no prize either. However, that is how you know the author is doing a great job of weaving great characters as you have a strong reaction to them. You absolutely will love Grandma and Mia! I absolutely can not wait to see what grandma is cooking up in the next book as it sounds like a great start to a fabulous new series in my favorite state of Idaho! The plot of this book was outstanding and well developed even though it was more of a novella length story which tells me this series is set to be another winner!
Merged review:
An intriguing new series by one of my favorite authors has me sitting up and begging for more! Mia has taken time off from her job in Boise to help her grandmother get the local food pantry organized and ready to go before school starts, but a finding a dead body puts a damper on that plan especially when that dead body turns out to be the current leader of the local witches coven and Mia's grandmother's new beau. Excellent character development, although a few characters are too well developed and leave you disliking them greatly such as the childish younger sister of Mia's unsupportive boyfriend...yeah, he's no prize either. However, that is how you know the author is doing a great job of weaving great characters as you have a strong reaction to them. You absolutely will love Grandma and Mia! I absolutely can not wait to see what grandma is cooking up in the next book as it sounds like a great start to a fabulous new series in my favorite state of Idaho! The plot of this book was outstanding and well developed even though it was more of a novella length story which tells me this series is set to be another winner!
Merged review:
An intriguing new series by one of my favorite authors has me sitting up and begging for more! Mia has taken time off from her job in Boise to help her grandmother get the local food pantry organized and ready to go before school starts, but a finding a dead body puts a damper on that plan especially when that dead body turns out to be the current leader of the local witches coven and Mia's grandmother's new beau. Excellent character development, although a few characters are too well developed and leave you disliking them greatly such as the childish younger sister of Mia's unsupportive boyfriend...yeah, he's no prize either. However, that is how you know the author is doing a great job of weaving great characters as you have a strong reaction to them. You absolutely will love Grandma and Mia! I absolutely can not wait to see what grandma is cooking up in the next book as it sounds like a great start to a fabulous new series in my favorite state of Idaho! The plot of this book was outstanding and well developed even though it was more of a novella length story which tells me this series is set to be another winner!
Read
September 9, 2020I really like Lynn Cahoon’s Tourist Trap mystery series and thought this sounded like a fun premise. I hate to be negative in reviews but I just couldn’t finish it because of the narrator’s voice. It grated on my nerves so that I couldn’t enjoy the story and had to quit. Maybe I’ll go back when the first book in the series comes out and try just reading it on my own.
March 6, 2021
This was a quick mystery, introducing the characters. I didn't like Christina at the beginning but I warmed up to her towards the end. Looking forward to reading book one in this series.
January 29, 2021
Chili Cauldron Curse earns 5/5 Possessed Felines...Entertaining Fun!
Mia Malone is a witch like her Grans, but neither use their magical skill selfishly or out of malice. Grans lives in Magic Springs, a small mountain community, and has asked for Mia’s help in organizing and devising a plan of action for the local food bank. It’s a big job and the reopening is only a few days away, but she has several volunteers of the same ilk coming in to help and her boyfriend’s non-magical sister is also primed, especially since it keeps her away from her parents’ disappointment over her decision not to attend college. So, all is set...well, that’s what Mia thinks. The local coven is in the midst of a power struggle and debate over the future of the coven and its place in the community. Mia is enlisted to provide assistance, but the struggle gets more complicated when the current leader and warlock and Mia’s grandmother’s beau, Dorian Alexander, is found murdered.
This novella was marvelous! Easily enjoyed in one sitting. Lynn Cahoon has created a lovely mountain community of magical and non-magical residents in the aptly named Magic Springs. The characters, led by the delightful Mia Malone, are varied in manner, personality, responses, and reactions, and the conflicts Mia has with her boyfriend not believing in her special abilities and, on the other hand, hiding it from his sister and other “muggles” in town added to my enjoyment. The magic element is not juvenile hocus-pocus, and although there’re stuck spirits, feline familiars, and potions brewing in the tub, it is presented in a way that adds realism and avoids creating caricatures of black-hatted crones with brooms. I sense that if the magic element were removed, one would still have a clever drama, cozy mystery, and enjoyable characters. Quite exciting!
What’s in a kitchen? Well, there’s, of course, a witch, but recipes, too! In this prequel novella, there is a Chili Cook-off, and despite Lynn’s limited experience with chili, she gives readers an easy-to-follow recipe for Woodstove Chili. She suggests serving with fresh cornbread, but no “knead” to make it from scratch. I personally enjoy the ease of “Krusteaz Southern Cornbread & Muffin Mix.” Enjoy!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Mia Malone is a witch like her Grans, but neither use their magical skill selfishly or out of malice. Grans lives in Magic Springs, a small mountain community, and has asked for Mia’s help in organizing and devising a plan of action for the local food bank. It’s a big job and the reopening is only a few days away, but she has several volunteers of the same ilk coming in to help and her boyfriend’s non-magical sister is also primed, especially since it keeps her away from her parents’ disappointment over her decision not to attend college. So, all is set...well, that’s what Mia thinks. The local coven is in the midst of a power struggle and debate over the future of the coven and its place in the community. Mia is enlisted to provide assistance, but the struggle gets more complicated when the current leader and warlock and Mia’s grandmother’s beau, Dorian Alexander, is found murdered.
This novella was marvelous! Easily enjoyed in one sitting. Lynn Cahoon has created a lovely mountain community of magical and non-magical residents in the aptly named Magic Springs. The characters, led by the delightful Mia Malone, are varied in manner, personality, responses, and reactions, and the conflicts Mia has with her boyfriend not believing in her special abilities and, on the other hand, hiding it from his sister and other “muggles” in town added to my enjoyment. The magic element is not juvenile hocus-pocus, and although there’re stuck spirits, feline familiars, and potions brewing in the tub, it is presented in a way that adds realism and avoids creating caricatures of black-hatted crones with brooms. I sense that if the magic element were removed, one would still have a clever drama, cozy mystery, and enjoyable characters. Quite exciting!
What’s in a kitchen? Well, there’s, of course, a witch, but recipes, too! In this prequel novella, there is a Chili Cook-off, and despite Lynn’s limited experience with chili, she gives readers an easy-to-follow recipe for Woodstove Chili. She suggests serving with fresh cornbread, but no “knead” to make it from scratch. I personally enjoy the ease of “Krusteaz Southern Cornbread & Muffin Mix.” Enjoy!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
January 22, 2021
I've heard such good things about Lynn Cahoon's books and the Tourist Trap series seems to be very popular. I was looking for a short cozy mystery to listen to, while packing for a move, and found this introductory novella to her kitchen witch series. The book had mostly rave reviews. I love the witchy cozy genre so I figured a two and a half hour listen was a low commitment way to find out if I like Cahoon's writing.
Well, darn. I'm not sure.
The audio book, narrated by Angie Hickman, was not great, but I hate to leave anything unfinished so when I noticed that the novella was available with Kindle Unlimited, I decided to see if reading the book went any better. Not so much. I almost chucked it, but persevering glutton for punishment that I am, I figured I'd just speed through it.
The first third is mind-numbingly boring. The characters spend so much time with dialogue that feels stilted and unnatural. The level of time spent on tedious minutiae about the food bank and how it needs to be organized before Mia, who is there to help her grandmother, has to go home - well, let me just say watching gelatin solidify overnight would be far more entertaining.
Mia is fairly clueless, especially for a witch. She really doesn't do a very good job of considering suspects. Things just kind of happen to her. Her boyfriend Isaac's clearly a giant ass who isn't invested in the relationship. He's ignoring her, but she's making excuses for him and thinks they just need to have a talk. Also, she hides who she is to make things go more smoothly with him and his family, who disapproves. Field of red flags anyone?
Soon, her boyfriend's feckless sister, Christina shows up. She's a total brat until later in the book, when suddenly she's just NOT. No development or epiphany or magical intervention to get this result; suddenly she's just cool. Same with several other characters in the story who are jerks until conveniently, they're not, and they save the day.
Oh, and the town is conveniently named, Magic Springs and pretty much the whole town is *gasp* in a coven. And the coven has a board. Ok. That's not unheard of, but that really only happens with covens that are large, open, community organizations, usually non-profits. And, instead of using the term, "hex bag," the author uses "satchel," which I have never ever heard a practicing witch use. At first I thought the narrator had mispronounced, sachet, which is at least acceptable for a bag of herbs. A satchel is a bag or a shoulder bag. A magical hex bag is sewn or tied closed and it's small. Did Cahoon even try to research this before she decided to write about witches? The only scenes with spells are pretty darn vague.
Mia has a feline familiar who she brings with her and she has a doll she uses for magical purposes, but she's left it at home with the boyfriend - the same boyfriend she felt uncomfortable leaving her cat with. However, she leaves her doll at home, just out in her kitchen - a magical tool just lying about. Um. Nope; especially not with a boyfriend who doesn't take her craft seriously.
I rolled my eyes A LOT at the half-ass witch stuff in the book. It doesn't need to be realism, but geez, think it through. Either get inventive and make up your own magical system or do some actual research, because a lot more people than you'd think are either dabbling or full on practicing some type of witchcraft or new age spirituality and those people are going to be drawn to these sorts of books. No need to get bogged down in a stack of books researching. We have the internet. This just feels so lazy. Imagine if Betty Hechtman had decided to write her crochet cozy series and just made terminology up.
Now, about halfway through, things start to pick up a bit. Characters sort of develop. The dialogue doesn't get a whole lot better, but it does improve. I get that it's a short story, but really, once things get going, a whole bunch of characters and things get tossed together like a haphazard salad. Maybe a few less extraneous characters and plot holes would have been a better option.
There are a some bonefide twists and turns. Gran casts a spell to talk to the murder victim, who she happened to have been dating, but it goes awry and he ends up getting trapped inside Mia's cat and familiar, Mr Darcy. This is where hilarity should have ensued, but that opportunity is missed entirely.
When Mia stumbles into a potentially fatal predicament, she doesn't use her wits or magic to try to save herself. Well, her attempt at telepathy is conveniently and quickly foiled by the villain. She pretty much seems to accept that she's done for, until she is saved. So, she's not a resourceful, smart, capable heroine. She's not a helpless flower - I mean, the gal can organize the heck out of a food bank, but she's not shaping up to be a "strong female character" or even an interesting one, until......ZOINKS. The last few pages, in the story's final twist, suddenly Mia gets a clue and a spine. And, some potential is teased out for where the actual series might go.
Now I'm left in a state of, huh.
There are two full length books coming soon in this series and I'm sorely tempted to find out if this was just a clumsily executed start, hampered by brevity, a cumbersome set up and too many characters. But, there's no way I'll spend $8 on that gamble. I'll see if it comes out as Kindle Unlimited or the library gets it. I'm also tempted to try a Tourist Trap book, because the library has plenty, and see if they are better written.
However, there are so many terrific writers in the witchy cozy mystery genre - Kirsten Weiss for example or Kennedy Layne, whose books are so amusing, do I really want to invest my time?
If you're a fan - sell me on why I should give Cahoon another shot. What book is your favorite? What book do you think would change my mind?
Well, darn. I'm not sure.
The audio book, narrated by Angie Hickman, was not great, but I hate to leave anything unfinished so when I noticed that the novella was available with Kindle Unlimited, I decided to see if reading the book went any better. Not so much. I almost chucked it, but persevering glutton for punishment that I am, I figured I'd just speed through it.
The first third is mind-numbingly boring. The characters spend so much time with dialogue that feels stilted and unnatural. The level of time spent on tedious minutiae about the food bank and how it needs to be organized before Mia, who is there to help her grandmother, has to go home - well, let me just say watching gelatin solidify overnight would be far more entertaining.
Mia is fairly clueless, especially for a witch. She really doesn't do a very good job of considering suspects. Things just kind of happen to her. Her boyfriend Isaac's clearly a giant ass who isn't invested in the relationship. He's ignoring her, but she's making excuses for him and thinks they just need to have a talk. Also, she hides who she is to make things go more smoothly with him and his family, who disapproves. Field of red flags anyone?
Soon, her boyfriend's feckless sister, Christina shows up. She's a total brat until later in the book, when suddenly she's just NOT. No development or epiphany or magical intervention to get this result; suddenly she's just cool. Same with several other characters in the story who are jerks until conveniently, they're not, and they save the day.
Oh, and the town is conveniently named, Magic Springs and pretty much the whole town is *gasp* in a coven. And the coven has a board. Ok. That's not unheard of, but that really only happens with covens that are large, open, community organizations, usually non-profits. And, instead of using the term, "hex bag," the author uses "satchel," which I have never ever heard a practicing witch use. At first I thought the narrator had mispronounced, sachet, which is at least acceptable for a bag of herbs. A satchel is a bag or a shoulder bag. A magical hex bag is sewn or tied closed and it's small. Did Cahoon even try to research this before she decided to write about witches? The only scenes with spells are pretty darn vague.
Mia has a feline familiar who she brings with her and she has a doll she uses for magical purposes, but she's left it at home with the boyfriend - the same boyfriend she felt uncomfortable leaving her cat with. However, she leaves her doll at home, just out in her kitchen - a magical tool just lying about. Um. Nope; especially not with a boyfriend who doesn't take her craft seriously.
I rolled my eyes A LOT at the half-ass witch stuff in the book. It doesn't need to be realism, but geez, think it through. Either get inventive and make up your own magical system or do some actual research, because a lot more people than you'd think are either dabbling or full on practicing some type of witchcraft or new age spirituality and those people are going to be drawn to these sorts of books. No need to get bogged down in a stack of books researching. We have the internet. This just feels so lazy. Imagine if Betty Hechtman had decided to write her crochet cozy series and just made terminology up.
Now, about halfway through, things start to pick up a bit. Characters sort of develop. The dialogue doesn't get a whole lot better, but it does improve. I get that it's a short story, but really, once things get going, a whole bunch of characters and things get tossed together like a haphazard salad. Maybe a few less extraneous characters and plot holes would have been a better option.
There are a some bonefide twists and turns. Gran casts a spell to talk to the murder victim, who she happened to have been dating, but it goes awry and he ends up getting trapped inside Mia's cat and familiar, Mr Darcy. This is where hilarity should have ensued, but that opportunity is missed entirely.
When Mia stumbles into a potentially fatal predicament, she doesn't use her wits or magic to try to save herself. Well, her attempt at telepathy is conveniently and quickly foiled by the villain. She pretty much seems to accept that she's done for, until she is saved. So, she's not a resourceful, smart, capable heroine. She's not a helpless flower - I mean, the gal can organize the heck out of a food bank, but she's not shaping up to be a "strong female character" or even an interesting one, until......ZOINKS. The last few pages, in the story's final twist, suddenly Mia gets a clue and a spine. And, some potential is teased out for where the actual series might go.
Now I'm left in a state of, huh.
There are two full length books coming soon in this series and I'm sorely tempted to find out if this was just a clumsily executed start, hampered by brevity, a cumbersome set up and too many characters. But, there's no way I'll spend $8 on that gamble. I'll see if it comes out as Kindle Unlimited or the library gets it. I'm also tempted to try a Tourist Trap book, because the library has plenty, and see if they are better written.
However, there are so many terrific writers in the witchy cozy mystery genre - Kirsten Weiss for example or Kennedy Layne, whose books are so amusing, do I really want to invest my time?
If you're a fan - sell me on why I should give Cahoon another shot. What book is your favorite? What book do you think would change my mind?
September 22, 2020
Mia Malone is off to Magic Springs Idaho for a week to spend.With her grandmother and help her out with some things. The local food bank needs to be organized and get set up so it can begin running again. Mia is happy to help and loves getting to spend time with her grandmother who happens to be a witch. You see witchcraft runs through the families blood and life is never dull when her grandmother is around. When Mia opens the doors to continue working one morning she comes across the body of Dorian Alexander. Dorian is the leader of the local coven and also happens to be dating her grandmother. With her grandmother as a suspect Mia decides to look into the mans murder hoping she'll be able to give the police someone else to look at. She is only in town for a short period of time so she must rush her investigation but will this cause her to place herself in danger? Follow along and see where the investigation leads her and just what happens in the end!
September 5, 2020
Chili Cauldron Curse
Kitchen Witch Mysteries, Book 0.5
Lynn Cahoon
5 Stars
Synopsis:
New York Times bestselling author Lynn Cahoon introduces a new heroine with her own special brand of culinary magic in this novella to introduce her Kitchen Witch series.
When Mia Malone’s grandmother asks her to take a week away from her restaurant job and come to Magic Springs, Idaho, she’s happy to oblige. Like Mia, Grans has witchcraft running through her veins, and life with her is never boring. Plus, the cause is a good one—helping Grans get the local food bank up and running again. But there’s an unappetizing surprise in store. While Mia is knee-deep in boxes of donated produce, she encounters the body of Dorian Alexander.
Dorian was a warlock, leader of the local coven. He was also her Grans’ new beau. There’s no potion that’ll make this trouble disappear. But if Mia wants to keep her Grans—now a prime suspect—from serving a spell in prison, she’ll have to unearth the real killer fast. . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
This novella is an introduction to a new series by author Lynn Cahoon. We meet Mia and her grandmother and the citizens of Magic Springs. When Mia and her grandmother and friends are getting a food bank in order to meet the needs of the school-aged children, they find a body. Mia feels she needs to find the culprit because it was her grandmother's boyfriend.
The character’s are well developed and well rounded. I enjoyed getting to meet Mia and her grandmother to get to know them a little bit better. The writing style flows smoothly and the novella was an easy read. The descriptions from the author and actions from the characters kept me engaged and wanting to know more.
I would recommend this novella to anyone who enjoys a well crafted story. I cannot wait to read the first book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Kitchen Witch Mysteries, Book 0.5
Lynn Cahoon
5 Stars
Synopsis:
New York Times bestselling author Lynn Cahoon introduces a new heroine with her own special brand of culinary magic in this novella to introduce her Kitchen Witch series.
When Mia Malone’s grandmother asks her to take a week away from her restaurant job and come to Magic Springs, Idaho, she’s happy to oblige. Like Mia, Grans has witchcraft running through her veins, and life with her is never boring. Plus, the cause is a good one—helping Grans get the local food bank up and running again. But there’s an unappetizing surprise in store. While Mia is knee-deep in boxes of donated produce, she encounters the body of Dorian Alexander.
Dorian was a warlock, leader of the local coven. He was also her Grans’ new beau. There’s no potion that’ll make this trouble disappear. But if Mia wants to keep her Grans—now a prime suspect—from serving a spell in prison, she’ll have to unearth the real killer fast. . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
This novella is an introduction to a new series by author Lynn Cahoon. We meet Mia and her grandmother and the citizens of Magic Springs. When Mia and her grandmother and friends are getting a food bank in order to meet the needs of the school-aged children, they find a body. Mia feels she needs to find the culprit because it was her grandmother's boyfriend.
The character’s are well developed and well rounded. I enjoyed getting to meet Mia and her grandmother to get to know them a little bit better. The writing style flows smoothly and the novella was an easy read. The descriptions from the author and actions from the characters kept me engaged and wanting to know more.
I would recommend this novella to anyone who enjoys a well crafted story. I cannot wait to read the first book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
June 2, 2021
A quick and easy read that makes me want to read more in this series!
August 15, 2020
I just kept telling myself while I was reading this [while I was rolling my eyes], that I didn't like the first two Farm-to-Fork books initially either [and I love that series now] and that I just have to hang in there and this one will grow [hopefully] on me as well. The whole premise was pretty obvious to me [though I didn't know who the killer was until the end, and even though the reveal was rather anticlimactic, it WAS a surprise, so that is a good thing] and I was not even remotely surprised at how the book ended [as it is set up for that very thing from the very beginning]. And I kept repeating a line from "Practical Magic" over and over - “You can’t practice witchcraft while you look down your nose at it", because that line describes Mia exactly. So hopefully that will also change and she will accept her gifts; waffling is never an attractive look on anyone, much less someone who is magical, but only likes to use it when it benefits her, but looks down in it in general.
I will be reading the full-length novel when it is released as I want to see if Mia and the others are more fleshed out and if the story is better. I have seen how her other books have progressed for the better, so I do have hope.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I will be reading the full-length novel when it is released as I want to see if Mia and the others are more fleshed out and if the story is better. I have seen how her other books have progressed for the better, so I do have hope.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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