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Cider Mill Coven
Brimming with New England magic, charming mystery and adventure infused with ‘90s nostalgia.
When three young cousins experience an explosion of nature-infused magic at their Grandma Lydia's orchard, their parents whisk them off to opposite corners of New England. But distance cannot contain their witchy destiny forever and in 1995 - one fateful October night - tenacious dreamer, Raven, now 18 years old, has a near death experience that ignites mystical forces from within. Soon after, her hilarious bestie of a cousin, the vivacious and ever-so snappy Killian, has his own shocking encounter. But will the third and final member of their cousinly trifecta, the bubbly, bi-racial Adelaide be down to ride this supernatural rollercoaster? Sweet, eccentric Grandma Lydia is waiting at Cider Mill with bated breath and a mountain-high pile of fresh-baked confections. She's been a coven of one for far too long and is eager to immerse the teenage trio in the "Green Witch Way." But her unconventional methods aren't always as sweet as cider. Magic and mischief collide as the cousins soon begin to unspool a thread of family secrets so disenchanting it might send 'em running (or flying) for the hills. Cider Mill Coven is full of twists at every turn. It's a story of family and forgiveness, friendship… and forbidden love. From a magical treetop retreat to a spellbinding elixir that serves to protect a secret society of nature-loving covens from discovery, this '90s coven tale is sure to conjure up a hypnotizing blend of spookiness and delight.
When three young cousins experience an explosion of nature-infused magic at their Grandma Lydia's orchard, their parents whisk them off to opposite corners of New England. But distance cannot contain their witchy destiny forever and in 1995 - one fateful October night - tenacious dreamer, Raven, now 18 years old, has a near death experience that ignites mystical forces from within. Soon after, her hilarious bestie of a cousin, the vivacious and ever-so snappy Killian, has his own shocking encounter. But will the third and final member of their cousinly trifecta, the bubbly, bi-racial Adelaide be down to ride this supernatural rollercoaster? Sweet, eccentric Grandma Lydia is waiting at Cider Mill with bated breath and a mountain-high pile of fresh-baked confections. She's been a coven of one for far too long and is eager to immerse the teenage trio in the "Green Witch Way." But her unconventional methods aren't always as sweet as cider. Magic and mischief collide as the cousins soon begin to unspool a thread of family secrets so disenchanting it might send 'em running (or flying) for the hills. Cider Mill Coven is full of twists at every turn. It's a story of family and forgiveness, friendship… and forbidden love. From a magical treetop retreat to a spellbinding elixir that serves to protect a secret society of nature-loving covens from discovery, this '90s coven tale is sure to conjure up a hypnotizing blend of spookiness and delight.
344 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2022
144 people are currently reading
3222 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Abigail Lambert
1 book113 followersVanessa is a '90s kid at heart who spent much of her childhood doodling or crafting short stories. Her love of reading sparked with a stack of Goosebumps books, a flashlight and a refusal to conform to bedtime. Today, she is a small business owner, servicing clients nationwide with a variety of design and marketing services, a skillset that's proven to be indispensable on her pathway to publishing. Founder of Coven of One Publishing, Vanessa served as writer, illustrator, marketer and publisher for Cider Mill Coven. Embracing a hex the naysayers outlook, she single-handedly tackled everything from cover design, ebook formatting, website creation, digital marketing and vendor outreach. Next up on her publishing journey is the release of her self-narrated audiobook for Cider Mill Coven (coming soon) as well as a series of exciting pop-up events throughout New England. All the while, Vanessa's carefully crafting the story and characters for the next installment of this whimsically witchy series.Vanessa is an outgoing, passionate woman who loves music, travel and eating her way across the eastern seaboard. When she's not writing or curled up with her beloved familiars, Vanessa's pursuing a variety of creative outlets including everything from strumming ukulele and curating her garden to hosting themed soirees for loved ones and capturing stunning drone videography.Vanessa resides in the charming town of Simsbury, Connecticut alongside her wildly supportive husband, Bruce. Together, they love trekking all over New England to uncover hidden gems, many of which have inspired the magical settings in the pages of Cider Mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
July 2, 2023
This book is a warm hug. Lots of delicious magic, a sprinkle of whimsy and wonderful, lovable characters. I love how the nature-infused fantasy elements was still grounded in the real world. And the 90s tie-in made it such a fun trip down memory lane. I will wholeheartedly read this one again come October.
October 21, 2023
Spellbound from start to finish. One of the absolute highlights of my fall season.
June 29, 2023
It's so hard for me to believe that this is a debut novel. And an independent one at that. It was so good. Excellent fall-time fun. Very well written - perfect blend of fast-paced storytelling, whimsy with a bit of darkness mixed in. Kept me turning the pages and gritting my teeth at some of the plot twists and chapter cliffhangers. The illustrations and Spotify playlist were a nice added touch, too. Well done, very well done.
July 6, 2023
Name a cooler witch than Lydia Braeburn? I'll wait.
This book is like the most delicious apple pie and hot cider pairing... covered in glitter. The magic, the 90s vibes and the wonderfully descriptive settings were just lovely. The characters are all charming in their own right, and well fleshed out, I could picture this book so well it was almost like watching a TV series. One can only hope!
This book is like the most delicious apple pie and hot cider pairing... covered in glitter. The magic, the 90s vibes and the wonderfully descriptive settings were just lovely. The characters are all charming in their own right, and well fleshed out, I could picture this book so well it was almost like watching a TV series. One can only hope!
October 15, 2022
A charming adventure sparkling with 90s nostalgia, Cider Mill Coven centers on a trio of young cousins—Raven, Killian, and Adelaide— discovering the long-kept secrets of magic that their parents have hidden from them. Grandma Lydia is their fierce, funny, sweets-baking grandmother who is there to lead the way in learning what it means to be a witch, especially one in the Cider Mill Coven.
This was one of my favorite reads this year! You will find that Cider Mill Coven perfectly pairs with a hot apple cider and a cozy blanket because it captivatingly captures the feeling of fall within its pages. I loved the coming-of-age elements that had our main characters discovering who they were as they graduated high school and moved on to the next chapter of their lives. Instead of their next chapters including dorm rooms and some over-priced textbooks, Raven, Killian, and Adelaide get to explore an entirely new magical world that is brimming with lush detail. Vanessa Abigail Lambert doesn't just transport you to a place where magic is real, but to a different time in which plaid was everything and Blockbusters were still thriving. That's right, this story is set in the 90s, and the references to the era (including the music...I have not stopped listening to the Spotify playlist that Vanessa created to supplement the novel) were such a blast. This is a story I would recommend to readers young and old; everyone will be able to find something in these pages that will make them feel a little magical.
This was one of my favorite reads this year! You will find that Cider Mill Coven perfectly pairs with a hot apple cider and a cozy blanket because it captivatingly captures the feeling of fall within its pages. I loved the coming-of-age elements that had our main characters discovering who they were as they graduated high school and moved on to the next chapter of their lives. Instead of their next chapters including dorm rooms and some over-priced textbooks, Raven, Killian, and Adelaide get to explore an entirely new magical world that is brimming with lush detail. Vanessa Abigail Lambert doesn't just transport you to a place where magic is real, but to a different time in which plaid was everything and Blockbusters were still thriving. That's right, this story is set in the 90s, and the references to the era (including the music...I have not stopped listening to the Spotify playlist that Vanessa created to supplement the novel) were such a blast. This is a story I would recommend to readers young and old; everyone will be able to find something in these pages that will make them feel a little magical.
November 12, 2022
Where do I even begin with this book. It grips you right from the beginning into one of the most magical adventures. I fell in love with all the characters. From a girl who was born in the 80s but also grew up in the 90s this book is so nostalgic I found myself laughing and crying and saying "oh my god" out loud. This book is so descriptive and it will forever be one of my favorite books that I will read over and over again.
October 21, 2022
5 Stars doesn’t seem enough. If I could give this 10 stars I would. I’m SPEECHLESS! This story takes you on a magical adventure.I enjoyed this book SO much that’s its hard to find the words to describe how reading book magically took me to New England!! The 90’s nostalgic references and music list took me back!! I feel like nothing I’m saying is expressing how amazing this story is. The additives I’m thinking don’t do it justice. Vanessa is a brilliant writer!!You MUST read this book. You will not regret it!! Quick…order it!! 😉
January 26, 2023
Did not want this book to end! Really hoping there's a sequel.
November 6, 2022
Super fun and shall I say “magical” book. I met the author Vanessa at an orchard (funny enough it is called Cider Hill, not Mill but kind of close) and she had a fun 90s themed booth set up selling her book. I digged the vibe and the book sounded up my ally of loving fantasy, witchy, 90s, young adult and it did not disappoint. I especially loved the New England tie ins and setting. Yes, it was definitely more geared towards a young adult audience so keep that in mind when going to read it but I enjoy YA books here and there as well. I say if it’s fun and enjoyable why not give it a read! I also I enjoyed the undertone of the importance of family and being there for one another. & I liked being transformed back to the 90s with all the references and tie ins. Being born in the 90s myself made this even more enjoyable for me and gave me all the nostalgic feels.
July 10, 2023
I met this author at a Salem craft market and was drawn to her setup. So whimsical and witchy, totally my vibe. Plus she was super sweet. So I figured I'd give her book a whirl and wow... I LOVED it. Beautifully written, vivid settings and so many flawed, relatable and entirely lovable characters. 90's witch movies raised me so the fact that it was set in 1995 was an extra added bonus. I will be telling all my friends to go and buy this book!
July 16, 2023
Witchy?✔️ Mystery?✔️ Romance?✔️
... 90's nostalgia?✔️✔️✔️
All my favorite things! Hands down one of my favorite reads of the year, I loved it. Such a fun, cozy feel good read. No *extreme* darkness, just a perfect sprinkle to keep things interesting, give substance to the plot, and give the characters something to grow from. The idyllic whimsy of Cider Mill and Grandma Lydia's energy is spun like the loveliest daydream that makes me want to immediately pack up and move there and never leave.
... 90's nostalgia?✔️✔️✔️
All my favorite things! Hands down one of my favorite reads of the year, I loved it. Such a fun, cozy feel good read. No *extreme* darkness, just a perfect sprinkle to keep things interesting, give substance to the plot, and give the characters something to grow from. The idyllic whimsy of Cider Mill and Grandma Lydia's energy is spun like the loveliest daydream that makes me want to immediately pack up and move there and never leave.
June 30, 2023
I tried. I really did try. I knew this was going to be a wonderful book soon into the first chapter so I tried to go slowly and make it last. I failed completely and devoured the whole scrumptious book in an afternoon. And I regret nothing. This book was one of the best escapes into a magical world that I’ve enjoyed in quite some time - deliciously cozy and charming!
October 8, 2022
Cute story, lots of nostalgia. Definitely geared more for YA and unfortunately it wasn’t really what I thought it would be. It gives you the autumn feels though!
October 7, 2023
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ This is a perfect fall witchy read based out of New England. It certainly needs a 2nd book as it leaves a cliffhanger at the end.
October 31, 2023
This story is such a gem - filled with characters that warmed my heart. Lambert is such a gifted author with a knack for beautifully crafted scene-setting and descriptions. I felt like I was right there with this coven, swept away in the magic. I loved all the twists and turns as well as the balance of lightness and darkness throughout the book. It was charming and feel-good but with heavier themes interspersed (dark magic, family hardship, betrayal, greed/vanity). Can't wait to see what's next for this series!
October 30, 2023
Major Hocus Pocus - Sabrina - Practical Magic vibes here. Loved every star-speckled detail in this story of love and family and magic. This one deserves a spot on the shelf with all of my witchy favorites.
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October 23, 2025dnf
October 21, 2023
sometimes, you find a book — or rather, it finds you — at the perfect time. it wraps you up in its delicate pages, lets the words wash over you. it reassures you, telling you everything you need to hear in that moment. that’s the connection i felt with all of the magic, whimsy and heart in this story.
September 21, 2022
One word comes to mind… wow! I rarely write reviews but felt compelled to put my thoughts out there because of how much I truly enjoyed the magical rollercoaster that is Cider Mill Coven. I was born and raised in the northeast but have lived in southern California for a few years now. I often miss those crisp fall days but this story transported me back home. This mystical journey is full of twists and turns, colorful characters and familiar yet extraordinary locations. Vanessa describes everything so vibrantly and in such detail that all the sights, sounds and even smells come to life in a way few books or even movies for that matter, are successful at. Be prepared to lose yourself in the pages of this book. If you are anything like me you will have a hard time putting it down. She has created a world that once you visit you won’t want to leave.
I am often very critical of stories and will pick apart elements that don’t work for a myriad of reasons. However, Vanessa’s story stands so strong that I was amazed at how expertly woven all of the plot points are up until the very last sentence. That twist at the end would even make screenwriter M. Night Shyamalan proud! I didn’t consider myself a fan of witches before reading this novel but now Rowling and her wizards have some serious competition from the Braeburn women.
I am often very critical of stories and will pick apart elements that don’t work for a myriad of reasons. However, Vanessa’s story stands so strong that I was amazed at how expertly woven all of the plot points are up until the very last sentence. That twist at the end would even make screenwriter M. Night Shyamalan proud! I didn’t consider myself a fan of witches before reading this novel but now Rowling and her wizards have some serious competition from the Braeburn women.
June 15, 2023
Lured into this author's popup at a local event by all the eclectic 90s merch. One of my childhood favorites was the Craft so when I saw her 'We Are The Weirdos' signs I knew I had to get one of those and a signed copy of her book. (Self declared weirdo here 🙋🏻) I'll admit I have a soft spot for the occasional chick lit. And I was initially expecting something along those lines for this book. But it was so much more than that. Strong female characters, 100%. But also some BADASS dudes. Giles, Augustus, Killian... Heck, even Dax. Hoping their stories continue so I can dive into a sequel. Twists, mystery... Props to Lambert on a killer debut novel!
July 9, 2023
Loved this story from start to finish. So many compelling witches from so many different walks of life. Great underlying message too. I found it especially cool how the author uses the lingering threat of a 1990s witch trial resurgence as a metaphor for civil rights and inclusivity. Great way to honor the history of the Salem Witch Trials while making this relevant for present day. Love, light and magic for all... louder for the ones in the back! 👏🏻👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿🏳️🌈🤎
May 15, 2023
Oh, how I loved this book. I was born and raised in New England and I adored how this story captures so many of my favorite local places but also incorporates so much magic and whimsy. I've already read it twice and am pretty sure fall-time will call for a third.
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June 20, 2023DNF at about 17%. I wanted to like it, it just felt/read too immature for me, idk. Not a fan of the writing style.
July 15, 2023
I love a good witch story and this one delivers! So much magic, so much heart. I want many more adventures for the Braeburn coven.
September 10, 2023
I wanted to love this witchy 90s book set in New England (all ingredients for a story I would be into), but the writing was too clunky and YA-style for me, so I didn’t finish it. Too bad.
November 8, 2023
Really enjoyed the mystery and magic that unfolds within each page of this story. Every scene was so descriptive and transportive I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind. I especially loved how many wonderfully diverse witches this story has. Calista was a personal favorite! While the story does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, it sets up so many possibilities for a book two or three. Hoping there's more to come.
June 16, 2024
Just finished this book and wish I could go back and reread it for the first time🥹 Between the witchy vibes and 90s nostalgia it is the absolutely perfect book to read at any time of year. My almost 40 year old self is loving all of this 90s nostalgia! Aldo, Mystic, CT is a real place for anyone wondering! I will be crossing my fingers for a book #2 and also a Netflix series! The author, Vanessa, is an absolutely sweetheart. She always makes time on Instagram to respond to messages and interact with fans, it doesn’t get any better than her! 5 stars all the way!⭐️🍎🧙🏻♀️🧹
November 4, 2023
Exactly the type of book I was looking for during spooky season! ✨ perfect mix of fall in a book combined with witchy vibes. Such a fun and adventurous story! 🍎
November 1, 2023
A little slow. Wasn’t crazy about the ending. Enjoyed the way the author wrote.
October 15, 2023
I was first drawn to the cover art which kept popping up on my insta feed. Then I learned that this story was not only written but illustrated by an independent author. I ordered a signed copy and some Cider Mill Coven merch (scrunchie, bookmark) and it came beautifully wrapped and personalized by the author herself. I dug in to the story that night and was immediately captivated by the atmospheric settings and intricately portrayed characters - especially Grandma Lydia and her three grandchildren, whose dynamic teleported me back to my teenage years. I loved the earthly magic and mystery/growing suspense throughout the story. I also enjoyed some of the deeper messages that were intertwined throughout. This story felt like a commentary on materialism/beauty standards as well as inclusivity, especially with the tie-in to the witch trials and how it affects the life of witches (and the underrepresented) well into modern times. I've already ordered two more copies for my best friends who I know will enjoy this one as much as I have.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews