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Spells & Caramels #1
Seashells, Spells & Caramels
Twenty-nine-year-old Imogen Banks is hashtag struggling.
After a disaster ends her career, destroys her home and burns up all the money she’s saved to open her own bakery, she enters a baking contest for an all-or-nothing, last ditch chance at getting her life together.
But when she arrives at the mysterious island off the coast of France, she discovers all the inhabitants of the quaint town are magical and if she wins the contest, she’ll become the next royal baker at the castle on top of the hill. No worries that the last royal baker appears to have been murdered.
And one more small thing– Imogen herself is apparently a witch!
As Imogen struggles to learn new spells, wrangle a snarky magical flame into baking her desserts and try and not burn the whole white tent down in the process, a fellow contestant drops dead with all evidence making Imogen the top suspect.
But she hasn’t only caught the eye of the bumbling and pompous police inspector, who’s doing his best to pin the crime on her. With a hunky medic and a broodingly handsome baker vying for her attention, Imogen’s whipped a little romance into the mix.
But when she discovers ties between the recent murder and the previous royal baker’s death, Imogen’s out to not only clear her name, but figure out which of the cooks has a taste for killing.
Will Imogen tap into her fledgling powers in time to save herself, or will it all prove a recipe for death and disaster?
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first book in the complete, 10 book Spells & Caramels series. These books are fun, clean, imaginative mysteries you’ll stay up all night binging.
After a disaster ends her career, destroys her home and burns up all the money she’s saved to open her own bakery, she enters a baking contest for an all-or-nothing, last ditch chance at getting her life together.
But when she arrives at the mysterious island off the coast of France, she discovers all the inhabitants of the quaint town are magical and if she wins the contest, she’ll become the next royal baker at the castle on top of the hill. No worries that the last royal baker appears to have been murdered.
And one more small thing– Imogen herself is apparently a witch!
As Imogen struggles to learn new spells, wrangle a snarky magical flame into baking her desserts and try and not burn the whole white tent down in the process, a fellow contestant drops dead with all evidence making Imogen the top suspect.
But she hasn’t only caught the eye of the bumbling and pompous police inspector, who’s doing his best to pin the crime on her. With a hunky medic and a broodingly handsome baker vying for her attention, Imogen’s whipped a little romance into the mix.
But when she discovers ties between the recent murder and the previous royal baker’s death, Imogen’s out to not only clear her name, but figure out which of the cooks has a taste for killing.
Will Imogen tap into her fledgling powers in time to save herself, or will it all prove a recipe for death and disaster?
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first book in the complete, 10 book Spells & Caramels series. These books are fun, clean, imaginative mysteries you’ll stay up all night binging.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2017
2069 people are currently reading
2356 people want to read
About the author
Erin Johnson
90 books716 followersA native of Tempe, Arizona, Erin spends her time crafting mysterious, magical, romance-filled stories that’ll hopefully make you laugh.
In between, she’s traveling, napping with her dogs, eating with her friends and family, and teaching Pilates (to allow her to eat more).
In between, she’s traveling, napping with her dogs, eating with her friends and family, and teaching Pilates (to allow her to eat more).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 497 reviews
March 27, 2018
4 out of 5 stars to Seashells, Spells & Caramels, the first in a cozy mystery series set to be published on October 29th, 2017 and written by Erin Johnson.
Why This Book
My reading interests are fairly diverse; I often need a balance an intense thriller with a lighthearted cozy mystery, or a direct and clear biography with a lyrical historical fiction book. My head has its limits. When the author reached out to me offering an opportunity to read her novel, I said 'yes' for two reasons: (1) I am low on cozy mysteries readily available from my TBR and (2) she's a new author, like me. The premise, a cross between a Harry Potter wizarding world and Hannah Swensen's wonderful dessert world, intrigued me. It was time for something new and the story said 'pick me tonight,' so I did. And I'm quite glad, so let me get right into the review...
Plot, Characters & Setting
Imogen's life is a bit of a mess, mostly because her boss is sarcastic and awful. When she steps up to help cater the woman's wedding rehearsal dinner, Imogen finally gets a bit of kudos but also realizes something weird is happening around her when she bakes. Her luck improves for just one night when a guest at the dinner convinces Imogen to enter a secret baking contest which will hopefully earn her a chance to get the money to open her own bakery. She submits her entry, falls asleep at the kitchen counter and wakes up to a disaster happening all around her. The only good thing after she loses everything of importance to her is she's been selected to participate in the final round of the contest. After she finally locates the place in a remote island off the European shores, she learns there really is a world of magic; now she needs to find out where she belongs in it. One by one, she competes against other bakers, learning all about her new world, until another participant in the contest is murdered. There's foul afoot in her new magic world and she's desperate to avoid getting caught up in the problem, as she just wants to win the prize or find a way to get home and open her own bakery. But she begins to develop friendships and care about the future of the world she's come to know.
Approach & Style
I read the 286 page book on my iPad through Kindle Reader. There are 28 chapters, each one around 10 pages. It's told in first-person point of view with the perspective always on Imogen, the main character. It's the first in a series with at least three already written and coming available soon. I read it over three nights in about four hours in total. The writing style is simple and clean, offering good imagery and world-building.
Key Thoughts
I really enjoyed the concept of the story; it has been done before on some levels, but it's also handled in a different manner in this book. Imogen accepts she's a witch, doesn't try to complain or research so she learns everything at once. A lot is still a mystery at the end of the book, e.g. who were her parents, what magic does she possess, how do people not know witches exist, where is the line between good and evil, etc. When you combing a passion for cooking desserts and a contest, it's a win for me. I kept picturing "The Great British Baking Show" meets "The Witches" while reading the story.
For a debut, it's strong; there are several open questions, good characters, lots of opportunity for growth without repetition and subtle humor. I felt transported to a different world for a few hours, which is always a positive reaction to a book like this one. On the flip side, I am curious to see how the author addresses many of the open items. It can't go on for too long or we'll worry that we have to suspend our disbelief and just accept we don't know the rules to this magical world. But for now, I'm excited and look forward to more action.
Author & Other Similar Books
There are a bunch of cozy mysteries in the market either about witches or cooks and bakers. It's hard to choose one, but it falls right within that niche. What's special about this first book, and we'll see where the others go, is the main character discovering who she is while also trying to re-build her new life. Imogen isn't trying to be a detective or solve the case; she's merely living her life and thinking about everything happening around her. The mystery is two-fold here: who is she in the magic world and what is happening to her fellow contestants. It reads like a fun story about someone re-inventing herself rather than someone with a penchant for trying to find killers.
Final Thoughts
If you've read my reviews before, you know I've only given 5-star ratings to less than 5% of my reads, which are currently over 500 books. A 4-star rating in my world means 'it's pretty darn good,' and this one certainly qualifies in that category. There's some room for improvement and growth, but it's a very engaging and style. I recommend it to cozy mystery fans and those who enjoy reading light / creative stories about witches and magic. I am looking forward to book #2 in this series but I might pace myself so I don't read them all in one sitting... then I'd have to the author to conjure one up quickly... but as the magic in her books tell us, you can't conjure something from nothing. To know what that means, you'll just have to read the book!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I’m Jay, an author who lives in NYC. My debut novel, Watching Glass Shatter, can be purchased on Amazon @ http://mybook.to/WGS. I write A LOT. I read A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
Why This Book
My reading interests are fairly diverse; I often need a balance an intense thriller with a lighthearted cozy mystery, or a direct and clear biography with a lyrical historical fiction book. My head has its limits. When the author reached out to me offering an opportunity to read her novel, I said 'yes' for two reasons: (1) I am low on cozy mysteries readily available from my TBR and (2) she's a new author, like me. The premise, a cross between a Harry Potter wizarding world and Hannah Swensen's wonderful dessert world, intrigued me. It was time for something new and the story said 'pick me tonight,' so I did. And I'm quite glad, so let me get right into the review...
Plot, Characters & Setting
Imogen's life is a bit of a mess, mostly because her boss is sarcastic and awful. When she steps up to help cater the woman's wedding rehearsal dinner, Imogen finally gets a bit of kudos but also realizes something weird is happening around her when she bakes. Her luck improves for just one night when a guest at the dinner convinces Imogen to enter a secret baking contest which will hopefully earn her a chance to get the money to open her own bakery. She submits her entry, falls asleep at the kitchen counter and wakes up to a disaster happening all around her. The only good thing after she loses everything of importance to her is she's been selected to participate in the final round of the contest. After she finally locates the place in a remote island off the European shores, she learns there really is a world of magic; now she needs to find out where she belongs in it. One by one, she competes against other bakers, learning all about her new world, until another participant in the contest is murdered. There's foul afoot in her new magic world and she's desperate to avoid getting caught up in the problem, as she just wants to win the prize or find a way to get home and open her own bakery. But she begins to develop friendships and care about the future of the world she's come to know.
Approach & Style
I read the 286 page book on my iPad through Kindle Reader. There are 28 chapters, each one around 10 pages. It's told in first-person point of view with the perspective always on Imogen, the main character. It's the first in a series with at least three already written and coming available soon. I read it over three nights in about four hours in total. The writing style is simple and clean, offering good imagery and world-building.
Key Thoughts
I really enjoyed the concept of the story; it has been done before on some levels, but it's also handled in a different manner in this book. Imogen accepts she's a witch, doesn't try to complain or research so she learns everything at once. A lot is still a mystery at the end of the book, e.g. who were her parents, what magic does she possess, how do people not know witches exist, where is the line between good and evil, etc. When you combing a passion for cooking desserts and a contest, it's a win for me. I kept picturing "The Great British Baking Show" meets "The Witches" while reading the story.
For a debut, it's strong; there are several open questions, good characters, lots of opportunity for growth without repetition and subtle humor. I felt transported to a different world for a few hours, which is always a positive reaction to a book like this one. On the flip side, I am curious to see how the author addresses many of the open items. It can't go on for too long or we'll worry that we have to suspend our disbelief and just accept we don't know the rules to this magical world. But for now, I'm excited and look forward to more action.
Author & Other Similar Books
There are a bunch of cozy mysteries in the market either about witches or cooks and bakers. It's hard to choose one, but it falls right within that niche. What's special about this first book, and we'll see where the others go, is the main character discovering who she is while also trying to re-build her new life. Imogen isn't trying to be a detective or solve the case; she's merely living her life and thinking about everything happening around her. The mystery is two-fold here: who is she in the magic world and what is happening to her fellow contestants. It reads like a fun story about someone re-inventing herself rather than someone with a penchant for trying to find killers.
Final Thoughts
If you've read my reviews before, you know I've only given 5-star ratings to less than 5% of my reads, which are currently over 500 books. A 4-star rating in my world means 'it's pretty darn good,' and this one certainly qualifies in that category. There's some room for improvement and growth, but it's a very engaging and style. I recommend it to cozy mystery fans and those who enjoy reading light / creative stories about witches and magic. I am looking forward to book #2 in this series but I might pace myself so I don't read them all in one sitting... then I'd have to the author to conjure one up quickly... but as the magic in her books tell us, you can't conjure something from nothing. To know what that means, you'll just have to read the book!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I’m Jay, an author who lives in NYC. My debut novel, Watching Glass Shatter, can be purchased on Amazon @ http://mybook.to/WGS. I write A LOT. I read A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
May 20, 2020
SEASHELLS, SPELLS & CARAMELS by Erin Johnson is the first book in the Spells & Caramels paranormal cozy mystery series. The main character is Imogen Banks who works as a medical billing administrator to save money to open her own bakery in Seattle, Washington. She ends up baking deserts for her boss' rehearsal dinner and gets an invitation to a cooking contest in France. When a fire wipes out her apartment and all of her possessions, she decides to enter the contest. However, nothing is as it seems. The island village is magical and the contestants are all witches or wizards. How is Imogen able to become a contestant? When a contestant drops dead, Imogen decides she must find the killer.
This was an entertaining story. It reminded me of a reality baking show with magic and murder. The characters are interesting and Imogen is definitely someone that I was rooting for. I would have liked a little more background on her early life, but it worked with the information provided. There was a good mix of secondary characters and a good number of plot twists. The setting was described, but more information would be beneficial to future books in the series. The prose was well-written and engaging.
Overall, the voice is fresh and interesting. It delivered on the promise of its premise and was extremely entertaining. There are several things left unresolved which sets the stage for book two. However, there was enough of a conclusion that I didn't resent the unresolved issues. This was a "new to me" author and I look forward to reading more of the series.
This was an entertaining story. It reminded me of a reality baking show with magic and murder. The characters are interesting and Imogen is definitely someone that I was rooting for. I would have liked a little more background on her early life, but it worked with the information provided. There was a good mix of secondary characters and a good number of plot twists. The setting was described, but more information would be beneficial to future books in the series. The prose was well-written and engaging.
Overall, the voice is fresh and interesting. It delivered on the promise of its premise and was extremely entertaining. There are several things left unresolved which sets the stage for book two. However, there was enough of a conclusion that I didn't resent the unresolved issues. This was a "new to me" author and I look forward to reading more of the series.
September 1, 2019
..
This is the first book in the Seashells, Spells & Caramels: A Cozy Witch Mystery series by Erin Johnson.
A magical French island. A dead contestant. An aspiring baker must clear her name before she gets burned.
This is a cozy paranormal mystery. Imogen, Maple, Henry, and the crew entertain the reader and work together well.
Imogen Banks has dreamed her entire life of opening her own bakery in Seattle. But when she accidentally sets fire to her apartment and loses all her possessions, her dreams get toasted. Still coping with her loss, she receives a cryptic invitation she can't possibly refuse: entry into a mysterious baking competition on a beautiful French island.
When Imogen realizes the island village is magical and the bake-off’s participants are witches and wizards, she’s not sure her fledgling powers will be enough to win the coveted contest. In the midst of trying to cast her very first spell, a competitor drops dead and Imogen finds the psychic judges' mystical fingers all pointing at her. Can Imogen unlock her own magic and stop the killer from coming back for seconds or will she jump straight from the frying pan and into the fire?
This is a stand-alone book, clean and wholesome, and it provides a H.E.A. that encompasses the events in this installment.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first book in a charming paranormal cozy mystery series. If you like funny heroines, mysterious magical communities, and quirky conspiracies, then you’ll love Erin Johnson’s perfectly witchy recipe.
For those that like this genre, I would recommend this read. This was available through the Amazon Kindle Unlimited program.
..
This is the first book in the Seashells, Spells & Caramels: A Cozy Witch Mystery series by Erin Johnson.
A magical French island. A dead contestant. An aspiring baker must clear her name before she gets burned.
This is a cozy paranormal mystery. Imogen, Maple, Henry, and the crew entertain the reader and work together well.
Imogen Banks has dreamed her entire life of opening her own bakery in Seattle. But when she accidentally sets fire to her apartment and loses all her possessions, her dreams get toasted. Still coping with her loss, she receives a cryptic invitation she can't possibly refuse: entry into a mysterious baking competition on a beautiful French island.
When Imogen realizes the island village is magical and the bake-off’s participants are witches and wizards, she’s not sure her fledgling powers will be enough to win the coveted contest. In the midst of trying to cast her very first spell, a competitor drops dead and Imogen finds the psychic judges' mystical fingers all pointing at her. Can Imogen unlock her own magic and stop the killer from coming back for seconds or will she jump straight from the frying pan and into the fire?
This is a stand-alone book, clean and wholesome, and it provides a H.E.A. that encompasses the events in this installment.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first book in a charming paranormal cozy mystery series. If you like funny heroines, mysterious magical communities, and quirky conspiracies, then you’ll love Erin Johnson’s perfectly witchy recipe.
For those that like this genre, I would recommend this read. This was available through the Amazon Kindle Unlimited program.
..
June 8, 2018
Imogen’s sacrifices over the past seven years to save every cent toward owning her own bakery were suddenly worthless when fire destroyed everything. The strange invitation to the baking contest felt like her saving grace and she was thrilled but surprised to be accepted as a contestant. When she arrived at the small village in coastal France and headed for the island where the baking competition and Summer Solstice Festival were to be held, Imogen was enchanted.
But it was the shock of discovering the people around her - the competitors and members of the tiny community – had magical powers. And she was told, so did she. But how? She had no idea what to do to create a spell, so Imogen struggled, while the others created masterpieces with only a smidgen of magic.
But there were stranger happenings afoot and Imogen had her suspicions. When one of the contestants collapsed, Imogen was suspect number one. She had to solve the riddle of what was happening before the final judging. But could she? Or would Imogen return to Seattle penniless and without the magic she had just started to believe in?
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first in the Spells & Caramels series by Erin Johnson and was an absolutely delightful story. With magic, evil intent, special friends and Imogen’s determination, this paranormal cosy mystery was thoroughly entertaining. Highly recommended.
But it was the shock of discovering the people around her - the competitors and members of the tiny community – had magical powers. And she was told, so did she. But how? She had no idea what to do to create a spell, so Imogen struggled, while the others created masterpieces with only a smidgen of magic.
But there were stranger happenings afoot and Imogen had her suspicions. When one of the contestants collapsed, Imogen was suspect number one. She had to solve the riddle of what was happening before the final judging. But could she? Or would Imogen return to Seattle penniless and without the magic she had just started to believe in?
Seashells, Spells & Caramels is the first in the Spells & Caramels series by Erin Johnson and was an absolutely delightful story. With magic, evil intent, special friends and Imogen’s determination, this paranormal cosy mystery was thoroughly entertaining. Highly recommended.
November 25, 2020
November 2020 Review:
Over the years I have noticed that moods and wellness greatly affect feelings towards a book. I removed this from my DNF shelf and gave it another go because the author is so friendly and likable. I am glad I gave it another go around. I liked everything about the book except the strength and confidence of Imogen and Maple; they tend to cry and apologize for everything they do. Because I am not a crier over every failure and mistake, I couldn't sympathize with them. Everything else was magical and cute. It is part of a series and I might continue on in the future.
October 2017 Review:
An author's writing style can be compared to a band's musical style. There are bands that have great rhythm but terrible lyrics and vise versa. The same is true for authors and books.
The writing style in this book isn't for me, but may work for you. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and about a quarter of the way into the story gave up. I would have loved to have given it a better review and thank the author so much for sending me a free copy of the book. I love friendly authors and wish I loved the book more.
Over the years I have noticed that moods and wellness greatly affect feelings towards a book. I removed this from my DNF shelf and gave it another go because the author is so friendly and likable. I am glad I gave it another go around. I liked everything about the book except the strength and confidence of Imogen and Maple; they tend to cry and apologize for everything they do. Because I am not a crier over every failure and mistake, I couldn't sympathize with them. Everything else was magical and cute. It is part of a series and I might continue on in the future.
October 2017 Review:
An author's writing style can be compared to a band's musical style. There are bands that have great rhythm but terrible lyrics and vise versa. The same is true for authors and books.
The writing style in this book isn't for me, but may work for you. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and about a quarter of the way into the story gave up. I would have loved to have given it a better review and thank the author so much for sending me a free copy of the book. I love friendly authors and wish I loved the book more.
October 22, 2018
This book was especially hard for me to rate. Because it was so far out of my comfort zone (I really have a problem with fantasy with few exceptions--this being one) I cannot quite bring myself to give it 4.5 or 5 stars (unfortunately there were times I was knocked out of the story with the feeling of "really?"). But because the story was excellently written, humorous, wonderfully descriptive, fantastic characters and the finest qualities of a great cozy mystery I really think that I can get over my own problems with the next book & the rest of this series!
And I have to state here that the description of the wonderful baked desserts made my mouth water and had me lusting for a taste...!
And I have to state here that the description of the wonderful baked desserts made my mouth water and had me lusting for a taste...!
October 10, 2017
I loved this book! If you're looking for a really funny, page-turning, adventurous and romantic book- you should pick this up. Without giving too much away, it combines everything I like in a book (and TV show for that matter), magic, sexual tension and murder! It's really entertaining from start to finish and there are no dull moments. In fact, every chapter ends with suspense so you can't help but read more. Honestly, I read it all in one sitting and was laughing out loud my husband kept asking me what was going on. It's also a very female positive book and definitely passes the Bechdel test. My only complaints is that the second one isn't out yet!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2017
Imogen Banks has scrimped and saved to amass enough money to open her own bakery. Just when she’s reached her monetary goal, her dreams go up in flames. But, she has somehow managed to become a contestant in a mysterious baking contest at an island off the coast of France. With nothing to lose—literally, as everything burned up in when her apartment went up in flames—she buys a ticket to France.
Once at the mysterious island, she encounters something she’s never believed in before, magic. Her skills are put to the test as she contends with magical creatures, including a wisecracking cooking flame, and a contestant dropping dead in the middle of the competition, and her humble self being looked at as the prime suspect.
Time is running short for Imogen. She must find the real killer, dig deep to find the baking skills to prevail in a contest she has no hope of winning, and learn to deal with the fact that, despite her inability to cast even the simplest spell, she is herself a creature of magic.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels by Erin Johnson is a delightful cozy mystery, with liberal does of murder, mayhem, and magic, that will entertain you on every page. This book will delight both mystery fans and those who like the supernatural. It is unnaturally entertaining.
I received a free copy of this author’s first novel, and give it five stars for its sheer entertainment value.
Once at the mysterious island, she encounters something she’s never believed in before, magic. Her skills are put to the test as she contends with magical creatures, including a wisecracking cooking flame, and a contestant dropping dead in the middle of the competition, and her humble self being looked at as the prime suspect.
Time is running short for Imogen. She must find the real killer, dig deep to find the baking skills to prevail in a contest she has no hope of winning, and learn to deal with the fact that, despite her inability to cast even the simplest spell, she is herself a creature of magic.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels by Erin Johnson is a delightful cozy mystery, with liberal does of murder, mayhem, and magic, that will entertain you on every page. This book will delight both mystery fans and those who like the supernatural. It is unnaturally entertaining.
I received a free copy of this author’s first novel, and give it five stars for its sheer entertainment value.
November 17, 2019
A sweet start
Imogen has been struggling to save for her own bakery and when an invite whisk her to the French Island, things that were not known to her come to light. Imogen wasn't expecting to get more than just a little baking completion until someone ends up dead but then she finds that she has her own special power but she'll need to find out who really killed the contestant.
Imogen has been struggling to save for her own bakery and when an invite whisk her to the French Island, things that were not known to her come to light. Imogen wasn't expecting to get more than just a little baking completion until someone ends up dead but then she finds that she has her own special power but she'll need to find out who really killed the contestant.
December 27, 2022
4 Solid Stars
This was adorable, funny, and fun.
This was adorable, funny, and fun.
December 1, 2017
When I first heard of this book I knew I had to read it. It just sounded like exactly the type of read I would enjoy. I actually bought the first 3 books in the series before I even picked up book 1 as I was that sure I would enjoy this series. Now that I read the first book I am happy I already have book 2 and 3 waiting for me to read them.
This book was so much fun! I really enjoyed the book and I just wanted to keep reading. It is well written and the pacing worked well. The blend between paranormal aspects and mystery worked really well here.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels follows the story of Imogen. Imogen has a normal 9 to 5 job, but she's saving up so she can one day start her own bakery. I quickly grew to like Imogen, she was such a nice character and I liked how she worked hard to achieve her dreams and I could understand her frustrations and sadness when that all went up in flames.
I think this is only the second paranormal cozy mystery that I read and it's very different from the other paranormal cozy mystery series I read. This series is filled with magic. It has a slight Harry Potter feel, with how Imogen is a normal girl learning of magic and is introduced to a magical world hiding among our own world. The paranormal aspect was well done, although I did feel like what we learned about magic is still a bit limited. But that does make sense as Imogen is so new to everything. I loved discovering this new world with her and being as surprised as Imogen to see what was possible and what not. I really liked the talking flames.
The mystery is a bit slow to start, with only around 50% of the book the murder investigation really starts in earnest. But I felt like that totally worked here. Imogen had to find her way to the magical city and find her place a bit first. The mystery was well done, there were multiple suspects and I didn't guess who the murderer was. It was a nice twist and it did make sense in the end when things fell on it's place. Although I did predict several other twists, as some of the hints for those could be quite obvious to the reader if not to Imogen.
I liked getting to know Imogen throughout the book. I liked her and her love for baking, how she was a nice person and how she made mistakes, but kept trying to do better. I liked seeing how she adapted and found her way in this magical world and I liked how human she was compared to the magical other beings and how her human knowledge was of use at times.
There is a big cast of side characters as a big part of the plot centers around a baking competition and we get to meet the other competitors. At first I was totally overwhelmed when the other bakers were introduced as I couldn't keep them apart, but as the book progresses we get to know everyone better and it quickly got easier to keep them apart as they all had their own characteristics. The whole baking competition was fun to read about. There are some great descriptions of all the delicious food that they are making.
To summarize: this book was so much fun! Filled with magic, a relatable main character discovering a whole new world, magic, a hint of romance and a fun cast of side characters this book was a great read from start to finish. The paranormal aspect is very front and center in this book and that totally worked here. I loved discovering this new magical community and learning how magic worked. The mystery was well done. Although it didn't fully start until later in the book, but that worked her. I hadn't guessed the who the murderer was, although I had predicted a few other twists. Imogen was a likeable character and the side characters were interesting too and all had their own personality, even though at first the large cast of characters was a tad overwhelming. I had a lot of fun reading this book and really enjoyed it. I loved imagining this magical city and reading about the delicious things they baked. I hope to get around to reading book 2 soon as I am already looking forward to returning to this world!
This book was so much fun! I really enjoyed the book and I just wanted to keep reading. It is well written and the pacing worked well. The blend between paranormal aspects and mystery worked really well here.
Seashells, Spells & Caramels follows the story of Imogen. Imogen has a normal 9 to 5 job, but she's saving up so she can one day start her own bakery. I quickly grew to like Imogen, she was such a nice character and I liked how she worked hard to achieve her dreams and I could understand her frustrations and sadness when that all went up in flames.
I think this is only the second paranormal cozy mystery that I read and it's very different from the other paranormal cozy mystery series I read. This series is filled with magic. It has a slight Harry Potter feel, with how Imogen is a normal girl learning of magic and is introduced to a magical world hiding among our own world. The paranormal aspect was well done, although I did feel like what we learned about magic is still a bit limited. But that does make sense as Imogen is so new to everything. I loved discovering this new world with her and being as surprised as Imogen to see what was possible and what not. I really liked the talking flames.
The mystery is a bit slow to start, with only around 50% of the book the murder investigation really starts in earnest. But I felt like that totally worked here. Imogen had to find her way to the magical city and find her place a bit first. The mystery was well done, there were multiple suspects and I didn't guess who the murderer was. It was a nice twist and it did make sense in the end when things fell on it's place. Although I did predict several other twists, as some of the hints for those could be quite obvious to the reader if not to Imogen.
I liked getting to know Imogen throughout the book. I liked her and her love for baking, how she was a nice person and how she made mistakes, but kept trying to do better. I liked seeing how she adapted and found her way in this magical world and I liked how human she was compared to the magical other beings and how her human knowledge was of use at times.
There is a big cast of side characters as a big part of the plot centers around a baking competition and we get to meet the other competitors. At first I was totally overwhelmed when the other bakers were introduced as I couldn't keep them apart, but as the book progresses we get to know everyone better and it quickly got easier to keep them apart as they all had their own characteristics. The whole baking competition was fun to read about. There are some great descriptions of all the delicious food that they are making.
To summarize: this book was so much fun! Filled with magic, a relatable main character discovering a whole new world, magic, a hint of romance and a fun cast of side characters this book was a great read from start to finish. The paranormal aspect is very front and center in this book and that totally worked here. I loved discovering this new magical community and learning how magic worked. The mystery was well done. Although it didn't fully start until later in the book, but that worked her. I hadn't guessed the who the murderer was, although I had predicted a few other twists. Imogen was a likeable character and the side characters were interesting too and all had their own personality, even though at first the large cast of characters was a tad overwhelming. I had a lot of fun reading this book and really enjoyed it. I loved imagining this magical city and reading about the delicious things they baked. I hope to get around to reading book 2 soon as I am already looking forward to returning to this world!
April 9, 2018
This book had a strong message about following your dreams and never giving up. That with clear writing made it a five. The story was fine until the main character made it to the fantasy land.
I won't be finishing it, but enjoy as much as I read.
I won't be finishing it, but enjoy as much as I read.
October 22, 2017
Seashells, Spells and Caramels by Erin Johnson is the first book in the Spells and Caramels series. Imogen has almost enough money saved to open the bakery she has been dreaming of for years. Catering her difficult boss’s rehearsal dinner will give her the last bit of funds needed. At the party she is given a flyer for a baking contest to become the next Royal Head Baker. After a fire destroys her apartment and wipes out her savings, Imogen finds out she has been accepted into the contest. She takes the last of her money and flies to France. Imogen discovers that magic is real and that she is a witch. With no clue how to work her magic, Imogen struggles with the various contest challenges. It is especially difficult since her flame, Iggy is unwilling to cooperate (they do not have electricity). After a particularly difficult challenge, one of her fellow competitors drops dead from poisoning and Imogen is the prime suspect. Imogen will need to find the guilty party while keeping herself in the competition. Is there a chance of Imogen winning the competition? Who is behind the murder?
Seashells, Spells and Caramels is a fast-paced novel that I found thoroughly entertaining. It is nicely written, has great characters, magic, mayhem, mischief, humor, and murder. I started reading this book late one evening and did not go to sleep until I finished it. Iggy, the flame, was a unique character. He had such personality and the author really brought him to life for me. Erin Johnson has a great writing style that make for a fun, enjoyable read. I laughed out loud many times while reading this paranormal mystery. The mystery was intriguing, but it can be solved before the reveal (but it did not hinder my enjoyment). My rating for Seashells, Spells and Caramels is 5 out of 5 stars. I am eager to read the next magical installment in the Spells and Caramels series which is Black Arts, Tarts and Gypsy Carts.
Seashells, Spells and Caramels is a fast-paced novel that I found thoroughly entertaining. It is nicely written, has great characters, magic, mayhem, mischief, humor, and murder. I started reading this book late one evening and did not go to sleep until I finished it. Iggy, the flame, was a unique character. He had such personality and the author really brought him to life for me. Erin Johnson has a great writing style that make for a fun, enjoyable read. I laughed out loud many times while reading this paranormal mystery. The mystery was intriguing, but it can be solved before the reveal (but it did not hinder my enjoyment). My rating for Seashells, Spells and Caramels is 5 out of 5 stars. I am eager to read the next magical installment in the Spells and Caramels series which is Black Arts, Tarts and Gypsy Carts.
June 15, 2020
This book has so many similarities to other really popular ones like Harry Potter and The Howl’s Moving Castle. I love those books and somehow I wasn’t feeling bad about this book too.
The plot was quite interesting with some twists, though I wish they were not revealed in a way they were, because I guessed too early about what’s going to happen.
Also I like the writing style, it’s pretty good for the genre, actually I’ve expected worse and was nicely surprised.
I love how the story turned out, leaving space for further books. And I'm definitely going to read the next one.
Overall a really nice, easy, cosy and tasty read, exactly how I like it in the early evenings with a cup of hot cacao.
The plot was quite interesting with some twists, though I wish they were not revealed in a way they were, because I guessed too early about what’s going to happen.
Also I like the writing style, it’s pretty good for the genre, actually I’ve expected worse and was nicely surprised.
I love how the story turned out, leaving space for further books. And I'm definitely going to read the next one.
Overall a really nice, easy, cosy and tasty read, exactly how I like it in the early evenings with a cup of hot cacao.
April 11, 2020
Just when Imogene has finally reached the point of being able to open her own bakeshop, she burns down her apartment, goes broke and somehow enters a baking content in France without actually sending in her sample so what is a girl to do? Why spend the last bit of her money flying to France, joining the competition and still wearing the only shoes she owns, pink fuzzy houseslippers. Things heat up in the kitchen as she realizes she is a witch and someone is killing off the contestants. Hilarious and entertaining for hours as you listen to the story unfold. The narrator of the audiobook is fabulous and truly brings the book to life!
June 8, 2020
Well what can I say. This was funny, heart wrenching, fabulous and breath taking. I loved it. The characters were great and well thought out. I loved the twist to Sam and I'm so Glad that things worked out for him. The story line kept me interested and there was loads of original ideas used. I liked The way the magic was shown in parts so you could learn about the world the same time as Imogen. Loved the flames and OMG a Flame almost made me cry. that was so sad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the author, this does not affect my opinion of this book or the content of my review.
I'll admit, while I was intrigued by the blurb, the very shallow reason I took the author up on it was because we share a first name. And I was more than repaid in spades with a very funny and lighthearted story. When you find yourself giggling out loud in the first chapters, then you know you are in for a treat.
Alexander's terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day ain't got nothing on poor Imogene's travails. And the way it all went down really resonated with me...I have those sort of life altering catastrophes myself. Admittedly though, my mayhem is just a little less magical.
I enjoyed the world building quite a bit, and I didn't figure out the mystery until near the very end. The writing was quick and kept my attention centered on the characters. And the two female protagonists have a very Lucy Rucardo and Ethyl Mertz sort of vibe, which I was digging. There was also quite the nice little spark between the Imogene and the love interest.
The only "negative" is where the romance was at the end of the book....and that isn't because it ended badly or anything, it just doesn't neatly fit into my personal preferences. That being said, it looks like the second book should be coming out shortly and so I shouldn't have to wait too long to see how Johnson pulls this off. I am definitely looking forward to the next entry in this magical world she has created.
I'll admit, while I was intrigued by the blurb, the very shallow reason I took the author up on it was because we share a first name. And I was more than repaid in spades with a very funny and lighthearted story. When you find yourself giggling out loud in the first chapters, then you know you are in for a treat.
Alexander's terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day ain't got nothing on poor Imogene's travails. And the way it all went down really resonated with me...I have those sort of life altering catastrophes myself. Admittedly though, my mayhem is just a little less magical.
I enjoyed the world building quite a bit, and I didn't figure out the mystery until near the very end. The writing was quick and kept my attention centered on the characters. And the two female protagonists have a very Lucy Rucardo and Ethyl Mertz sort of vibe, which I was digging. There was also quite the nice little spark between the Imogene and the love interest.
The only "negative" is where the romance was at the end of the book....and that isn't because it ended badly or anything, it just doesn't neatly fit into my personal preferences. That being said, it looks like the second book should be coming out shortly and so I shouldn't have to wait too long to see how Johnson pulls this off. I am definitely looking forward to the next entry in this magical world she has created.
November 7, 2018
Well, cozy mystery with witches tend to be light, often silly and cozies are generally slower than action packed novels. This luckily, didn’t hit the inane silly button, but the adult characters do come across as middle schoolers as far as their friendships, mean girl and romantic ponderings. Not exactly what I like to read, but pleasant enough for folks who don’t mind the immaturity. Not exactly a cliff hanger, so I didn’t take a point off, but close enough to debate.
June 14, 2018
DNF 70%
This was just too ridiculous to continue with. It was beyond predictable and if the character wasn't supposed to be 28-years-old I'd not call this Young Adult, but freaking Middle Grade fiction. The writing is mechanically fine, but the story doesn't hold together AT ALL if you expect not to spend the WHOLE book going, "that could never happen, even with magic involved."
This was just too ridiculous to continue with. It was beyond predictable and if the character wasn't supposed to be 28-years-old I'd not call this Young Adult, but freaking Middle Grade fiction. The writing is mechanically fine, but the story doesn't hold together AT ALL if you expect not to spend the WHOLE book going, "that could never happen, even with magic involved."
October 20, 2018
So cute!!! It’s the Great British Baking Show (but in France) sprinkled with magic and a touch of murder mystery. A D O R A B L E!! Totally young adult appropriate. It’s probably a YA novel, I just didn’t notice when I got it free on Amazon. I can’t believe it’s a series! I’ve already started book 2...such a light, fun October read. ❤️ 🧙♂️
November 7, 2020
Omg omg omg!! This book…guys…this book changed my outlook toward cozy mysteries. One of the best in the genre. Author Erin Johnson was deliciously brilliant with her writing, and the words chosen simply made the prose come alive. Baker freak!! (my new coined word)
Down on her luck, Imogen Banks received an invitation to a baking competition at a far away French island, and off she went to have an adventure. She did quite alright with her baking and making friends, with a love interest or two, finding her magic and in the process catching a killer. All that made the book highly interesting.
I can’t cook or bake, but Masterchef Australia was one of my favorite shows. So the entire baking contest had the perfect feel of a competition with some foes and many friends. Lots of different species added to the feeling of mystery of getting to know them. The talking fire, Iggy, was the best, of them.
Imogen Banks was simply wonderful. There was intrigue in her past, and uncertainty in her present, but she had a sure-fire dream of her future. I loved how the author rounded her characterization and made her complete.
I rarely go in rapture about a cozy mystery. But this book deserved all the accolades as I never knew how time whizzed by. I was so involved in the mystery, completely sunk deep into Imogen’s magical world.
A special mention of the cakes and bread and tuilles. They seemed to be mouth-watering, and though not a foodie, I longed to eat them all. The power of author Erin Johnson’s words. Yumm 😋 I gained a few pounds reading the book. Yes… I blame Nina for not fitting into my jeans. 😂😂
Smooth writing, fast pace, baked goodies, magic and murder added mayhem to my weekend, all in a good way. A perfect cozy murder mystery. It had all the ingredients to make it simply delish!!
Down on her luck, Imogen Banks received an invitation to a baking competition at a far away French island, and off she went to have an adventure. She did quite alright with her baking and making friends, with a love interest or two, finding her magic and in the process catching a killer. All that made the book highly interesting.
I can’t cook or bake, but Masterchef Australia was one of my favorite shows. So the entire baking contest had the perfect feel of a competition with some foes and many friends. Lots of different species added to the feeling of mystery of getting to know them. The talking fire, Iggy, was the best, of them.
Imogen Banks was simply wonderful. There was intrigue in her past, and uncertainty in her present, but she had a sure-fire dream of her future. I loved how the author rounded her characterization and made her complete.
I rarely go in rapture about a cozy mystery. But this book deserved all the accolades as I never knew how time whizzed by. I was so involved in the mystery, completely sunk deep into Imogen’s magical world.
A special mention of the cakes and bread and tuilles. They seemed to be mouth-watering, and though not a foodie, I longed to eat them all. The power of author Erin Johnson’s words. Yumm 😋 I gained a few pounds reading the book. Yes… I blame Nina for not fitting into my jeans. 😂😂
Smooth writing, fast pace, baked goodies, magic and murder added mayhem to my weekend, all in a good way. A perfect cozy murder mystery. It had all the ingredients to make it simply delish!!
November 11, 2019
Imogen is an insurance clerk trying to save to open her own bakery when after working late, she finds her boss in tears at her desk. Her engagement party director has just quit and left her without dessert for her engagement party the next day.
Imogen volunteers to do the desert and realizes with the money she is promised she will be able to open her bakery this year. However, at the engagement party she meets a lady that suggests she try out for a bake off competition to be the head of the bakery at the royal water palace.
She makes her desert and wraps it up preparing to send it off the next day but her apartment burns down and she looses everything including the desert she made. Yet the next morning, while answering questions for the fire warden she gets an envelope stating she was chosen. With the passport provided she makes her way to France with just the clothes she can buy from the airport and finds that she ends up in a magical island. But wait - she too is magical. Everyday people one person gets eliminated - however - it wasn't supposed to be by murder.
I really liked the book but at times the confusion and thoughts sounded more like a young adult / teen than a grown woman. For that I gave a 3 and not a four. Because I did enjoy the world building in this story I will read on...
Imogen volunteers to do the desert and realizes with the money she is promised she will be able to open her bakery this year. However, at the engagement party she meets a lady that suggests she try out for a bake off competition to be the head of the bakery at the royal water palace.
She makes her desert and wraps it up preparing to send it off the next day but her apartment burns down and she looses everything including the desert she made. Yet the next morning, while answering questions for the fire warden she gets an envelope stating she was chosen. With the passport provided she makes her way to France with just the clothes she can buy from the airport and finds that she ends up in a magical island. But wait - she too is magical. Everyday people one person gets eliminated - however - it wasn't supposed to be by murder.
I really liked the book but at times the confusion and thoughts sounded more like a young adult / teen than a grown woman. For that I gave a 3 and not a four. Because I did enjoy the world building in this story I will read on...
January 15, 2019
4.5 Stars: I have been seeing great reviews for this series over the last year, but when I read the synopsis, I thought this really is not my cup of tea, but those positive comments kept coming. I finally decided to take the plunge. This story was totally unexpected and thoroughly enjoyed. It is a cozy mystery but has aspects of a Harry Potter type story. We have a witch that had no idea she was a witch, a magical land (an island off the coast of France), fantastical creatures, talking flames and more. When the murder occurs, our main character, Imogene is a suspect mainly because she is an outsider who had a misunderstanding with the victim. Throw in a cooking contest, a couple of handsome men, a best friend and you have a great story. It was excellently written, humorous, wonderfully descriptive, fantastic characters and the contained all the qualities of a great cozy mystery. With all my trepidation, I wished I had picked this one up earlier as I now have a lot to catch up on. If you like cozy mysteries, especially if they are different, and can suspend reality and enjoy a fantasy world, then I recommend you pick this book up and get to know Imogene, Maple, Hank and the others.
February 26, 2019
Imogen Banks has been wanting to open her own bakery. She gets a cryptic invitation to enter into the Royal Bakery contest, which she does. She loses all of her possessions and her dream goes down in flames as her apartment goes up in flames. Yes, she accidentally started the fire. She gets a cryptic invitation
Imogen makes it to France and the over to the Mur and she realizes things are a bit different. The village is magical and everyone around are witches and wizards. She learns he is a witch as well since she is adopted she never knew. Can she stay in the bake off and find out why everyone is drying around here?
I loved reading this book. Iggy has to be my favorite character. I love Imogen, of course Maple her BFF and we have Hank as well. Once I started reading I could not put the book down and the pages were not flying by fast enough. The author has done an excellent job with the plot so much, the reader will feel like they are in the book with you. Imogen slowly learns from her mistakes and everyone around here is lovely.
I will be continuing this series it is that good.
Imogen makes it to France and the over to the Mur and she realizes things are a bit different. The village is magical and everyone around are witches and wizards. She learns he is a witch as well since she is adopted she never knew. Can she stay in the bake off and find out why everyone is drying around here?
I loved reading this book. Iggy has to be my favorite character. I love Imogen, of course Maple her BFF and we have Hank as well. Once I started reading I could not put the book down and the pages were not flying by fast enough. The author has done an excellent job with the plot so much, the reader will feel like they are in the book with you. Imogen slowly learns from her mistakes and everyone around here is lovely.
I will be continuing this series it is that good.
April 3, 2024
Such a cute book! A quick read but definitely has me hooked and sent me straight into the second! It has me rooting for Imogen, such a wholesome book. I’m 26 and I know my teenage self would have loved this book 🫶🏼
November 2, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
October 31, 2017
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series. It is whimsical and intriguing at the same time. Plus it didn't hurt that it was a easy and fast read. I didn't want to put it down at night!
I can't imagine going through life being adopted but not feeling really connected to anyone. That is the position Imogen is in...and then she meets some interesting people that convince her to enter a baking contest. Doesn't matter that she has never heard of the country, she creates a delectable dessert and manages to win a spot. Of course it is one issue after another before she actually reaches where she needs to be for the contest. I don't want to spoil anything so am not sharing too many details there. In a way it is like Imogen's life is a mess but this could be a fresh start.
Imogen is definitely going through a discovery place in her life and ending up at the Water Kingdom is just a small part of it. There are mythical creatures and people that add character, so if you like paranormal you will probably enjoy this book. Imogen learns a lot about herself but not too much...I am hoping that perhaps her parents are from this Kingdom/world and she will find out more in upcoming books.
I can't imagine going through life being adopted but not feeling really connected to anyone. That is the position Imogen is in...and then she meets some interesting people that convince her to enter a baking contest. Doesn't matter that she has never heard of the country, she creates a delectable dessert and manages to win a spot. Of course it is one issue after another before she actually reaches where she needs to be for the contest. I don't want to spoil anything so am not sharing too many details there. In a way it is like Imogen's life is a mess but this could be a fresh start.
Imogen is definitely going through a discovery place in her life and ending up at the Water Kingdom is just a small part of it. There are mythical creatures and people that add character, so if you like paranormal you will probably enjoy this book. Imogen learns a lot about herself but not too much...I am hoping that perhaps her parents are from this Kingdom/world and she will find out more in upcoming books.
October 7, 2017
5 Sweet and Magically Delicious Stars! This was a new to me author and she knocked it out the park! It was cute, sweet, mysterious, suspenseful, original, and magical. Imogen is the perfect mixture of sweet, sassy, and strong with all that life has recently thrown her way and I love her character! The story definitely held my interest and I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out! I'll definitely be reading more books by this author.
October 7, 2017
This well written cozy mystery is a great start to what looks to be a fun series. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this book as I followed them on this whirlwind adventure. They were all relateable and real, I laughed, teared, and squealed along side Imogen. The twists and turns were on point, and foreshadowed well. I can't wait to read her next adventure.
October 12, 2017
Title: Seashell, Spells and Caramels, Cozy Witch Mystery - Spells and Caramels Volume 1
Author: Erin Johnson
Publisher: Erin Johnson
Published: 10-1-2017
Pages: 286
Genre: Science Fiction
Sub-Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Shifters Witchcraft, Magic, Culinary Mystery, Murder, Witches, Vampires, Psychics
ISBN: 9781976214823
Reviewed For Erin Johnson
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Okay, first a word of warning. Make sure your schedule is cleared for a while, because once you start, you will not be moving for a while. Imogene lives a normal 9 to 5 Monday to Friday Work life like many of us. That is until that fateful Friday when her world as she knew was about to change forever. As she was late leaving the Medical Billings Department at her job, Imogene thought she was alone until she heard the anguished cry of someone in distress. Her heart would not let her leave without seeing what she could do to help, but when she finds her short-tempered, snobbish supervisor Victoria she is tempted to sneak off before being seen. No such luck as Victoria looks up and sneers that Imogene is there to gloat. Confused, Imogene steps into the office and finds the Victoria's Pre-wedding Dinner Planner has quit and taken her Baker with her. now with the wedding only a week away and her and her fiancé, Ben's family gathering for the pre-wedding dinner the following night she is sure Ben's Uncle will call of the wedding as he did to Ben's brother, All because she has no baker to make the two tiered cake and 80 cupcakes. Imogene's dream is to open her own bakery (She has nearly saved her goal amount and is only a few thousand dollars short.) She reminds Victory that she bakes and offers to bake her cake and cupcakes. Thinking to do it as a gift to Victoria for her wedding she is shocked when Victoria will pay her $3,000. Just enough to open her shop. Imogene heads home to her apartment and is giddy with excitement.
That night at the dinner everyone praises her desserts, especially Victoria. When Ben's Grandfather takes one of the desserts her looks at her oddly before walking away, Then his date comes over and tells Imogene her desserts are so great that she needs to enter the contest for the new Royal Baker. Finding the flyer in her teeny tiny clutch she hands the pristine waxed parchment to Imogen and walks away. Than night, unable to sleep with excitement over her new shop Imogene decides to enter the contest, Finally exhausted as dawn breaks she falls asleep after following instructions to wrap her entry in the Parchment and send it to the judges. Awakening a few hors later to her apartment being on fire and she and her neighbors barely escape with their lives. In the midst of her misery a bike messenger pulls up in front of her a delivers a strange package. When she opens it she finds she has been selected as a finalist in the Royal Baker Baking Contest, a temporary visa and instructions on how for find the castle are enclosed. Shocked she thinks she is loosing her mind her entry burned in the fire. When she puts the letter and documents in her pocket she finds the check from Victoria and Ben. And decides perhaps she will use it to go to Paris and enter after all. So Imogene enters a new phase of her life.
Into a world she never imagined that is both fascinating and terrifying and she is letting us travel with her to this strange new world out of step with modern times full of unusual characters (Sweet Maple, Dreamy Hank Hunky Nate, Timid Sam, Obnoxious Tony and Witchy Pritney - no that's not their names just my assessment of the characters), romance, murder, sabotage and magic. Yes, it really exist. Twist and turns will keep you hopping from one conclusion to the next, but the ending will definitely surprise you. Filled with laughter, tears, and a great story. This is one you will definitely be keeping to read again and again.
My rating of "Seashell, Spells and Caramels - Cozy Witch Mystery - Spells and Caramels Volume 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1976214823/...
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GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
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Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Erin Johnson
Publisher: Erin Johnson
Published: 10-1-2017
Pages: 286
Genre: Science Fiction
Sub-Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Shifters Witchcraft, Magic, Culinary Mystery, Murder, Witches, Vampires, Psychics
ISBN: 9781976214823
Reviewed For Erin Johnson
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Okay, first a word of warning. Make sure your schedule is cleared for a while, because once you start, you will not be moving for a while. Imogene lives a normal 9 to 5 Monday to Friday Work life like many of us. That is until that fateful Friday when her world as she knew was about to change forever. As she was late leaving the Medical Billings Department at her job, Imogene thought she was alone until she heard the anguished cry of someone in distress. Her heart would not let her leave without seeing what she could do to help, but when she finds her short-tempered, snobbish supervisor Victoria she is tempted to sneak off before being seen. No such luck as Victoria looks up and sneers that Imogene is there to gloat. Confused, Imogene steps into the office and finds the Victoria's Pre-wedding Dinner Planner has quit and taken her Baker with her. now with the wedding only a week away and her and her fiancé, Ben's family gathering for the pre-wedding dinner the following night she is sure Ben's Uncle will call of the wedding as he did to Ben's brother, All because she has no baker to make the two tiered cake and 80 cupcakes. Imogene's dream is to open her own bakery (She has nearly saved her goal amount and is only a few thousand dollars short.) She reminds Victory that she bakes and offers to bake her cake and cupcakes. Thinking to do it as a gift to Victoria for her wedding she is shocked when Victoria will pay her $3,000. Just enough to open her shop. Imogene heads home to her apartment and is giddy with excitement.
That night at the dinner everyone praises her desserts, especially Victoria. When Ben's Grandfather takes one of the desserts her looks at her oddly before walking away, Then his date comes over and tells Imogene her desserts are so great that she needs to enter the contest for the new Royal Baker. Finding the flyer in her teeny tiny clutch she hands the pristine waxed parchment to Imogen and walks away. Than night, unable to sleep with excitement over her new shop Imogene decides to enter the contest, Finally exhausted as dawn breaks she falls asleep after following instructions to wrap her entry in the Parchment and send it to the judges. Awakening a few hors later to her apartment being on fire and she and her neighbors barely escape with their lives. In the midst of her misery a bike messenger pulls up in front of her a delivers a strange package. When she opens it she finds she has been selected as a finalist in the Royal Baker Baking Contest, a temporary visa and instructions on how for find the castle are enclosed. Shocked she thinks she is loosing her mind her entry burned in the fire. When she puts the letter and documents in her pocket she finds the check from Victoria and Ben. And decides perhaps she will use it to go to Paris and enter after all. So Imogene enters a new phase of her life.
Into a world she never imagined that is both fascinating and terrifying and she is letting us travel with her to this strange new world out of step with modern times full of unusual characters (Sweet Maple, Dreamy Hank Hunky Nate, Timid Sam, Obnoxious Tony and Witchy Pritney - no that's not their names just my assessment of the characters), romance, murder, sabotage and magic. Yes, it really exist. Twist and turns will keep you hopping from one conclusion to the next, but the ending will definitely surprise you. Filled with laughter, tears, and a great story. This is one you will definitely be keeping to read again and again.
My rating of "Seashell, Spells and Caramels - Cozy Witch Mystery - Spells and Caramels Volume 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1976214823/...
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