Rhymes and Crimes

Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries #7

by Laura Greenwood, Arizona Tape

When a serial killer emerges, it's a race against the clock to catch him before he claims his next victim.

When Amy and Ambrose are called to the scene of a murder victim who bears a striking resemblance to an existing case, they find themselves having to work with another station in an attempt to solve the crime.

But the more they uncover, the clearer it becomes that they're dealing with a serial killer with a particular set of motivations.

When it becomes clear that there's a chance to save his latest victim, they end up in a race against the clock to save her. Can they do it before it's too late?

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Rhymes and Crimes is book seven of Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries, an urban fantasy murder mystery series featuring a quirky witch, a serious detective, a slow burn m/f romantic subplot and a standalone crime.

If you love quirky main characters, the murder of the week format, light-hearted back-and-forth, magic, and murder mystery, start the Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries series today!

Genres: Mystery

118 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 15, 2022

About the author

Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.

Happy Reading!

Reviews

[Laura Greenwood]

Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries Series:

1. Hexes and Vexes: books2read.com/hexesandvexes
2. Witches and Stiches: books2read.com/witchesandstitches
3. Rites and Knights: books2read.com/ritesandknights
4. Sparks and Marks: books2read.com/sparksandmarks
5. Doom and Broom: books2read.com/doomandbroom
6. Potions and Oceans: books2read.com/potionsandoceans
7. Rhymes and Crimes: books2read.com/rhymesandcrimes
8. Spells and Bells: books2read.com/spellsandbells
9. Trials and Vials: books2read.com/trialsandvials
10. Cruises and Bruises: books2read.com/cruisesandbruises
11. coming soon!

Prequel: Glass and Sass: An Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries Prequel: books2read.com/glassandsass
Standalone: Grave Mistake: A Stacey & Gabriel Standalone in the Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries Series: books2read.com/stacey1

[Larry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good story

This story is better than the last. The characters have become familiar and are almost always interesting. The plot is straightforward and the premise is finding out why mothers and daughters are being killed. The answers are both strange and macabre. I do recommend this book.

[Yuunka Lau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Amy and Ambrose. The epilogue….I can’t wait for the next book 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this series however, I just couldn't put this one down. This installment had me on the edge of my seat.

There were some unexpected guest characters as well. Amethyst's and Topaz's mum and dad. If the epilogue is anything to go by, that mum is gonna get someone killed.

Buy now with one click. I highly recommend this book and can't wait until the next book!

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book seven of the Amethyst’s Wand Shop Mysteries series and it begins with Amy (Ames) and Ambrose finally moving into the house next door to the wand shop, that they recently bought together. It will keep her close to her beloved grandmother and her work there still, while allowing her and Ambrose to finally set up in their own home together. Just as they were getting all of her boxes moved next door, having already moved all of Ambrose’s out of the tiny flat they were in, they are called to a murder scene in a children’s playground. But this crime scene leaves their coroner linking it to a number of other murders that another district have been dealing with. Mothers and daughters are being murdered, one after the other, with a strange rhyme being left behind. This leaves a reluctant Amy and Ambrose having to travel to another paranormal police department and face the issues that brings. Amy is comfortable with the people in their current station, even having her own sister Topaz and her fiancé Steven working there. Ambrose faces outright hostility, due to who his grandfather is, never mind how good a detective he is in his own right! They have to let the other station continue in the lead, having already had two double cases to process, but their idea of sharing is woefully inadequate.
They are given the most basic of information on the first four murders and left to work on finding out who their own victims are. This soon leads them to figure out that their second missing person could still be alive and if they can identify and find the killer, then they might be able to save the daughter! It is clear they are dealing with a serial killer who has some problem in his own past, with mother and daughter combos. He is obviously playing a sick game from his own making, to get some sense of retribution from those who hurt him in the past. There are small clues that begin to emerge, that give them some idea of where he might be holding the daughter, but there are thousands of such possibilities to trim down. The pair are soon in a race against time to find the victim before the killer can strike again. They have to work in conjunction with this other station, who were obvious in their releasing little to nothing to help Ambrose’s department. But Ambrose will rise above this anyway and Amy may well end up in danger yet again.
On top of all this, her parents turn up unexpectedly and want to throw an engagement party for Topaz and Steven, even though they have already had once themselves, which her parents were not invited to! This adds to all the pressure of their latest case, but also gives her a good excuse not to be around them! A good bit of frivolity with the various couples in the friend group, with even their friend Stacey, the necromancer coroner, and her old friend Gabriel. Lots more to come for Stacey and Gabriel, who both seem to refuse to acknowledge their attraction to each other. Amy manages to even push Stacey onto Gabriel, when her own mother starts to flirt with him, and is much too handsy! Nothing is ever dull around Amy and Ambrose, as they get called to crime scenes and placed in danger at every turn! I look forward to reading the next one and seeing what the pair do next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love all books by Greenwood and Tape. There is a reason I have the notifications on for their books on BookSprout and there is a reason I rarely don't grab myself a copy of one of their books. They're too much fun. They're too lovely. They're too cute. However, I especially love this series and I was therefore really excited when I was notified this one was ready for me on BookSprout.

What I really loved about this installment is that this book once more revolves totally around the case. Of course, our leading couple has just moved into their new home, but the case was totally front and center and the main focus. And it was a great case. I was almost afraid that we wouldn't get the complete motive in the end, though, but luckily the authors did explain everything eventually.

Although these books are not really action-packed, it feels like some books can be really thrilling to read. This was one of those. I think it's partly because the murder mystery was a little sickening, really dangerous and really unpredictable. The authors however did a great job showing what steps our heroes took to eventually catch the murderer.

That's one of the elements I love in general when it comes to the crime solving books by these authors. It's not about the shooting and the danger. It's really about the search, about following the steps, about being frustrated with protocols and having to wait. I don't think any other series has ever taught me so much about the process!

I can't wait for the next installment!

[Michelle Dohring · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amethyst is a witch from the Gemstone Coven. Her friends call her Amy. She is a wand maker and owns her own shop. Ambrose is a mage and detective for the Paranormal Police Department. Amy is a consultant for the PPD. Amy and Ambrose have solved several crimes together.

Amy and Ambrose have been dating. They have decided to move in together. Amy is a little sad about moving out of the wand shop and leaving her grandmother on her own. She is also excited about her next step in life with Ambrose. They are moving into the house next to her grandmother and shop.

While moving into their new house Ambrose gets a call about a murder. As they investigate, they realize they may be dealing with a serial killer. Now time is of the essence if they are to save the next victim. Will they discover where the next victim is being held? Will they catch the killer and prevent another murder?

Amy and Ambrose work well together. They are a great crime fighting duo. This case is hitting Amy hard. She wants to stop the killer before he strikes again. The story flows from the beginning. The mystery keeps you turning the pages to see what will happen. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I enjoyed this book. The authors state that it can be read as a stand alone (which I did, having missed the previous books in the series), but they feel the reader will get more out of it knowing the history. I never felt lost reading it as a standalone.

Fast, easy & fun read. Paranormal crime fighters who likely always get their criminal. I just discovered Ms Greenwood in the last 6 months or so, & am devouring all of her work that I can get my low income paws on!

I'm really hoping to find deals on the many series that Ms Greenwood has written. The softcore romances with a paranormal twist are a perfect escape from the sick place that our world has become.

I also have a couple of Ms Tape's books on my overstuffed Kindle that I hope to get to soon.

Recommended.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy and Ambrose’s latest case is gut wrenching. A serial killer is abducting mothers and daughters and leads are hard to come by. The urgency to find a break is intensified when there is a chance to both catch the killer and save one of the victims.
Intense story lightened at times with the couple moving into their new home and also the nit completely welcome appearance of Amy and Topaz’s wacky parents. The series is a lovely blend of paranormal and police procedural. I enjoyed the high stakes and the teamwork as the station all chips in to find the perp. Wasn’t a fan of the PPD personnel from the second station, totally stuck up group there. Quirky and entertaining yet suitably serious as the crimes warrant. One of my go to series for a guaranteed great read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashley Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished reading Rhymes & Crimes - book 7 in the Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries by Laura Greenwood, USA Today Bestselling Author & Arizona Tape, USA Today Bestselling Author and loved every second! ✨️✨️

Each book in the series is linked by the same characters who we see develop throughout the series, but each book also contains its own murder mystery that is solved by the end, with the epilogue opening it up for the next in the series.

The murder mystery in this one had me on the edge of my seat trying to guess the killer, which is something I love.

I really enjoy how we see the character develop throughout each book, and I love the relationship Amy and Ambrose have.

I'm truly enjoying this series and can't wait to read the rest, if you enjoy murder, mystery and fantasy, then this is the series for you!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lighthearted story that could easily go dark with the murder and solving the serial killer mystery. Staged scenes seem to be this killer’s MO and Detective Knight Ambrose and his girlfriend consultant Amy (Amethyst) of the Gemstone Coven are on the case. Whether read in order or as a standalone, the book supports itself. Enough information where reading out of order is not an issue. So reading from Amy’s perspective is refreshing and interesting. We get her thoughts about the events and feelings. A good book where you want murder, suspense, crime and a mystery to solve that isn’t graphic.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amy and Ambrose are moving into their new house, just after getting everything moved in they get a call. They find a young woman dead in a playground and find out this is the work of a serial killer who is killing mothers and daughters. Ambrose and Amy are asked to work with another police officer, Detective Reeves. He is a very rude officer who does not like Ambrose and shows it. This was a very good read and you are right with Amy and Ambrose as they go after the killer. You also get to meet Amy and Topaz’s parents. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Goddess of Chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

"So secret you don't know the answer?"

Amethyst is a talented wandmaker who consults with the Paranormal Police Department, predominantly on cases her better half, Ambrose, is working.

When Ambrose gets the call about a new case it interrupts a day that was meant to be devoted to he and Amethyst moving in to a house together. Fortunately, he's found a woman who understands him, and shares his priorities.

This done in one stand alone book embraces family, chosen family, work family, sisters rediscovering their bond... and the frustrations that come with family and love.

I was gifted with a copy of this book and chose to share my thoughts.

[Eve Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Read 📚

I thoroughly enjoyed this book with Ambrose and Amy searching for a serial killer. This killer had crossed jurisdictions, so they had to work with another team of detective's, who weren't very forthcoming with their files.
Laura and Arizona have got a great series going with the Amethyst Wand Shop Mysteries. The characters are great, and the books are easy to read.
I'd definitely recommend the series if you enjoy a good mystery, with some romance added to the mix 💖💖

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Duet of death.

The last thing Ambrose wants to do is work with hostile detectives from another station, but their current case appears to be related to another case across the bridge. Evidence points to a serial killer with a particularly fiendish proclivity. They may still be able to save his latest victim if they unravel the clues in time.

What a creepy killer and what an exciting ending! Amy’s parents are out of control as usual. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ambrose and Amythest are moving Amethyst's many boxes to the new house when they are called away to a recent murder site. They arrive at a playground to see the body of a young woman posed on the slide. Things go from bad to worse when they find out the girls' mother had been killed a few days before her and found in a cemetery, also having been posed. This story is full of police procedures and has plenty of romance, ending in a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhymes and Crimes is the seventh book in this series, but this can be read as a standalone book. I adored this book, one of my favorites in the series for sure. Sometimes the books focus on Amy and Ambrose's relationship, but for this one the focus was on the mystery. It's a great switch up that I didn't mind. There was a great plot with development for multiple characters. Another enjoyable read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Witch-at-Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhymes and Crimes is an excellent murder mystery with fantastic characters. I loved the focus on Amy and Ambrose and their relationship. It was wonderful to see them happy and moving into their new house. Literally before they could even get all the boxes organized their move was interrupted by what evolved into a chase to catch a serial killer. Well written, fast paced and quite the page turner. I highly suggest not only this book but the series it’s fantastic!

[Carolyn Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the darker reads in the series, beginning with finding a young woman's body left displayed at a playground. We also get to meet Amy and Topaz's parents, which is not making things easier on them. Add in a lack of cooperation from another station, and things ate going to be tougher than normal. Very well plotted, the book includes wonderful and wonderfully irritating characters in an interesting world.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy and Ambrose are back and things are getting serious as they move in together at the beginning but of course a nasty murder occurs and off the story goes. All my favorite characters pop in as Amy and Ambrose work together to find the bad guy. Cute, fun to read and entertaining with Amy at her best. Had to see how they would solve the mystery this time around.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series and Amy and Ambrose are back with another murder and what looks to be a serial killer on the loose! It’s a fun and entertaining read with characters I adore and some unexpected guests as well. They make a fantastic crime fighting team following the clues and solving mysteries and this is a great instalment.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not bad timing. A killer on the loose and a teen missing. Very exciting story. The stuff that Ambrosia goes through should not happen. Especially by his fellow cops, even if they are from a different district. I received a complimentary review copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 7 in Greenwood's Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries. Another great addition to this series. Greenwood delivers a well written paranormal as always. Captivating, mysterious and fun - this book is sure to delight and with most all Greenwood reads - have you begging for more!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ambrose and Amy are on the case again. They work in neighboring jurisdiction, but will information be shared. Amy's parents make a surprise visit. Mum is up to something, and it may not be good. Another great read for the series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chasing the Serial Killer . . .

Amy and Ambrose are dealing with a murder case that seems to be related to another area’s serial killer with apparent childhood issues who leaves clues to the murders in the form of terrible rhymes. Will they join forces in the hunt for the killer? Will they be able to save the next victim before she is also killed?

[Bookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a bitter sweet book.
Bitter becouse of Ami and Ambrose case - was so Heart wrenching! More than any of their cases!
And sweet becouse the evolving of their relationship, and the one between Ami and her sister. This wearm my heart!
And can’t wait for more adventures!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. A new case leads Amy and Ambrose to be working on a serial killer case. I liked how they both helped to solve the case and manage to save one of the last victims.

[Sophie Eaton · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Rhymes and Crimes, Amy and Ambrose solve another complex murder case whilst also moving into their new house. We meet the slightly odd but fantastic criminal profiler, and deal with an awkward family situation. Another great book!

[LizJ. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhymes and Crimes Book 7 Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries by Laura Greenwood and Arizona Tape is another good story albeit very dark and well written and enjoyable. I look forward to more.

I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my review freely.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hunt for a serial killer of mother-daughter pairings keeps Amy, Ambrose and the team busy. And with Amy and Ambrose moving into their new home, plus Amy’s parents turning up, things get hectic for them. A great read.