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The Lily Singer Adventures #7
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Kindred
Bound by blood, duty, and magic. Which will win?
Lily Singer’s allies and family are determined to hold John Faust accountable for his actions, but doing so may create more problems than it solves. From political intrigue to international alliances, Lily, Sebastian, and Sir Kipling must venture out into the larger wizard community and survive the first Wizard Convocation held in almost a century.
And they can't just survive, they must win.
Because the enemy they thought they'd defeated was only just getting started, and he always keeps his promises...especially when they involve death and destruction. With her ne'er-do-well witch and magical talking cat by her side, Lily will have to navigate broken family relationships, a daring rescue operation, and the struggle between light and dark within her own soul.
They may have won the battle, but the war has only just begun.
Lily Singer’s allies and family are determined to hold John Faust accountable for his actions, but doing so may create more problems than it solves. From political intrigue to international alliances, Lily, Sebastian, and Sir Kipling must venture out into the larger wizard community and survive the first Wizard Convocation held in almost a century.
And they can't just survive, they must win.
Because the enemy they thought they'd defeated was only just getting started, and he always keeps his promises...especially when they involve death and destruction. With her ne'er-do-well witch and magical talking cat by her side, Lily will have to navigate broken family relationships, a daring rescue operation, and the struggle between light and dark within her own soul.
They may have won the battle, but the war has only just begun.
681 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2021
173 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 17, 2021
I was excited to dive into this latest Lily Singer book. I've really enjoyed this series so far and was curious to see where things go in this book. Luckily the author included a summary of the previous books at the start as it's been a while since I read those. The summary was really well done and easily got me back into the series and reminded me of what had happened. Then it was time to read Kindred.
I had a great time reading this book. I enjoyed spending more time with Lily, Sebastian, Sir Kipling and the rest. I really like these characters and it was great being back in this world and reading about them. The book is a bit slow paced at times, but in a good way. There still is a lot happening and this book felt quite full with character development as well. Lily struggled mentally after what she's been through in book 6. I had a few tough weeks while reading this book and I have to say it was nice to spend some time reading about someone else's problems. Lily is going through some tough times and while it was hard to see her struggle it made her feel very real. I liked seeing how she dealt with it all and how she changed and handled things.
The first half of the book mostly deals with a more political plot line as Lily and her allies have to present evidence of why John Faust is a danger to wizard society. There were a lot more wizards we see and more about wizard society we learn. I did feel some parts could've been sped up a bit, but it did keep my attention. The second half of the book felt more fast paced as Lily and her friends and family have to deal with quite the situation. There was more action in the second half too. I did feel there was a lot reacting to things there, but it made sense and I liked seeing how they handled things. There are some great developments and some hints that make me curious to know more. The ending makes me excited for the next book and to see what will happen.
I would've liked to see more of a certain plot line develop as I felt they don't make as much progress with that, but I feel that this set-up was necessary for how it sets the stage for the next book. It also bothered me a bit how much John Faust there was in this book and how much Lily has to deal with it. I don't like reading about him and the way they had to deal with him. Plot wise it made sense, but I just wish he would've gotten locked up somewhere far from the characters so they didn't have to deal with him.
One of my favorite parts of this book is seeing Lily and Sebastian together. They're finally a couple and I loved seeing them together. There are a whole bunch of great scenes with the two of them. I like how supporting they are of each other and how they're for the other. A decision Lily makes at the end and the way she really accept Sebastian was beautiful. There's also plenty of Sir Kipling who is so fun to read about.
There are a lot of new characters in this book, which could be kinda confusing at times and with two big Italian families introduced I definitely forgot a few times who a certain side character was. The more important side characters get more screen time and it was easier to remember who was who then.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this seventh book in the series. It was great to be back in this world and spend time with these characters. The pace felt a bit slow at times, but there is plenty going on. The first half has a more political feel as they try and convince other wizards to take action towards John Faust. The second half is more action packed. I wasn't a fan of how much John Faust there is in this book, although it did make sense, I just don't like the characters have to deal with him so much. I especially liked seeing Lily and Sebastian as a couple in this book, they are so sweet together and I really enjoyed reading about them. There's plenty of Sir Kipling too, as well as the other characters we've gotten to know over the course of the series and plenty of new side characters. The ending has a nice twist and makes me eager for the next book!
I had a great time reading this book. I enjoyed spending more time with Lily, Sebastian, Sir Kipling and the rest. I really like these characters and it was great being back in this world and reading about them. The book is a bit slow paced at times, but in a good way. There still is a lot happening and this book felt quite full with character development as well. Lily struggled mentally after what she's been through in book 6. I had a few tough weeks while reading this book and I have to say it was nice to spend some time reading about someone else's problems. Lily is going through some tough times and while it was hard to see her struggle it made her feel very real. I liked seeing how she dealt with it all and how she changed and handled things.
The first half of the book mostly deals with a more political plot line as Lily and her allies have to present evidence of why John Faust is a danger to wizard society. There were a lot more wizards we see and more about wizard society we learn. I did feel some parts could've been sped up a bit, but it did keep my attention. The second half of the book felt more fast paced as Lily and her friends and family have to deal with quite the situation. There was more action in the second half too. I did feel there was a lot reacting to things there, but it made sense and I liked seeing how they handled things. There are some great developments and some hints that make me curious to know more. The ending makes me excited for the next book and to see what will happen.
I would've liked to see more of a certain plot line develop as I felt they don't make as much progress with that, but I feel that this set-up was necessary for how it sets the stage for the next book. It also bothered me a bit how much John Faust there was in this book and how much Lily has to deal with it. I don't like reading about him and the way they had to deal with him. Plot wise it made sense, but I just wish he would've gotten locked up somewhere far from the characters so they didn't have to deal with him.
One of my favorite parts of this book is seeing Lily and Sebastian together. They're finally a couple and I loved seeing them together. There are a whole bunch of great scenes with the two of them. I like how supporting they are of each other and how they're for the other. A decision Lily makes at the end and the way she really accept Sebastian was beautiful. There's also plenty of Sir Kipling who is so fun to read about.
There are a lot of new characters in this book, which could be kinda confusing at times and with two big Italian families introduced I definitely forgot a few times who a certain side character was. The more important side characters get more screen time and it was easier to remember who was who then.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this seventh book in the series. It was great to be back in this world and spend time with these characters. The pace felt a bit slow at times, but there is plenty going on. The first half has a more political feel as they try and convince other wizards to take action towards John Faust. The second half is more action packed. I wasn't a fan of how much John Faust there is in this book, although it did make sense, I just don't like the characters have to deal with him so much. I especially liked seeing Lily and Sebastian as a couple in this book, they are so sweet together and I really enjoyed reading about them. There's plenty of Sir Kipling too, as well as the other characters we've gotten to know over the course of the series and plenty of new side characters. The ending has a nice twist and makes me eager for the next book!
did-not-finish
May 26, 2022I feel really bad dropping this book, because I love this series and was looking forward to reading it a lot, but I just can't focus on it somehow. The whole first half of the book is a very long and drawn out trial with a lot of new names and information thrown at the reader and I just can't focus on it. I've stopped at 60% because I've skimmed so much I feel like I entirely lost the plot.
Might give this another shot later, but for now this isn't the right book for me at the moment. I still really recommend the series, though.
Might give this another shot later, but for now this isn't the right book for me at the moment. I still really recommend the series, though.
May 1, 2023
It was definitely the most boring of the books so far. The whole court bit in the first half was such a drag for me, and there were waaaaay too many names to remember who they all were, with the introduction of the Italian people. It picked up in the second half but still wasn't great. I wish I could relate to Lily more but I find her insufferable sometimes.
I did enjoy her sort of character development, and it was interesting to see her go through all the mental struggles, and I'm not expecting her to suddenly change the way she is, but I find the author is quite repetitive about her. Like, it's book 7 now, we all know Lily is an introvert who doesn't like big groups of people, and she enjoys tea and history and books and blah blah blah. I don't feel like we need to be reminded so nuch. It was made very clear in book one.
I enjoy Sebastian though, he's always been the best part, and I enjoy their relationship. I like how it doesn't seem so one sided now, as though Lily actually likes him and isn't so embarrassed by him which makes for a better read. I found it a bit sad before when he was always gushing about how great she was, and she never reciprocated. But now they seem more equal and I like that.
John Faust was in it too much, and I want to say I relate to Lily wanting him to be a good dad, but I feel like she really should have given up by now and shouldn't have any good feelings towards him, he shows her time and time again what a snake he is and *every time* she gets upset by it?? It's not like she used to have a good dad and wants him to be the way he used to be? I don't get it.
I am interested to see where the Sebastian plot line goes next, with his involvement in the Fae. I like how it makes Lily's protective side come out and she seems more like a person, rather than a weird caracature.
I did enjoy her sort of character development, and it was interesting to see her go through all the mental struggles, and I'm not expecting her to suddenly change the way she is, but I find the author is quite repetitive about her. Like, it's book 7 now, we all know Lily is an introvert who doesn't like big groups of people, and she enjoys tea and history and books and blah blah blah. I don't feel like we need to be reminded so nuch. It was made very clear in book one.
I enjoy Sebastian though, he's always been the best part, and I enjoy their relationship. I like how it doesn't seem so one sided now, as though Lily actually likes him and isn't so embarrassed by him which makes for a better read. I found it a bit sad before when he was always gushing about how great she was, and she never reciprocated. But now they seem more equal and I like that.
John Faust was in it too much, and I want to say I relate to Lily wanting him to be a good dad, but I feel like she really should have given up by now and shouldn't have any good feelings towards him, he shows her time and time again what a snake he is and *every time* she gets upset by it?? It's not like she used to have a good dad and wants him to be the way he used to be? I don't get it.
I am interested to see where the Sebastian plot line goes next, with his involvement in the Fae. I like how it makes Lily's protective side come out and she seems more like a person, rather than a weird caracature.
July 14, 2022
I had the pleasure and honor of Beta reading this for the author. I absolutely loved it. It's got a great balance of romance, comedy, action, and suspense. I love the additions of the Italian family and the new magical discoveries, but I also love the tried and true snark that has permeated all of the Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus books so far. Plus look at that cover art--stunning! If you're new to the LLHP I recommend going back to Beginnings or A Study in Mischief to start, then work your way through to this one, but if you've been reading LLHP and have finished book 6 snatch this one up right away. It's fantastic!
September 18, 2022
A family tribunal gathers to sort out John Faust. We learn more about the magic system of this series. Sir Kip has a larger, more obnoxious role (as cats are want to do).
At times it seemed like the author really wants to be a romance novelist. All of Lily's insecurity calls to mind the waffling in Pride and Prejudice. The cat and the demons make this more fun to read.
There is a lot to unpack, and worst of all, Book 8 is nowhere on the horizon.
I'm going five stars because of how disappointed I felt when the book ended and I now must wait for the next book.
At times it seemed like the author really wants to be a romance novelist. All of Lily's insecurity calls to mind the waffling in Pride and Prejudice. The cat and the demons make this more fun to read.
There is a lot to unpack, and worst of all, Book 8 is nowhere on the horizon.
I'm going five stars because of how disappointed I felt when the book ended and I now must wait for the next book.
February 18, 2022
SPOILER BELOW
The series started out solid. Good concepts, interesting magical interaction. Each book has built and added layers - and stakes. Now, in volume 7, the gauntlet has been thrown down. The stakes are about as high as any author can make them.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Next stop:
Avalon.
And a wizard named Kabdari.
Also known as...Merlin.
The series started out solid. Good concepts, interesting magical interaction. Each book has built and added layers - and stakes. Now, in volume 7, the gauntlet has been thrown down. The stakes are about as high as any author can make them.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
Next stop:
Avalon.
And a wizard named Kabdari.
Also known as...Merlin.
February 7, 2024
This entire series is fantastic! This book is the longest so far in the series. This book, and the series, are perfect for those who love magic and mayhem. This story deals with the trial of one of the characters. Lily and company must defend themselves and show they were in the right. Sir Kipling, the magical talking cat extraordinaire, brings the wit and snark to the story.
April 14, 2024
I heard that this book was longer, it was, and it was worth it! I had also been warned that the first half was a bit heavy on exposition and backstory, that was true but it wasn't a negative. The front half of the book is a courtroom drama and I liked it a lot. The second half kicks into action like you'd expect. This book in particular gives me great hope for a MASSIVE series finale. Luckily, we are nowhere close to the end yet!
March 26, 2023
So much was going on in this latest installment, I had to keep relistening to segments to be sure I didn’t miss anything. It was nice to be introduced to the extended family and more wizard allies.
The audiobook was very well crafted and definitely brought this and all the other books in this series alive.
Now I have to patiently wait for book 8 in the series to be released.
The audiobook was very well crafted and definitely brought this and all the other books in this series alive.
Now I have to patiently wait for book 8 in the series to be released.
April 4, 2022
I love love love this series! Have all of them in paperback. They are intelligently written, full of humor and life wisdom without being preachy. As the series progresses issues become more intense, more serious and while there was humor and snark I wished for more levity, that being my only negative about book 7. If this were my introduction to the series I might not be so enamored with it. All that being said, it was a fantastic read, especially knowing and understanding all the characters and preceding plot points, which made the overall darker tone understandable, even if I wanted it to be lighter.
November 22, 2021
To me, the beginning felt like it was dragging. (Except for the DELIGHTFUL recap of the entire series from Sir Kipling-that was absolutely AMAZING.) It took an effort on my part to focus on this one, as that made the book feel longer. But I endured it, and I'm glad I did! It got so much better as it progressed, back to the wonderful quality Ms. Sherrer's books possess. I enjoyed this one as much as the others, and I will be counting the days until book 8!
March 2, 2022
Emotional, Fantastical Roller Coaster
What piece of work is man....I could continue the quote from the Bard, but Lydia Sherrer has captured so much of humanity in her characters that I feel as if I know them. I have laughed and cried aloud while reading this book, and spent a few sleepless nights because I am so invested in their stories. I will have to re-read the series while waiting for the next installment. Once again, brava, Ms. Sherrer!
What piece of work is man....I could continue the quote from the Bard, but Lydia Sherrer has captured so much of humanity in her characters that I feel as if I know them. I have laughed and cried aloud while reading this book, and spent a few sleepless nights because I am so invested in their stories. I will have to re-read the series while waiting for the next installment. Once again, brava, Ms. Sherrer!
November 14, 2021
The adventure continues!
You need to read this book. Ideally, you should read the others first, but if you haven't, it's okay, because Sir Kipling provides a summary of the story so far.
I stayed up all night reading it, because I couldn't put it down. I'm not sure what more I can say because spoilers, but I can assure you that it's well worth your time and money.
You need to read this book. Ideally, you should read the others first, but if you haven't, it's okay, because Sir Kipling provides a summary of the story so far.
I stayed up all night reading it, because I couldn't put it down. I'm not sure what more I can say because spoilers, but I can assure you that it's well worth your time and money.
November 29, 2021
Great adventure
The battle between good and evil is as old a story as any recorded. Some of the stories are well done, with characters that are interesting. This story is one of them. It mixes settings and does a great job helping us feel as if we can see these places. Sherrer has written another great adventure and we (my feline overlord and I) await the next.
The battle between good and evil is as old a story as any recorded. Some of the stories are well done, with characters that are interesting. This story is one of them. It mixes settings and does a great job helping us feel as if we can see these places. Sherrer has written another great adventure and we (my feline overlord and I) await the next.
February 15, 2022
This series has really grown on me! What a pleasure to read this last book in the series although I am so sad I am done although there is another book in the works! Nice fantasy and an escape from the real world happenings. Wizards, warlocks, pixies, faes and who knows what will pop up! I don’t know what will happen next but I cannot wait!
April 17, 2022
I’d give the first half of the book a 3 and the second half a 5 so that is a 4. I didn’t care for the Italian descriptions. I was glad it was in continuous scroll so I could speed read through. I love everything Kip so anything with him involved or talking is wonderful.
Looking forward to book 8. Glad I pushed through the first 1/2 of 7.
Looking forward to book 8. Glad I pushed through the first 1/2 of 7.
June 13, 2022
So hard to put down.
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus Kindred (A Lily Singer Cozy Fantasy Adventure Book 7) has everything needed in a Fantasy Adventure. Good Wizards, Bad Wizards, witches, demons, and the Fae! I have loved every book in the series and this one is the best. I can hardly wait to start Book 8.
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus Kindred (A Lily Singer Cozy Fantasy Adventure Book 7) has everything needed in a Fantasy Adventure. Good Wizards, Bad Wizards, witches, demons, and the Fae! I have loved every book in the series and this one is the best. I can hardly wait to start Book 8.
May 16, 2024
Another fantastic Lily Singer book!
I will never tire of reading about Sir Kipling, besides all the other reasons to read the book. The trial of Lily's biological father, as well as her battle against Morgan and the demon Nergal, are very interesting and exciting.
I will never tire of reading about Sir Kipling, besides all the other reasons to read the book. The trial of Lily's biological father, as well as her battle against Morgan and the demon Nergal, are very interesting and exciting.
November 27, 2021
Not my favorite in the series. Too much description of places that weren't central to the story or its development. I just didn't have the patience for distractions this time!
March 2, 2022
So Exciting!
The whole series is so much fun! Book 7 explains so much and suspenseful! I can't wait for the next book!
The whole series is so much fun! Book 7 explains so much and suspenseful! I can't wait for the next book!
August 17, 2022
VERY happy with this whole series, and this one in particular. Very appreciative of the series recap, which was done quite well. The hardest part will be waiting for #8.
June 8, 2022
𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝑳𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑯𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔 𝑷𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔: 𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒅, The Lily Singer series, Book #7
by Lydia Sherrer
As usual, a fun read. I marked it only a 4 star because of the cliffhanger ending, which could have been avoided by simply stopping before the epilogue -- but, I always mark off for cliffhangers. And, yes, I know that some of you will argue that it is not a cliffhanger. I beg to differ, so keep it to yourself -- this is MY review (and I was tempted to take off 2 stars, but then decided the rest of the book was good enough to warrant taking off just one). I hate cliffhangers and I will always mark off for them.
There were some questionable things that I noted, and some things I loved that I noted, but overall, the editing and proofing was good, the plotting and pacing excellent, the characters (for the most part, all old friends, by now) believable, the action exciting and sometimes heart-stopping, the villains wonderfully evil. I just wish I'd stopped reading before the epilogue.
While I understand that this note is correct grammatically, it did stop me in the middle of the sentence. Once I finished the sentence, I understood: "...My great-grandfather and grandmother are both still alive,..." I stopped here and wondered does she meant great grandfather and great grandmother or just great grandfather and regular, non-great, grandmother. But the sentence continued with "...plus all my great-aunts and uncles." So, I assumed she meant all greats, but I still would have rather see the great used for all. I know, I'm picky, but again, I remind you this is my review, so I get to be picky.
I few pages before this (Location 597), Sebastian had been sitting on the edge of the bed, while Lily sat behind her desk. They are having a conversation about her father, and Sebastion jumps up from where he is sitting on the bed, but it doesn't say he moves forward, and it says that Lily turns in her chair to face him. Then at the location above is this: "...He stepped forward, closing the distance between them and reaching up to tenderly cup her cheek." Now either that bed was darn close to the desk or Sebastian has long arms. Shrug. Either way, I had to stop and reread about 4 pages and then just assume that the bed and the desk chair were close enough together that a single step would close the distance. There were a couple of other places where I was confused about placement, but I decided to just ignore them unless there was a big big reason not to do so.
Something I liked: At Location 1213 is the word catty corner. I love that word. I lived catty corner from a neighborhood friend that I often played with in my childhood, and I am continually surprised that what I usually see in novels isn't catty corner but kitty-corner, which I never heard growing up in my area of Indiana. Same idea, and so, me being me, I looked up the origin. Here's what it says, which makes either saying make more sense! "The term 'kitty-corner' has nothing to do with cats. Instead, it stems from the expression 'cater-corner,' which is derived from "quatre," the French word for four. The term was used to describe the way the dots are placed on a dice positioned at number four, diagonally from one another." And yes, my friend lived in a house diagonally across the intersection of two alleys from my childhood home.
Location 1808: 'Besides the gardens there was a large pool and three widely spaced houses, the same ones Lily had seen the night before. Leonardo explained they were a guest house as well as a house each for his father Riccardo's family and his uncle Vincenzo's family.' That last sentence threw me. I think it is grammatically correct, but just reads so awkwardly imo. Sigh. Just me be picky again, I suppose.
Just a note at Location 2404: "..Lily, meet your maternal great-grandmother, Marguerite Flamel." As in Nicholas Flamel? So not only does she have Morgan LeFey and John Dee lurking around her family tree, but Nicholas Flamel, as well? I both liked it (because I like books including Flamel as a character) and disliked it (because how many famous people, all with the same skill set, can one person have in their family tree -- besides Drew Barrymore, I guess).
Something else I liked, at Location 7724. This is where the tyrannosaurid ate Morgan Lefey. As my sons and I have tickets to see "Jurassic World: Dominion" on June 10th, my first thought on reading this was "Shades of Jurassic Park/World!" LOL
There were a couple of other places I noted, but they weren't worth noting, even to someone as picky as I am.
So, this was a fun read. If, like me, you hate Cliffhanger endings -- just skip the epilogue.
by Lydia Sherrer
As usual, a fun read. I marked it only a 4 star because of the cliffhanger ending, which could have been avoided by simply stopping before the epilogue -- but, I always mark off for cliffhangers. And, yes, I know that some of you will argue that it is not a cliffhanger. I beg to differ, so keep it to yourself -- this is MY review (and I was tempted to take off 2 stars, but then decided the rest of the book was good enough to warrant taking off just one). I hate cliffhangers and I will always mark off for them.
There were some questionable things that I noted, and some things I loved that I noted, but overall, the editing and proofing was good, the plotting and pacing excellent, the characters (for the most part, all old friends, by now) believable, the action exciting and sometimes heart-stopping, the villains wonderfully evil. I just wish I'd stopped reading before the epilogue.
While I understand that this note is correct grammatically, it did stop me in the middle of the sentence. Once I finished the sentence, I understood: "...My great-grandfather and grandmother are both still alive,..." I stopped here and wondered does she meant great grandfather and great grandmother or just great grandfather and regular, non-great, grandmother. But the sentence continued with "...plus all my great-aunts and uncles." So, I assumed she meant all greats, but I still would have rather see the great used for all. I know, I'm picky, but again, I remind you this is my review, so I get to be picky.
I few pages before this (Location 597), Sebastian had been sitting on the edge of the bed, while Lily sat behind her desk. They are having a conversation about her father, and Sebastion jumps up from where he is sitting on the bed, but it doesn't say he moves forward, and it says that Lily turns in her chair to face him. Then at the location above is this: "...He stepped forward, closing the distance between them and reaching up to tenderly cup her cheek." Now either that bed was darn close to the desk or Sebastian has long arms. Shrug. Either way, I had to stop and reread about 4 pages and then just assume that the bed and the desk chair were close enough together that a single step would close the distance. There were a couple of other places where I was confused about placement, but I decided to just ignore them unless there was a big big reason not to do so.
Something I liked: At Location 1213 is the word catty corner. I love that word. I lived catty corner from a neighborhood friend that I often played with in my childhood, and I am continually surprised that what I usually see in novels isn't catty corner but kitty-corner, which I never heard growing up in my area of Indiana. Same idea, and so, me being me, I looked up the origin. Here's what it says, which makes either saying make more sense! "The term 'kitty-corner' has nothing to do with cats. Instead, it stems from the expression 'cater-corner,' which is derived from "quatre," the French word for four. The term was used to describe the way the dots are placed on a dice positioned at number four, diagonally from one another." And yes, my friend lived in a house diagonally across the intersection of two alleys from my childhood home.
Location 1808: 'Besides the gardens there was a large pool and three widely spaced houses, the same ones Lily had seen the night before. Leonardo explained they were a guest house as well as a house each for his father Riccardo's family and his uncle Vincenzo's family.' That last sentence threw me. I think it is grammatically correct, but just reads so awkwardly imo. Sigh. Just me be picky again, I suppose.
Just a note at Location 2404: "..Lily, meet your maternal great-grandmother, Marguerite Flamel." As in Nicholas Flamel? So not only does she have Morgan LeFey and John Dee lurking around her family tree, but Nicholas Flamel, as well? I both liked it (because I like books including Flamel as a character) and disliked it (because how many famous people, all with the same skill set, can one person have in their family tree -- besides Drew Barrymore, I guess).
Something else I liked, at Location 7724. This is where the tyrannosaurid ate Morgan Lefey. As my sons and I have tickets to see "Jurassic World: Dominion" on June 10th, my first thought on reading this was "Shades of Jurassic Park/World!" LOL
There were a couple of other places I noted, but they weren't worth noting, even to someone as picky as I am.
So, this was a fun read. If, like me, you hate Cliffhanger endings -- just skip the epilogue.
June 7, 2025
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Kindred finally sees direct consequences for John Faust LeFay. And Lily finally gets her moment to scream at her father all the pent up anger she has and he so rightfully deserves. It's a good depiction of how psychopaths actually work in real life, at least in my opinion. He's not the typical serial killer or crazed murderer that is usually depicted in media. He just has the unshakable conviction that his actions are justified and his emotional depth and ability to have empathy is not like a typical person. That's the true horror of psychopathy - logic with no other measure is dangerous. Because his assessment of the situation might be accurate, but his ability to barrel through other people's lives to get what he wants and not have a care is terrifying. There's so much more to say but I will leave it at that and say I enjoy him as a villain. I think the author is pushing for a redemption for him though, which I welcome if it is true. The intensity of the book is thick, from her father's trial, to Lily's confrontation with the Romano's, to the devastating consequences of defying a demon. And again the author does well with depicting real trauma, human flaws, finding a glimmer of good in a villain, while adding in slow burn romance, and shenanigans from a magical cat. Sir Kipling is imperious and perfect as usual. Loved the book.
August 18, 2024
Lily’s father, John Faust LeFay, has finally been captured and is now set to stand trial for his crimes by a council of wizards. Lily and her mother must testify, along with John’s brother Allen. Sebastian (Lily’s boyfriend) and Sir Kipling (her cat) go along, and Lily’s step-sister Trista — now known as Mallory Kane. The council is in Italy, but there is no time for sight-seeing. The three day council includes wizards from all over the world, and is hosted at a magnificent villa. There are wizards who have sided with John, and many who are sympathetic to Lily and the Sylvesters (her new-found Italian family on her mother’s side). Descriptions of the setting are detailed, but not over the top. The villain and his snarky lawyer are clearly portrayed. The trail is long and emotional, and I arrived late for a few appointments because I didn’t want to stop listening! I’ll be relieved but sad to finish this series.
February 27, 2022
Excellent story fantasy and adventure on every page
This book is a wonderful story of good vs evil and the struggles of Lilly to deal with her family dynamic. I love the snarkiness and love in this story. The characters are well developed even if they are just minor people in the plot line. It is best to read this in the series but with the help of Sir Kipling's synopsis of the stories leading up to this, one could read this as a stand alone. The thing is you wouldn't want to. The adventures, relationships, the great words this author chooses to used in each story would be missed if you didn't fall in love with all the complexity of the author's characters. The roller coaster ride of happy and sad and down right scary moments will make you want to read it in one night but when it is done you will wish you hadn't.
This book is a wonderful story of good vs evil and the struggles of Lilly to deal with her family dynamic. I love the snarkiness and love in this story. The characters are well developed even if they are just minor people in the plot line. It is best to read this in the series but with the help of Sir Kipling's synopsis of the stories leading up to this, one could read this as a stand alone. The thing is you wouldn't want to. The adventures, relationships, the great words this author chooses to used in each story would be missed if you didn't fall in love with all the complexity of the author's characters. The roller coaster ride of happy and sad and down right scary moments will make you want to read it in one night but when it is done you will wish you hadn't.
April 1, 2023
I have found this to be a fun series. What's not to love about an introverted, bibliophilic protaganist who loves a good cup of tea and saves the world on the side? Plus Sir Edgar Allen Kipling, the talking cat is the best. His personality is so perfectly cat-like. Like nailed it!
I confess that the extent of both Lily's anxiety and Sebastian's insecurity can be exasperating at times. Yes, they have their relatable issues, but they delve deep into their insecurities at moments of peak adrenalin, which may add suspense, but doesn't realistically fit the scene. And Lily apparently completely spaces out while having long internal dialog about her anxieties at an absurd frequency.
But outside the tedium of their internal drama, the external drama is great. I do recommend this to anyone who loves cats, books, tea, sarcasm, and adventure.
I confess that the extent of both Lily's anxiety and Sebastian's insecurity can be exasperating at times. Yes, they have their relatable issues, but they delve deep into their insecurities at moments of peak adrenalin, which may add suspense, but doesn't realistically fit the scene. And Lily apparently completely spaces out while having long internal dialog about her anxieties at an absurd frequency.
But outside the tedium of their internal drama, the external drama is great. I do recommend this to anyone who loves cats, books, tea, sarcasm, and adventure.
December 14, 2025
Love, Lies, and Hocus Pocus: Kindred raises the stakes for Lily Singer and the world around her. With the first Wizard Convocation in decades, the story shifts into political intrigue and dangerous alliances, showing that magic isn’t just about spells it’s about power and consequence.
Lily’s growth is a highlight as she navigates family tensions, moral gray areas, and an enemy who refuses to stay defeated. The mix of humor, action, and emotional weight keeps the story engaging, while familiar companions add warmth and sharp wit.
This installment feels like a turning point for the series less about winning a single fight and more about surviving a much larger war. A strong, satisfying continuation that leaves you ready for the next book.
Lily’s growth is a highlight as she navigates family tensions, moral gray areas, and an enemy who refuses to stay defeated. The mix of humor, action, and emotional weight keeps the story engaging, while familiar companions add warmth and sharp wit.
This installment feels like a turning point for the series less about winning a single fight and more about surviving a much larger war. A strong, satisfying continuation that leaves you ready for the next book.
January 19, 2022
Amazing
I was so mad that work kept interfering with My reading but know I'm sad because no more books are ready for reading. I've read all 7 plus the 2 novellas (Accidental Witch & Cat Magic). I was a huge Harry Potter Fan but the book had to come to a conclusion -- this series seems like it can go on forever. Biggest thing I'm not a HUGE reader to begin with but these books I don't see words on my Kindle --I see a movie taking in place in my mind instead. Plus there are so many different avenues for adventure between Lily, Sensation & Kip. Its official next cat I get will be fluffy grey & white and shall be called Kip.
I was so mad that work kept interfering with My reading but know I'm sad because no more books are ready for reading. I've read all 7 plus the 2 novellas (Accidental Witch & Cat Magic). I was a huge Harry Potter Fan but the book had to come to a conclusion -- this series seems like it can go on forever. Biggest thing I'm not a HUGE reader to begin with but these books I don't see words on my Kindle --I see a movie taking in place in my mind instead. Plus there are so many different avenues for adventure between Lily, Sensation & Kip. Its official next cat I get will be fluffy grey & white and shall be called Kip.
October 5, 2022
I really like this series. Unfortunately up until this book I didn’t really care for the main character Lilly. If not for Sebastian (the witch) and Sir Kipling (the cat) I probably would have stopped at the first book. This book redeemed Lilly ever so slightly.
What I liked about his book was the Author added more depth to the Wizard world with the introduction of new characters,new places and less demons. The other good thing was making Lilly less angsty and snobbish and a little more likable and relatable. I’m looking forward to seeing where she takes the characters and the story from here. The real hook for me is Sir Kipling she can sure write the personality of a cat!
What I liked about his book was the Author added more depth to the Wizard world with the introduction of new characters,new places and less demons. The other good thing was making Lilly less angsty and snobbish and a little more likable and relatable. I’m looking forward to seeing where she takes the characters and the story from here. The real hook for me is Sir Kipling she can sure write the personality of a cat!
April 9, 2025
Really more of a 4.5-star read.
This is the longest LLHP book by far.
The first half is essentially a courtroom drama and a lot of political intrigue. It's very heavy on descriptions of food and scenery. I found myself skimming some of it because that is just not where my interest lies; but there is also a lot of building of the wider wizard culture, and that is incredibly satisfying.
The second half is more of the adventure that one expects from this series.
I found myself loving the interactions with John Faust more than I expected I would. And meeting Lily's extended Silvester family was fantastic! I genuinely hope we get to see more of them as the series goes on.
This is the longest LLHP book by far.
The first half is essentially a courtroom drama and a lot of political intrigue. It's very heavy on descriptions of food and scenery. I found myself skimming some of it because that is just not where my interest lies; but there is also a lot of building of the wider wizard culture, and that is incredibly satisfying.
The second half is more of the adventure that one expects from this series.
I found myself loving the interactions with John Faust more than I expected I would. And meeting Lily's extended Silvester family was fantastic! I genuinely hope we get to see more of them as the series goes on.
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