What do you think?
Rate this book
Magical Mystery Book Club #2
Vampires and Villains
When this club selects a book, magic happens. They become the main characters in the story when the mystery comes to life.
The club agrees on their book which takes place on a cruise ship bound for Hawaii. Problem is, they were so excited about the cruising idea that they didn’t read the entire blurb on the back of the book.
Once on the ship, they meet a charming man who blends seamlessly into their motley group. Too bad they don’t know why he’s so scarce during the day but shows up to join them every evening for dinner, drinks, and a show.
When a dead body shows up on board, their new friend is labeled a suspect. Can they help him out by finding the real murderer? Or is he the real murderer? The book club will need to solve the case to get off the ship, out of the book, and back to their home.
"An absolutely ingenious idea for a mystery book!"
"Will carry you away!"
The club agrees on their book which takes place on a cruise ship bound for Hawaii. Problem is, they were so excited about the cruising idea that they didn’t read the entire blurb on the back of the book.
Once on the ship, they meet a charming man who blends seamlessly into their motley group. Too bad they don’t know why he’s so scarce during the day but shows up to join them every evening for dinner, drinks, and a show.
When a dead body shows up on board, their new friend is labeled a suspect. Can they help him out by finding the real murderer? Or is he the real murderer? The book club will need to solve the case to get off the ship, out of the book, and back to their home.
"An absolutely ingenious idea for a mystery book!"
"Will carry you away!"
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2022
218 people are currently reading
1256 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Pantley
65 books454 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
October 28, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
VAMPIRES AND VILLIANS (Magical Mystery Book Club #2) by Elizabeth Pantley is another delightful Magical Mystery Book Club cozy murder mystery read. The entire group is back with the addition of a grumpy octogenarian Maximillian, do not call me Max, call me Million. This book is easily read as a standalone, but you will want to read the first just because this series is just so entertaining.
Paige, Glo and the group travel to a Hawaiian island-hopping cruise ship for their cozy mystery book excursion. This cruise at first appears normal, but Frank can once again talk, so they know it is a paranormal story and they soon discover they are on a cruise with vampire entertainers and passengers included. Million becomes friends with Frank, a vampire entertainer, who served with Million during WWII and the group all are enamored with him.
When Frank is set up for the murder of a human cruise photographer, the book club must work together to find the real killer to solve the murder mystery and get the group back home.
I love Paige and all the quirky members of the Magical Mystery Book Club! With this second book, the characters are becoming even more lovable, and I am starting to worry that I may loose one of them, not just the new character that makes the eighth at the table to a future new book. The cozy mystery plot is well written with red herrings and surprising plot twists which are woven seamlessly into the overall book club world. I am looking forward to the Magical Mystery Book Club’s next adventure.
I highly recommend this fun and well-crafted cozy mystery book and series!
VAMPIRES AND VILLIANS (Magical Mystery Book Club #2) by Elizabeth Pantley is another delightful Magical Mystery Book Club cozy murder mystery read. The entire group is back with the addition of a grumpy octogenarian Maximillian, do not call me Max, call me Million. This book is easily read as a standalone, but you will want to read the first just because this series is just so entertaining.
Paige, Glo and the group travel to a Hawaiian island-hopping cruise ship for their cozy mystery book excursion. This cruise at first appears normal, but Frank can once again talk, so they know it is a paranormal story and they soon discover they are on a cruise with vampire entertainers and passengers included. Million becomes friends with Frank, a vampire entertainer, who served with Million during WWII and the group all are enamored with him.
When Frank is set up for the murder of a human cruise photographer, the book club must work together to find the real killer to solve the murder mystery and get the group back home.
I love Paige and all the quirky members of the Magical Mystery Book Club! With this second book, the characters are becoming even more lovable, and I am starting to worry that I may loose one of them, not just the new character that makes the eighth at the table to a future new book. The cozy mystery plot is well written with red herrings and surprising plot twists which are woven seamlessly into the overall book club world. I am looking forward to the Magical Mystery Book Club’s next adventure.
I highly recommend this fun and well-crafted cozy mystery book and series!
July 29, 2022
Paige, Glo, and the book club members have picked their newest book journey. This time they chose a tropical cruise in Hawaii. However they didn’t not read the whole summary on the book jacket. Once they get on the ship they meet a charming man who seems to be scarce during the day. After there is a body found dead this new friend is a suspect. Has he been framed or is he the real killer?
This is just book two but this series is fast becoming one of my favorites. The characters are a very eclectic group of personalities, from the fairly level headed Paige, to the hippie Moonbeam to the talking cat Frank. The chemistry etween the book club members is great even though they are so different and are all different ages. The mystery is well-written with plenty of surprises along the journey of solving the murder and getting the group back home. I recommend this book to paranormal cozy fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
This is just book two but this series is fast becoming one of my favorites. The characters are a very eclectic group of personalities, from the fairly level headed Paige, to the hippie Moonbeam to the talking cat Frank. The chemistry etween the book club members is great even though they are so different and are all different ages. The mystery is well-written with plenty of surprises along the journey of solving the murder and getting the group back home. I recommend this book to paranormal cozy fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
September 7, 2022
The quirky, zany characters deserve a star, and the world Elizabeth Pantley created was like no other I have visited. I know I have said I love to travel through books, but the book club takes it to a whole new level….and I love it!
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a house with a magical library. They created a book club of oddball characters to learn about magic.
Of course, the cruise to Hawaii holds more than they bargained for, but that what’s happen when you skim the blurb. Vampires. It doesn’t matter to them. They are prepared to do what’s necessary to solve a cozy mystery.
Vampires and Villains is everything I expect in a cozy mystery, with a couple of bonuses, vampires and a talking cat, and the travel gives a whole new meaning to being caught up in a book.
Most cozies fall into a 3 rating, for me, but Elizabeth added enough extras to take it up a notch. Mystery, laughs, a funfilled cruise, the exploration of Hawaii, vampires, a talking cat, a novel way to travel and plenty of villains to keep me guessing.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley.
Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a house with a magical library. They created a book club of oddball characters to learn about magic.
Of course, the cruise to Hawaii holds more than they bargained for, but that what’s happen when you skim the blurb. Vampires. It doesn’t matter to them. They are prepared to do what’s necessary to solve a cozy mystery.
Vampires and Villains is everything I expect in a cozy mystery, with a couple of bonuses, vampires and a talking cat, and the travel gives a whole new meaning to being caught up in a book.
Most cozies fall into a 3 rating, for me, but Elizabeth added enough extras to take it up a notch. Mystery, laughs, a funfilled cruise, the exploration of Hawaii, vampires, a talking cat, a novel way to travel and plenty of villains to keep me guessing.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley.
September 15, 2022
How often have you dreamed of becoming part of a book and mingling with the characters?
Vampires and Villains is my first read for Elizabeth Pantley and it’s unlikely to be my last. The book comes with a strong premise. A book club group not only reads a cozy mystery, they’re teleported into one, become characters, and have to solve the mystery!
The book opens with the book club group – 7 members who are awaiting the 8th! We get a brief intro for the characters before they head to a magical library to decide which book they’ll dive into.
“The two-story library was filled to the brim with books. A brass spiral staircase joined the levels. A massive stone fireplace centered the room, and the carved wood mantle was graced with a statue of a woman holding a mystery book. A beautiful antique globe sat in the prominence on a carved wood table, and an ancient Underwood typewriter was displayed in a glass case.”
Though it’s first my read, Vampires and Villains is the second book in The Magical Mystery Book Club Series.
The main character, Paige, and her aunt Glo, inherited the magical library from their great-grandmother, who, it turns out, has been having tons of adventures.
In this book, their 8th member is 82-year-old tiny but super grumpy Maximilian, who goes by ‘Million.’
There are lots – and I mean LOTS – of characters in Vampires and Villains! And I must say I got confused several times as to who’s who. Also, the characters move – most of the time – in a group of 8, which I felt was too suspicious and unrealistic.
That said, there were several memorable characters like Million, Zell, and Frank. I also liked Forrest, the only teen in the group.
By the way, Frank is their talking cat, who also graces the beautiful Vampires and Villains cover.
Though Million and Zell are both in their eighties, they’re entirely different characters. Frank and Million are the most sarcastic characters in the book. And I absolutely loved them!
“You don’t just read these. You are actually…transported into the story.”
“As in… The Chronicles of Narnia? Or more like Jumanji?”
“I hope not like Jumanji!” I gasped. “I don’t think my heard could take it. No, no. More like…um…”
“Becoming a character in a Hallmark mystery channel movie!”
Narrated from the first-person perspective of Paige, Vampires and Villains takes the characters to a cruise ship in Hawaii. There’s lots of humor in the book. But there were also many redundancies that could have made it more exciting.
And because Zell doesn’t read the entire blurb, because it was “too long” the characters discover they’re in a paranormal cozy mystery! They find themselves aboard a cruise ship with several vampires!
One of the things I liked about Vampires and Villains are the comments the characters make when they try to remind themselves that they’re in a book or are dealing with other characters. Like this one:
“Has this scene been written by one of those authors with a love of adjectives?’
Overall, I think Vampires and Villains is a fun and quick read. I loved the premise and I’m definitely interested in seeing where the characters go in the coming books.
September 20, 2022
This is a light, whimsical cozy that has such an intriguing premise - the characters are transported into a book to solve a murder. The book is written while they are figuring out the details, so there is no wrong or right way to investigate.
While it isn't necessary to read the books in order, I think you will gain a lot more insight into the characters and watch them grow. Ok, so this is only book two, but I imagine there will be a lot more growth between now and future books, so start with the first book now!
Paige, Glo, and the gang have a new member in their book club, Million. He was ordered to join by a judge, and this isn't the first time that has happened with one of the book club members. He is a cranky 82-year-old but has a lot to offer, especially once they arrive aboard the cruise ship to solve the mystery. I love that they can pick whatever book and setting and be transported there. In this case, their inn becomes the 20th floor of the cruise ship. That is a magical paranormal book for you; all rules are set aside.
I love the interactions between the book club members and the book's characters. In this case, there are vampires on the cruise ship. This causes a stir when someone turns up dead, and it looks like he was killed by a vampire draining his blood. As you cipher through the book and the clues, when all is revealed, you might find yourself as surprised as I would by who the killer was and their motivation. Definitely not someone I suspected in the least.
I have loved everything that this author has written so far, and I would have been the first to tell you that paranormal-type books weren't my preference. I have been converted!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series to see where they end up and since a book club member stayed in the book, who will be the new addition to the club?
We give this book 5 paws up.
While it isn't necessary to read the books in order, I think you will gain a lot more insight into the characters and watch them grow. Ok, so this is only book two, but I imagine there will be a lot more growth between now and future books, so start with the first book now!
Paige, Glo, and the gang have a new member in their book club, Million. He was ordered to join by a judge, and this isn't the first time that has happened with one of the book club members. He is a cranky 82-year-old but has a lot to offer, especially once they arrive aboard the cruise ship to solve the mystery. I love that they can pick whatever book and setting and be transported there. In this case, their inn becomes the 20th floor of the cruise ship. That is a magical paranormal book for you; all rules are set aside.
I love the interactions between the book club members and the book's characters. In this case, there are vampires on the cruise ship. This causes a stir when someone turns up dead, and it looks like he was killed by a vampire draining his blood. As you cipher through the book and the clues, when all is revealed, you might find yourself as surprised as I would by who the killer was and their motivation. Definitely not someone I suspected in the least.
I have loved everything that this author has written so far, and I would have been the first to tell you that paranormal-type books weren't my preference. I have been converted!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series to see where they end up and since a book club member stayed in the book, who will be the new addition to the club?
We give this book 5 paws up.
August 4, 2024
Listening to the audiobook just made this wonderful, fantasy book shine more. I admit, when I first started listening I wasn’t sure about the narrator, the voice seemed to lack warmth. As the book went on, I adjusted to the rhythm and tone and found myself enjoying the book immensely.
The second book in the series did not disappoint. A new member joins the book club as they find themselves inside a paranormal book and taking a cruise. It was interesting to do a paranormal plot as the club had to think outside the box to solve the mystery. I loved that Frank, the cat, was able to speak and be heard in this book by everyone. The new character, Million, was a great foil for Zell as they learned about each other. One of my favorite things about this series is how the characters of the book club all contribute some type of skill or plan for solving the murder. They are a misfit group, but have quickly become family. The plot was fun and interesting, and I love the way friendship is always a focus in the author’s books. She makes it very easy for the reader to feel as if they are part of the world they are reading.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are
my own.
The second book in the series did not disappoint. A new member joins the book club as they find themselves inside a paranormal book and taking a cruise. It was interesting to do a paranormal plot as the club had to think outside the box to solve the mystery. I loved that Frank, the cat, was able to speak and be heard in this book by everyone. The new character, Million, was a great foil for Zell as they learned about each other. One of my favorite things about this series is how the characters of the book club all contribute some type of skill or plan for solving the murder. They are a misfit group, but have quickly become family. The plot was fun and interesting, and I love the way friendship is always a focus in the author’s books. She makes it very easy for the reader to feel as if they are part of the world they are reading.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are
my own.
September 7, 2022
All readers enjoy a book club that discusses the books being read, but what if that book club could go into the book. That is what the Magical Mystery Book club does. How much better to be in the story than to be talking about it. The absolutely fun cast of characters make this one of the best series around. Ranging in age for Zell at eighty to Forrest in his teen, and every personality imaginable the book club is sure to have someone everyone can call a favorite. And there is a talking cat who is a bundle of fun in his own right. Solving the mystery while being in the book is a tough job and one that can get confusing, but our club is on it. Picking books in the magical library, traveling to the book, finding clues, discovering suspects and putting all the pieces together is just a Magical Mystery Book Club Meeting. I hope this series continues for a very long time. I can't wait for the nest one!
July 13, 2024
I love anything set on a cruise ship and this one followed a similar itinerary to one I was on this summer so it felt like revisiting the islands. This story allows the book club to enter into another book with a new book club member and a new mystery. I enjoyed the mystery and the concept of the house following them everywhere they go (never forget anything at home ever again!). The mystery itself was well-paced and kept me guessing until the end. Looking forward to their next adventure.
July 9, 2024
Wow! This was even better than the first one.
Imagine losing yourself in a book about being lost in a book! That was my delightful experience reading this book.
A top notch paranormal cozy with a phenomenal premise and first rate characters!
I cannot wait to read the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Imagine losing yourself in a book about being lost in a book! That was my delightful experience reading this book.
A top notch paranormal cozy with a phenomenal premise and first rate characters!
I cannot wait to read the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
March 23, 2023
2023 bk 102. What fun - the Magical Mystery Gang are back with a new member and a new book to explore. This time the choice lands them on a cruise around the Hawaiian Islands in an alternative universe where vampires exist. When the new club member encounters a vampire who was in his pilot school with him, he enjoys recalling old stories - until his friend is accused of murder. After that the group swings into action checking out who might have committed the murder all the while enjoying their cruise and Hawaii. A really fun read!
December 26, 2025
Book 2 is as much fun to read as book 1
September 16, 2022
Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley is a fun and creative murder mystery with supernatural creatures and paranormal elements. Eight individuals and a talking Siamese cat belong to a book club in which they are magically transported into the setting of a book chosen by the members. The group embarks on a Hawaii cruise for an adventure that includes activities and shore excursions, along with trying to solve the demise of a passenger who died under unusual circumstances. The case is challenging to solve with a lack of clues and seemingly no apparent motive. However, when a passenger with whom the group has formed a friendship becomes the prime suspect, the group rallies together to prove his innocence.
Vampires and Villains is the second book in the Magical Mystery Book Club series. A wonderful mix of realistic and quirky characters with behaviors that range from likable to obnoxious and match their personalities. Readers are drawn into the story and become invested in the characters and their fates as they try and solve the passenger’s death and the reasoning behind it. The book club members and the cat appear to be involved in a real-life experience, even though they are inside a book the members chose for their adventure.
Pantley has written a book that is a fun and fast read. The descriptions make readers feel as if they are seeing, feeling, and tasting the same things as everyone on the Hawaii cruise. The club members are busy participating in activities on the ship and shore excursions, interacting with fellow passengers and supernatural creatures, and enjoying the abundance of food. At the same time, the book club members are working on figuring out the guilty party, and they come up with creative ways to investigate. Will the murder be solved, or will the culprit get away scot-free?
Vampires and Villains is a wonderful second book in an entertaining series. Anyone who enjoys books with magical aspects, paranormal elements, and supernatural creatures will find this series irresistible to read. There are more adventures in store for the group in the upcoming third book, Cowboys and Chaos.
Vampires and Villains is the second book in the Magical Mystery Book Club series. A wonderful mix of realistic and quirky characters with behaviors that range from likable to obnoxious and match their personalities. Readers are drawn into the story and become invested in the characters and their fates as they try and solve the passenger’s death and the reasoning behind it. The book club members and the cat appear to be involved in a real-life experience, even though they are inside a book the members chose for their adventure.
Pantley has written a book that is a fun and fast read. The descriptions make readers feel as if they are seeing, feeling, and tasting the same things as everyone on the Hawaii cruise. The club members are busy participating in activities on the ship and shore excursions, interacting with fellow passengers and supernatural creatures, and enjoying the abundance of food. At the same time, the book club members are working on figuring out the guilty party, and they come up with creative ways to investigate. Will the murder be solved, or will the culprit get away scot-free?
Vampires and Villains is a wonderful second book in an entertaining series. Anyone who enjoys books with magical aspects, paranormal elements, and supernatural creatures will find this series irresistible to read. There are more adventures in store for the group in the upcoming third book, Cowboys and Chaos.
September 22, 2022
Vampires and Villains is the second book in Elizabeth Pantley's Magical Mystery Book Club series. This fun cozy mystery will have you page-turning all the way to the end as the crew embarks on yet another thrilling book adventure.
Paige and her book club friends are back in this second installment of the series. A new addition to the group is coming, and boy is this one unexpected! Not unexpected as in, there is a new addition. It's just that when you read his name, you won't be expecting what you get. It is rather humorous when this new character interacts with Zell. You'd think that the two of them are now in a competition for who knows more. LOL! It's a lot of fun to read.
Impatience gets the better of the group this time and off they go on a cruise ship adventure! All is well and fine until murder strikes! The author is really going to keep you guessing as to who the dangerous character is. I kept thinking it was one character, because of all of her dramatics, but just hold your horses and keep reading.
You will simply devour this book. The escapades of the characters are absolutely hilarious and will keep you coming back for more. I know that as you read you'll wonder - who will choose to stay behind? Well, that, too is a surprise.
If you enjoyed the first book you're not going to want to miss out on this one. I highly recommend it. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can't wait to find out what happens next, because there is never a dull moment with these characters.
Paige and her book club friends are back in this second installment of the series. A new addition to the group is coming, and boy is this one unexpected! Not unexpected as in, there is a new addition. It's just that when you read his name, you won't be expecting what you get. It is rather humorous when this new character interacts with Zell. You'd think that the two of them are now in a competition for who knows more. LOL! It's a lot of fun to read.
Impatience gets the better of the group this time and off they go on a cruise ship adventure! All is well and fine until murder strikes! The author is really going to keep you guessing as to who the dangerous character is. I kept thinking it was one character, because of all of her dramatics, but just hold your horses and keep reading.
You will simply devour this book. The escapades of the characters are absolutely hilarious and will keep you coming back for more. I know that as you read you'll wonder - who will choose to stay behind? Well, that, too is a surprise.
If you enjoyed the first book you're not going to want to miss out on this one. I highly recommend it. I'm rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can't wait to find out what happens next, because there is never a dull moment with these characters.
July 26, 2022
I need more stars than five!!
Vampires and Villains takes Paige and her incredible Book Club (that is now more like a family) into another book and onto an exotic and unique cruise to Hawaii. Once again the incredible imagination of Elizabeth Pantley weaves a mysterious tale with such colorful and intricate description of the cruise, ship, and fascinating characters that you also are whisked away, side by side with the Book Club’s members, onto the cruise! They thoroughly are enjoying the luxurious cruise experience.
Very soon after boarding, some intriguing travelers come into play, pale and mostly sun shy— vampires! Paige, Glo, Frank the amazing cat, and the other members that include a new addition, Million, find them compatible traveling companions that live by an honorable code of not harming humans….that is until a dead body turns up in this cozy mystery. Off they go to try to solve it, also hoping to help a close friend / vampire, Vincent, who has been decided by security to be a top suspect. During the ship’s on board activities as well as excursions, the members bit by bit discover information about cruise mates and (sometimes stumble upon) more and more evidence to discover the murderer.
Some surprising twists and turns rule out or shockingly point to several suspects. In searching for more information and evidence, they unwittingly find themselves in the office of the murderer, and trapped hiding there when the killer shows up with another potential victim. Their need to help the victim comes into play, and suspense rises, leaving us wondering if they, too, will be victims.
As the mystery moves on to being solved, and the killer apprehended, the story winds down toward their return home. Another twist reveals information about a member and a shipboard friendship that leads into a surprise once again as the story ends. The club returns home, and will need to accept another member as someone stayed behind.
I SOOO needed this book and am grateful for going on the mysterious, exciting cruise today. The book cannot be put down until finished, yet I never want it to end! Get going soon to get and read this newest tale created by a gem of an author, Elizabeth Pantley SOON, or now, or yesterday even better! You’ll not regret it!! Meanwhile here I am, bereft awaiting the next book in her incredible series. Thank you Elizabeth, for a most unique cruise!
Vampires and Villains takes Paige and her incredible Book Club (that is now more like a family) into another book and onto an exotic and unique cruise to Hawaii. Once again the incredible imagination of Elizabeth Pantley weaves a mysterious tale with such colorful and intricate description of the cruise, ship, and fascinating characters that you also are whisked away, side by side with the Book Club’s members, onto the cruise! They thoroughly are enjoying the luxurious cruise experience.
Very soon after boarding, some intriguing travelers come into play, pale and mostly sun shy— vampires! Paige, Glo, Frank the amazing cat, and the other members that include a new addition, Million, find them compatible traveling companions that live by an honorable code of not harming humans….that is until a dead body turns up in this cozy mystery. Off they go to try to solve it, also hoping to help a close friend / vampire, Vincent, who has been decided by security to be a top suspect. During the ship’s on board activities as well as excursions, the members bit by bit discover information about cruise mates and (sometimes stumble upon) more and more evidence to discover the murderer.
Some surprising twists and turns rule out or shockingly point to several suspects. In searching for more information and evidence, they unwittingly find themselves in the office of the murderer, and trapped hiding there when the killer shows up with another potential victim. Their need to help the victim comes into play, and suspense rises, leaving us wondering if they, too, will be victims.
As the mystery moves on to being solved, and the killer apprehended, the story winds down toward their return home. Another twist reveals information about a member and a shipboard friendship that leads into a surprise once again as the story ends. The club returns home, and will need to accept another member as someone stayed behind.
I SOOO needed this book and am grateful for going on the mysterious, exciting cruise today. The book cannot be put down until finished, yet I never want it to end! Get going soon to get and read this newest tale created by a gem of an author, Elizabeth Pantley SOON, or now, or yesterday even better! You’ll not regret it!! Meanwhile here I am, bereft awaiting the next book in her incredible series. Thank you Elizabeth, for a most unique cruise!
September 16, 2022
What a unique storyline author, Elizabeth Pantley, has come up with for the Magical Mystery Book Club series. If you love mysteries, book clubs, and a bit of magic, you will certainly enjoy this book. This book club is like no other. It has eight members and a furry feline. The club meets and decides on a book but they don’t read them, instead, they magically join the book and help to solve the murder that happens on the Cruise in the book. The book chosen takes place in modern time and on a Hawaiian Cruise. The members will have to solve the mystery, but can they do it and still enjoy the cruise? This is no ordinary cruise either, they will find themselves on a unique cruise and making friends with one of the staff. It challenges them to remember that the people they meet aren’t real but characters in a book. It all seems so real. There are plenty of twists, turns, and distractions to keep the reader and characters busy.
This book is the second in the series, but it is easily read alone. It was very enjoyable to read and follow the characters. The range of ages in the characters makes for some delightful banter and unique points of view. It’s truly a book worth picking up and reading. Hopefully, there will be more of these stories for a long time to come.
This book is the second in the series, but it is easily read alone. It was very enjoyable to read and follow the characters. The range of ages in the characters makes for some delightful banter and unique points of view. It’s truly a book worth picking up and reading. Hopefully, there will be more of these stories for a long time to come.
January 27, 2024
I read this book when it first came out on my kindle and at the time I Just knew I would be adding it to my audio book library. . This is book two in the series and I am not normally a vampire fan (because frankly they are just creepy, the whole blood thing) but when one of your favourite author's decide to write about them and it's part of an unusual and fun series, then you have no choice but to jump on board. So glad I did, it almost felt like you were on board experiencing the adventure along with the characters. I love the whole plot idea for this series, that a group of quirky characters known collectively as the magical book club members actually get to solve the mystery from inside the book, as you can imagine this means that the author gets to write about new and exciting places, in situations where anything can happen. The authors imagination has once again been let lose to come up with unusual plot idea's. I have read and listened to a number of cozy mysteries set on cruise ships but never have they involved vampires, its a good job that they didn't dampen the experience of a trip to Hawaii. As long as the author is willing to keep writing I for one am willing to keep reading or going on the adventures.
With a new book club member joining them, Paige and her Aunt Glo hold another meeting. This time the group select a book on a cruise ship heading to Hawaii. The group get sucked into the cruise life before reading all the blurb and quickly forget that they are there to solve a murder. Until they stumble over a body with puncture marks in his neck and then certain things being to make sense. The head of security is quick to come up with a suspect list and at the top of the list is there new friend and dinner companion Vincent. Have they been spending time with the killer? There is only one way to find out and that is to get a look at the suspect list themselves and find the killer.
The AI narration has grown on me and while it didn't give you accents for the different characters, it was still easy to listen too and you could always tell which character was talking.
With a new book club member joining them, Paige and her Aunt Glo hold another meeting. This time the group select a book on a cruise ship heading to Hawaii. The group get sucked into the cruise life before reading all the blurb and quickly forget that they are there to solve a murder. Until they stumble over a body with puncture marks in his neck and then certain things being to make sense. The head of security is quick to come up with a suspect list and at the top of the list is there new friend and dinner companion Vincent. Have they been spending time with the killer? There is only one way to find out and that is to get a look at the suspect list themselves and find the killer.
The AI narration has grown on me and while it didn't give you accents for the different characters, it was still easy to listen too and you could always tell which character was talking.
August 23, 2022
This book was so entertaining! I am not a fan of the vampire/werewolf/zombie craze, but I loved this book!
The premise of this series is so original. Paige and her Aunt Glo have inherited a house that has a magical library. They must host a book club made up of eight members. As soon as they open the book and start to read the first page, they are transported INTO the story. “Vampires and Villains,” the second book in the series, is set on a cruise ship. Pantley’s writing made me feel like I was right there on the ship with the book’s characters.
And speaking of characters, this is such a fun bunch. My favorite is Frank, a talking cat with attitude. Being a cat lover, I laughed at Frank’s antics. Zell, an 80+ senior, is feisty and loves the cruise food. Another senior, Million is new to the book club and connects well with Vincent, a guest on the cruise who just happens to be a vampire.
The book club members quickly fall into the excitement abroad the ship. But they are reminded of their purpose for being there when they come across a dead body on the ship. Their new friend is being framed for the murder, and they must prove his innocence while surviving themselves. And solving the mystery is the only way they can return home.
Even though this book was a fun cozy, it had a very powerful paragraph that resonated with me. “Everything we value in life comes from those important relationships we nurture and treasure. When you find the kind of connection that transcends the world, it is important to grasp it and hold it lovingly, with both hands. And with your heart. Forever to keep it close. To allow it to fill your days with joy and laughter. And peace.”
I highly recommend this book (and series) to paranormal cozy fans. I received an advance copy of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The premise of this series is so original. Paige and her Aunt Glo have inherited a house that has a magical library. They must host a book club made up of eight members. As soon as they open the book and start to read the first page, they are transported INTO the story. “Vampires and Villains,” the second book in the series, is set on a cruise ship. Pantley’s writing made me feel like I was right there on the ship with the book’s characters.
And speaking of characters, this is such a fun bunch. My favorite is Frank, a talking cat with attitude. Being a cat lover, I laughed at Frank’s antics. Zell, an 80+ senior, is feisty and loves the cruise food. Another senior, Million is new to the book club and connects well with Vincent, a guest on the cruise who just happens to be a vampire.
The book club members quickly fall into the excitement abroad the ship. But they are reminded of their purpose for being there when they come across a dead body on the ship. Their new friend is being framed for the murder, and they must prove his innocence while surviving themselves. And solving the mystery is the only way they can return home.
Even though this book was a fun cozy, it had a very powerful paragraph that resonated with me. “Everything we value in life comes from those important relationships we nurture and treasure. When you find the kind of connection that transcends the world, it is important to grasp it and hold it lovingly, with both hands. And with your heart. Forever to keep it close. To allow it to fill your days with joy and laughter. And peace.”
I highly recommend this book (and series) to paranormal cozy fans. I received an advance copy of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 20, 2022
I am not a fan of books with paranormal elements. That being said, I love the Magical Mystery Book club series. In book #2, Paige, Glo and the gang welcome a new member, Maximillian or Million as he like to be called. After telling him about the club, they choose a book and find themselves on a cruise and awaiting their latest mystery to solve. Amidst enjoying the cruise, they find a murder victim and learn many of the fellow passengers are vampires. Now they need to find out which are human, which are vampires and who is a killer.
These books are full of humor but still a twisty whodunit. I love the fast paced writing. The characters are just getting better as the series progresses and their relationships develop. I like the way their personalities are becoming more pronounced as the series moves. I must say Frank is my favorite.
I recommend the Magical Mystery Book Club series to cozy mystery lovers, even if you don't usually like paranormal book give it a try.
These books are full of humor but still a twisty whodunit. I love the fast paced writing. The characters are just getting better as the series progresses and their relationships develop. I like the way their personalities are becoming more pronounced as the series moves. I must say Frank is my favorite.
I recommend the Magical Mystery Book Club series to cozy mystery lovers, even if you don't usually like paranormal book give it a try.
September 9, 2022
Absolutely delightful read as I tagged along on a wonderful Hawaiian cruise with the members of the Magical Mystery Book Club and knew I couldn't put the book down until I read the last word even though I was not ready to say goodbye to Paige, Glo and the rest of the gang after solving a mystery where you become part of the book. If you enjoy fun cozies with great twists and some supernatural, don't miss Vampires and Villains. I am now looking forward to book three in this must-read series.
August 29, 2022
I love the concept to this series. Most readers immerse themselves in the book that they are reading. In this series the characters are literally brought into the book that they choose. In this book they are on a Hawaiian cruise. All eight members plus Frank, the cat, become the actual characters in the book. If you like cozy mysteries that are murder mysteries that you can try to figure out who the killer was, right along side the members of the book club, your going to love this series. I highly recommend them.
September 5, 2022
One thing I did really enjoy was even though I hadn't read the first book I wasn't lost on characters. Each book had it's own start and end, just the characters continue. Another aspect I enjoyed was how it's a little different from others, as they become part of the story solving the mystery while also getting to enjoy and add to the story to make happy endings. Excited for more in this series.
August 13, 2023
I loved this book. Elizabeth Pantley does a fantastic job pulling you in to the story, in this case literally. The Book Club is on another adventure, this time aboard a cruise ship in Hawaii. This cozy has it all... lots of food, friendship, and of course MURDER! A photographer is murdered by a vampire, but which one?. I did not guess correctly, but I loved trying to figure it out. I feel like if I say any more I will start adding spoilers. Do yourself a favor and add this series to your tbr list. Oh, && they live in Colorado, which makes me extra happy.
February 25, 2024
Paige and her Aunt Glo are back in another book club mystery. This time they are on a cruise in the mystery book. The atmosphere of the story was fun! There was some humor and entertainment along the way. How involved are the vampires in the mystery? Paige and Glo are fun, and so are all of the other assorted interesting members of the book club. I listened to the audiobook and it was enjoyable and easy to listen to.
September 2, 2024
I am so obsessed with this series. Every one of the characters is fun and quirky, the stories have just the right mix of mystery and fun. Frank is my spirit animal (literally). I loved the vampire element in this one and all the pop culture references to Twilight! I also love seeing each character learn what it is they want and need from their lives while traveling through the book. This series is a must read for any cozy mystery fan!
September 1, 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.Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley has a mystery happening on a cruise ship in Hawaii.
Will the Book Club figure out who is the actual murderer before their friend gets arrested?
Paige and the Book Club
Paige Erickson and her aunt Glo inherited her great-grandma's inn. Now the two of them and their book club go on adventures in cozy mystery books. We have the same members as last time, minus one as she found her book, and they gained a new member. These eight members are always so funny, and I feel like I'm enjoying the mystery with them in the book. Or are they really getting into mischief with them while finding clues? Each individual is awesome, and they each have a fun time in the stories, despite some people forgetting that they are in a book and not there just to have a fun time. I love this book group so much and how each one brings a certain flare to the group that they need.
The Mystery
The Book Club decided they wanted to go on a cruise this time and chose a Hawaii one. Zell decided they didn't need to read the back of the book and just started to read. The book they popped into is a cruise set in Hawaii with vampires in the midst. I loved every minute that I was reading it. Everything about this story is fantastic, and I admit I fell for some red herrings. One was because I didn't like the character, but the real killer was found.
Five Stars
My rating for Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley is five stars and a huge recommendation to anyone that wants to pop into a new series. This book is only the second, and Ms. Pantley is an incredible writer. I love every one of these stories, plus her other series, Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic, both are fabulous. Ms. Pantley has a great way of writing two stories at once in this excellent series.
I can't wait for November for the next installment in this series.
Magical Mystery Book Club Series
Prize: (1) 3-Book Digital Boxed Set (Books 1-3) of the Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic series.
Will the Book Club figure out who is the actual murderer before their friend gets arrested?
Paige and the Book Club
Paige Erickson and her aunt Glo inherited her great-grandma's inn. Now the two of them and their book club go on adventures in cozy mystery books. We have the same members as last time, minus one as she found her book, and they gained a new member. These eight members are always so funny, and I feel like I'm enjoying the mystery with them in the book. Or are they really getting into mischief with them while finding clues? Each individual is awesome, and they each have a fun time in the stories, despite some people forgetting that they are in a book and not there just to have a fun time. I love this book group so much and how each one brings a certain flare to the group that they need.
The Mystery The Book Club decided they wanted to go on a cruise this time and chose a Hawaii one. Zell decided they didn't need to read the back of the book and just started to read. The book they popped into is a cruise set in Hawaii with vampires in the midst. I loved every minute that I was reading it. Everything about this story is fantastic, and I admit I fell for some red herrings. One was because I didn't like the character, but the real killer was found.
Five Stars
My rating for Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley is five stars and a huge recommendation to anyone that wants to pop into a new series. This book is only the second, and Ms. Pantley is an incredible writer. I love every one of these stories, plus her other series, Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic, both are fabulous. Ms. Pantley has a great way of writing two stories at once in this excellent series.
I can't wait for November for the next installment in this series.
Magical Mystery Book Club Series
Prize: (1) 3-Book Digital Boxed Set (Books 1-3) of the Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic series.
To find all the tour information, click the banner at the top of the page.
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
January 23, 2024
With a new member the gang are of on a cozy mystery set on the high seas and a cruise ship. This is a special ship though, as they encounter vampires l, adventures and more. What’s in store for the new member Max Million? Will the murder be solved in time? Can they write the perfect ending?
November 10, 2024
another great book
Another novel in a novel. A very different plot well developed. This was a fun read and interesting ending. Will read the next.
Another novel in a novel. A very different plot well developed. This was a fun read and interesting ending. Will read the next.
October 5, 2025
I truly don’t know how more people aren’t talking about this series! Again, such an amazing premise and so well executed. Definitely one of my favorite cozy series!
September 16, 2022
VAMPIRES AND VILLAINS by Elizabeth Pantley
The Second Magical Mystery Book Club
As the book club prepares to choose their next selection they are joined by a new member. Million is an 82 year old crotchety man who gives Zell a run for her money. After some deliberation the group decides to pick a cozy mystery set on a Hawaiian cruise. Suddenly whisked aboard, they are thrilled by all the amenities the ship offers. However, they soon discover a little detail they missed by not reading the book's blurb in its entirety. Million's new cruise ship friend happens to be a vampire. Yes, they are in a paranormal mystery filled with vampires. When they stumble upon a body drained of blood, it seems clear that one of the vampires on board is a murderer. When security looks at their new friend as the main suspect the gang work doubly hard to prove his innocence and find the killer, all while enjoying the excursions and delectable meals on board.
VAMPIRES AND VILLAINS is a delight. The irascible Million is a welcome addition to a very unique cast of characters. Gruff and grouchy he is also loyal, loveable, and fun. He fits right in to this diverse group of people that are becoming a family. The book inside the book characters are fun too, from the suave Vincent, flirtatious Baptiste, to the jealous Liliana, and skeevy Magnus.
I've never been on a cruise, though I did watch the Love Boat as a kid, so I loved going on one vicariously. I enjoyed reading about the amenities and going on the excursions. I want to go to a tropical fruit farm! These extras didn't detract from the actual mystery either. Clues and red herrings were found everywhere-as Zell said, you can enjoy both the mystery and the fun.
VAMPIRES AND VILLAINS is an enchanting mystery that embraces its uniquely diverse characters in a fun paranormal plot. Both humorous and heartwarming it is a delightful addition to this great new series. I can't wait to discover what happens next!
The Second Magical Mystery Book Club
As the book club prepares to choose their next selection they are joined by a new member. Million is an 82 year old crotchety man who gives Zell a run for her money. After some deliberation the group decides to pick a cozy mystery set on a Hawaiian cruise. Suddenly whisked aboard, they are thrilled by all the amenities the ship offers. However, they soon discover a little detail they missed by not reading the book's blurb in its entirety. Million's new cruise ship friend happens to be a vampire. Yes, they are in a paranormal mystery filled with vampires. When they stumble upon a body drained of blood, it seems clear that one of the vampires on board is a murderer. When security looks at their new friend as the main suspect the gang work doubly hard to prove his innocence and find the killer, all while enjoying the excursions and delectable meals on board.
VAMPIRES AND VILLAINS is a delight. The irascible Million is a welcome addition to a very unique cast of characters. Gruff and grouchy he is also loyal, loveable, and fun. He fits right in to this diverse group of people that are becoming a family. The book inside the book characters are fun too, from the suave Vincent, flirtatious Baptiste, to the jealous Liliana, and skeevy Magnus.
I've never been on a cruise, though I did watch the Love Boat as a kid, so I loved going on one vicariously. I enjoyed reading about the amenities and going on the excursions. I want to go to a tropical fruit farm! These extras didn't detract from the actual mystery either. Clues and red herrings were found everywhere-as Zell said, you can enjoy both the mystery and the fun.
VAMPIRES AND VILLAINS is an enchanting mystery that embraces its uniquely diverse characters in a fun paranormal plot. Both humorous and heartwarming it is a delightful addition to this great new series. I can't wait to discover what happens next!
September 19, 2022
As the series progresses, the story gets better and better. Vampires and villains is the continuation of The Magical Mystery Book Club series and it was as incredible as the first book.
It was amazing reconnecting with all the amazing characters, this time around they feel more confident and comfortable with each other. This time the team gets into to their last book club member, Maximilian aka Million. He's of course skeptical and just a bit on the overly confident side but as he goes into the secret library he is in awe of the amazing sight. As the team looks for their next adventure, they are transported into an all inclusive cruise to Hawaii. There's one catch, they are not one hundred percent sure what is going on but they will find out soon enough they will be dealing with some very interesting vampires.
Absolutely loved seeing the club members work together and piece together this cozy mystery. If you are looking for an incredible set of characters, amazing friends and of course a very feisty talking cat, this is the book for you.
It was amazing reconnecting with all the amazing characters, this time around they feel more confident and comfortable with each other. This time the team gets into to their last book club member, Maximilian aka Million. He's of course skeptical and just a bit on the overly confident side but as he goes into the secret library he is in awe of the amazing sight. As the team looks for their next adventure, they are transported into an all inclusive cruise to Hawaii. There's one catch, they are not one hundred percent sure what is going on but they will find out soon enough they will be dealing with some very interesting vampires.
Absolutely loved seeing the club members work together and piece together this cozy mystery. If you are looking for an incredible set of characters, amazing friends and of course a very feisty talking cat, this is the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews