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Magical Mystery Book Club #1
Shifting and Shenanigans
2022 Cozy Mystery Tribe Awards - BOOK OF THE YEAR finalist!
THIS IS NO ORDINARY BOOK CLUB!
Paige and her adventurous Aunt Glo inherit a country inn from eccentric GeeGee. Finally! They can get into the secret room in the basement that GeeGee kept locked! They discover it’s a wonderful library filled to the brim with mystery books. But more than the room was a secret – it’s a magical place that houses enchanted books. Paige and Glo find themselves absorbed into the book - smack-dab in the middle of a murder mystery, along with a motley group of book club friends. The club will need to work together to solve the case in order to get out of the book and back to their home.
THIS IS NO ORDINARY BOOK CLUB!
Paige and her adventurous Aunt Glo inherit a country inn from eccentric GeeGee. Finally! They can get into the secret room in the basement that GeeGee kept locked! They discover it’s a wonderful library filled to the brim with mystery books. But more than the room was a secret – it’s a magical place that houses enchanted books. Paige and Glo find themselves absorbed into the book - smack-dab in the middle of a murder mystery, along with a motley group of book club friends. The club will need to work together to solve the case in order to get out of the book and back to their home.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2022
715 people are currently reading
3334 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Pantley
63 books450 followersElizabeth Pantley is a bestselling author of fiction and non-fiction books. She writes two well-loved cozy mystery series: The Magical Mystery Book Club, and the Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic series. She has also written the international bestselling No-Cry Solution parenting book series that is available in over twenty languages.
Elizabeth lives in the majestic Pacific Northwest and spends winters in the sunny desert of Arizona. While neither location is home to any paranormal beings (that she knows of) the vastly different yet equally lovely locations are the inspiration for the settings in many of her books.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a free novella at www.elizabethpantleyauthor.com
Elizabeth lives in the majestic Pacific Northwest and spends winters in the sunny desert of Arizona. While neither location is home to any paranormal beings (that she knows of) the vastly different yet equally lovely locations are the inspiration for the settings in many of her books.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a free novella at www.elizabethpantleyauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
July 17, 2025
This book was SO much fun! I needed a paranormal book for a challenge and this one fit the bill. I've never read this author before, but Elizabeth Pantley did such a great job with Shifting and Shenanigans - 1st in the Magical Mystery Book Club series - that I'll definitely read more!
Paige and Aunt Glo inherited the country inn that their great-grandmother, and grandmother - GeeGee - owned, and they'd visited during their childhoods. The letter from GeeGee to the women, held by the solicitor, told them about the hidden library which they would now have access to. And when they ventured down into the basement, they found a vast room filled with books, and various other intriguing objects. But it was the cat who showed himself to Paige and Glo, informing them his name was Frank, that started their fabulous adventure, filled with magic, a murder mystery and much more.
What fun! Off to find the next one! Highly recommended to fans of the genre :)
Paige and Aunt Glo inherited the country inn that their great-grandmother, and grandmother - GeeGee - owned, and they'd visited during their childhoods. The letter from GeeGee to the women, held by the solicitor, told them about the hidden library which they would now have access to. And when they ventured down into the basement, they found a vast room filled with books, and various other intriguing objects. But it was the cat who showed himself to Paige and Glo, informing them his name was Frank, that started their fabulous adventure, filled with magic, a murder mystery and much more.
What fun! Off to find the next one! Highly recommended to fans of the genre :)
October 12, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SHIFTING AND SHENANIGANS (Magical Mystery Book Club Book #1) by Elizabeth Pantley is the fun first book in a new cozy mystery series featuring a mystery book club with quirky, but lovable characters and rules and adventures unlike any other book club.
Paige Erickson and her Aunt Glo inherit a quaint country inn from their GeeGee. They are both ready for change and a new adventure, so they pack up and move. When they explore the inn, they are excited to finally be able to investigate the library in the basement they were never allowed in before. What they find is a two-story magical library under the inn filled to the brim with only cozy mysteries.
Paige and Glo start the book club with the help of a Siamese cat and an octogenarian ball of energy who both attended previous book club meetings. The club is set up for eight members who are magically sent into the cozy mystery book the group decides on together. As the mystery unfolds, the group must learn to work together to solve the case in order to end the story and get out of the book.
I enjoyed meeting every character in this mystery. They are all so different and entertaining. The plot reads like any other cozy mystery that must be solved, but you feel like a member of the book club, and you are trying to solve it with them so they can return home. It is like reading a story in a story. The magical elements are simply explained, and you just go with them. Since this is the first book, the characters and the magical elements are introduced which takes some time from the mystery, but it was still engaging. This is also a great premise because there are so many different types of cozy plots the author can explore in the future. This was a paranormal cozy mystery, but the next could be any other type.
I recommend this new cozy mystery for a fun and entertaining read. I am looking forward to many more adventures with the Magical Mystery Book Club.
SHIFTING AND SHENANIGANS (Magical Mystery Book Club Book #1) by Elizabeth Pantley is the fun first book in a new cozy mystery series featuring a mystery book club with quirky, but lovable characters and rules and adventures unlike any other book club.
Paige Erickson and her Aunt Glo inherit a quaint country inn from their GeeGee. They are both ready for change and a new adventure, so they pack up and move. When they explore the inn, they are excited to finally be able to investigate the library in the basement they were never allowed in before. What they find is a two-story magical library under the inn filled to the brim with only cozy mysteries.
Paige and Glo start the book club with the help of a Siamese cat and an octogenarian ball of energy who both attended previous book club meetings. The club is set up for eight members who are magically sent into the cozy mystery book the group decides on together. As the mystery unfolds, the group must learn to work together to solve the case in order to end the story and get out of the book.
I enjoyed meeting every character in this mystery. They are all so different and entertaining. The plot reads like any other cozy mystery that must be solved, but you feel like a member of the book club, and you are trying to solve it with them so they can return home. It is like reading a story in a story. The magical elements are simply explained, and you just go with them. Since this is the first book, the characters and the magical elements are introduced which takes some time from the mystery, but it was still engaging. This is also a great premise because there are so many different types of cozy plots the author can explore in the future. This was a paranormal cozy mystery, but the next could be any other type.
I recommend this new cozy mystery for a fun and entertaining read. I am looking forward to many more adventures with the Magical Mystery Book Club.
March 3, 2025
This was a very fun and unusual book. Unfortunately my library doesn’t have them. I had to purchase this book which I rarely do, so I may not be able to read the other ones. It is a book within a book !
July 18, 2022
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a country inn from their GeeGee. They are finally allowed access to a secret room in the basement, where they find a wonderful library. As part of the inheritance and library they are to host a book club. Upon the first meeting of the book club they find out that the library is magical when they are pulled into the mystery.
I had high hopes for this new series as I enjoyed other books I read by Mrs. Pantley. This book surpassed my expectations. This is now my favorite series by Mrs. Pantley. This book is not your normal cozy mystery. There is a wonderful twist in that characters are transported into a cozy mystery which they need to solve to return home. This is a unique concept, it’s like the characters get to go to a murder mystery party with eache meeting. The main characters Paige and Glo are likable and relatable. However the secondary characters (members of the book club) are quirky and entertaining. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of surprises.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
I had high hopes for this new series as I enjoyed other books I read by Mrs. Pantley. This book surpassed my expectations. This is now my favorite series by Mrs. Pantley. This book is not your normal cozy mystery. There is a wonderful twist in that characters are transported into a cozy mystery which they need to solve to return home. This is a unique concept, it’s like the characters get to go to a murder mystery party with eache meeting. The main characters Paige and Glo are likable and relatable. However the secondary characters (members of the book club) are quirky and entertaining. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of surprises.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
July 4, 2022
This is not your standard cozy mystery. It’s kind of a send-up of the cozy mystery genre - and it’s a lot of fun!
The set-up. Paige and her aunt Gloria inherit an inn from Gloria’s grandmother and they decide to pick up and start a new chapter in their lives and move to the small town in Colorado that holds many fond memories for both of them. It turns out there’s a secret library room deep under the inn and Gloria and Paige have instructions to re-start a mystery book club based in that room. I don’t want to spoil the several twists and turns of the book, but basically the book club members find themselves in the middle of the mystery book they choose to “read”. They become part of the story and have to try to solve the mystery in order to get back out of the book. I really enjoyed the motley group who became the other members of this book club.
The reason for including “shifting” in the title doesn’t get revealed until about 3/4 through the book.
If you enjoy a touch of paranormal in your reading, you will definitely enjoy this book.
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The set-up. Paige and her aunt Gloria inherit an inn from Gloria’s grandmother and they decide to pick up and start a new chapter in their lives and move to the small town in Colorado that holds many fond memories for both of them. It turns out there’s a secret library room deep under the inn and Gloria and Paige have instructions to re-start a mystery book club based in that room. I don’t want to spoil the several twists and turns of the book, but basically the book club members find themselves in the middle of the mystery book they choose to “read”. They become part of the story and have to try to solve the mystery in order to get back out of the book. I really enjoyed the motley group who became the other members of this book club.
The reason for including “shifting” in the title doesn’t get revealed until about 3/4 through the book.
If you enjoy a touch of paranormal in your reading, you will definitely enjoy this book.
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 22, 2022
Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley is a cute cozy mystery. Page and her aunt, Gloria or “Glo” have inherited an inn from GeeGee. They move to the small town of Cascade Springs, Colorado. The place holds many fond memories for both ladies. They learn that there is a secret library under the inn. They are required to start up a cozy mystery book with eight members (they are included in the eight). The ladies soon find six people who wish to join and organize their first meeting. They begin the process of deciding which book shall be their first. Paige reads the first page of a book and . . . I am not going to spoil it for you. I thought Shifting and Shenanigans had a unique premise. The author has an engaging writing style. It reminds me of chatting with old friends. There is a cast of offbeat, diverse characters. I find Zelda to be a hoot. Frank is another entertaining character. The characters antics (especially Zell and Frank) will have you laughing. The mystery was fun and different. Shifting and Shenanigans is an amusing story. I hope we get to know more about our characters in future stories. I feel they need fleshing out especially Paige and Glo. I like the length of the story. It can easily be finished in an afternoon (great way to spend a rainy afternoon). It will be interesting to see what adventure the group goes on in the second book in A Magical Mystery Book Club series (Vampires and Villains). If you like to read paranormal cozy mysteries, then you will enjoy reading Shifting and Shenanigans. Shifting and Shenanigans is a witty tale with a charming country inn, a magical library, a cozy mystery book club, a sociable cat, a curious crime, an unpredicted revelation, and a romantic twist.
July 15, 2022
Full review available @ Elza Reads
Greetings you guys! Oh we are so thrilled to share the first instalment of our favorite feline author in the whole wide world's brand new series. Jeezzz, that sentence might be a bit long and without any punctuation marks. As long as you can see the excitement jumping from the page here, we don't really care.
Elizabeth Pantley, the greatest feline author ever, decided to take a detour from our beloved Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic Series to write a new cozy mystery series. Wait wait, before you go into a complete state of panic, here's the facts:
1. It is not the end of Queen Latifa and her human, Hayden's adventures in Destiny Falls
2. Yes, it is just as fun and quirky as the Destiny Falls series
3. The murder mystery angle is better in the new series (our humble opinion)
4. It ticks all the necessary boxes to qualify as a cozy mystery.
5. Yes, there is still a gorgeous feline lead character (not Latifa, to be quite Frank)
6. It's pure magic! No really. Pure Magic.
After her recent divorce, Paige is ready to turn a page (get that?? Oh, Frank would have loved it). When her dear Grandmother, GeeGee passed on or away or however you humans love to phrase it when a loved one isn't part of this realm anymore, it wasn't hard to make the decision to pack up and leave for Colorado with her Aunt Glo. GeeGee left the two ladies the Snapdragon Inn and of course adventure, a secret room, a couple of new friends and a clever feline companion awaits them around the next hairpin bend!
To be Frank, there is nothing not to love about this new series. A room filled to the brim with magical books, yes I know all books are magical, these are just a cut above. Quite similar to cats outshining dogs. A rather eccentric Book Club I wouldn't mind to be part of and twists and turns that will make your head spin in the good kind of way, and of course - the host.
"I give you the star of the show, the amazing, the wonderful, the host to all your dreams and wishes, the guide to your future adventures...."
Frank wasn't quite GeeGee's cat, he comes with the library. So therefore, he is now Paige and Glo's feeding problem. Luckily they do that quite diligently as all humans should. A well-fed cat is just so much easier to take on a thrilling adventure.
Gosh, we loved this book so much and found ourselves completely submerged in the murder mystery and shenanigans of the Book Club members. Don't you just love it when you are so into a book, you become part of it? If that's your idea of a thrilling ride as well, do not miss out on this book! You might have noticed that I haven't mentioned the first part of the title - shifting. I'm not going to give it away, I'm just going to say - mind blowing! Such a clever and well crafted twist.
Bravo Elizabeth! We are completely in love with your new book and can't wait for the next instalment that will hit the best selling charts in September 2022.
Greetings you guys! Oh we are so thrilled to share the first instalment of our favorite feline author in the whole wide world's brand new series. Jeezzz, that sentence might be a bit long and without any punctuation marks. As long as you can see the excitement jumping from the page here, we don't really care.
Elizabeth Pantley, the greatest feline author ever, decided to take a detour from our beloved Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic Series to write a new cozy mystery series. Wait wait, before you go into a complete state of panic, here's the facts:
1. It is not the end of Queen Latifa and her human, Hayden's adventures in Destiny Falls
2. Yes, it is just as fun and quirky as the Destiny Falls series
3. The murder mystery angle is better in the new series (our humble opinion)
4. It ticks all the necessary boxes to qualify as a cozy mystery.
5. Yes, there is still a gorgeous feline lead character (not Latifa, to be quite Frank)
6. It's pure magic! No really. Pure Magic.
After her recent divorce, Paige is ready to turn a page (get that?? Oh, Frank would have loved it). When her dear Grandmother, GeeGee passed on or away or however you humans love to phrase it when a loved one isn't part of this realm anymore, it wasn't hard to make the decision to pack up and leave for Colorado with her Aunt Glo. GeeGee left the two ladies the Snapdragon Inn and of course adventure, a secret room, a couple of new friends and a clever feline companion awaits them around the next hairpin bend!
To be Frank, there is nothing not to love about this new series. A room filled to the brim with magical books, yes I know all books are magical, these are just a cut above. Quite similar to cats outshining dogs. A rather eccentric Book Club I wouldn't mind to be part of and twists and turns that will make your head spin in the good kind of way, and of course - the host.
"I give you the star of the show, the amazing, the wonderful, the host to all your dreams and wishes, the guide to your future adventures...."
Frank wasn't quite GeeGee's cat, he comes with the library. So therefore, he is now Paige and Glo's feeding problem. Luckily they do that quite diligently as all humans should. A well-fed cat is just so much easier to take on a thrilling adventure.
Gosh, we loved this book so much and found ourselves completely submerged in the murder mystery and shenanigans of the Book Club members. Don't you just love it when you are so into a book, you become part of it? If that's your idea of a thrilling ride as well, do not miss out on this book! You might have noticed that I haven't mentioned the first part of the title - shifting. I'm not going to give it away, I'm just going to say - mind blowing! Such a clever and well crafted twist.
Bravo Elizabeth! We are completely in love with your new book and can't wait for the next instalment that will hit the best selling charts in September 2022.
August 14, 2022
I LOVED this book! The concept was new and refreshing, at least to me. The characters find themselves smack dab in the middle of a mystery book and have to solve the murder before they can return home. Can you imagine being whisked away into the middle of the book you are reading? Some of us would call that heaven.
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherit a house from Paige's grandmother GeeGee, but there are conditions - they have to move there and live in the house, run the B&B, and host a book club. Well, Paige and Glo don't really have anything else better going on in their lives, so they decide to take the plunge and move to this tiny town in Colorado. What follows is a twisty magical tale where you suspend belief and just go with the flow.
The characters are quite intriguing, and a motley crew at that. Zelda (Zell) was GeeGee's closest friend and, in a way, is their guide through this new chapter and the book club since it isn't your ordinary book club. The members of the book club choose a book, but since they are new to this, they don't realize that they are about to be swept away into the book to solve the crime. They discover this quite by accident when they are trying to decide on a book, and Paige reads the first page. Apparently, you don't do this unless you are ready to solve that crime. However, neither Zell nor Frank share that little detail until it is too late. Oh sure, they try, but not very hard. Frank is a hoot. He is a magical cat and can speak to them, but he also seems to know when to dramatize events to get his point across.
I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside Paige, Glo, and the gang. They do seem to work well together and discover clues that lead them to the killer. But this town is magical, and the same rules don't always apply there as they would in our world. I won't say too much, but it was an interesting way to justify the crime. Justify may be a strong word, but if you read the book, you will understand. There is also an interesting twist at the end, which explains even more about GeeGee's passing.
I can't wait to read the second book in this series and discover new adventures with Paige, Glo, and the rest of the gang. I think this will be a fantastic new series.
We give the book 5 paws up.
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherit a house from Paige's grandmother GeeGee, but there are conditions - they have to move there and live in the house, run the B&B, and host a book club. Well, Paige and Glo don't really have anything else better going on in their lives, so they decide to take the plunge and move to this tiny town in Colorado. What follows is a twisty magical tale where you suspend belief and just go with the flow.
The characters are quite intriguing, and a motley crew at that. Zelda (Zell) was GeeGee's closest friend and, in a way, is their guide through this new chapter and the book club since it isn't your ordinary book club. The members of the book club choose a book, but since they are new to this, they don't realize that they are about to be swept away into the book to solve the crime. They discover this quite by accident when they are trying to decide on a book, and Paige reads the first page. Apparently, you don't do this unless you are ready to solve that crime. However, neither Zell nor Frank share that little detail until it is too late. Oh sure, they try, but not very hard. Frank is a hoot. He is a magical cat and can speak to them, but he also seems to know when to dramatize events to get his point across.
I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside Paige, Glo, and the gang. They do seem to work well together and discover clues that lead them to the killer. But this town is magical, and the same rules don't always apply there as they would in our world. I won't say too much, but it was an interesting way to justify the crime. Justify may be a strong word, but if you read the book, you will understand. There is also an interesting twist at the end, which explains even more about GeeGee's passing.
I can't wait to read the second book in this series and discover new adventures with Paige, Glo, and the rest of the gang. I think this will be a fantastic new series.
We give the book 5 paws up.
July 14, 2022
I want to be a part of this book club! What a great idea for a story although not surprised, I've been a fan of Elizabeth Pantley and her Destiny Falls series. I read this book in one sitting, could not put it down.
Paige and her aunt Glo, inherit The Snapdragon inn when their GeeGee "goes to a better place". They are excited to move in and are looking forward to finally finding out what is behind the locked doors GeeGee never let them go into when they were kids. They are surprised to find what's down there and that they need to start a book club. Little do they know it's not your typical book club.
I don't want to give anything away so I'm just gonna say - read this book. It's such a great read and puts a nice spin on cozy mysteries and book clubs. Can't wait for book #2
Paige and her aunt Glo, inherit The Snapdragon inn when their GeeGee "goes to a better place". They are excited to move in and are looking forward to finally finding out what is behind the locked doors GeeGee never let them go into when they were kids. They are surprised to find what's down there and that they need to start a book club. Little do they know it's not your typical book club.
I don't want to give anything away so I'm just gonna say - read this book. It's such a great read and puts a nice spin on cozy mysteries and book clubs. Can't wait for book #2
July 28, 2022
This is a wonderful start to the Magical Mystery Book Club series with a great cast of characters, fun paranormal elements and a twisty mystery that quickly became a page-turner. I loved Paige and Glo and enjoyed their dynamic with the book club members when the book they are reading comes alive with them being a part of it. If you enjoy fun cozy mystery, don't miss Shifting and Shenanigans by gifted author Elizabeth Pantley. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 20, 2022
I loved the first 3/4 of this book, but then it was rushed and over before I knew it.
The disappoint then set in.
The extended beginning was so well written, and gave us such a wonderful glimpse into each character. I had no idea who to even start to wonder about a whodunit but I was invested. The plot was thickening.
Then it was, here ya go and goodbye. I feel like a big chunk of the last half of the story is missing in comparison to that wonderful start.
But I still liked the outcome. It was all I wanted.
I loved the one weird but cool element that the author added to the story besides the obvious being in a book thing. It was a nice surprise for us as a reader and the character too it seemed.
So yeah, I would read the next book, but I am hoping for more.
The disappoint then set in.
The extended beginning was so well written, and gave us such a wonderful glimpse into each character. I had no idea who to even start to wonder about a whodunit but I was invested. The plot was thickening.
Then it was, here ya go and goodbye. I feel like a big chunk of the last half of the story is missing in comparison to that wonderful start.
But I still liked the outcome. It was all I wanted.
I loved the one weird but cool element that the author added to the story besides the obvious being in a book thing. It was a nice surprise for us as a reader and the character too it seemed.
So yeah, I would read the next book, but I am hoping for more.
March 7, 2024
This book was simply pure fun. Paige and her aunt Glo have inherited her grandmother's inn, and apparently the secret library underneath it. Upon checking it out, they find a talking cat who tells them they need to start a book club of specifically eight people.
Once they have their club together, they venture into the library to start. What they don't expect, however, is how book club actually goes. With a returning member, and Frank the talking cat, they expected some sort of warning before being sucked into the story itself!
At the start of each book, the group is transported into it and given notes on how to solve the cozy mystery at hand. But as they go, they realize that they're not only there to observe and solve the mystery, but they are now characters written into the books themselves.
Through creative investigation and getting to know the people in the fictional town, they're able to piece together the pieces of the puzzle so that they can solve the mystery and return home. But what if not everyone wants to go?
This was magical, original, and so, so funny! The characters are great, and I can't wait to see more of them!
Once they have their club together, they venture into the library to start. What they don't expect, however, is how book club actually goes. With a returning member, and Frank the talking cat, they expected some sort of warning before being sucked into the story itself!
At the start of each book, the group is transported into it and given notes on how to solve the cozy mystery at hand. But as they go, they realize that they're not only there to observe and solve the mystery, but they are now characters written into the books themselves.
Through creative investigation and getting to know the people in the fictional town, they're able to piece together the pieces of the puzzle so that they can solve the mystery and return home. But what if not everyone wants to go?
This was magical, original, and so, so funny! The characters are great, and I can't wait to see more of them!
October 19, 2022
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley is the first book in the Magical Book Club series. In this unique and imaginative series, Pantley delivered a story that will take readers on a magical adventure. Read on and learn the reason this would be perfect for fans of cozy mysteries.
Paige and her Aunt Gloria aka Glo inherited a country Inn from Paige’s grandmother GeeGee. The inheritance came when both ladies were seeking to start a new chapter in their lives. So packing and moving to a new location was done with no hesitation. Within the Inn lay a mysterious room where they could not enter while GeeGee was around. Imagine their excitement upon realizing they can now venture into the mysterious room. What they discovered went beyond their wildest imagination. A magical library stocked with cozy mysteries.With the help of a talking Siamese cat and a diminutive and energetic octogenarian, they restarted the book club. Soon, they and the other five recruited members will find themselves literally caught up in the first book they selected for reading. Now, in order to leave the book, they will need to solve the case and bring closure to the characters.
Shifting and Shenanigans offered quite an adventure. It was fun to see a group of people with different personalities working as a team. The journey started on a rocky note, but the moment everyone understood the assignment, they got down to business. The story featured many laugh out loud moments, with Frank the talking cat at the centre.The characters, which includes both the members of the book club and the ones featured in the story chosen by the club they were quite an interesting bunch. It was fun interacting with them. However, I wished more information was provided in relation to the book club members. Development in this regard was lacking. I found it interesting that the story in the book chosen by the members developed as they progressed through their investigation.This being the first book in the series, it took a while for the mystery to develop. The story focused on introducing the various elements needed for the story’s development. The mystery was OK. It didn’t wow me, but it delivered enough to hold my attention. Overall, Shifting and Shenanigans provided the perfect escape from a mundane world. Definitely a good start to the series.
Read an excerpt:
“I’ve never seen anything like this,” said the locksmith. He took a step back and scratched his head. He’d been at it for twenty minutes and still hadn’t opened the door. “It doesn’t make sense. This takes a skeleton key. It should be a simple task. People can do it with a couple of Allen wrenches. I’ve even done it with a pair of paperclips.”
“So, what do we do now?” Glo asked.
“Best thing is to contact a carpenter. Since the hinges are inside, he’ll have to drill the lock. It’ll destroy the lock and damage your door, though.”
“We don’t have much choice. We want to get into the room, so we’ll have to do it,” I said.
After the locksmith left, we looked up a couple of local contractors, but any openings were days away. We texted Theo but hadn’t heard back from him yet.
We decided to start the day by sorting out the kitchen. There were plenty of dishes and dry goods, but the organization was an absolute mess.
“How in the world did she work in this disaster?” Glo mumbled. “You’d spend half your time searching for things!” She was emptying out a cabinet. She pulled out an odd assortment of dishes, pots, cleaning supplies, and canned goods. She started to laugh and held up a hundred-piece puzzle in one hand and a shoeshine kit in the other.
“Now this makes perfect sense.” She was snorting. “Make dinner, clean up, shine your shoes and do a puzzle.”
I held up a few treasures from the cabinet I was working on. “And here you go. In case you need a spare pair of socks, a stack of plastic containers – no lids – and printer ink.”
“It’s like a treasure hunt! It’s good for us to sort through all this anyhow.”
“True,” I agreed. “Then we’ll know what we’ve got. Let me find some paper and a pen and we’ll start a list of things we need.”
I began to sort through the typical drawers most people would use for things like pens and scratch paper, then groaned. “You know what’s in her junk drawers? Talcum powder, coffee creamer, clothespins, and aha! The soup bowls!”
“Where’s the very last place you’d look for a pen and paper? Try that first,” snickered Glo.
“Probably the bathroom,” I joked. “I’ll just make a list on my phone.”
I opened another cabinet and groaned at the stack of boxes and plastic containers jammed into every inch. They were filled with random stuff. I took them to the table and dumped them out.
“Holy Toledo! Glo, look at this!” I stood up and did a little dance around the kitchen. I shimmied over to her, then held up a very old-looking skeleton key.
~ ~ ~
“I feel like we should have a drum roll or a trumpet fanfare—”
“—or fireworks!” laughed Glo. “At least a countdown. Five … four … three … two … one! Blastoff!”
I turned the key and heard the click as it unlocked. “Houston, we have liftoff.”
I twisted the knob and pushed the door open. There was a set of stairs to the basement. At the bottom of the stairs was another door. We opened it. Impossibly, there was another set of stairs. At the bottom of those stairs was yet another door. It required a skeleton key to open. I stared at the key in my hand. “You better work,” I told the key.
The key worked smoothly, and I opened the door.
Our jaws dropped and neither of us spoke. You could have heard a cotton ball drop.
Finally, Glo broke the silence. “Holy macaroni! This is insane!”
“How could she have kept this secret our whole lives?” I wondered.
“WHY did she keep this secret?” Glo added.
“This room is the size of the entire house! It’s enormous. Ginormous!” I whistled.
“This secret space is underneath the inn! How is it two stories high? Is that even structurally sound? This is bizarre.”
The room was indeed two levels high, connected by a brass spiral staircase. In the front area, where we were glued to the spot, was a large seating area with eight cozy floral patterned armchairs. A beautiful wooden coffee table sat in the middle. There was an antique globe on a brass stand, and a stone fireplace like the one upstairs. This one had an intricately carved wood mantle and a stone hearth. A large statue of a woman holding a book was centered on the mantle.
“Look at all these books!” exclaimed Glo, spinning in a circle.
“This is the library GeeGee referred to in her will! Remember? She said she’s putting us in charge. That it’s priceless!”
“I am beyond confused, Paige. How is this even possible? GeeGee was just a sweet little innkeeper. She was the lady who baked us cookies and homemade stew. And she was hiding all this right under our feet?!”
***
Excerpt from Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley. Copyright 2022 by Elizabeth Pantley. Reproduced with permission from Elizabeth Pantley. All rights reserved.
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This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
July 24, 2022
I am at a loss of words....not because I don't know what to say about Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley....it's just the opposite except if I say too much, it will give everything away !!! I wish I could just say.....GO READ THE BOOK !!! But alas....I cannot.
If you have read Pantley's Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic series you know that she is all about magical aspects in her writing so you won't be surprised when you read the first book in her new series, the Magical Mystery Book Club series .....
In Shifting and Shenanigans main characters Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a country inn from Paige's great-grandmother, Glo's grandmother. Even though it is a sad loss, GeeGee states in her will that she does not want them to have a pity party but to celebrate her life and enjoy their lives. Seeing as Paige has just finalized her divorce and Aunt Glo is always up for anything, they sell some of their belongings and move themselves and what they kept to the Snapdragon Inn......little do they know what they are getting themselves into.
One place they were never allowed was the basement where the secret library is but now that they are owners, they venture to the basement to finally see the two story beautiful library with a talking cat named Frank. Yes you read that correctly. Upon meeting Frank and getting a tour of the secret library, he informs them that they are now the keepers of the library as well as hosts for the book club. They are to gather 6 other people who are willing to participate in the book club. Luckily for them one of the people who answer their ad is Zelda who was a member of GeeGee's past book clubs so she can help them with getting started.
After they have found their 6 other participants, they gather in the secret library to pick the first book for them to read. The library is shelved with all cozy mysteries and as they go around searching for a book to bring to the group to pick, they find that there are 8 copies of each book and they are tied together. Once they all gather their choices, they are to read the blurb on the back and then decide. Unfortunately the book that Paige picked doesn't have a blurb on the back so she starts to read the first page.....and before they know it the library is filled with smoke and they are somehow transported inside the book !!! After the smoke clears and they go upstairs, they realize they are no longer in Cascade Valley....they are still in the inn however. Luckily for them Zelda has done this many times with GeeGee so she is able to inform them as to what is going on. Because Paige read from the inside of the book, it transported them to the town that the book is based in and in order to get out of the book and back home, the murder has to be solved.
So Page, Aunt Glo, Zelda, Frank and the other members of the book group decide to go around town getting to know the area as well as the people.....unfortunately they don't get very far when they find a neighbor naked and dead in a cage. The group finds themselves actually enjoying their time in this little town and getting to know the people while trying to solve the murder.......but readers will never see what author Pantley has in store for the small innocent group !!!
While reading Shifting and Shenanigans readers will be able to overlook and accept quite a bit while reading....a talking cat, sure what not. Secret magical library, sure okay. Being transported inside a cozy mystery and having to solve a murder, sure okay why not.......but what follows in the story....well, I don't want to say anymore, you really need to read it for yourself. Pantley has a crazy, fun imagination and the way she writes her stories is a special talent. Readers will love reading this first book in her new series and I, for one, cannot wait to see where the book club goes next......
If you have read Pantley's Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic series you know that she is all about magical aspects in her writing so you won't be surprised when you read the first book in her new series, the Magical Mystery Book Club series .....
In Shifting and Shenanigans main characters Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a country inn from Paige's great-grandmother, Glo's grandmother. Even though it is a sad loss, GeeGee states in her will that she does not want them to have a pity party but to celebrate her life and enjoy their lives. Seeing as Paige has just finalized her divorce and Aunt Glo is always up for anything, they sell some of their belongings and move themselves and what they kept to the Snapdragon Inn......little do they know what they are getting themselves into.
One place they were never allowed was the basement where the secret library is but now that they are owners, they venture to the basement to finally see the two story beautiful library with a talking cat named Frank. Yes you read that correctly. Upon meeting Frank and getting a tour of the secret library, he informs them that they are now the keepers of the library as well as hosts for the book club. They are to gather 6 other people who are willing to participate in the book club. Luckily for them one of the people who answer their ad is Zelda who was a member of GeeGee's past book clubs so she can help them with getting started.
After they have found their 6 other participants, they gather in the secret library to pick the first book for them to read. The library is shelved with all cozy mysteries and as they go around searching for a book to bring to the group to pick, they find that there are 8 copies of each book and they are tied together. Once they all gather their choices, they are to read the blurb on the back and then decide. Unfortunately the book that Paige picked doesn't have a blurb on the back so she starts to read the first page.....and before they know it the library is filled with smoke and they are somehow transported inside the book !!! After the smoke clears and they go upstairs, they realize they are no longer in Cascade Valley....they are still in the inn however. Luckily for them Zelda has done this many times with GeeGee so she is able to inform them as to what is going on. Because Paige read from the inside of the book, it transported them to the town that the book is based in and in order to get out of the book and back home, the murder has to be solved.
So Page, Aunt Glo, Zelda, Frank and the other members of the book group decide to go around town getting to know the area as well as the people.....unfortunately they don't get very far when they find a neighbor naked and dead in a cage. The group finds themselves actually enjoying their time in this little town and getting to know the people while trying to solve the murder.......but readers will never see what author Pantley has in store for the small innocent group !!!
While reading Shifting and Shenanigans readers will be able to overlook and accept quite a bit while reading....a talking cat, sure what not. Secret magical library, sure okay. Being transported inside a cozy mystery and having to solve a murder, sure okay why not.......but what follows in the story....well, I don't want to say anymore, you really need to read it for yourself. Pantley has a crazy, fun imagination and the way she writes her stories is a special talent. Readers will love reading this first book in her new series and I, for one, cannot wait to see where the book club goes next......
June 16, 2022
You NEED to read this book! Now! or as my Dad would say, “immediately, if not sooner!” A new treasure (hopefully series!!) from the incredible mind of Elizabeth Pantley! She brings her magical and mysterious writing talents back through the portal from Destiny Falls, but in an incredibly unique and new way, to create an amazing, mysterious, and spellbinding story once again. This time we tag along with a young lady Paige and her adventurous aunt Gloria who gain a wonderful gift from her grandma that takes them on to a new life in a new town, in a home full of memories, and unsuspectingly they get tons more than they could EVER expect.
As with everything I read from her, Shifting and Shenanigans takes me off to a different world that drops away all my usual routines of daily life, to take me out with her lovingly created and intriguing but also very real characters. A few chapters in, there was so much fun and mystery going on that was exciting, spellbinding, and unique that it was already enough for the whole book! Then wham! MORE new and even better, insanely creative and amazing twists occur… I seriously do not know how her mind is so spectacular where she first develops her ideas then lovingly creates her amazing tales! There is a wonderfully magical and brilliant brain at work.
Her descriptive, colorful developing of both the story line and her incredible but realistic people (and yes, there’s a special cat) whisks me away fully into her world of the tales she tells.
Barely catching my breath from reading the first unexpected twist in the story and blown away, thinking “wow”, yet I am surprised almost immediately with another turn of events even more mysterious and magical. A few more chapters and bam! once again, even a better, more exciting twist happens!
I could not put this down until I had finished it, even knowing I was going to be wanting more, and the tale to go on forever! Enthralling and holding my attention captive to the very last word of the very last page, the adventure continues, while I tag along as part of the very special book club, until suddenly ( to me at least!) the story ends, in the most incredible surprising events yet! There I am, thinking “oh, no, it CANNOT be over. I need to know more, I want to read more!” Hopeful and anxiously awaiting a new book, I’m back in my usual mundane world, to merely survive and muddle along till my next trip into the wonderful world where Elizabeth Pantley wows me again and again!
As with everything I read from her, Shifting and Shenanigans takes me off to a different world that drops away all my usual routines of daily life, to take me out with her lovingly created and intriguing but also very real characters. A few chapters in, there was so much fun and mystery going on that was exciting, spellbinding, and unique that it was already enough for the whole book! Then wham! MORE new and even better, insanely creative and amazing twists occur… I seriously do not know how her mind is so spectacular where she first develops her ideas then lovingly creates her amazing tales! There is a wonderfully magical and brilliant brain at work.
Her descriptive, colorful developing of both the story line and her incredible but realistic people (and yes, there’s a special cat) whisks me away fully into her world of the tales she tells.
Barely catching my breath from reading the first unexpected twist in the story and blown away, thinking “wow”, yet I am surprised almost immediately with another turn of events even more mysterious and magical. A few more chapters and bam! once again, even a better, more exciting twist happens!
I could not put this down until I had finished it, even knowing I was going to be wanting more, and the tale to go on forever! Enthralling and holding my attention captive to the very last word of the very last page, the adventure continues, while I tag along as part of the very special book club, until suddenly ( to me at least!) the story ends, in the most incredible surprising events yet! There I am, thinking “oh, no, it CANNOT be over. I need to know more, I want to read more!” Hopeful and anxiously awaiting a new book, I’m back in my usual mundane world, to merely survive and muddle along till my next trip into the wonderful world where Elizabeth Pantley wows me again and again!
July 26, 2022
Paige Turner is celebrating her divorce. Here wacky Aunt Glo is more than willing to join in the party. She even reminds Paige that she can go back to her maiden name Paige Erickson and avoid the jokes about her married name. When Paige’s grandmother, GeeGee, passes away, she and Glo inherit her country inn. Paige and Glo always loved the place and it’s perfect to start a new life.
Paige and Glo are especially excited to check out the secret room in the inn’s basement. A place GeeGee never let them enter. They are delighted to find a library filled with mystery books and even a Siamese cat! The real shocker is when the cat starts talking to them. Even more shocking is when the cat explains a requirement of owning the library is to host a book club. They set out to recruit more members for the book club and that’s where the fun really begins.
The idea is to choose a book to discuss, but it’s more than just a discussion. It’s an adventure. The book club is transported right into the middle of the murder mystery. In order to return home, they must solve the mystery.
What an unusual twist to the cozy mystery theme. Talk about transporting the reader into the book. That’s exactly what happens to this group. I went right along with them for the ride and loved every minute of it!
Elizabeth Pantley has outdone herself with this first book in her new series. I adore her Destiny Falls cozy mystery series, but I this one even tops that. I loved everything about this from page one to the very last page.
The author gives us an offbeat group of characters that truly have you laughing. Of course my favorite is the talking cat, Frank. He kept me entertained throughout this magical tale. I don’t know how the author manages to come up with such original material for her stories, but what a joy this was to read. The ending - all I can say is wow! I didn’t see that coming.
I can’t even come up with words to describe such a fun, imaginative journey this book to me on. To say that I’m looking forward to the next book is an understatement. I want to jump right in NOW!
Yes, this is on my list of Best of 2022!
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Paige and Glo are especially excited to check out the secret room in the inn’s basement. A place GeeGee never let them enter. They are delighted to find a library filled with mystery books and even a Siamese cat! The real shocker is when the cat starts talking to them. Even more shocking is when the cat explains a requirement of owning the library is to host a book club. They set out to recruit more members for the book club and that’s where the fun really begins.
The idea is to choose a book to discuss, but it’s more than just a discussion. It’s an adventure. The book club is transported right into the middle of the murder mystery. In order to return home, they must solve the mystery.
What an unusual twist to the cozy mystery theme. Talk about transporting the reader into the book. That’s exactly what happens to this group. I went right along with them for the ride and loved every minute of it!
Elizabeth Pantley has outdone herself with this first book in her new series. I adore her Destiny Falls cozy mystery series, but I this one even tops that. I loved everything about this from page one to the very last page.
The author gives us an offbeat group of characters that truly have you laughing. Of course my favorite is the talking cat, Frank. He kept me entertained throughout this magical tale. I don’t know how the author manages to come up with such original material for her stories, but what a joy this was to read. The ending - all I can say is wow! I didn’t see that coming.
I can’t even come up with words to describe such a fun, imaginative journey this book to me on. To say that I’m looking forward to the next book is an understatement. I want to jump right in NOW!
Yes, this is on my list of Best of 2022!
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 2, 2022
Talk about a super cozy and entertaining mystery. Shifting and shenanigans is perfect to read curled up in your favorite reading nook and escape into the world of books and secrets.
We are introduced to Paige, recently divorced and down on her luck, she is looking for a fresh start. Alongside her very modern and charming aunt Glo, Paige finds out they both have inherited their great grandmother GeeGee's bed and breakfast. At first Paige is in disbelief that GeeGee would have left them the inn, where they both have such amazing memories from childhood, especially the room that GeeGee kept secret.
Once they finally open the secret room, they are in awe to see it houses the biggest collection of mystery books they've ever seen. Inside the room they also find a very peculiar cat named Frank, and Frank will be their guide as to what exactly GeeGee had instore for them. I cannot gush enough about this cozy mystery, it has an incredible cast of characters, amazing ambiance and a delightful and fun plot. I am beyond excited to keep reading from this series and finding out how Paige and Glo will embark on their next book adventure.
We are introduced to Paige, recently divorced and down on her luck, she is looking for a fresh start. Alongside her very modern and charming aunt Glo, Paige finds out they both have inherited their great grandmother GeeGee's bed and breakfast. At first Paige is in disbelief that GeeGee would have left them the inn, where they both have such amazing memories from childhood, especially the room that GeeGee kept secret.
Once they finally open the secret room, they are in awe to see it houses the biggest collection of mystery books they've ever seen. Inside the room they also find a very peculiar cat named Frank, and Frank will be their guide as to what exactly GeeGee had instore for them. I cannot gush enough about this cozy mystery, it has an incredible cast of characters, amazing ambiance and a delightful and fun plot. I am beyond excited to keep reading from this series and finding out how Paige and Glo will embark on their next book adventure.
July 6, 2022
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherit the Inn owned by Glo's mother, GeeGee. As they embark on their new adventure, they get more than they bargained for when they end up continuing GeeGee's book club and literally find themselves in a murder mystery.
I usually don't read books with supernatural elements but I am so glad I tried Shifting and Shenanigans. Frank the cat was my favorite of all the wonderfully written characters. I can't wait to learn more about each one. This book is action packed and fast paced. A real page turner with an ending I did not see coming. I loved the humor and the relationships being built between the characters. I cannot wait to see where this series goes from here.
I recommend Shifting and Shenanigans to all cozy mystery lovers. Even if supernatural is your usual read, please give it a try.
I usually don't read books with supernatural elements but I am so glad I tried Shifting and Shenanigans. Frank the cat was my favorite of all the wonderfully written characters. I can't wait to learn more about each one. This book is action packed and fast paced. A real page turner with an ending I did not see coming. I loved the humor and the relationships being built between the characters. I cannot wait to see where this series goes from here.
I recommend Shifting and Shenanigans to all cozy mystery lovers. Even if supernatural is your usual read, please give it a try.
July 21, 2022
A fun mash up of cozy mystery and fantasy!
I’m a fan of a cozy mystery, but when Paige and her Aunt Glo finds a hidden treasure of an entire cozy mystery library in an inherited B&B, I was hooked.
Pantley creates a warm and lovable cast of misfits in her first novel In the Magical Mystery Book Club series, and it was charming and quaint. I found the pacing brisk and easy. A much needed break from the crazy of the real world, especially lately.
And, with a library full of future adventures, who knows where they’ll “travel” next!
Pop on your comfy PJs and settle in for a fun trip with an eclectic bunch into the world of Gee Gee’s library.
I’m a fan of a cozy mystery, but when Paige and her Aunt Glo finds a hidden treasure of an entire cozy mystery library in an inherited B&B, I was hooked.
Pantley creates a warm and lovable cast of misfits in her first novel In the Magical Mystery Book Club series, and it was charming and quaint. I found the pacing brisk and easy. A much needed break from the crazy of the real world, especially lately.
And, with a library full of future adventures, who knows where they’ll “travel” next!
Pop on your comfy PJs and settle in for a fun trip with an eclectic bunch into the world of Gee Gee’s library.
July 14, 2022
More than 5 stars!
Wonderfully written original story, I’ve never read anything like it. Really enjoyed this first book and getting to know the characters. I can’t wait to see what their next adventure is.
Wonderfully written original story, I’ve never read anything like it. Really enjoyed this first book and getting to know the characters. I can’t wait to see what their next adventure is.
August 17, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley is a fantastic start to this new series. I am in love with these characters.
Can Paige, Glo, and their new friends figure out the mystery?
Paige Erickson and the Book Club Members
Paige Erickson is just turning thirty and officially divorced all in one day. She finds out with her Aunt Gloria, Glo, that they inherited GeeGee's inn and a secret library. All I have to say is that I love Glo and Paige; they are such a riot. Paige is a great character and a fabulous leader for their book club group.
The book club members are all fantastic alone and in the group. We have Frank the Siamese Cat. I can't really talk much about Frank, but he's quite the character. Next up is Zelda, a recently turned eighty-year-old who was in the book club before with GeeGee. Then we have Valentina, and she's something else entirely. And a whole bunch of others. You may not think they would work well together, but they do. Each has their own part that reveals itself to them throughout the story.
I love these characters, and I can't wait for book 2!
The Mystery
The mystery, well mysteries, are quite the doozy. First up, we have the whole thing of, oh, we are in a book, and now how do we get out of said book! What a dilemma. Then we have to figure out who killed this recluse guy next door to them in said book. I loved reading this entire thing and laughed out loud at certain spots. The town they popped into is lovely, and I also loved all the townspeople.
My favorite quote has to be:
I love it because it wraps up the whole book in one quote. It is not only with Paige and her group but the story they are in. Kudos to Ms. Pantley for not only writing one book but another one within her new world.
Five Stars
Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley is a wonderful book filled with so much humor and magnificent characters that I can't wait for her second book to come out. Ms. Pantley does a great job of creating worlds that make me want to be there with the characters experiencing everything. I would probably freak out about going into a book. Still, the possibility of actually solving the mystery would also be great, and meeting so many characters that make me feel at home. Sign me up, please.
I am giving Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley five stars and recommending it to anyone that loves paranormal cozies.
Magical Mystery Book Club Series
Can Paige, Glo, and their new friends figure out the mystery?
Paige Erickson and the Book Club Members
Paige Erickson is just turning thirty and officially divorced all in one day. She finds out with her Aunt Gloria, Glo, that they inherited GeeGee's inn and a secret library. All I have to say is that I love Glo and Paige; they are such a riot. Paige is a great character and a fabulous leader for their book club group.
The book club members are all fantastic alone and in the group. We have Frank the Siamese Cat. I can't really talk much about Frank, but he's quite the character. Next up is Zelda, a recently turned eighty-year-old who was in the book club before with GeeGee. Then we have Valentina, and she's something else entirely. And a whole bunch of others. You may not think they would work well together, but they do. Each has their own part that reveals itself to them throughout the story.
I love these characters, and I can't wait for book 2!
The Mystery The mystery, well mysteries, are quite the doozy. First up, we have the whole thing of, oh, we are in a book, and now how do we get out of said book! What a dilemma. Then we have to figure out who killed this recluse guy next door to them in said book. I loved reading this entire thing and laughed out loud at certain spots. The town they popped into is lovely, and I also loved all the townspeople.
My favorite quote has to be:
The clerk returned. "We'll need each of you to come back separately."
"Does the cat get to make a statement, too?" Frank asked.
The clerk looked directly at Frank. "I'm afraid not. Humans only when it's a human death."
We all turned toward the clerk, our mouths hanging open.
Sebastian whispered the word we were all thinking, "Paranormal."
I love it because it wraps up the whole book in one quote. It is not only with Paige and her group but the story they are in. Kudos to Ms. Pantley for not only writing one book but another one within her new world.
Five Stars
Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley is a wonderful book filled with so much humor and magnificent characters that I can't wait for her second book to come out. Ms. Pantley does a great job of creating worlds that make me want to be there with the characters experiencing everything. I would probably freak out about going into a book. Still, the possibility of actually solving the mystery would also be great, and meeting so many characters that make me feel at home. Sign me up, please.
I am giving Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley five stars and recommending it to anyone that loves paranormal cozies.
Magical Mystery Book Club Series
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Shifting and Shenanigans by Elizabeth Pantley.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
September 30, 2025
The most unique cozy mystery I’ve read! You are transported into a cozy mystery with these characters and it is such a fun time. What a concept!
This cozy mystery is for all of the book lovers and cozy lovers out there. It’s a love letter to cozies and books, but also such a fun, silly time. It also makes you think about the things writers have to include while creating a story and how things simply don’t exist if it’s not explicitly stated. So very very thought provoking and fun!
This cozy mystery is for all of the book lovers and cozy lovers out there. It’s a love letter to cozies and books, but also such a fun, silly time. It also makes you think about the things writers have to include while creating a story and how things simply don’t exist if it’s not explicitly stated. So very very thought provoking and fun!
May 2, 2024
Oh my gosh that was the silliest book I've read in a very long time. I'm still not sure I liked it but it was something else.
July 20, 2022
Wow. Wasn't too sure about reading this book but decided to give it a try and I'm so glad I did! I was hooked from the start and could not put this book down. Paige, recently divorced, and her aunt Glo inherit the Snapdragon Inn from GeeGee. They both decide to leave their current lives behind and go to Cascade Valley to run the inn. GeeGee leaves a letter for Paige and Glo, mentioning that they are now keepers of 'the secret library' -- a room neither of them were aware existed despite visiting GeeGee for years at the inn. Upon arriving at the inn, Paige and GeeGee begin to explore the library and stumble upon Frank, the talking cat. Frank conveys that Paige and Glo must assemble a book club of 8 people. They go about recruiting the members and upon the first meeting of the book club, the fun begins....
The book club is an eclectic group - from Zelda the 80-year-old lover of salsa and chips to Moonbeam and her son to Sebastian who loves gossip and beauty shops! Zelda, or Zel as she likes to be called, and Frank, are well aware of the magic in the library and books resident there, but no one else, not even Paige or Glo, know. After choosing a book from the shelves and reading the first page, the members of the book club are transported into the book, a murder mystery, and in order for them to return home, they must solve the murder/mystery. Oh. My. Gosh.
I loved this book - not normally one to read paranormal mysteries, this series may just have made me a convert! The setting is so well-described you can picture it and place yourself in the book club crowd walking around town as they try to solve the crime. The characters are quirky and likeable. There are surprises throughout the book, particularly at the town festival -- I think I read that part of the book agape - totally not expecting what transpired. From the point of the festival the clues begin to fall into place and make sense, but not until the book club people begin to put two and two together, and as you are reading you exclaim 'of course!' The handling of the culprit that committed the murder was brilliant, as was the ending of the book - again, totally not expected!
I'm very much looking forward to book 2 in the series and hope there will be many more. This first book in the Magical Mystery Book Club may very well be one of the best mysteries I've read this year - it kept me thinking about the various details of the book long after I'd read the last page. Thank you for a very enjoyable and engrossing read Ms. Pantley!
The book club is an eclectic group - from Zelda the 80-year-old lover of salsa and chips to Moonbeam and her son to Sebastian who loves gossip and beauty shops! Zelda, or Zel as she likes to be called, and Frank, are well aware of the magic in the library and books resident there, but no one else, not even Paige or Glo, know. After choosing a book from the shelves and reading the first page, the members of the book club are transported into the book, a murder mystery, and in order for them to return home, they must solve the murder/mystery. Oh. My. Gosh.
I loved this book - not normally one to read paranormal mysteries, this series may just have made me a convert! The setting is so well-described you can picture it and place yourself in the book club crowd walking around town as they try to solve the crime. The characters are quirky and likeable. There are surprises throughout the book, particularly at the town festival -- I think I read that part of the book agape - totally not expecting what transpired. From the point of the festival the clues begin to fall into place and make sense, but not until the book club people begin to put two and two together, and as you are reading you exclaim 'of course!' The handling of the culprit that committed the murder was brilliant, as was the ending of the book - again, totally not expected!
I'm very much looking forward to book 2 in the series and hope there will be many more. This first book in the Magical Mystery Book Club may very well be one of the best mysteries I've read this year - it kept me thinking about the various details of the book long after I'd read the last page. Thank you for a very enjoyable and engrossing read Ms. Pantley!
January 26, 2024
My kind of book club where you need to expect the unexpected.
Have you ever enjoyed a book so much that you felt like you were apart of it? Well this is the unusual and fun idea behind this book series and I just love it. This book is so captivating right from the start and that's before all the magic starts. It's not a witchy type of story with spell casting etc but it has a paranormal side and the author certainly let's her imagination go wild, creating a wonderful story that grabs the listeners imagination. She has also backed it up with a very varied and quirky cast of characters, all of whom you can't help but like and laugh at, they are so easy to picture. The characters also have there own different personalities and skills, which sets it up nicely for future books. The mystery looked like it was heading in one direction and then a game changer was thrown in, which also explained a lot. I am off to start the next book.
Paige is trying to celebrate her birthday but as it is also the day her divorce is finale, it's hard. Then her aunt arrives with some sad and good news. The sad news is Paige's Great Grandmother has died. The good news is she has left her inn to the two of them. Paige spent a lot of time growing up there and it's the happy memories that causes her to drop everything and move in. The only requirement is that the two of them continue the book club by becoming it's first two official members. Six other members join the group a woman on probation and ordered to by the court, a hippie mother and her computer obsessed son, a prim and proper Asian woman, a feisty octogenarian and a gay man, not forgetting the library cat. Then the real fun begins because it's no ordinary book club and there first book is a murder mystery is a small town. One that they will have to solve.
This is my first time experiencing an AI narrator and while you don't get the range of voices from a narrator, especially the difference between male and female, I was pleasantly surprised how good it sounded. While I don't think AI will replace narrators I can see it becoming more popular as things develop and improve.
Have you ever enjoyed a book so much that you felt like you were apart of it? Well this is the unusual and fun idea behind this book series and I just love it. This book is so captivating right from the start and that's before all the magic starts. It's not a witchy type of story with spell casting etc but it has a paranormal side and the author certainly let's her imagination go wild, creating a wonderful story that grabs the listeners imagination. She has also backed it up with a very varied and quirky cast of characters, all of whom you can't help but like and laugh at, they are so easy to picture. The characters also have there own different personalities and skills, which sets it up nicely for future books. The mystery looked like it was heading in one direction and then a game changer was thrown in, which also explained a lot. I am off to start the next book.
Paige is trying to celebrate her birthday but as it is also the day her divorce is finale, it's hard. Then her aunt arrives with some sad and good news. The sad news is Paige's Great Grandmother has died. The good news is she has left her inn to the two of them. Paige spent a lot of time growing up there and it's the happy memories that causes her to drop everything and move in. The only requirement is that the two of them continue the book club by becoming it's first two official members. Six other members join the group a woman on probation and ordered to by the court, a hippie mother and her computer obsessed son, a prim and proper Asian woman, a feisty octogenarian and a gay man, not forgetting the library cat. Then the real fun begins because it's no ordinary book club and there first book is a murder mystery is a small town. One that they will have to solve.
This is my first time experiencing an AI narrator and while you don't get the range of voices from a narrator, especially the difference between male and female, I was pleasantly surprised how good it sounded. While I don't think AI will replace narrators I can see it becoming more popular as things develop and improve.
August 10, 2022
Shifting and Shenanigans is the first book in Elizabeth Pantley's Magical Mystery Book Club series. Fan of cozy mystery novels? Then you're going to want dive into this fun novel!
Paige and her Aunt Glo have just inherited a cozy inn from Paige's grandmother, and after Paige's recent divorce they both agree it's time for a change of scenery...and well...everything! Now, Paige can live the life she's longed for and have the things she couldn't while married to that old "stick in the mud." But is she prepared for what's coming her way with this new home? Buckle up because there are surprises galore coming your way!
This book is packed with an array of delightful characters that waste no time at all making appearances. You give a range of personalities and a talking cat! You're just simply going to love it! My two favorite characters are Zell (short for Zelda) and Sebastian. They are such delightful characters. The minute Zell hits the scene you just know that she's going to be a huge bucket of fun and she does not disappoint.
These characters are such a mess in the funniest ways. Zell and Frank (the cat) should know how to spell out the rules and guidances, but what would be the fun in that? So prepare yourself for quite a few jaw drops and lots of giggles from missteps and errors in not spitting out said guidances. LOL!
There is so much to enjoy in this book, but watch out they will leave you feeling a bit snackish with descriptions of some tasty treats - and lots of chips and salsa. LOL!
There are also a couple of surprise twists in this book, and one comes near the end. You're going to love it. It creates a unique ending to this book and will leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read more of these characters. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. An enjoyable cozy mystery novel that creates something new and tons of fun! Think...Alice in Wonderland! Read and enjoy!
Paige and her Aunt Glo have just inherited a cozy inn from Paige's grandmother, and after Paige's recent divorce they both agree it's time for a change of scenery...and well...everything! Now, Paige can live the life she's longed for and have the things she couldn't while married to that old "stick in the mud." But is she prepared for what's coming her way with this new home? Buckle up because there are surprises galore coming your way!
This book is packed with an array of delightful characters that waste no time at all making appearances. You give a range of personalities and a talking cat! You're just simply going to love it! My two favorite characters are Zell (short for Zelda) and Sebastian. They are such delightful characters. The minute Zell hits the scene you just know that she's going to be a huge bucket of fun and she does not disappoint.
These characters are such a mess in the funniest ways. Zell and Frank (the cat) should know how to spell out the rules and guidances, but what would be the fun in that? So prepare yourself for quite a few jaw drops and lots of giggles from missteps and errors in not spitting out said guidances. LOL!
There is so much to enjoy in this book, but watch out they will leave you feeling a bit snackish with descriptions of some tasty treats - and lots of chips and salsa. LOL!
There are also a couple of surprise twists in this book, and one comes near the end. You're going to love it. It creates a unique ending to this book and will leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read more of these characters. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. An enjoyable cozy mystery novel that creates something new and tons of fun! Think...Alice in Wonderland! Read and enjoy!
August 4, 2022
Shifting and Shenanigans is the first book in a fun new series by author Elizabeth Pantley. If you like magical and light-hearted cozy mystery books, you’re going to love this book! I love the premise of the story: an aunt, a niece, and an inherited bed and breakfast.
Once Paige and her Aunt Glo arrive at the home they’ve inherited from GeeGee, Paige’s grandma/Glo’s mom, they find the key that opens GeeGee’s secret room! They discover a library filled with magical books and a cat that they never knew GeeGee had! The two also discover that GeeGee led a magical mystery book club and it was up to them to find new members, which, surprisingly, they do rather easily.
The members of the book club are extremely entertaining! They’re such a diverse mix of characters, yet somehow they make the perfect “family.” I love these characters; and, as much as I want to tell you more about them, it’s so much better for you to discover them on your own!
When the book club becomes embroiled in a bizarre murder mystery, they follow the clues and interview suspects. With the help of the townspeople and the local law enforcement, they find out what happened.
Shifting and Shenanigans is such a delightful cozy mystery. I’m so excited about the characters and premise of this new series. You’re going to love it!
Once Paige and her Aunt Glo arrive at the home they’ve inherited from GeeGee, Paige’s grandma/Glo’s mom, they find the key that opens GeeGee’s secret room! They discover a library filled with magical books and a cat that they never knew GeeGee had! The two also discover that GeeGee led a magical mystery book club and it was up to them to find new members, which, surprisingly, they do rather easily.
The members of the book club are extremely entertaining! They’re such a diverse mix of characters, yet somehow they make the perfect “family.” I love these characters; and, as much as I want to tell you more about them, it’s so much better for you to discover them on your own!
When the book club becomes embroiled in a bizarre murder mystery, they follow the clues and interview suspects. With the help of the townspeople and the local law enforcement, they find out what happened.
Shifting and Shenanigans is such a delightful cozy mystery. I’m so excited about the characters and premise of this new series. You’re going to love it!
July 12, 2022
OMG! This new book “Shifting and Shenanigans” by the very awesome, beautiful, talented Elizabeth Pantley is just so spectacular and amazing….you have absolutely got to read it! I have thoroughly enjoyed all the magic that comes in her Destiny Falls series….and now in this absolutely thrilling and exciting new magical series, she keeps me turning page after page never wanting the book to end! In this new book “Shifting and Shenanigans” we meet Paige and her Aunt Glo as they get ready for an absolutely totally awesome and exciting magical adventure that is totally mind blowing! I just love the imagination that Elizabeth Pantley brings to her books! I love and adore the funny talking cat Frank and how he relates to all the other characters in the book! When reading this fantastic book, I am totally absorbed in the mystery and can escape reality as I become part of the book! I read this new book all in one day….that’s how terrific it is……once you start you won’t be able to put it down till you reach the awesome conclusion. And you will definitely look forward to the next book for sure with such anticipation! I absolutely love all the magic and excitement of Elizabeth Pantley’s cozy mysteries! You have to read her books!
February 25, 2024
5/5
LOVED! This is one of the most unique & charming books I’ve read in a while.
The author gifted me this book in exchange for an honest review & I wish I’d purchased it myself so no one thinks my review is being too kind. However, I’m hoping that my review will reach people who have never heard of this book & give it a try (it’s sooooo worth it)!!
This book is giving Magic Tree House + The Pagemaster + Practical Magic…could you want anything more?!
The characters are FABULOUS!! They are an ensemble cast of lovable & diverse people. I fell in love with each & every one of them! I also think readers will be able to see themselves in one or more of them! (I personally feel like I’m a mix of Zelda & Moonbeam with a dash of Glo!)
This book has one of the most unique concepts I’ve read/I’ve never read a book quite like this one & it was such a breath of fresh air!
I adored this book & found myself visibly smiling multiple times. I didn’t guess who the murder was either & I almost always figure it out before it’s revealed. There was a few twists & cliffhangers at the end & I can’t wait to dive into book two!!
This book is the epitome of cozy mystery.
ABSOLUTELY PERFECT.
LOVED! This is one of the most unique & charming books I’ve read in a while.
The author gifted me this book in exchange for an honest review & I wish I’d purchased it myself so no one thinks my review is being too kind. However, I’m hoping that my review will reach people who have never heard of this book & give it a try (it’s sooooo worth it)!!
This book is giving Magic Tree House + The Pagemaster + Practical Magic…could you want anything more?!
The characters are FABULOUS!! They are an ensemble cast of lovable & diverse people. I fell in love with each & every one of them! I also think readers will be able to see themselves in one or more of them! (I personally feel like I’m a mix of Zelda & Moonbeam with a dash of Glo!)
This book has one of the most unique concepts I’ve read/I’ve never read a book quite like this one & it was such a breath of fresh air!
I adored this book & found myself visibly smiling multiple times. I didn’t guess who the murder was either & I almost always figure it out before it’s revealed. There was a few twists & cliffhangers at the end & I can’t wait to dive into book two!!
This book is the epitome of cozy mystery.
ABSOLUTELY PERFECT.
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