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Full Moon Mystery #3
Witch Way Out
CHARMED meets MURDER, SHE WROTE in Cate Conte’s latest Full Moon Mystery, as an unexpected death completely rocks the Spring Equinox Fair and it’s up to crystal shop owner Violet Mooney to uncover the truth to settle the mayhem.
When Violet Mooney’s coworker and fellow witch calls to say that their Connecticut crystals shop, The Full Moon, has been selected as a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair, it’s welcome news. Ever since she learned about her magickal ancestry, Violet has been struggling to learn her craft while staying out of trouble. It’s no easy feat when her family seems to be the target of a power-grab within the realm, putting the entire magickal community on edge—and setting Violet on a mission . . .
With her investigation conjuring more questions than answers, Violet tries to focus on the Fair, which is being run by one of her personal heroes. Horatio Hale is a proponent of ethical crystal mining, but apparently not everyone is a fan. Violet is shocked when she goes to attend a meeting and finds Horatio dead—with an axe stuck in his chest. To uncover the motives behind the mayhem in both the mortal and magickal worlds, Violet is going to need more than a crystal ball. And it’ll take all the powers she’s been honing—plus some she didn’t know she had—to save herself . . .
When Violet Mooney’s coworker and fellow witch calls to say that their Connecticut crystals shop, The Full Moon, has been selected as a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair, it’s welcome news. Ever since she learned about her magickal ancestry, Violet has been struggling to learn her craft while staying out of trouble. It’s no easy feat when her family seems to be the target of a power-grab within the realm, putting the entire magickal community on edge—and setting Violet on a mission . . .
With her investigation conjuring more questions than answers, Violet tries to focus on the Fair, which is being run by one of her personal heroes. Horatio Hale is a proponent of ethical crystal mining, but apparently not everyone is a fan. Violet is shocked when she goes to attend a meeting and finds Horatio dead—with an axe stuck in his chest. To uncover the motives behind the mayhem in both the mortal and magickal worlds, Violet is going to need more than a crystal ball. And it’ll take all the powers she’s been honing—plus some she didn’t know she had—to save herself . . .
358 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 28, 2023
15 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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March 13, 2023
Witch Way Out
by Cate Conte is the third book in the Full Moon paranormal cozy mystery series and the second one that I have read. Set in the fictional town of North Harbor, Connecticut, it features Violet Mooney, owner of The Full Moon, a crystals shop. Violet has only recently learned that she’s a witch and has been struggling to learn her craft. She’s ecstatic when her coworker calls and tells her their shop has been selected as a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair. However, there’s a power struggle within the magical world and turmoil in both the mortal and paranormal worlds.
Violet is someone readers for get behind. Her character is more rounded and has more depth in it than the first book in the series. She’s impulsive, compassionate, empathetic, righteous, and headstrong. Her character traits were more complex and developed and changed during the story. The secondary characters were not as well developed but provided the needed support or opposition to keep the story interesting. I am looking forward to their development in future novels.
This novel will help readers escape the real world for an afternoon of sleuthing with Violet. With multiple subplots, I found myself wondering what would be uncovered next. Who is telling the truth and who is deceiving others? It has the right amount of sleuthing, twists, and a potential romance. While the final chapter tied up loose ends, it seemed too rushed. Themes include murder, disappearances, friendship, family, deceptions, power, politics, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining and quirky story contained some humor as well as some somber aspects to it. It grabbed my attention with likeable characters and a mystery to be solved. This series is best read in order. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Kensington Books, Kensington Cozies and Cate Conte provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for March 28, 2023.
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My 3.55 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Violet is someone readers for get behind. Her character is more rounded and has more depth in it than the first book in the series. She’s impulsive, compassionate, empathetic, righteous, and headstrong. Her character traits were more complex and developed and changed during the story. The secondary characters were not as well developed but provided the needed support or opposition to keep the story interesting. I am looking forward to their development in future novels.
This novel will help readers escape the real world for an afternoon of sleuthing with Violet. With multiple subplots, I found myself wondering what would be uncovered next. Who is telling the truth and who is deceiving others? It has the right amount of sleuthing, twists, and a potential romance. While the final chapter tied up loose ends, it seemed too rushed. Themes include murder, disappearances, friendship, family, deceptions, power, politics, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining and quirky story contained some humor as well as some somber aspects to it. It grabbed my attention with likeable characters and a mystery to be solved. This series is best read in order. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Kensington Books, Kensington Cozies and Cate Conte provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for March 28, 2023.
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My 3.55 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
dnf
November 19, 2023This is a Cozy Mystery, and this is the third book in A Full Moon Mystery series. I loved the characters in this book. My biggest problem with this book is the magic and the fact she was a witch was being pushed down your throat every second, and I was sick of hearing about it. I also just wanted to get to the mystery part, but it was so slow moving that I got to 20% and the mystery was still not really there. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
November 20, 2023
Please tell me this is not the last book in this series! Cate Conte, I want more.
Loved this so much. I love how different it is for a cozy. There are two different mysteries going on here. One is still being resolved from Book 1 and the other happens in this book.
The characters are really charming. The way it wrapped up, makes me a little worried that this is the last book. I hope now, I want more of Violet and Blake. Such an interesting series!
Loved this so much. I love how different it is for a cozy. There are two different mysteries going on here. One is still being resolved from Book 1 and the other happens in this book.
The characters are really charming. The way it wrapped up, makes me a little worried that this is the last book. I hope now, I want more of Violet and Blake. Such an interesting series!
November 11, 2022
Immerse yourself in the magical world of Violet Mooney in the charming 3rd book in the series. Violet only learned of heritage as a witch and her place in the realm when visited by her mother after breaking a spelled necklace that kept her mother from finding her. So she has much to accept and to learn, including figuring out who she can trust. In this book a sudden vacancy in the list of vendors allowed to setup at the Spring Equinox Fair means an opportunity for her and her crystal shop. Meanwhile another "genieing" signifies some evil is afoot. The two storylines blend as Violet investigates with her posse of msgicsl and non-magical friends. The world is meticulously thought out and described. The characters are engaging and well-developed whether good or evil. And the mystery clever enough to keep you guessing.
April 25, 2024
Why did I return to this? I knew it wasn't going to work for me!
But it was a bit better than the second book, I'll give it that. Even if that's not saying much, as I thought the 2nd one was really bad.
The short version is that I find the main character immature and not at all so clever as the author wants me to think she is. At least there weren't as many utterly stupid moments in this one as its predecessor.
This is it for me though. The business with the genies were fixed and solved so I won't return if there's ever a 4th book. Nope. Nix. I'm out. Bye!
But it was a bit better than the second book, I'll give it that. Even if that's not saying much, as I thought the 2nd one was really bad.
The short version is that I find the main character immature and not at all so clever as the author wants me to think she is. At least there weren't as many utterly stupid moments in this one as its predecessor.
This is it for me though. The business with the genies were fixed and solved so I won't return if there's ever a 4th book. Nope. Nix. I'm out. Bye!
October 9, 2022
I enjoyed this book although I felt a little frustrated at how slowly it revealed who the bad guy was and ungenied Mazzy and Goldie. I liked the characters. #WitchWayOut #NetGalley
May 27, 2023
I like Violet; she has everything a witch should have, spunk, ambition, power issues, and a family that will either drive her crazy or into their arms, depending on the day. Spring Equinox Fair has Violet ecstatic, she will be selling her crystals and joining her hero at the fair, Horatio Hale, but when he is found dead with an axe through his chest she is determined to find his killer. But things aren’t always what they seem, and Horatio is the hero she thought he was. That’s no excuse for murder, however, and Violet has to learn how to use her newfound magickal powers fast if she wants to survive for another day.
The characters in this series are getting better with each new book. Witch Way Out is the best out of the three and helps readers gain a better knowledge of Violet and her family., which was missing previously. The Spring Equinox Fair brings Violet's crystal shop to the forefront of the reader's mind and keeps them focused on what is important. Suspects are varied and include just about anyone who attended the fair, people who had a personal connection to the victim, and even some of those in Violet's small part of the world. The killer, once unmasked, makes perfect sense and helps clear up any lingering questions readers may have.
There are enough twists and turns throughout the story to keep readers happy. There is also enough magic to keep you turning the page. I am envious of Violet's crystal shop, I would love to not just spend time there but to own such a magickal place! The Spring Equinox Fair was a great setting for a murder, and I liked how the author kept the reader engaged with the various types of vendors. I liked the way Violet solves the murder and helps rescue the people who had been genied. I am happy to recommend this book and the series to cozy readers who enjoy magic and mayhem, but if you haven’t read this series from the start, do that first!
The characters in this series are getting better with each new book. Witch Way Out is the best out of the three and helps readers gain a better knowledge of Violet and her family., which was missing previously. The Spring Equinox Fair brings Violet's crystal shop to the forefront of the reader's mind and keeps them focused on what is important. Suspects are varied and include just about anyone who attended the fair, people who had a personal connection to the victim, and even some of those in Violet's small part of the world. The killer, once unmasked, makes perfect sense and helps clear up any lingering questions readers may have.
There are enough twists and turns throughout the story to keep readers happy. There is also enough magic to keep you turning the page. I am envious of Violet's crystal shop, I would love to not just spend time there but to own such a magickal place! The Spring Equinox Fair was a great setting for a murder, and I liked how the author kept the reader engaged with the various types of vendors. I liked the way Violet solves the murder and helps rescue the people who had been genied. I am happy to recommend this book and the series to cozy readers who enjoy magic and mayhem, but if you haven’t read this series from the start, do that first!
August 13, 2025
"Witch Way Out," is the third in the "Full Moon Mysteries," by Cate Conte (also known as Liz Mugavero). My mass market paperback copy has a grand total of 360 pages, including end pages.
Violet Mooney, has a stellar opportunity to be a part of the Spring Equinox Festival, which shall be great for business for her Crystal store. But, whether she likes it or not, she finds herself embroiled in a murder, not to mention her Witch Council duties and Magickal training still take precedence in her life.
Not only are there are surprises in store for Violet, but she also finds out a little bit more about her Witchy family tree.
To say I enjoyed this one is a massive understatement. I have come to enjoy all of the Cozy Mysteries written by Ms. Conte and Ms. Mugavero, and I AM definitely a fan of all of them. I cannot wait for the next book in the "Full Moon Mysteries!!"
Violet Mooney, has a stellar opportunity to be a part of the Spring Equinox Festival, which shall be great for business for her Crystal store. But, whether she likes it or not, she finds herself embroiled in a murder, not to mention her Witch Council duties and Magickal training still take precedence in her life.
Not only are there are surprises in store for Violet, but she also finds out a little bit more about her Witchy family tree.
To say I enjoyed this one is a massive understatement. I have come to enjoy all of the Cozy Mysteries written by Ms. Conte and Ms. Mugavero, and I AM definitely a fan of all of them. I cannot wait for the next book in the "Full Moon Mysteries!!"
March 30, 2023
This is the first book that I've read in the series, but it was pretty easy to jump in and I definitely want to go back and catch up. I loved all the magical elements and how the mystery combined the magical world with the mortal one, while Violet navigated the two with such skill (especially for recently discovering she was a witch). Violet is such a fascinating and smart character and watching her care so much for others and trying to solve murders and disappearances, while trying to learn her magic and protect herself was a whirlwind and so interesting. Since she was trying to solve a crime that might have magic involved, it was an interesting cozy sleuthing situation as she had to be secretive, but also consider way more aspects than just the police could. I find this magical world and especially the feuding families fascinating and cannot wait to see what drama and danger comes next!
October 16, 2022
Cute addition to this witchy series. Its always fun to have some magic incorporated into a book, and this author has created a good story with her character Violet Mooney.
Perfect weekend read, curl up and get lost in this magical mystery.
Perfect weekend read, curl up and get lost in this magical mystery.
February 21, 2025
Aardig.
Violet is niet zo irritant als in het tweede deel.
Zit best vaart in.
Net als deel twee komt de oplossing in een paar pagina's op 't einde, maar iets minder opgepropt
Violet is niet zo irritant als in het tweede deel.
Zit best vaart in.
Net als deel twee komt de oplossing in een paar pagina's op 't einde, maar iets minder opgepropt
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2022
Witch Way Out is book #3 in the A Full Moon Mystery series by Cate Conte. The main character is named Violet Mooney and she owns a crystal shop. She recently found out that she's a witch and is adjusting to her new lifestyle and newfound abilities.
When she is accepted at the last minute into a local craft show, she's beyond excited. It's a week long event that could do wonders in free marketing and advertising for her business. It also gives her the chance to network with a bunch of other crystal enthusiasts.
But what starts out as a fun event takes a turn for the worse when the main organizer of the event is found murdered. Not only that, but Violet is the one to find him. She finds herself wrapped up in a murder case and no one is innocent until proven so... not witches, and certainly not mortals.
I liked Violet right off the bat. She's so innocent, really. She's just trying to learn as much as she can about her family and her ancestors and her fellow witch population. Meanwhile, she has a business to maintain as well as her relationships with her friends/employees, Syd and Josie. She has a lot on her plate.
I'm new to this series and haven't read the first two books in the series, but I'm hoping to read them soon! I found Violet's mother fascinating and want to find out more about Fiona and the witch community that she's in charge of. It's so funny to me that Violet grew up not knowing her mother or her true heritage. It's clear that she has a lot of catching up to do.
I liked Cate Conte's writing style. The story flows well and as each chapter unfolded, I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Becauase of the paranormal aspect to this story, it really kept me guessing. I had not idea what was going to happen!
If you're new to this series like I am, I think you'll like it. The story is easy to dive into and the characters make you want to stick around and find out what happens next. Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When she is accepted at the last minute into a local craft show, she's beyond excited. It's a week long event that could do wonders in free marketing and advertising for her business. It also gives her the chance to network with a bunch of other crystal enthusiasts.
But what starts out as a fun event takes a turn for the worse when the main organizer of the event is found murdered. Not only that, but Violet is the one to find him. She finds herself wrapped up in a murder case and no one is innocent until proven so... not witches, and certainly not mortals.
I liked Violet right off the bat. She's so innocent, really. She's just trying to learn as much as she can about her family and her ancestors and her fellow witch population. Meanwhile, she has a business to maintain as well as her relationships with her friends/employees, Syd and Josie. She has a lot on her plate.
I'm new to this series and haven't read the first two books in the series, but I'm hoping to read them soon! I found Violet's mother fascinating and want to find out more about Fiona and the witch community that she's in charge of. It's so funny to me that Violet grew up not knowing her mother or her true heritage. It's clear that she has a lot of catching up to do.
I liked Cate Conte's writing style. The story flows well and as each chapter unfolded, I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Becauase of the paranormal aspect to this story, it really kept me guessing. I had not idea what was going to happen!
If you're new to this series like I am, I think you'll like it. The story is easy to dive into and the characters make you want to stick around and find out what happens next. Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
So, here’s the deal. Violet Mooney’s coworker, who happens to be a fellow witch, gives her some good news. Their crystals shop, The Full Moon, got chosen as a vendor for the Spring Equinox Fair in Connecticut. This is a big deal for Violet since she’s been trying to learn her magical craft while avoiding any kind of trouble. Which ain’t easy when her family is caught up in a power struggle within the magical realm. It’s got everyone on edge and now Violet’s on a mission.
While she tries to figure things out, she focuses on the Fair. And guess what? The Fair is being organized by one of her personal heroes, Horatio Hale! He’s all about ethical crystal mining and that’s pretty cool. But turns out not everyone feels the same way because shockingly enough, when Violet attends a meeting, she finds Horatio dead with an axe stuck in his chest! Crazy stuff, right? Now Violet has to dig deep and use more than just a crystal ball if she wants to uncover the truth behind all the chaos happening in both the mortal and magical worlds. She’ll need every power she’s honed so far—and even discover some new ones—to save herself.
Alrighty then, let me spill the tea about this book. If you remember my previous review about the second book in this series, you’ll know I couldn’t stand Violet and that seriously impacted my rating. But guess what? In this installment, Violet was a thousand times less annoying! Yay for progress! As a result, I ended up really enjoying this one. The writing was great and kept me engaged from start to finish. The pacing was on point and the world-building was top-notch. Plus, the characters were super likable too. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
So, here’s the deal. Violet Mooney’s coworker, who happens to be a fellow witch, gives her some good news. Their crystals shop, The Full Moon, got chosen as a vendor for the Spring Equinox Fair in Connecticut. This is a big deal for Violet since she’s been trying to learn her magical craft while avoiding any kind of trouble. Which ain’t easy when her family is caught up in a power struggle within the magical realm. It’s got everyone on edge and now Violet’s on a mission.
While she tries to figure things out, she focuses on the Fair. And guess what? The Fair is being organized by one of her personal heroes, Horatio Hale! He’s all about ethical crystal mining and that’s pretty cool. But turns out not everyone feels the same way because shockingly enough, when Violet attends a meeting, she finds Horatio dead with an axe stuck in his chest! Crazy stuff, right? Now Violet has to dig deep and use more than just a crystal ball if she wants to uncover the truth behind all the chaos happening in both the mortal and magical worlds. She’ll need every power she’s honed so far—and even discover some new ones—to save herself.
Alrighty then, let me spill the tea about this book. If you remember my previous review about the second book in this series, you’ll know I couldn’t stand Violet and that seriously impacted my rating. But guess what? In this installment, Violet was a thousand times less annoying! Yay for progress! As a result, I ended up really enjoying this one. The writing was great and kept me engaged from start to finish. The pacing was on point and the world-building was top-notch. Plus, the characters were super likable too. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
September 24, 2023
Probably more like 3.5 stars. I wasn’t as enamored with this installment. The magical world feels a little like Harry Potter fan fic at times. Though I suppose it’s hard to separate any depictions of a magical world from that behemoth. But Oscar was definitely feeling a lot like a Snape character, with his double life and interest in defense magic (Defense Against the Dark Arts?). The ending felt a bit rushed, considering it was wrapping up three books’ worth of storyline. And did we just skip two years? Because I recall the first book taking place (or at least concluding) in 2020, and this book takes place in 2022 (or 24 years after 1998). I was wondering if the author was just not going to have the pandemic occur in this world, but I guess we’re just skipping over the bulk of it instead?
I also realized I don’t feel as excited about Violet’s discovery of big powers and being part of a super powerful line of witches, and I think it’s because she’s not really an underdog. To compare it to HP, at least he was a sad person we could be happy to see come into wealth and power. But Violet was already a successful person in her own right. Giving her access to more privilege doesn’t really feel as satisfying.
Otherwise, I do enjoy the setting (living in Connecticut myself), and the magical aspect (I mostly enjoy Violet’s life in the “real world,” with just touches of magic like working with stones and aura work). The fair setting made me miss the Mind, Body, and Spirit Expo I used to go to every year growing up in Spokane. I’m not really a believer in the “woo woo” properties of stones and auras and such, but it’s fun to explore.
These books also always make me want to go out and get a fancy latte and sit in a cozy coffee shop.
I also realized I don’t feel as excited about Violet’s discovery of big powers and being part of a super powerful line of witches, and I think it’s because she’s not really an underdog. To compare it to HP, at least he was a sad person we could be happy to see come into wealth and power. But Violet was already a successful person in her own right. Giving her access to more privilege doesn’t really feel as satisfying.
Otherwise, I do enjoy the setting (living in Connecticut myself), and the magical aspect (I mostly enjoy Violet’s life in the “real world,” with just touches of magic like working with stones and aura work). The fair setting made me miss the Mind, Body, and Spirit Expo I used to go to every year growing up in Spokane. I’m not really a believer in the “woo woo” properties of stones and auras and such, but it’s fun to explore.
These books also always make me want to go out and get a fancy latte and sit in a cozy coffee shop.
January 4, 2023
Setting the Scene: Violet Mooney is still struggling with her new-found status as a witch, not to mention a supposed powerful witch, and then there is her lying boyfriend and another genied magickal being - and not just any magickal being, but a very savvy leprechaun PI. On the brighter side, Vi has won a coveted booth at the Spring Equinox Fair, co-hosted by the legendary Horatio Hale. What a break, until she finds Horatio dead. With both magickal and mortal crimes laid at her metaphorical door, more enemies than friends on the Magickal Council, and the threat of a magickal war on the horizon, Vi has her work cut out for her. Nothing is as it seems. Those she can trust are in short supply, and Vi is in for even more revelations.
What I Thought: Great Read! Yes, I loved it, and this series, to date. Traci Hall does a marvelous job of world building and character development. Violet, Josie, Sydney, Pete, and Blake are all wonderfully relatable characters, and Fiona and Zoe, among others, provide the quirk. Mac and Solomon were great additions. Although Violet is new to the magickal world and her powers, she does not just sit on her proverbial tush and wait for others. Okay, she has done some of that, but after being kept in the dark about it her entire life, she is entitled to a certain learning curve. That does not stop her from doing what she can to see that justice is done in both her worlds, the magickal and mortal. This book opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for Violet and others, and I highly recommend that you start at Book 1 and continue through this coming release. You will not be disappointed.
What I Thought: Great Read! Yes, I loved it, and this series, to date. Traci Hall does a marvelous job of world building and character development. Violet, Josie, Sydney, Pete, and Blake are all wonderfully relatable characters, and Fiona and Zoe, among others, provide the quirk. Mac and Solomon were great additions. Although Violet is new to the magickal world and her powers, she does not just sit on her proverbial tush and wait for others. Okay, she has done some of that, but after being kept in the dark about it her entire life, she is entitled to a certain learning curve. That does not stop her from doing what she can to see that justice is done in both her worlds, the magickal and mortal. This book opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for Violet and others, and I highly recommend that you start at Book 1 and continue through this coming release. You will not be disappointed.
March 27, 2023
At the end of the last book, Violet Mooney was whisked away by Blake along with the man she's been dating, Todd. They end up in the office of Mac, a private investigator and leprechaun, but Mac is not there. Instead, there is a pile of goo, evidence that Mac has been genied. Todd immediately disappears. Violet is shocked but she tries to keep her involvement quiet since she also discovered the last genie victim and her mother and Blake are worried that she might actually be the one targeted.
That's fine with Fiona, she doesn't want to rush into danger and she's still trying to get a handle on being a witch. Plus, she's gotten an unexpected call to join the local (and very popular) craft fair. This is a fabulous opportunity to highlight her shop and it's a chance to meet one of her heroes, a proponent of ethical crystal mining, Horatio Hale. But there's a saying that you should never meet your idols and that seems to be true for Violet and Horatio. Not only does he seem to be sneaking around on his ex-wife with another vendor (why keep the relationship a secret?), Violet overhears a conversation that makes it seem Horatio might not be as upstanding as he seems. Plus, there's the gentleman hanging around saying that Horatio kicked him out of the fair.
If you've read a cozy before, you'll probably realize who is going to end up dead. It's up to Violet to finally step into her power and take control of the whole situation.
That's fine with Fiona, she doesn't want to rush into danger and she's still trying to get a handle on being a witch. Plus, she's gotten an unexpected call to join the local (and very popular) craft fair. This is a fabulous opportunity to highlight her shop and it's a chance to meet one of her heroes, a proponent of ethical crystal mining, Horatio Hale. But there's a saying that you should never meet your idols and that seems to be true for Violet and Horatio. Not only does he seem to be sneaking around on his ex-wife with another vendor (why keep the relationship a secret?), Violet overhears a conversation that makes it seem Horatio might not be as upstanding as he seems. Plus, there's the gentleman hanging around saying that Horatio kicked him out of the fair.
If you've read a cozy before, you'll probably realize who is going to end up dead. It's up to Violet to finally step into her power and take control of the whole situation.
February 21, 2023
If you are looking for a mystery read with a magical twist then you should check out Witch Way Out.
This book is a lot of fun. It was my first cozy, magical mystery read, and I really enjoyed it. I definitely would read more of these types of books in the future. This is the third book in the series, and I recommend reading the previous two books before diving into this book. I hadn’t realized that this book was a part of a series, and I think it really hindered my enjoyment. Cate does a good job of bringing her readers up to speed, but I felt like I was missing “world” information while reading this book, which left me confused at times.
I liked both the magical world that Cate has created in this book. It is really interesting, and I like how she puts her own unique touches on how witches live in our world. The mystery element in this story is well thought out and provides plenty of entertainment that captured my attention. It had me guessing until the very end. Violet is a likeable and smart character. I enjoyed spending time with her and would like to read the series’ previous two books to get to know her better.
Witch Way Out really is a fun witchy mystery read.
Thank you, Kensington Books, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://yourbookishlife.com/book-revi...
This book is a lot of fun. It was my first cozy, magical mystery read, and I really enjoyed it. I definitely would read more of these types of books in the future. This is the third book in the series, and I recommend reading the previous two books before diving into this book. I hadn’t realized that this book was a part of a series, and I think it really hindered my enjoyment. Cate does a good job of bringing her readers up to speed, but I felt like I was missing “world” information while reading this book, which left me confused at times.
I liked both the magical world that Cate has created in this book. It is really interesting, and I like how she puts her own unique touches on how witches live in our world. The mystery element in this story is well thought out and provides plenty of entertainment that captured my attention. It had me guessing until the very end. Violet is a likeable and smart character. I enjoyed spending time with her and would like to read the series’ previous two books to get to know her better.
Witch Way Out really is a fun witchy mystery read.
Thank you, Kensington Books, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://yourbookishlife.com/book-revi...
April 3, 2023
Violet Mooney is a witch new to her powers. She's been struggling to learn but has a lot going on in her life and it's easy when it seems her family has been targeted for nefarious reasons. So, when she gets news that her crystal store, The Full Moon, has been chosen to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair, she's elated. She's also thrilled to be able to meet Horatio Hale, a personal hero who is a strong proponent of ethical crystal mining. When she has a meeting with Horatio, Violet is surprised to find him dead. To get to the bottom of things in both the magickal and the mortal worlds, Violet must use all her powers and some she didn't know she had.
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. This is the third book in what has been an excellent series. It's well-written with well-rounded characters, some of whom you'll like and others you won't. There are suspects a-plenty in this cozy paranormal mystery and lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. There's also a touch of romance in the book. I was drawn into this captivating tale from the beginning and kept hooked, it's an absolute must-read that I read in one sitting as I couldn't put it down. I loved this book and sincerely hope there's more to come from this series. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest reading in order to get the most out of things.
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. This is the third book in what has been an excellent series. It's well-written with well-rounded characters, some of whom you'll like and others you won't. There are suspects a-plenty in this cozy paranormal mystery and lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. There's also a touch of romance in the book. I was drawn into this captivating tale from the beginning and kept hooked, it's an absolute must-read that I read in one sitting as I couldn't put it down. I loved this book and sincerely hope there's more to come from this series. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest reading in order to get the most out of things.
March 13, 2023
Violet and the gang are back in Cate Conte’s newest novel in the Full Moon Mystery Series, “Witch Way Out”! In this installment Violet’s life has gotten very busy. She is dealing with drama on the heels of a investigation from the Magickal Council, trying to hone her magic, learn about her ancestry, save her friend, field off a coup from a rival family and run her crystal shop all while setting up for the Spring Equinox Fair. Just when she thinks her life can’t get any more complicated, a murder rocks the fair and lands her in the hot seat again! Tired of relying on others she opens up her own investigation to find out who is behind all of the chaos that is plaguing her mortal and magickal worlds.
This series is so much fun and has become one of my favorite magical cozy mystery series! Picture Charmed + Gilmore Girls + Sabrina the Teenage with a splash of Psych thrown in! Hilarious, magical, murderous and cozy! The world building is amazing and I’m loving how the series is evolving and adding even more magical beings! If you haven’t already, check out the first two books in this series prior to the release of “Witch Way Out”!
Witch Way Out hits shelves March 28, 2023!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This series is so much fun and has become one of my favorite magical cozy mystery series! Picture Charmed + Gilmore Girls + Sabrina the Teenage with a splash of Psych thrown in! Hilarious, magical, murderous and cozy! The world building is amazing and I’m loving how the series is evolving and adding even more magical beings! If you haven’t already, check out the first two books in this series prior to the release of “Witch Way Out”!
Witch Way Out hits shelves March 28, 2023!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2023
Violet is a fledgling witch having only recently discovered that she is not only a witch but part of a magickal family. She runs The Full Moon crystal shop and is trying to figure out how to learn her craft. Oh, and to stay out of trouble. That would be very good. Too bad there are others who want more power and her family is in the way. Two witches have been genied, trapped in a bottle, that's on her must fix list.
While puzzling over how to accomplish that, she finds out that her shop has been invited to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair and that means good things for her bottom line. Before she can celebrate a killer strikes the fair. Horatio Hale had some enemies but which one would resort to murder? Violet admired him very much and sets out to find out who did it. That means she will have to straddle two worlds - magickal and mortal. That's a big challenge.
I like Violet, she's a good witch who cares about those around her. The mystery kept me engaged start to finish and that earns any future books in the series a spot on my must be read list. Cozy - check. Magic - check. Good mystery - check. A satisfying reading escape.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
While puzzling over how to accomplish that, she finds out that her shop has been invited to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair and that means good things for her bottom line. Before she can celebrate a killer strikes the fair. Horatio Hale had some enemies but which one would resort to murder? Violet admired him very much and sets out to find out who did it. That means she will have to straddle two worlds - magickal and mortal. That's a big challenge.
I like Violet, she's a good witch who cares about those around her. The mystery kept me engaged start to finish and that earns any future books in the series a spot on my must be read list. Cozy - check. Magic - check. Good mystery - check. A satisfying reading escape.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 28, 2023
Witch Way Out is part of a cozy mystery series by Cate Conte featuring crystal shop owner and witch, Violet Mooney. Apprentice witch, Violet is taught by or has acquired ability from Violet’s estranged mother, Fiona, a sister she never knew she had named Zoe, and black cat, Xander. Violet learns that her shop is invited to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair and that potentially means great things for her profits. Before she can celebrate a killer strikes at the fair.
I found Witch Way Out to be a spellbinding, well written and enchanting read. Cate Conte's engaging cast of characters made North Harbor, Connecticut, a wonderful place to visit for a while. The narrative was smooth, the dialogue great, and there was just the right of magic and kookiness versus ordinary life. Violet’s two cats, Monty, an orange cat without magical powers, and Xander, who possesses some magical ability, add personality in spades. I was totally invested in the involved mystery. Fun, entertaining and a very satisfying reading escape.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I found Witch Way Out to be a spellbinding, well written and enchanting read. Cate Conte's engaging cast of characters made North Harbor, Connecticut, a wonderful place to visit for a while. The narrative was smooth, the dialogue great, and there was just the right of magic and kookiness versus ordinary life. Violet’s two cats, Monty, an orange cat without magical powers, and Xander, who possesses some magical ability, add personality in spades. I was totally invested in the involved mystery. Fun, entertaining and a very satisfying reading escape.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 27, 2023
I have a confession to make: I don't really enjoy most cozies. But I manage my local library's mystery section I need to read something that isn't Joe R. Lansdale or Ace Atkins, and I really like this series.
The Full Moon Mystery series follows Violet Mooney and is pitched as "Charmed meets Murder, She Wrote". What I like about this series in particular is that does a good job balancing the mystery elements with the fantastic. Violet Mooney just learns about her magickal heritage...and her magickal relatives...in the first book of the series. As a result, there's a good deal of world-building that goes onto each book as Violet learns more about her powers and the larger magickal community as a whole.
The last book ended with Violet forced to make an important choice - and also reeling with some very powerful revelations along the way. This book sees Violet struggling with those implications, while of course, being faced with yet another mystery along the way. While I do think the momentum suffers a bit from the constant juggling, ultimately Conte makes it work in an engaging and fun mystery.
If you're looking for a fun cozy mystery or you just want to dip your toe into spooky season, this might be the series for you.
The Full Moon Mystery series follows Violet Mooney and is pitched as "Charmed meets Murder, She Wrote". What I like about this series in particular is that does a good job balancing the mystery elements with the fantastic. Violet Mooney just learns about her magickal heritage...and her magickal relatives...in the first book of the series. As a result, there's a good deal of world-building that goes onto each book as Violet learns more about her powers and the larger magickal community as a whole.
The last book ended with Violet forced to make an important choice - and also reeling with some very powerful revelations along the way. This book sees Violet struggling with those implications, while of course, being faced with yet another mystery along the way. While I do think the momentum suffers a bit from the constant juggling, ultimately Conte makes it work in an engaging and fun mystery.
If you're looking for a fun cozy mystery or you just want to dip your toe into spooky season, this might be the series for you.
April 15, 2023
Oops, I thought I had read the previous books in this series, but it was readily apparent that I hadn’t. That being said, I was able to catch up and dive into the wild and wacky world of Violet.
Violet appears to have been going through a bunch of revelations. She now knows she’s a witch, and not just a normal one but one with a seat on the magic council, heir to a glitter throwing mega-witch, and she’s also a small business owner. Oddly, it’s the last one that puts her on the route of a big murder mystery. Are there witchy elements? Sure! But her crystal shop gets selected to participate in a big fair for those types of things, by none other than her hero. Said hero, however, ends up at the center of a big mystery that somehow Violet gets involved in.
Oh, and there’s a bit of a love triangle or two going on in the background of all this, making things extra sticky as Violet tries to separate possible jealous with murderous intent in this mystery. I enjoyed all the characters with their somewhat normal quirks and flaws, and would like to get to know them all more. There’s a bit of a big reveal at the end that we hopefully dig into in further installments.
Violet appears to have been going through a bunch of revelations. She now knows she’s a witch, and not just a normal one but one with a seat on the magic council, heir to a glitter throwing mega-witch, and she’s also a small business owner. Oddly, it’s the last one that puts her on the route of a big murder mystery. Are there witchy elements? Sure! But her crystal shop gets selected to participate in a big fair for those types of things, by none other than her hero. Said hero, however, ends up at the center of a big mystery that somehow Violet gets involved in.
Oh, and there’s a bit of a love triangle or two going on in the background of all this, making things extra sticky as Violet tries to separate possible jealous with murderous intent in this mystery. I enjoyed all the characters with their somewhat normal quirks and flaws, and would like to get to know them all more. There’s a bit of a big reveal at the end that we hopefully dig into in further installments.
February 29, 2024
Violet is excited that she was invited to exhibit at the Spring Equinox Fair. Here, she'll have a chance to promote her crystal shop as well as mingle with other magical beings. Violet is especially excited when she meets Horatio Hale, a well-known mortal who pushes for ethically sourced crystals and minerals. When Horatio learns that Violet has been having difficulty finding moldavite, he arranges to meet up with her to give her some from his stock. Violet arrives to find Horatio murdered. Now she's caught up in the investigation into his death, while trying to figure out who genied another witch in her shop. In addition, Violet is still learning about her new life, which includes navigating witch council politics and feuds.
There was so much happening in this book. It's not a series you'd want to jump into the middle of, because one of the crimes occurred in the first book. In this one, we get to learn more about the world of witches and Violet's family as she muddles her way through. In a sense, this seemed like a series finale, although the author didn't say so. At least, I don't think she did. I'm not big on reading authors' notes. My bad. LOL!
Very good, four stars
There was so much happening in this book. It's not a series you'd want to jump into the middle of, because one of the crimes occurred in the first book. In this one, we get to learn more about the world of witches and Violet's family as she muddles her way through. In a sense, this seemed like a series finale, although the author didn't say so. At least, I don't think she did. I'm not big on reading authors' notes. My bad. LOL!
Very good, four stars
December 28, 2022
Witch Way Out by Cate Conte is the third in the Full Moon Mystery series. Violet is still exploring her newfound powers, and is a bit insecure about all that entails. Things start to fall apart when she is at the scene of another genieing and her boyfriend Todd also disappears. Then her magical and mortal worlds collide when there is a murder at a fair where she is vending. Violet needs to solve the murder and figure out who is behind the genieing before it’s too late.
Suspects abound in this mystery, including the members of this Magickal Council. Not everyone is who or what they appear to be in this complex and twisty tale. I love the supporting characters, especially Syd and Pete who stick with Violet no matter what. And, of course, the romantic in me is rooting for Violet and Blake to give in to their chemistry. The first part of the book was a bit slow, weighed down by detail. However by the halfway point, I could hardly put the book down. (I reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own.) This is a delightful and fun series that has me hooked.
Suspects abound in this mystery, including the members of this Magickal Council. Not everyone is who or what they appear to be in this complex and twisty tale. I love the supporting characters, especially Syd and Pete who stick with Violet no matter what. And, of course, the romantic in me is rooting for Violet and Blake to give in to their chemistry. The first part of the book was a bit slow, weighed down by detail. However by the halfway point, I could hardly put the book down. (I reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own.) This is a delightful and fun series that has me hooked.
August 14, 2023
Violet Mooney owns the Full Moon Crystal Shop. She has just been invited to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair. She is new to this world and just recently found out about her witchy ancestry. One of the event coordinators is an ethical crystal dealer that Violet has admired. When he turns up dead, Violet is thrown into the mix. She found the body and feels horrible. To add to that, her mother is worried that someone is after Violet. Now Violet doesn't know her mother well. The two were separated when her parents divorced. Her father didn't want her to know about her witchy heritage. Her grandmother, a powerful witch agreed to raise her as a normal child. Now both her father and maternal grandmother are dead. Violet is on overload, first, dealing with her mother; second, learning her powers; third, dealing with the unknown of who is out to get her; and fourth; the murder. This is a fun cozy. The characters are interesting and it is a bit of a mystery inside a mystery as Violet learns about her heritage and all the politics in this new word.
October 12, 2022
Violet Mooney is thrilled when her crystal shop is selected as vendor for the Spring Equinox Fair. She’s excited that one of her crystal role models will be there in person. But when the said role model is murdered, it’s up to Violet to figure out who wanted the man dead and did the deed. There may not be enough crystals in her shop to keep her safe once the murderer has her in their cross hairs…but she’s sure going to do her best to protect herself as she tries to solve the case.
I adore this series and have followed it from the first book in the series. Violet is still learning about her powers and that she comes from a pretty powerful magical family, which makes for lots of mishaps, mayhem and even murder. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and magic that delivers a perfect read each and every time! Cate Conte is a magical writer and each mystery is filled with red herrings to keep you on your toes as you try to solve the mystery along with Violet and the gang.
I adore this series and have followed it from the first book in the series. Violet is still learning about her powers and that she comes from a pretty powerful magical family, which makes for lots of mishaps, mayhem and even murder. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and magic that delivers a perfect read each and every time! Cate Conte is a magical writer and each mystery is filled with red herrings to keep you on your toes as you try to solve the mystery along with Violet and the gang.
March 1, 2023
Witch Way Out is book #3 in the A Full Moon Mystery series by Cate Conte. It's a witchy paranormal cozy series that follows Violet Mooney, a witch whose just discovered her powers and owns a crystal shop.
To get a handle on the world and magical system, I would read this series in order. There are also continuing stories through the three books.
This story centers around a the death of a trade show organizer that was supposed to supply Violet with crystals for her shop. Violet is pulled into trying to discover the killer after she finds the body. There's also another mystery surrounding finding the witch who are been using a genie to attack magical residents in the town. This person has their sights on Violet so time is of the essence.
There are great relationship developments through the book with Violet and her love interest and her family. I fell in love with this series in after reading the first book and this was another solid edition.
To get a handle on the world and magical system, I would read this series in order. There are also continuing stories through the three books.
This story centers around a the death of a trade show organizer that was supposed to supply Violet with crystals for her shop. Violet is pulled into trying to discover the killer after she finds the body. There's also another mystery surrounding finding the witch who are been using a genie to attack magical residents in the town. This person has their sights on Violet so time is of the essence.
There are great relationship developments through the book with Violet and her love interest and her family. I fell in love with this series in after reading the first book and this was another solid edition.
March 26, 2023
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Violet Mooney is thrilled when her crystals shop, The Full Moon, is selected to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair. Even more exciting, the fair is being run by Horatio Hale, someone she fervently admires. It turns out not everyone is such a fan as she is. When she goes to meet him to discuss buying some crystals, she discovers his body.... murdered, wth an ax in the chest. To uncover the motives behind the mayhem in both the mortal and magickal worlds, Violet is going to need all the powers she’s been honing—plus some she didn’t know she had—to save herself .
This is book #3 in the Full Moon Mystery Series. I am really enjoying following this series, and seeing Violet develop as character, and learn and grow as she discovers her new-found witch-y powers. It was a fun, quick read, perfect for anyone who loves cozy witch mysteries.
Violet Mooney is thrilled when her crystals shop, The Full Moon, is selected to be a vendor at the Spring Equinox Fair. Even more exciting, the fair is being run by Horatio Hale, someone she fervently admires. It turns out not everyone is such a fan as she is. When she goes to meet him to discuss buying some crystals, she discovers his body.... murdered, wth an ax in the chest. To uncover the motives behind the mayhem in both the mortal and magickal worlds, Violet is going to need all the powers she’s been honing—plus some she didn’t know she had—to save herself .
This is book #3 in the Full Moon Mystery Series. I am really enjoying following this series, and seeing Violet develop as character, and learn and grow as she discovers her new-found witch-y powers. It was a fun, quick read, perfect for anyone who loves cozy witch mysteries.
April 3, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Violet is getting frustrated and tired of feeling that she is always playing catch up as she comes to grips with her witchy powers. She is told she is powerful but she constantly feels she is falling behind and those who would wish her ill thwart her at every turn. She already witnessed one witch being geniied and then arrives at the site of a second one. Someone is trying to connect the two very bad events with her and she seems to be incapable of checkmating the bad guys.
First she has to figure out her own personal configurations while trying to discover who is causing the chaos that is being attributed to her. It is going to be a difficult and dangerous quest but if she ever hits her stride, the bad guys better watch out. It is an exciting romp as Violet learns more about the world she now inhabits and how she fits into it. Lots of witches and leprechauns and magical crystals. This series is always a fun read. Five purrs and two paws up.
First she has to figure out her own personal configurations while trying to discover who is causing the chaos that is being attributed to her. It is going to be a difficult and dangerous quest but if she ever hits her stride, the bad guys better watch out. It is an exciting romp as Violet learns more about the world she now inhabits and how she fits into it. Lots of witches and leprechauns and magical crystals. This series is always a fun read. Five purrs and two paws up.
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