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The Owl Star Witch Mysteries #1
Star of Sage & Scream
I’d planned to spend the rest of my life in the witch military. Now I’m on my way home to a mother who disapproves of me and four sisters who barely know me. Is it possible for a witch like me to find space in a place she doesn’t belong?
I didn’t think they’d dismantle the paranormal military with a wave of their bureaucratic magic wand, but they did. Everything I’d spent the previous fifteen years of my life doing and being was ripped away from me in an instant, out of my reach.
And now that the paranormal military’s gone, I’ve got nothing left to fight for.
So I’m on my way back to Forkbridge, Florida, to the family coven of the goddess Athena, which is led by high priestess Minerva Arden. My mother’s name. The hippie witch mother I left thirteen years ago, against her explicit wishes, to join the military rather than take my place at her side.
Mother no doubt expects me to return home to claim my birthright and fulfill my destiny to the goddess Athena.
Not a chance.
Or so I think.
Because when the goddess Athena sends you a talking owl that slaps you with a divine superpower and tells you to go save someone with it, it’s really hard to say no.
I didn’t think they’d dismantle the paranormal military with a wave of their bureaucratic magic wand, but they did. Everything I’d spent the previous fifteen years of my life doing and being was ripped away from me in an instant, out of my reach.
And now that the paranormal military’s gone, I’ve got nothing left to fight for.
So I’m on my way back to Forkbridge, Florida, to the family coven of the goddess Athena, which is led by high priestess Minerva Arden. My mother’s name. The hippie witch mother I left thirteen years ago, against her explicit wishes, to join the military rather than take my place at her side.
Mother no doubt expects me to return home to claim my birthright and fulfill my destiny to the goddess Athena.
Not a chance.
Or so I think.
Because when the goddess Athena sends you a talking owl that slaps you with a divine superpower and tells you to go save someone with it, it’s really hard to say no.
Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
667 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Leanne Leeds
315 books116 followersLeanne Leeds is an enchanting storyteller who spins magical tales of mystery, humor, and heart. Her whimsical contemporary paranormal mystery novels whisk readers away to a world where magic feels familiar and adventure waits around every corner.
With a charming voice and sprinkle of good-natured wit on every page, Leanne crafts stories as unexpected as they are captivating. Her quirky characters and serendipitous events intersect in delightfully unforeseen ways, delivering a reading experience as cozy as it is enthralling. Whether reading her paranormal cozies or paranormal women's fiction, readers will find a touch of enchantment in each word.
With a charming voice and sprinkle of good-natured wit on every page, Leanne crafts stories as unexpected as they are captivating. Her quirky characters and serendipitous events intersect in delightfully unforeseen ways, delivering a reading experience as cozy as it is enthralling. Whether reading her paranormal cozies or paranormal women's fiction, readers will find a touch of enchantment in each word.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
October 27, 2022
2022 bk 331. I picked this up with some trepidation. The last paranormal was disappointing - this one wasn't. In fact it so wasn't that I ignored everything else I had to do today to read it. The main character is a woman who has to re-find herself and recognize that she is no longer the teen battling her mother nor the military leader. Instead, she is an older sister, a separate entity who is a part of her family, but knows her own self worth. When the god her mother worships picks our heroine as her 'earthly hero', Astra has to learn how to talk with and listen to an owl, her sisters, her new police detective unoffical partner, and 'horrors' her mother. A fun read about family relationships and finding your new path in a world turned upside down. OH - and this is much longer than 84 pages, coming in at 387 full length novel thank you!
August 2, 2022
what a wonderful book. the characters were amazingly fleshed-out, and the plot was delightful. i especially love archie—what a fantastic owl. i was left enthralled with each page. i didn’t want to put it down.
August 22, 2022
This was so much fun. All the A names got a bit confusing but the owl stole the show. He's hilarious. Well-told mystery with lots of suspects and fun clue hunting. Definitely trying the next one.
June 25, 2023
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Stop putting question marks in the middle of a statement! There is no good reason for it and it disrupts the flow of the dialogue. Other than that? I enjoyed the story and the characters for the most part. Archie the owl? He was snarky and funny and wise-cracking and I absolutely loved him! :-)
Stop putting question marks in the middle of a statement! There is no good reason for it and it disrupts the flow of the dialogue. Other than that? I enjoyed the story and the characters for the most part. Archie the owl? He was snarky and funny and wise-cracking and I absolutely loved him! :-)
October 17, 2022
My Thoughts:
I bought this book because the premise looked good. Because the cover art is beautiful. Because it is about witches. It is urban fantasy. And it has an audiobook version. I'm glad I did because it was a good read! Or a good listen. Take your pick. Or both. Anyways, this one actually has a plot for an urban fantasy! Kudos to the author!! This is also my first Leanne Leeds read and first Naomi Rose-Mock listen. And now I am a fan!
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 5
Story itself = 4.5
Writing Style = 4
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 4.5
Pace = (6 hrs and 48 mins listening time)
Plot = 4
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5
February 21, 2023
Astra left home at 18 to join what amounted to the paranormal military. Now, however, the military has been disbanded. Adrift and with no job prospects, Astra returns home to her aloof, disapproving mother, her beloved Aunt Gwennie, and three much younger sisters whom she barely knows. On the auspicious occasion of her 33rd birthday, Astra is gifted a talking owl from the goddess Athena herself. Along with the owl comes a mission to prevent murders before they can happen. Astra doesn't exactly believe in gods and goddesses, but having a mission gives her renewed purpose. Astra's first case involves a spoiled actress who is kidnapped from the set of her latest movie. During the course of her investigation, Astra ends up working with human Detective Emma Sullivan, as they're both trying to locate the victim before it's too late. Astra is aided by her sisters with their various talents, and also by her owl, Archimedes, or Archie as he's willing to be called. The detective is aware of the supernatural world, considering her brother was turned into a vampire. The two of them make a good team, but they still must work hard to solve the case before it's too late and bring justice to those responsible.
First up, I loved that this was not a murder mystery, but rather one of a kidnapping. Hoorah! I liked Astra's character, and Archie was a hoot...no pun intended. Each sister had her own personality and it was fun getting to know them. I loved how unflappable and competent Astra was thanks to 15 years in the military. Pacing was good, characterizations were great, and I was thoroughly engrossed in the outcome.
Loved it! Five stars!
First up, I loved that this was not a murder mystery, but rather one of a kidnapping. Hoorah! I liked Astra's character, and Archie was a hoot...no pun intended. Each sister had her own personality and it was fun getting to know them. I loved how unflappable and competent Astra was thanks to 15 years in the military. Pacing was good, characterizations were great, and I was thoroughly engrossed in the outcome.
Loved it! Five stars!
June 14, 2021
Interesting concept
The story revolves around Astra Arden who, now that the normal and paranormal worlds have merged, has lost her job and reason to get up each day. A career soldier she's reduced to returning home and moving back into life with her mother, aunt and sisters.
Her mother is high priestess of the coven of Athena, to say that they don't see eye to eye would be understating the situation but where Minerva's life revolves around worshipping Athena, Astra is in total denial and not prepared to pray to a goddess, or god, she doesn't believe in. So things get tricky when Athena sends Astra a 33rd birthday present of an owl called Archie and some additional powers so she can help to prevent murders from taking place. While the job is right up Astra's alley and her skillset will be tested she's still not convinced that Athena is real..
There's things I enjoyed but also things I found irritating in particular the authors way of placing question marks on the end of statements.. she does this multiple times and it makes no sense.. I have reread every single time she does it and I still cannot fathom a logical reason for this.. it interrupts the flow of the book and makes me question whether she knows what they are for.. a statement is not a question, unless you or your character are asking for information, an item or object, there is absolutely no reason to stick one in! Please stop! The conversations between characters could be better too, they lack reality and are often littered with random ? making them nonsensical.
The story revolves around Astra Arden who, now that the normal and paranormal worlds have merged, has lost her job and reason to get up each day. A career soldier she's reduced to returning home and moving back into life with her mother, aunt and sisters.
Her mother is high priestess of the coven of Athena, to say that they don't see eye to eye would be understating the situation but where Minerva's life revolves around worshipping Athena, Astra is in total denial and not prepared to pray to a goddess, or god, she doesn't believe in. So things get tricky when Athena sends Astra a 33rd birthday present of an owl called Archie and some additional powers so she can help to prevent murders from taking place. While the job is right up Astra's alley and her skillset will be tested she's still not convinced that Athena is real..
There's things I enjoyed but also things I found irritating in particular the authors way of placing question marks on the end of statements.. she does this multiple times and it makes no sense.. I have reread every single time she does it and I still cannot fathom a logical reason for this.. it interrupts the flow of the book and makes me question whether she knows what they are for.. a statement is not a question, unless you or your character are asking for information, an item or object, there is absolutely no reason to stick one in! Please stop! The conversations between characters could be better too, they lack reality and are often littered with random ? making them nonsensical.
June 10, 2022
This is the first book I've read by this author. I enjoyed it. It was full of twists and unexpected events which made for fast reading! The characters were different than the usual witchy murder mystery but I found them quite interesting. I will read the second book to see if it lives up to the first one.
Amazon synopsis:
I’d planned to spend the rest of my life in the witch military, with its pink berets, dramatic drumming, and black ops missions. Now I live with a high priestess mother who disapproves of me and three witch sisters who barely know me.
I didn’t think they’d dismantle the paranormal military with a wave of their bureaucratic magic wand, but they did. Everything I’d spent the previous fifteen years of my life doing and being was ripped away from me in an instant, out of my reach—and now that the paranormal military’s gone, I’ve got nothing left to fight for.
So here I am, thirty-three years old, in cutesy Forkbridge, Florida, living in my childhood home and once again being manipulated by my magical mother. She conjured a talking owl “sent by the goddess Athena.” This “divine” owl, Archie, claims I’ve been chosen to unravel a mystery unfolding in Forkbridge—I must solve a murder planned but not destined, stop a crime before it can occur.
For fifteen years, I chased down paranormal fugitives. For fifteen years, I served with the toughest witches in the world. For fifteen years, I commanded decorated soldiers and changed the course of paranormal history.
Now I take orders from an owl.
Amazon synopsis:
I’d planned to spend the rest of my life in the witch military, with its pink berets, dramatic drumming, and black ops missions. Now I live with a high priestess mother who disapproves of me and three witch sisters who barely know me.
I didn’t think they’d dismantle the paranormal military with a wave of their bureaucratic magic wand, but they did. Everything I’d spent the previous fifteen years of my life doing and being was ripped away from me in an instant, out of my reach—and now that the paranormal military’s gone, I’ve got nothing left to fight for.
So here I am, thirty-three years old, in cutesy Forkbridge, Florida, living in my childhood home and once again being manipulated by my magical mother. She conjured a talking owl “sent by the goddess Athena.” This “divine” owl, Archie, claims I’ve been chosen to unravel a mystery unfolding in Forkbridge—I must solve a murder planned but not destined, stop a crime before it can occur.
For fifteen years, I chased down paranormal fugitives. For fifteen years, I served with the toughest witches in the world. For fifteen years, I commanded decorated soldiers and changed the course of paranormal history.
Now I take orders from an owl.
September 6, 2021
Generally, I enjoyed this book. The concept is different; the whole backstory sets the MC up as something different than the usual cozy mystery witch. Makes a nice change. Otherwise, most of the necessary items are ticked off. There's the large family; although, less warm and inviting than most. I like that the investigative work doesn't have to be done while hiding from the cop friend (unlike the normal cop BOYfriend). I would have wished for more humor. The owl can only provide so much comic relief. There are occasionally aspects of the investigation that don't hold together, but since this falls under the heading of "suspension of reality" so I can live with that. More humor and this could become a real favorite.
June 4, 2022
A delightful twist on a typical storyline!
This story was a definite twist on the typical storyline about a youngish heroine whose life implodes and she has to start over. First of all, she's a witch who was a soldier and doesn't believe in the Goddess Athena her mother and sisters worship. Her relationship with her sisters is practically non-existent and quite strained at times, even though all of them are clearly trying. Her mother and her have a ton of friction. Thankfully, her Aunt Gwen is definitely more relaxed and is often the peacemaker in the family. The story was done well, the characters were well drawn and relatable, and the mystery was actually quite complex. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next book in this series.
This story was a definite twist on the typical storyline about a youngish heroine whose life implodes and she has to start over. First of all, she's a witch who was a soldier and doesn't believe in the Goddess Athena her mother and sisters worship. Her relationship with her sisters is practically non-existent and quite strained at times, even though all of them are clearly trying. Her mother and her have a ton of friction. Thankfully, her Aunt Gwen is definitely more relaxed and is often the peacemaker in the family. The story was done well, the characters were well drawn and relatable, and the mystery was actually quite complex. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next book in this series.
July 21, 2024
This witchy story does not go about it with the usual approach. 33 year old Astra Arden is more likely to use the co-opted (stolen) devices from her military days as a leader in an elite group that worked for The Witches Council than she is to use magic. When the Council is overthrown, Astra loses the job she held for all of her adult life, her pension, and any motivation. She ends up going to live with her mother who is the head priestess for the goddess Athena, her aunt, and her three much younger sisters.
Very shortly after moving home, she receives a talking owl and a mission. According to the owl, he is the pet and emissary of the goddess Athena. But, Astra thinks it might be magical trickery from her mother Minerva. Soon, she gets a sign that she needs to intervene to save someone's life. And, that's where the adventure begins.
The story has plenty of twists and turns but maybe a little too much family angst for my taste. Astra's interactions with her sisters and with the police detective seem fairly normal as Astra is trying to get used to talking to people instead of being a military police type leader. There is one thing stylistically that annoyed me a little. I have never seen it before. Often when the sentence is a compound sentence? There is a question mark at the transition. (Like I just did.) I got mostly used to it after the first 25-30 times, literally, but it was confusing and jarring the first several times because I kept rereading the line to try to figure out what question I missed.
Very shortly after moving home, she receives a talking owl and a mission. According to the owl, he is the pet and emissary of the goddess Athena. But, Astra thinks it might be magical trickery from her mother Minerva. Soon, she gets a sign that she needs to intervene to save someone's life. And, that's where the adventure begins.
The story has plenty of twists and turns but maybe a little too much family angst for my taste. Astra's interactions with her sisters and with the police detective seem fairly normal as Astra is trying to get used to talking to people instead of being a military police type leader. There is one thing stylistically that annoyed me a little. I have never seen it before. Often when the sentence is a compound sentence? There is a question mark at the transition. (Like I just did.) I got mostly used to it after the first 25-30 times, literally, but it was confusing and jarring the first several times because I kept rereading the line to try to figure out what question I missed.
May 1, 2021
Great Start to a Series!
Astra, our protagonist, is independent and does not believe in the goddess Athena or any other gods. This immediately puts her at odds with her Minerva and her sisters. Minerva is the high-priestess of the family coven which is dedicated to Athena. Astra left home to join the military and at age 33 finds herself without a job and heading home. The story takes off with her 33rd birthday party and a gift (purportedly from Athena) of Archimedes (and owl who goes by Archie and can talk to Astra and her family). No sooner do Astra and Archie start bonding (?) when a life-threatening situation occurs and Astra is thrust into the role of preventing a death.
The character development is great. There is a large cast of characters. We get to know them as the plot develops. The world view is laid out (mostly in dialogue) that allows the reader to suspend disbelief and get immersed in the story.
There are multiple sub-plots for Astra including the attempt to save a life, resolving the conflict with her mother, establishing a relationship with Detective Emma, and reacclimating to small-town life.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Only annoying things like work and the need for sleep kept me from finishing this in one day.
Astra, our protagonist, is independent and does not believe in the goddess Athena or any other gods. This immediately puts her at odds with her Minerva and her sisters. Minerva is the high-priestess of the family coven which is dedicated to Athena. Astra left home to join the military and at age 33 finds herself without a job and heading home. The story takes off with her 33rd birthday party and a gift (purportedly from Athena) of Archimedes (and owl who goes by Archie and can talk to Astra and her family). No sooner do Astra and Archie start bonding (?) when a life-threatening situation occurs and Astra is thrust into the role of preventing a death.
The character development is great. There is a large cast of characters. We get to know them as the plot develops. The world view is laid out (mostly in dialogue) that allows the reader to suspend disbelief and get immersed in the story.
There are multiple sub-plots for Astra including the attempt to save a life, resolving the conflict with her mother, establishing a relationship with Detective Emma, and reacclimating to small-town life.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Only annoying things like work and the need for sleep kept me from finishing this in one day.
January 31, 2025
If you like witchy fantasy and crime/mystery books and have been longing for the two to be combined then you need to add the Owl Star Witch Mysteries series to your to read list.
Following Astra who has to return to her family in Florida after major changes in the paranormal community she has previously served in the army of, the tensions with her mother quickly take a back seat when, on her 33rd birthday she receives a gift seemingly from none other than the godess Athena. A gift which is delivered (and overseen) by the plain talking owl Archie.
Archie and Astra quickly get put to work helping to track down a missing woman who recently visited Astra's home/family place of business. When Astra's investigation initially causes her to come under suspicion by the police, an understanding detective opens the potential for a new career and friendship in Astra's hometown.
Quick paced and engaging this story of families, life change and small town living is a perfect introduction to Leanne's work blending fantasy and mystery. I will certainly be looking to make another visit to Forkbridge Florida some time.
Following Astra who has to return to her family in Florida after major changes in the paranormal community she has previously served in the army of, the tensions with her mother quickly take a back seat when, on her 33rd birthday she receives a gift seemingly from none other than the godess Athena. A gift which is delivered (and overseen) by the plain talking owl Archie.
Archie and Astra quickly get put to work helping to track down a missing woman who recently visited Astra's home/family place of business. When Astra's investigation initially causes her to come under suspicion by the police, an understanding detective opens the potential for a new career and friendship in Astra's hometown.
Quick paced and engaging this story of families, life change and small town living is a perfect introduction to Leanne's work blending fantasy and mystery. I will certainly be looking to make another visit to Forkbridge Florida some time.
May 10, 2021
Astra has gone home after what happened with her job. Astra is not really to happy to return home with her mother and how everything goes. Astra is given a gift on her birthday, that will have her on a new path in life. Astra is with her sister Ami at the shop when they find out they are supposed to help the person they just read for. Astra at a location when she meets the detective in the woman's disappearance. Astra and Emma will have to figure out who is behind the crime and why.
This was a good introduction to the characters background, her new path and the same greek mythology. You will find the owl funny. The work dynamic between Emma and Astra is really funny and look forward to more. Wonder if the character Rick will be in there more in the series. Looking forward to more
This was a good introduction to the characters background, her new path and the same greek mythology. You will find the owl funny. The work dynamic between Emma and Astra is really funny and look forward to more. Wonder if the character Rick will be in there more in the series. Looking forward to more
July 8, 2022
Well written and fresh new series
Love the story and narrator. Did listen to it in one settling and have bought the second book in the series. The beginning of the story was fresh, i.e. different from others I have listened to or read, and same can be said for much of the storyline and how the author handles the material. The heroine is already a favorite, the family issues making her even more lovable. Who does not know a controlling mother? Basically I love how the story is written, the supernatural elements, family issues and plot. The only thing missing is the hot love interest. Although I might be wrong, and it just looks different than I am used to. Looking forward to see how this series develops and have high hopes.
Love the story and narrator. Did listen to it in one settling and have bought the second book in the series. The beginning of the story was fresh, i.e. different from others I have listened to or read, and same can be said for much of the storyline and how the author handles the material. The heroine is already a favorite, the family issues making her even more lovable. Who does not know a controlling mother? Basically I love how the story is written, the supernatural elements, family issues and plot. The only thing missing is the hot love interest. Although I might be wrong, and it just looks different than I am used to. Looking forward to see how this series develops and have high hopes.
July 22, 2024
Don't judge a book by it's cover
Make no mistake, the cover for this book is gorgeous! However, the character I just read about was very different from my impression of the gorgeous woman I see on the cover. But that is on me, not the author. I liked this story quite well. The characters, all of them, were intelligent, quirky, and passionate about who they are and what they do. The plot is easily followed and the premise is the creation of a hero by a Goddess and a dealer of justice. Seems simple, yet the process is hardly that, especially when the hero is as stubborn as the day is long and doesn't believe in the Gods. I see great potential with this series and the possibility of five star readings. I definitely recommend this book.
Make no mistake, the cover for this book is gorgeous! However, the character I just read about was very different from my impression of the gorgeous woman I see on the cover. But that is on me, not the author. I liked this story quite well. The characters, all of them, were intelligent, quirky, and passionate about who they are and what they do. The plot is easily followed and the premise is the creation of a hero by a Goddess and a dealer of justice. Seems simple, yet the process is hardly that, especially when the hero is as stubborn as the day is long and doesn't believe in the Gods. I see great potential with this series and the possibility of five star readings. I definitely recommend this book.
May 24, 2021
First in New Magical Midway Spinoff Series
This book is the first in a new series which is a spin-off from the Magical Midway series. The Magical Midway world is the background for this series but it doesn't really matter if you have read that series, you will still enjoy this series. This book is very much about laying the groundwork for the series. The characters and their interactions, their pasts, and how all of that affects their personalities. The crime and its outcome is interesting, but it is all about how the characters learn to work together. I am so excited! This series is going to be great and I am ready to read book 2 right now!
This book is the first in a new series which is a spin-off from the Magical Midway series. The Magical Midway world is the background for this series but it doesn't really matter if you have read that series, you will still enjoy this series. This book is very much about laying the groundwork for the series. The characters and their interactions, their pasts, and how all of that affects their personalities. The crime and its outcome is interesting, but it is all about how the characters learn to work together. I am so excited! This series is going to be great and I am ready to read book 2 right now!
June 12, 2021
What do you get when a reluctant witch who is obligated to a god but would rather be a warrior gets teamed up with a snarky owl? Toss in a domineering witch mother, siblings and an Aunt who are basically minions. Result, family drama. After 'meeting' The Mother you can understand why she preferred to leave home and still fights against being there. What I did not understand is letting the bad guys potentially get away (with the chance of future murder/mayhem) just because she didn't want to say, please! That was beyond bad form and the smug nastiness is why I won't read book II. But, otherwise the book was a fairly good read.
November 26, 2022
Refreshing, fun read.
I wasn't sure what to make of this book at first. A paranormal fascist government getting overthrown and leaving its soldiers jobless and prospectless?
But the minute the owl showed up and the name Athena was mentioned, I was hooked! I've always loved Greek mythology and this is an interesting new take on it.
I didn't get on with my mother either, though we tried in her last years, so that part of the book is a little uncomfortable to read.
I love Aunt Gwennie and the sisters. Each brings something to the story.
My only complaint is how fast a read it is. Good thing there are 12 books!
I wasn't sure what to make of this book at first. A paranormal fascist government getting overthrown and leaving its soldiers jobless and prospectless?
But the minute the owl showed up and the name Athena was mentioned, I was hooked! I've always loved Greek mythology and this is an interesting new take on it.
I didn't get on with my mother either, though we tried in her last years, so that part of the book is a little uncomfortable to read.
I love Aunt Gwennie and the sisters. Each brings something to the story.
My only complaint is how fast a read it is. Good thing there are 12 books!
June 14, 2023
I regret letting this book languish in my TBR pile for as long as I did because it was an absolute delight. Everything I was looking for in a paranormal cozy and more, with a strong setting, interesting and distinct characters, and realistic internal conflict aside from the inevitable external peril. The family dynamics are delicious. And I love that they're invested in preventing murders and not just investigating them, even though the process is the same.
My one disappointment is that in any other similar book, the female lead and their law enforcement colleague would hook up, and I don't think that's going to happen here - the ONE time I really, really want it to.
My one disappointment is that in any other similar book, the female lead and their law enforcement colleague would hook up, and I don't think that's going to happen here - the ONE time I really, really want it to.
July 26, 2025
Different, but in a good way!
Astra Arden had her life all planned out, until she was 'let go' from her job!
This leads her to end up back home at thirty-three.
A place she never thought she end up again.
Her mother still hasn't forgiven her for not stepping into the family business. Being the goddess Athena's hand maidens.
Then thing's take a turn when a talking owl, named Archie shows up, saying he's been sent for Astra, from Athena, to help get justice for certain people.
Not that Astra believes anything, till a woman is kidnapped.
A witch that's an atheist?? Great idea and loving the characters.
Astra Arden had her life all planned out, until she was 'let go' from her job!
This leads her to end up back home at thirty-three.
A place she never thought she end up again.
Her mother still hasn't forgiven her for not stepping into the family business. Being the goddess Athena's hand maidens.
Then thing's take a turn when a talking owl, named Archie shows up, saying he's been sent for Astra, from Athena, to help get justice for certain people.
Not that Astra believes anything, till a woman is kidnapped.
A witch that's an atheist?? Great idea and loving the characters.
April 30, 2021
Oh the tangled webs we weave!
I love the main character, Astra. She is very down to earth, but she is also wary and alert to any and all things. Her military training has her openly questioning everything even while her paranormal experiences have her well aware of things most people haven't seen, heard of or even know about. Her heightened sense of awareness keeps her mind open but skeptical and that's not a bad way to be. Add to that her familial dynamics and it makes for excellent reading! Well written and great characters!
I love the main character, Astra. She is very down to earth, but she is also wary and alert to any and all things. Her military training has her openly questioning everything even while her paranormal experiences have her well aware of things most people haven't seen, heard of or even know about. Her heightened sense of awareness keeps her mind open but skeptical and that's not a bad way to be. Add to that her familial dynamics and it makes for excellent reading! Well written and great characters!
May 6, 2021
What a belter!
This book is well written with an unusual premise, this time we fight the crime before it begins. Can Astra set aside her feelings to do what's right? Will she find a new purpose? Can she rebuild relationships with her family and find a way to fit in? sometimes it is our differences that make us closer.
Astra is a great character, the relationships between mother and daughter, sister and sisters has so much scope.
If you enjoyed reading Fortuna in the Mystic End Mysteries then i promise this is for you.
This book is well written with an unusual premise, this time we fight the crime before it begins. Can Astra set aside her feelings to do what's right? Will she find a new purpose? Can she rebuild relationships with her family and find a way to fit in? sometimes it is our differences that make us closer.
Astra is a great character, the relationships between mother and daughter, sister and sisters has so much scope.
If you enjoyed reading Fortuna in the Mystic End Mysteries then i promise this is for you.
August 8, 2021
Astra is my hero, she is so cool even though she has lost her job and has to move home with her family which believes in Athena and worship's the ground she walked on but she doesn't. So when Astra's birthday comes around and she is gifted an owl and given her new assignment she balks at the restrictions she has to abide by but she does it because she loves a good investigation. Will Astra figure out what her job entrails. I loved the magical midway series and I knew I would love this one too because LeeAnn Leeds really knows how to pull her readers in and keep them enthralled.
July 8, 2022
It is not what you think it is……
Wh did I by this first in a lengthy series - I don’t know it just seemed to be what I needed at the moment, something light, easy and not teenage bodice ripping etc. Well, the purchase was good, light reading, good character building and entertaining. The one thing that stood out and is pertinent to all of us I what happens when an adult through no fault of their own has to move back to the family home, tension seeking to prove you are an adult not a teenager. A great book that has you hitting the buy now button for book two.
Wh did I by this first in a lengthy series - I don’t know it just seemed to be what I needed at the moment, something light, easy and not teenage bodice ripping etc. Well, the purchase was good, light reading, good character building and entertaining. The one thing that stood out and is pertinent to all of us I what happens when an adult through no fault of their own has to move back to the family home, tension seeking to prove you are an adult not a teenager. A great book that has you hitting the buy now button for book two.
May 7, 2021
I loved this book!!! Astra has returned home after her position in the fugitive defense paranormal division for the witch’s council. She’s returned home to Florida to join her 3 sisters, mother, and aunt in their lives. Each has different skills. But on her 33rd birthday Astra has been “blessed” with a new one. She is to work for the goddess Athena to bring justice and save lives.
Great mystery, great characters and I can’t wait for more. Soon, please!
Great mystery, great characters and I can’t wait for more. Soon, please!
February 7, 2022
I wasn't sure if I wanted to give four or five stars; five stars means I would read it again-five stars it is. Loved the entire storyline, Archie the owl was a hoot, the working relationship with Emma was very good. I usually don't like things being repeated (i.e. sister's name then 13 or 15 years old) but since all the kids names started with an 'A' it kept me from getting too lost on who was who. Seemed to be some growth for several of the characters, which is good.
April 27, 2022
50/50
Its a good book so far but honestly it just doesn't do much, I love the owl cause he's funny beyond reason. I don't get why all these women have to end up living with their mother when ever their life isn't going so well and have to move back. What even weird to me is she's a witch and knows about supernatural and myths but don't believe in a bit of myths and god and goddess. Girl got more issues than most people when she shouldn't have any.
Its a good book so far but honestly it just doesn't do much, I love the owl cause he's funny beyond reason. I don't get why all these women have to end up living with their mother when ever their life isn't going so well and have to move back. What even weird to me is she's a witch and knows about supernatural and myths but don't believe in a bit of myths and god and goddess. Girl got more issues than most people when she shouldn't have any.
February 8, 2023
Star of Sage & Scream (The Owl Star Witch Mysteries Book 1)
Great characters with perfect family dynamics. Mother/daughter relationships seem to bring out the worst, especially in the oldest daughter/mother. Yes, voice of experience here.
This is the first book in this series and is enriched with witches and Athena's
high Priestess (mother). Talented younger sisters help bring the oldest daughter back into the fold.
Don't miss this terrific book and Archie the owl.
Great characters with perfect family dynamics. Mother/daughter relationships seem to bring out the worst, especially in the oldest daughter/mother. Yes, voice of experience here.
This is the first book in this series and is enriched with witches and Athena's
high Priestess (mother). Talented younger sisters help bring the oldest daughter back into the fold.
Don't miss this terrific book and Archie the owl.
August 1, 2023
I loved the concept -- witch military is dismantled after a coup, and Astra is without a job. That should have, and did, create a fun read. However, the fun read was hurt by superficial characters.
Note- there were some *outstanding* lines, most uttered by Archie, including “Somewhere out there, there’s a tree working very hard to produce oxygen so that you can breathe,” the annoyed owl snapped at the woman. “I think you should go and apologize to it.”
Overall, the plot was somewhat superficial and predictable, but it's as good a cozy mystery as most, and more than suitable as an afternoon pool read or a companion for a cozy evening in front of a fire.
Note- there were some *outstanding* lines, most uttered by Archie, including “Somewhere out there, there’s a tree working very hard to produce oxygen so that you can breathe,” the annoyed owl snapped at the woman. “I think you should go and apologize to it.”
Overall, the plot was somewhat superficial and predictable, but it's as good a cozy mystery as most, and more than suitable as an afternoon pool read or a companion for a cozy evening in front of a fire.
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