“When an item is stolen, dark energy attaches to it. Food made in a stolen pan could cause all sorts of problems . . . And most of the coven just ate these scones.”
Visitors claim they feel summoned to Whispering Pines, Wisconsin, but can’t explain why. Residents say the same thing. Kitchen witch Reeva Long tried to leave many times only to have fate call her back. Most recently, a year ago to settle her estranged late husband’s estate.
Now Reeva owns Hearth & Cauldron, a quaint, cozy shop where her customers learn to make delectable dishes and find perfect pieces for their homes. When a thief makes off with a pair of vintage fluted muffin pans, Reeva wonders if her time in the village is up again.
Rather than run, Reeva decides it’s time for a reset and invites the village witches over to bless her cottage. Everything goes perfectly until later in the evening when they’re having refreshments and an elderly witch becomes deathly ill after enjoying a scone and a cup of tea.
Did the poor woman’s failing heart finally give out? Were the fluted markings on those scones a coincidence? Or is something more nefarious going on?
Hearth & Cauldron is the first book in The Hearth & Cauldron Mysteries. If you like your mysteries on the cozy side with mischievous pets, plenty of quirky characters, and a dash of witchy paranormal you’ll love this series.
Mystery and fantasy author Shawn McGuire loves creating characters and places her fans want to return to again and again. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that's episode IV) as a kid. She couldn't wait for the next installment to come out so wrote her own. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to tell a tale is as strong now as it was then. She lives in Wisconsin near the beautiful Mississippi River and when not writing or reading, she might be baking, crafting, going for a long walk, or nibbling really dark chocolate. You can learn more about her work on her website www.Shawn-McGuire.com
As a big fan of the Whispering Pines series, I was a little apprehensive about Hearth & Cauldron. I loved Jayne, Meeka and Tripp, and Reeva wasn’t a character I had ever felt particularly drawn to. I didn’t think she was a strong enough character to hold her own series.
But I was wrong. Reeva steps out of the shadows of her sister and we see her beginning to start her life afresh. She has to battle her worries and doubts and find her place in the village again. Of course there’s a mystery to solve, and Reeva joins forces with her friend Ruby to solve it. It was sufficiently twisty to keep me guessing throughout.
Most of the characters from Whispering Pines are in the background but we see more of others. It was lovely to see Martin develop in his role as Sheriff, as well as Jagger as deputy and his K9, Tyrann! We also see more of Keiko and it will be interesting to see her development. I loved Josef but can’t help thinking that maybe he’s not to be trusted! Although he had to leave, I’m sure (well, I hope) he’ll be back.
All in all, Hearth & Cauldron was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I look forward to seeing more of Reeva, Ruby and Keiko in the future!
Note: if your new to Whispering Pines, then I recommend you read Jayne’s first. Reeva’s story picks up after Jayne’s finishes.
*I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
This is the first book in a brand new series, set in the same village and among the same characters as the thirteen book Whispering Pines mystery series, and this is also a mystery, but the change of main character from ex-cop-turned-local-sheriff Jayne O’Shea to prodigal villager and prominent hearth witch Reeva Long makes for a whole fresh new look at the familiar for long-time fans.
I confess to finding it a little disconcerting at first, to be visiting Whispering Pines without Jayne (she is still there, but not present in person in this story, which actually works really well as it gives readers chance to settle in to Reeva’s narration without distractions). It felt a little sneaky, especially when it meant we would be leaving Jayne and Meeka out of a possible crime… that’s their thing!
Despite that, it didn’t take long at all for me to not only get used to the switch but to find it a refreshing change. Reeva has none of Jayne’s sceptical discomfort towards the Wiccan religion or the many different practices – which Jayne lumped together (albeit respectfully!) as ‘woo woo’. On the contrary, Reeva is fully immersed in Wicca and her daily routine is made up of a series of rituals pertaining to those beliefs, which is only fitting considering her new role in the village. This different perspective on life in general also translates to Reeva’s investigation methods, which are more focused on promoting positive energy and seeking to dispel negative energies, while still including the mystery story essentials of suspects, clues and motives… and a few twists of the non-cinnamon variety!
It is useful to note at this point that, while this book can stand alone perfectly well as the beginning of an entirely new series, I would definitely recommend reading books 1-13 of the Whispering Pines series first, as they provide so much back story for the town and characters and are also wonderful cosy mysteries in their own right.
Coming back to Reeva’s investigation though, you will find that as well as the challenges of deaths and more petty crimes, she has plenty of emotional work to do as she has to come to terms with the deaths of loved (and not-so-loved) ones, the after-effects of her sister’s actions, her long-held feelings for Gabe, the villagers’ mixed feelings about her and her yearning for a more fully-lived life in every aspect. That’s a lot of character developing material and I can’t wait to see how she gets on over the course of the rest of this (hopefully long-running) series.
For now, though, this is a great start to the new ‘spin-off’ series for new and old fans alike – for anyone, really, who enjoys a well-written mystery with a warm, small-community heart and a touch of mystical spirit.
Let me start by saying I've read the entire Whispering Pines series and love them all! I was a bit nervous about this new series as much as I love the other series because it's such a hard act to follow. However, I shouldn't have worried, and neither should you if you are a die hard Whispering Pines fan. If this is your first dip into this universe, don't worry that you will feel lost while reading. This book does an excellent job explaining things about this lovely community and anything relevant from books in the other series while not going into so much detail to frustrate avid readers of the other series. If you haven't finished the Whispering Pines series, then I DO recommend holding off a bit on this one because you'll have so much spoiled for you if you read this one before finishing the other.
I enjoyed the Hearth Witch Tips sprinkled in the book, even if I already knew a couple of them. I enjoyed seeing characters from a beloved series in more detail or from a new perspective. The mystery definitely falls into a 'cozy' category, even though it involves death, which I don't consider a 'light' topic. It isn't graphic or full of gruesome details, but definitely has creepy vibes at times, which I enjoy in a good murder mystery. I figured out part of the mystery before Reeva did but was clueless on the rest of it until almost the end of the story. As usual with this author, I was drawn into the story and had a hard time putting it down.
This is the first book after the Whispering Pines series. After the books featuring Jayne O’Shea which I loved, this new series with Reeva as protagonist doesn’t disappoint. Feels like coming back to a familiar place and discover there’s more to come. Well done! I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
Interesting characters, odd town, and engrossing plot. This book kept my attention from beginning until the end. I loved that the heroine is not young, and that the issues she faces in her life are relevant to other women.
Enjoyed this one very much. The mysteries were not too difficult to figure out but the descriptions of some of the rituals in Wicca were very interesting. I will definitely read book two.
I was not disappointed in the continuation of whispering Pines saga. Truth be told I’m a little obsessed with the Village. We learned a little more about Reeva’s relationship with her Ex husband, her deceased daughter and with the Village itself. I really enjoyed the friendship developing between the single “oldster” women. Cannot wait for more installments to see how those relationships continue to develop. Would like to see more of Jayne in future books. Will be tuning in to find out where it goes from here. I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review!
I was pleased to be travelling back to Whispering Pines. I enjoy reading about all the villagers and happy to see Martin developing. I loved the Viking, Josef, and hope he is going to return in a later book. I found this book was a slow start but it set the scene for the next book. If you haven't already read it, you would benefit from reading the previous series before starting this one. An enjoyable read.
Having read all the the Whispering Pines books, I was very excited about this new series. Shawn McGuire did not disappoint.
1t seems as though there may be a new 'player' on the horizon. Gabe may have to declare his feelings for Reeva or risk losing her to someone who shares her love of baking.
Keiko will never replace Jasmine, but she will alleviate some of Reeva's loneliness. There is still the mystery of who broke the flowerpots. Maybe the culprit will be revealed in Book 2?
I receive a free Advance Reader Copy of Hearth & Cauldron from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
Shawn McGuire Review Book for Book 1 Hearth and Cauldron
It starts out with Reeva feeling unbalanced and apprehensive. We learn that she wants to have a restart or new beginning to her life. It bothers her having the role of high priestess that Morgan has bestowed upon her and whether the regulars in the village will finally accept her as one of them and that she belongs in the village too.
It has been only two weeks since the sentencing of her sister, Flavia, by the then sheriff, Jayne, and River.
She believes that she has forgiven Flavia for all her evil ways she has treated her and misses her to a point that she feels like there is a hole or a prop that has held her in place has gone missing.
She also misses her dead daughter and almost wants to possibly join her on whatever level she might exist.
We learn of Reeva's misgivings of being nominated high priestess and second thoughts of allowing Morgan to lead in cleansing and blessing her cottage along with inviting the coven into her home.
We get Reeva's perspective in the explanation of the roles her husband, Carl, and her sister, Flavia, have played in Yasmine's and her life. And how this explains why she lived away from the village so long and what brought her back.
There is a mystery about stolen antique baking pans and the dire consequences for whoever bakes in them because of the theft.
We get a feeling that the individuals in the village must be careful not to tread too closely to someone else's expertise.
Reeva performs her first judgment and punishment as high priestess and the reader wonders if there will be repercussions and a suffering of consequences on her part.
When Reeva gets a note that says the scone was meant for her, she takes this as a threat which launches Reeva and her good friend, Ruby, into the roles of being detectives.
There is possible love in the air, when a visitor to the village takes Reeva's experimental cooking class. He is a Norwegian master chef and has lost his pleasure in cooking.
Watch the antics of the animals, an owl, two cats, and a wannabe police dog, that are introduced throughout the story. They help set the scenes of mystical mayhem in the village. Reeva explains "Animals are very sensitive things that aren't as they should be." "There isn't a security system made that would work better than my owl."
We find out who was trying to scare, that turned deadly, Reeva into either leaving Whispering Pines or stepping down as high priestess. We are also left wondering what lies ahead as Reeva struggles to create a new and satisfying life for herself.
This book was very refreshing in that it was told using Reeva's side of her story. Her life has so many ups and downs that it's surprising that to a certain extent she has coped well and she still has a desire to reach out to friends that love her and support her. And despite having everything taken away from her she sees the good and not the evil brought on by her sister, her deceased husband, and in her thoughts a daughter that has died too soon.
With her evil sister, Flavia, safely locked away in the nun’s tower, Reeva feels like she can finally live her own life. She now has her own shop, Hearth & Cauldron, in the charming village of Whispering Pines. Reeva sells kitchen supplies and gives cooking lessons and demonstrations. Between locals who want to improve their skills and the flood of seasonal tourists, business is excellent.
Reeva was recently chosen to be the high priestess of the village’s coven by the previous leader. For several reasons, there are some coven members who are angry about this. When Reeva asks the coven to gather at her home for a much needed cleansing/blessing, she becomes aware that some members might not have put their best effort into it.
Food is an essential part of any meaningful gathering. One member brings some absolutely delicious scones. Iris, a frail elderly woman trades scone flavors with Reeva. Later that night, Iris dies. Initially, it appears that Iris died of heart failure. But after several malicious attacks on her property and an ominous note taped to her shop door, Reeva begins to suspect that Iris’s death wasn’t natural.
I adore the village of Whispering Pines. I want to live –or at least visit — there! It is so quaint and cozy. I’d love to walk through the town, visit the shops and meet the residents. Although, there are all those pesky murders… During the pandemic lock down, I binge-read through the Whispering Pines Mystery series. It was so nice to have a place to escape to, even if it was just in a book. When the series came to a conclusion, I felt a bit bereft.
A few weeks ago, Shawn McGuire sent out a note asking for additional Review Squad Members and I leaped at the opportunity. At first, it was a bit of an adjustment looking at Whispering Pines through Reeva’s eyes instead of Jayne’s. But once I got used to the different point of view, everything felt familiar and comforting once again. This first book in a new series set in Whispering Pines is absolutely magical! I don’t need a crystal ball to foresee that the author will have fresh options for further adventures in Whispering Pines. I’m looking forward to all of them!
My Rating 5 Stars, Grade A
NOTE: Thank you, Shawn McGuire, for the opportunity to be on your Review Squad and to read/review this Advanced Reader Copy of Hearth & Cauldron.
Hearth & Cauldron by Shawn McGuire I received the Hearth & Cauldron as ARC reader. I didn’t know what to expect, on how different it might be from Whispering Pines. I really enjoyed Jayne and Tripp from Whispering pines. I started reading about Reeva and her shop Hearth & Cauldron, I was surprised at the twist the story took, and how Reeva was trying to put her life in order and how her friend Ruby who runs the Twisty Skein is helping her put it in order and helping her find out what is happening in Whispering Pines and being so supporting. Reeva is trying to help Kieko who was her daughters Yasmine’s friend, Kieko wants to learn about being Wicca, she isn’t for sure if she wants to be a good person or a bad person, only time will tell. Reeva is giving cooking lessons for men and woman, and she has her first date after least 20 years. Reeva had her house blessed and is moving on with her life and put Karl out of her life finally. We have a death, stealing and vandalism, plus we are dealing with some residents in Whispering pines who are against Reeva from being High priestess, some of the residents don’t feel Reeva has the right to be the high priestess, she left Whispering pines and returned and left again, but she is back to stay. We learn how all the whispering pines residents are doing and how all their shops are doing and how busy they are with tourist session. We don’t hear much about Jayne, just that she is trying to figure her life out and helping Tripp out. Martin is now sheriff, and he has Jagger helping him, plus they have a new police dog, they have their hands full with naked tourists, vandalism and trying to find out who doesn’t want Reeva in Whispering pines. Read the book so you can see what happens in the Hearth & Cauldron and the all the residents in Whispering pines. I can wait for book 2.
It is often said that people are summoned to the mystical Whispering Pines. I believe this to be a very apt statement, especially given how I have come to regard this mysterious, quaint, charming village as the only place in the whole wide world, where I truly belong.
Being a long time Whispering Pines resident who is ardently in love with the place and it’s residents, I was a bit apprehensive of this new angle in the series. However, having read this wonderful book from a very gifted author, who is known to create relatable, life-like characters and places that readers want to return to over and over, I gladly accept that my feelings were unfounded and totally unnecessary.
If I could leave more than 5 stars as a review for this latest book in the series, I would!
With her knack of spinning fantastic, enrapturing stories, excellent narration, easy writing, Shawn knows how to draw you in and keep you hooked.
The numerous mini surprises and the suspense of it all kept me reading into early hours of the morning, when I should have been sleeping!
I am already looking forward to the next book in the series because I just can’t wait to find out what happens next; I need answers!
Highly recommend this book and the series, that is, if you haven’t already read it (which I highly doubt).
If by the slightest chance you haven’t, I invite you to Whispering Pines to find out what the ebullience is all about, and I am certain that like me, one day you too might realize how it was one of the best decisions you took.
Having indulged myself with the Whispering Pines series, this new approach to the Wiccan village life took some adjustment for me. At first, admittedly, I missed Jayne and her investigative background. I felt that the more immediate focus on the daily routines and all the detail were of less interest to me than my anticipation of some crime or local mystery to solve. However, it made sense to set the stage by familiarizing us with the main characters of this series and any lingering feelings that would justify the turn of events. It just started out slow for me and then finally picked up when things started to happen.
I do like Martin’s new role as sheriff. He appeared knowledgeable and capable although, possibly in need of more help at times. His persona was liberated from his mother’s influence and very caring towards his aunt Reeva. It would seem that Reeva and Ruby pride themselves as amateur detectives now much to Martin’s dismay.
As usual, Shawn McGuire’s novels are well-written and I think her focus on different characters holds promise for interesting scenarios to come. However, many of the Whispering Pines characters prevail so it would be helpful but not necessary to read the initial series. Whispering Pines Village definitely has its charms and its mysteries - more to be revealed. Personally, I would like to see a little more action and romance. The introduction of Jozef, the handsome Viking, was very intriguing and I hope to see more of him…I received an arc and this is my honest and voluntary review.
HEARTH & CAULDRON is the first installmen in the Hearth & Cauldron Mysteries by Shawn McGuire. This well written, page-turning new series is a spin-off of the Whispering Pines series that featured Sherrif Jayne O’Shea.
This new series focuses on Reeva and her shop and of course a mystery or two. WP followers don't fear, our old friends are still here along mysteries and murders to solve.
This series starts two weeks after Reeva's sister Flavia was sentenced. Sheriff Jayne has retired and left her capable deputy, Reed Martin, as the new Sheriff. Morgan also bestowed her position of High Priestess on Reeva which has left Reeva feeling unbalanced and apprehensive about being able to fulfill the position. It also bothers her that not everyone is happy with her as their High Priestess.
Reeva wanted to a restart or new beginning to her life, but hadn't planned on her business and home being attacked, murder or receiving threatening notes. Could it be because some consider her an Outsider or because she is now High Priestess? BFF Ruby decides the two of them need to investigate and find out what's going on.
This story had me in the first chapter and kept me going to the end. The most disappointing part of the story was that it ended too soon. For a book that does that for you, how could it get less than five-stars?
Do enjoy the Hearth Witch Tips sprinkled throught the book.
I did receive an Advance Readers Copy from the author. The above is my freely given review.
This highly anticipated book did not let me down. Although it took me a fair few chapters to realise that Jayne or Morgan were not going to make an appearance, it did not detract me from the storyline. This book is very different to Jayne’s story, although there is still a death that occurs!
The story picks up just 2 weeks after Jayne’s story ended. I kind of wanted to know more about Reeva’s life before Whispering Pines but I guess that will come with time. It was great to see Reeva come to life and more importantly, meet a hunk!! I really hope that story gets explored down the line!
I love her developing relationship with Keiko, and I was so happy with the ending… I can’t wait to see how it pans out for both of them.
Reeva’s friendship with Ruby is brilliant and reminds me of my best friend… I hope we find out Ruby’s story in time. They are funny characters and I hope their ‘private investigating’ takes off!
It was great to see that Reeva does indeed have friends, even though she doubts herself on that score! The night of Litha made me sad but loved the outcome!
(Trying not to give any spoilers here.. hope I have succeeded).
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for book two!
Reeva is restarting her life at age 58. She returned to Whispering Pines a year ago to settle her estranged husband's estate. Now, she is ready to move forward. As a kitchen witch and proprietor of a cozy shop called Hearth & Caldron she is helping her customers learn to cook and to find the perfect pieces for their homes. But then a theft from her store starts her and her best friend looking for the culprit and a number of mysteries start intertwining. I loved this book, the first in the Hearth & Caldron series. This series takes place in the same place as the ended Whispering Pines series. Many of the characters from the previous series are mentioned in this book but the focus here is on different characters. I'm not sure if having read the previous series will help or not since I did read the previous series - many times. What I love most here though is that Whispering Pines still feels like one of the characters. This is a unique tourist town that embraces Wicca, living a meaningful life and learning life lessons. I am so happy that Shawn is still writing about this place about which I simply adore reading.
Went into reading “Hearth & Cauldron” with an open mind after reading the last thrilling page turning series of Whispering Pines books by Shawn McGuire.
Throughout “Hearth & Cauldron” you’ll learn more about Reeva; her life away from Whispering Pines, her marriage, raising a daughter, and then insights into growing up with her sister Flavia. You also find out more about the people of Whispering Pines.
Reeva is questioning her position as the newly appointed High Priestess of Whispering Pines. Is there trouble with someone in town who feels she wasn’t the right choice? Who is trying to harm her, or is it someone else they‘re trying to harm? The newly appointed Sheriff, the new police officer and a new canine take to the streets to ferret out who is the culprit causing a quiet uproar in Whispering Pines.
Shawn has interspersed “Hearth Witch Tips” and phrases and their meanings throughout the book. Very fun learning more about the Wiccans and their beliefs.
Ah – and the Viking – Will we hear more about him? Will he be returning to Whispering Pines?
And, who broke the darn flower pots?
A quick read but savored ever written word. Anxiously await the next book.
Returning to Whispering Pines was like being wrapped in a cosy blanket on a cold day and snuggling infront of an open fire. I loved the Whispering Pines Mystery Series and the Hearth & Caldron Mystery Series hasn't let down the village!
This series picks up where Whispering Pines finishes, but this time focusing on a different villager. Reeva returned to the village after many years away, during the original series, and felt compelled to stay. Having remained practicing Wicca all this time, her return saw her being given the place of High Priestess to the coven and she finally fulfilled her dream and opened her own kitchen witch store. This story follows Reeva's journey to settle in to village life, grow her business and perform her duty to her coven, but as always in this magical village, all is not well. Someone doesn't want Reeva there, and threatens her life.
As the mystery unfolds some of my favourite villagers pop up, Laurel, Maeve, Lily-Grace and of course Sherrif Martin Reed. It was fantastic to see the village from a different character and get go know Reeva and Ruby in more detail abd the story didn't disappoint.
*I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.*
It’s lovely to be back in Whispering Pines with the same residents and a few new faces. Reeva Long is now the high priestess and Martin Reed is the new sheriff.
Reeva has a lovely shop Hearth and Cauldron were she holds classes on cooking were villages and visitors learn how to make tasty dishes as she is a kitchen witch, she loves her shop and her cottage.
Reeva is feeling a little unsettled after a couples of vintage muffin pans go missing from her store and she wonders if she should stay in the village so she invites the village witches to bless her home but one of the elderly witches becomes ill after eating a scone at the end of the blessing. It’s a mystery how this happened and there are questions asked which upset some of the villages.
To find out what else happens you will need to read this exciting book in this new series, as in the first series you are held in suspense until the end, it’s a great read looking forward to the next in this series.
The village is back!!! I was so sad when Jane's story finally came to an end and I didn't want to leave the village. I absolutely LOVE the Whispering Pines series and was so excited to hear that Shawn McGuire was going to continue visiting the village in a different way. Once again, she did not disappoint. Hearth and Cauldron is the same wonderfully written stories from Whispering Pines that take you to the village and immerse you in the village life and characters. It's just seen through the eyes and life of Reeva rather than Jane. There are obviously some differences since Jane was sheriff and Reeva is a business owner but it still has mystery and that amazing cozy feel of being transported to the village. I can't wait for the next book...and when this series ends, I would love a series from Morgan's life (hint, hint to the author). If you love the Whispering Pines books, Hearth and Cauldron will not disappoint!!
This is the first book in the new Hearth & Cauldron series in Whispering Pines, Wisconsin, with Reeva as the "voice" of the book. Reeva is the owner of Hearth & Cauldron, a kitchen store, where she teaches cooking classes and sells kitchen items. The timeline of the book is a few weeks after the events of the last Whispering Pines series book, so the events from the last series are referenced some, and are seen from Reeva's perspective. Of course, there is a mystery for Reeva to solve, and she gets help from several of the other villagers. The different perspective also allows for the further development of new characters that were introduced towards the end of the Whispering Pines series, as well as some lesser-known locals that may have been mentioned in passing. I think you will like getting to know Reeva a little bit better now that she is no longer overshadowed by her sister. I highly recommend this book, and I think you will be charmed by the village of Whispering Pines.
Hearth and Cauldron is finally here and I have been missing Whispering Pines for far too long. I love that little village and the assortment of interesting characters. This book is centered on Reeva, an old villager that has returned after decades away. I love how Shawn McGuire creates a setting that is both idyllic and charming but has a slightly seedy underbelly that is needed for a great mystery novel. On the surface, the quaintness of the town beckons tourists (and readers) in, but Reeva's welcome has been tainted by very unfriendly deeds. Reading the antics of Reeva and her best friend Ruby trying to uncover who is threatening her was the highlight of my afternoon. I was comforted in all the familiar characters and warmed by the new ones, both human and animal. I CANNOT wait for the next installment.
I have really enjoyed the entire Whispering Pines series and was eagerly looking forward to the new Hearth and Cauldren series featuring one of the Whispering Pines citizens, Reeva Long. I was NOT disappointed and have enjoyed getting to know Reeva better as well as catching up with the friends from the first series. You do not need to have read the Whispering Pines series to enjoy this new look at the Wisconsin village of Whispering Pines as author Shawn McGuire does a great job of giving backstory information when appropriate. I love the more in depth look at the Wicca beliefs and rituals and found the "kitchen hints" fun. There is great character descriptions and mysteries with twists you don't see coming along with a little romance thrown in. New series, new beginnings and old friends...great combination!
In Hearth & Cauldron, author Shawn McGuire has written an intriguing first in series companion story to the highly engaging Whispering Pines Mystery set.
Featuring the successful hearth and home witch, Reeva, with appearances from many familiar characters of Whispering Pines Village, there is mystery afoot as despite the Wiccan coven gathering to cleanse and bless Reeva's home, things are going amiss. Mixed in with the mystery of the wrongdoings going on in the village, many aimed at Reeva, are the explanations of Wiccan tips and rituals. This is a gentle sharing of knowledge of the Wiccan faith for those unfamiliar.
Who are the culprits in stolen items, broken things, and was a death natural or a murder? You'll need to read Hearth & Cauldon to find the answers. You will be spellbound reading to the end.
As a fan of the Whispering Pine series, I was thrilled to see a favorite character get a “spinoff” book of her own. Reeva Long, high priestess in the Wiccan village of Whispering Pines, teams up with friends to solve the town’s latest cozy murder mystery.
Shawn McGuire does an excellent job of writing this book in a way that will appeal to her already robust fan base, as well as to those who haven’t yet discovered her Whispering Pine series. The main character is dealing with loss, aging, and family drama. As a woman of a certain age whose nest is nearly empty, I could relate to Reeva’s desire to reinvent herself and develop meaningful relationships with other villagers.
Witchy vibes, offbeat villagers, a disturbing theft, and an unexpected death. Hearth and Cauldron will warm your heart, make you laugh, and spark your inner detective.
I really enjoy reading the Books set in Whispering Pines and was very sad when that particular series ended. However, I was delighted to find out that Shawn was writing a new series with Reeva as the central character. Without giving anything away of the plot, I can say that the story is a great one, with as usual a mystery to take you into the next book, and maybe a hint of a romance to come. Most of the favourite characters are there too. You really do need to have read the Whispering Pines series, or the amount of characters might be a little confusing. The stories and characters always make me want to visit or even live in Whispering Pines, whatever the weather and also to get crafting or baking! I’m really looking forward to the next instalment.
There are mysteries brewing in Whispering Pines. This adorable village in the Northwoods of Wisconsin is a joy to visit. The characters are all worth getting to know. In this first book of a new series, we learn about Reeva, the High Priestess of the local Wiccans and many other delightful characters. The book grabs your attention and you will be eager to see how the story plays out. There are definitely humor and charm in this book. I have read and enjoyed every book Ms. McGuire has written about Whispering Pines, as well as her other series. I definitely like her style of writing. Although this is first in a new series, it is a stand-alone and won’t leave you with a cliffhanger. But you will want to read the next one, I’m sure! I received an ARC from the author.
I am always coming back to Shawn McGuire's books. It all started with the Whispering Pines series (which I have reread multiple times). So when I heard about this spin-off series, I knew I had to read it. Her details in the characters make them feel real to me and I could imagine being friends with or not liking some of them in real life. I love how each place is described so the reader can feel like they are in the same room as the characters. The mysteries of the "whodunit" always draws me back for more and I can't wait to read more into Reeva's story. I highly recommend that you read not only this book but the Whispering Pines mystery series in order to know some of the back story to Reeva's life. It's definitely worth it.
This is listed as the first book of a series, but it is really a continuation of the Whispering Pines series from the perspective of Reeva instead of Jayne. The same characters are there but we are seeing them from a new angle and learning more about some that were secondary in the other series. It is not necessary to read the Whispering Pines books first, but you will enjoy this book more if you are familiar with the setting and characters. Reeva, a hearth witch, has become high priestess of the coven. After a cleansing of her home to rid it of bad vibes, things start going wrong and it seems Reeva is the target. This is a classic whodunit that is well written with wonderful characters and a believable plot. Witchcraft is dealt with in a way that is not spooky or paranormal but explains the Wiccan religion in a way that is educational. I especially enjoyed the hearth witch tips sprinkled throughout. Although I miss Jayne from the Whispering Pines series, I look forward to spending more time with Reeva. Thanks to Shawn McGuire for giving me an ARC copy.