What do you think?
Rate this book
Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo #1
Return to Hoodoo
Welcome to Hoodoo, Texas—Mayberry with magic, midlife, and a dash of murder. I expected my forties to be filled with imbalanced hormones and an ex-husband or two. Instead, I died for the second time, was gifted a Thor hand, then sent a summons to my hometown of Hoodoo, Texas.
The one place I swore never to return after being accused of murder.
Now the plan is to get in, accept the mysterious inheritance, then get the heck out of Dodge. The good part is that the windfall comes with a lot of zeros. Unfortunately, it is also accompanied by a dilapidated haunted mansion and one heck of a stipulation.
If I refuse the money or Azure House, the fortune will go to a stranger.
Now I’m stuck wrangling unruly relatives, ghostly servants, grumpy vampires, and a vindictive ex who is a werewolf as well as the sheriff. Add a sexy and perhaps not quite human mogul, and I have a recipe for disaster.
And if that’s not bad enough, witches are dropping dead in Hoodoo. Guess who’s at the top of the suspect list?
Return to Hoodoo is a paranormal women’s fiction novel set in a world best described as True Blood meets Queen Sugar .
The one place I swore never to return after being accused of murder.
Now the plan is to get in, accept the mysterious inheritance, then get the heck out of Dodge. The good part is that the windfall comes with a lot of zeros. Unfortunately, it is also accompanied by a dilapidated haunted mansion and one heck of a stipulation.
If I refuse the money or Azure House, the fortune will go to a stranger.
Now I’m stuck wrangling unruly relatives, ghostly servants, grumpy vampires, and a vindictive ex who is a werewolf as well as the sheriff. Add a sexy and perhaps not quite human mogul, and I have a recipe for disaster.
And if that’s not bad enough, witches are dropping dead in Hoodoo. Guess who’s at the top of the suspect list?
Return to Hoodoo is a paranormal women’s fiction novel set in a world best described as True Blood meets Queen Sugar .
408 pages, Paperback
Published October 9, 2022
184 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
March 20, 2023
I enjoyed the premise in both books in this series. From an important plot perspective spending some time at a mansion to gain the inheritance, reminded me of the Inheritance book series.
The main protagonist's character traits are something that made reading this book worth the while. She and her sassy replies on savage situations seemed funny to me, and I laughed out loud to catch a few stares in the room.
I would have liked it more, had there not been so much to on fro on*** certain events {to keep it spoiler free}.
The main protagonist's character traits are something that made reading this book worth the while. She and her sassy replies on savage situations seemed funny to me, and I laughed out loud to catch a few stares in the room.
I would have liked it more, had there not been so much to on fro on*** certain events {to keep it spoiler free}.
April 8, 2023
The last thing Gwen Carter wants to do is to go home to Hoodoo, Texas. Hoodoo, the place she once called home and had everything she wanted that is until they all turned on her and she vowed never to return again. Now she is back and plans to leave as fast as possible, but black magic is rampant in this town filled with creatures you only read about will Gwen be able to navigate through the shark infested waters or will this be the end of her?
What a fantastic beginning to new series. I listened too this on audiobook and was pulled in right away. The narrator did exceptionally well with reading this story and the characters. I loved Gwen, she is absolute hoot and there are so many things that you cant wait to find out about.. Excellent book.
What a fantastic beginning to new series. I listened too this on audiobook and was pulled in right away. The narrator did exceptionally well with reading this story and the characters. I loved Gwen, she is absolute hoot and there are so many things that you cant wait to find out about.. Excellent book.
December 30, 2022
Gwen's story continues to enthrall me. I love her sass, and I love the people around her. I got plenty of questions answered in this book that I was left with in Hoodoo Heaven (the prequel) but now I have MORE questions!
All of the characters are written so well, even the ones I want to despise but can't quite because Gwen doesn't. Honestly, it sounds like Gwen and I would be friends, and I can't wait to see what's next for her in Hoodoo!
All of the characters are written so well, even the ones I want to despise but can't quite because Gwen doesn't. Honestly, it sounds like Gwen and I would be friends, and I can't wait to see what's next for her in Hoodoo!
January 20, 2024
This was surprisingly great.
I demand these novels on audiobook so I can share with more friends!
I demand these novels on audiobook so I can share with more friends!
July 19, 2024
I was lured in by the title, but after one chapter I was hooked. Gwen is hilarious and has quite the way with words. Hoodoo, TX feels a little like if a town outside of New Orleans was set in Texas. Gwen’s family, friends, and enemies all bring quite a bit to the table making her return to Hoodoo hilarity-filled.
I felt frustrated for Gwen because of the way her town and friends treated her, but thankful the house brought her back so she could and up seeing Hoodoo may very well be where she belongs.
This series has a lot of promise and I will be returning to it!
I felt frustrated for Gwen because of the way her town and friends treated her, but thankful the house brought her back so she could and up seeing Hoodoo may very well be where she belongs.
This series has a lot of promise and I will be returning to it!
April 10, 2024
Fancy house with pizazz? Check. Sassy heroine who can hold her own? Check. Brooding hero who would burn the world down for her? Check. So why did this book fall flat? Much like the novella at the start of the series, I enjoyed the writing and the characters. However, there are so many plot threads and tidbits dropped that appear to be significant, but then are not mentioned again. The turn towards the end caught me completely off guard because it came out of left field. Again, love the characters but the story just seems like a detailed description of a bunch of seemingly random events and people thrown together rather than a plot.
April 24, 2023
Such a fun read with a touch of everything within it. Drama, mystery, magic, offbeat humor, paranormal, and friendship.
You will fall in love with Gwen and appreciate her spirit and sassy attitude. This book was a great surprise that will capture your attention from start to finish.
You will fall in love with Gwen and appreciate her spirit and sassy attitude. This book was a great surprise that will capture your attention from start to finish.
April 25, 2023
Man this book has it all! Gwen is a great character. She is full of sass and wit. This paranormal series is full of all things supernatural and a little romance. This is a laugh out loud kind of book. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
October 30, 2024
hoo boy. what a way to end a book.... This was a really good book. I enjoyed the the whole setup and how Gwen is the perfect combination of bad ass and vunerable. I am also really digging this trend of having the MC be middle aged. makes my middle age butt feel like i can still kick ass. Also, Kyle might be my favorite character. a bad ass lawyer who can kick it with Ash or the Hoodoo Hillbillies? yes please! i want him to be my friend too.
February 2, 2025
"Return to Hoodoo" by Reggi Dupree is book one in the "Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo" series. I enjoyed returning to Gwen's story and hearing about her going back to Hoodoo. She is not liked very much there because she was accused of the death of her friend. She also has a family curse that keeps her from getting too close to any guys. Gwen's character is one of my favorites, and I like her take no crap attitude. This is my second book by Reggi, and I can tell that I will enjoy any books that Reggi writes.
July 1, 2024
Captivating story!
I enjoyed this story. It’s filled with interesting characters, more twists and turns than a curvy mountain road, and more questions than answers. This last part is what makes it a four-star book instead of a five. The end of this book is a cliffhanger. I need more answers. So I’m off to the next book to hopefully get some answers.
I enjoyed this story. It’s filled with interesting characters, more twists and turns than a curvy mountain road, and more questions than answers. This last part is what makes it a four-star book instead of a five. The end of this book is a cliffhanger. I need more answers. So I’m off to the next book to hopefully get some answers.
March 29, 2023
I found this book to be interesting, unique and a blend of genres; not just paranormal fiction and fantasy. Return to Hoodoo presents readers with a tough and survival-mood protagonist with the FMC, Gwendolyn.
The quirky and fun residents of Hoodoo leave their marks on the reader as we follow Gwen reconnect with distant family, old friends/lovers and herself when gifted with a family property. But with a course of death following her around, ghosts and a potential love interest(s) things quickly become more complicated than she expected.
And while I found the overall concept intriguing, I believe if the delivery of the story were clearer and the author were more decisive about how our main character was meant to be portrayed I would not have struggled with this book as much.
I understand from the beginning that Gwendolyn would not be a reliable source of information as it is in first person and there’s only so much her character knows and is aware of.
But to me it felt like every other passage would introduce a new contradiction to the story that was already explained to us. And at times, the story was reintroducing or explaining something new to the reader at random moments in the book.
I know this is the first book in a series and perhaps I need to read the next book to gain a better sense of Gwendolyn, her complex past and intense little town.
The quirky and fun residents of Hoodoo leave their marks on the reader as we follow Gwen reconnect with distant family, old friends/lovers and herself when gifted with a family property. But with a course of death following her around, ghosts and a potential love interest(s) things quickly become more complicated than she expected.
And while I found the overall concept intriguing, I believe if the delivery of the story were clearer and the author were more decisive about how our main character was meant to be portrayed I would not have struggled with this book as much.
I understand from the beginning that Gwendolyn would not be a reliable source of information as it is in first person and there’s only so much her character knows and is aware of.
But to me it felt like every other passage would introduce a new contradiction to the story that was already explained to us. And at times, the story was reintroducing or explaining something new to the reader at random moments in the book.
I know this is the first book in a series and perhaps I need to read the next book to gain a better sense of Gwendolyn, her complex past and intense little town.
November 28, 2023
The fact that she is menopausal and over 40 is so awesome! Got to live a woman in her prime and this one is just getting started. So many secrets and interesting characters in this book. After reading this I'm ready for a trip to Hoodoo, TX to meet the ancestors. I had fun reading this book and the narrator really brought the story to life for me.
April 21, 2023
Holy wow. So, this is the first book I have read by the incredible Reggi Dupree, and I am so sad it took me six months to find this gem. This is by far one of my favorite books of the year. Gwendolyn Carter is the last member of her matriarchal bloodline. While that could be viewed as a good thing to some considering the stunning house and fortune to change her entire life, Gwen is not an average person.
Forty-fifth birthday, the curse that had claimed the lives of every woman in her bloodline at a young age was rumored to end if you made it past your forty-fifth birthday alive. Only she is shot in the back and killed but she’s from Hoodoo, Texas and death isn’t one of those black and white finalities. Twenty-seven years ago, at the age of eighteen Gwen had been forced out of her hometown, accused of murdering one of her best friends. Now summoned back for a mysterious inheritance and a promise to her mother after he second death, to return to Hoodoo and find answers. Twelve hours, that’s how long she allotted to being back in the town that threw her away nearly three decades earlier. A catch to keep her legacy intact leads to her having to live in the family home for six months to receive her inheritance, seems simple enough, right? Her first love Carlos, who betrayed her, is now the sheriff. The man Ash that she met just before she was shot suddenly appears in Hoodoo. Duncan her best friend that forced her into a blood vow to keep his dark secrets, whose lies written in his journal led to her being accused of murder and ran out of town haunts her everyday since his death when they were eighteen. He warns her that he wasn’t the only one lying to her back then that she needs to know the truth to protect herself, and now the evil has returned and is near his sister Rita and his mom. Needing her help, he begs for her to listen if afterwards she’s done with him, he will leave her alone for good if she listens.
Carlos warns her that Ash isn’t what he claims, but what is he? Her new home holds the history of her family, but will she survive long enough to discover its truths? What is “the Evil” and why is it back? The world the author creates sucks you in, with its wonder, mystery, and humor. While the cover drew me in, making me curious about the boots, the synopsis had me ready to jump into the pages and discover the truth for myself. From start to finish this book keeps you on your toes and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this amazing series, Conjure Ink. Also, I am going to have to go back and read the novella Hoodoo Heaven, the prequel of Return to Hoodoo, when she meets Ash.
Forty-fifth birthday, the curse that had claimed the lives of every woman in her bloodline at a young age was rumored to end if you made it past your forty-fifth birthday alive. Only she is shot in the back and killed but she’s from Hoodoo, Texas and death isn’t one of those black and white finalities. Twenty-seven years ago, at the age of eighteen Gwen had been forced out of her hometown, accused of murdering one of her best friends. Now summoned back for a mysterious inheritance and a promise to her mother after he second death, to return to Hoodoo and find answers. Twelve hours, that’s how long she allotted to being back in the town that threw her away nearly three decades earlier. A catch to keep her legacy intact leads to her having to live in the family home for six months to receive her inheritance, seems simple enough, right? Her first love Carlos, who betrayed her, is now the sheriff. The man Ash that she met just before she was shot suddenly appears in Hoodoo. Duncan her best friend that forced her into a blood vow to keep his dark secrets, whose lies written in his journal led to her being accused of murder and ran out of town haunts her everyday since his death when they were eighteen. He warns her that he wasn’t the only one lying to her back then that she needs to know the truth to protect herself, and now the evil has returned and is near his sister Rita and his mom. Needing her help, he begs for her to listen if afterwards she’s done with him, he will leave her alone for good if she listens.
Carlos warns her that Ash isn’t what he claims, but what is he? Her new home holds the history of her family, but will she survive long enough to discover its truths? What is “the Evil” and why is it back? The world the author creates sucks you in, with its wonder, mystery, and humor. While the cover drew me in, making me curious about the boots, the synopsis had me ready to jump into the pages and discover the truth for myself. From start to finish this book keeps you on your toes and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this amazing series, Conjure Ink. Also, I am going to have to go back and read the novella Hoodoo Heaven, the prequel of Return to Hoodoo, when she meets Ash.
October 16, 2022
I discovered Reggi Dupree in an anthology and immediately scoured the interwebs for other books. It's been a wait, but holy heifer! Return to Hoodoo follows Gwen Carter as she comes home to a place that was less than kind. The premise of the inheritance with strings attached may sound common, but Reggi Dupree takes this in multiple unimagined directions. As we get older, we can see previous actions and events through new eyes, and Gwen does this with honesty and realness. That is part of the beauty of Paranormal Women's Fiction - sharing stories with more depth and experience than would ever be possible in our twenties.
Hoodoo is the town equivalent of going to an old friend's house. You know there will probably be dishes in the sink and a few cobwebs in the corner, but you'll also get amazing food, great conversation, and nobody will judge if you unbutton your jeans. There’s a hint of rawness to the writing, as though the creativity has not been polished out of it, and that contributes to the genuine feeling. The characters are multidimensional, diverse, and complex in every sense: race, gender, sexuality, paranormal species, and more. The vibe reminds me in some ways of Schitt's Creek, where everyone is accepted as normal and it isn't a big deal. We need a lot more of that in the real world.
There were more than a few moments where I had to set the book down and reflect because I simply did not see something coming. As an avid reader, it is rare to have a book catch me completely by surprise. Reggi Dupree's writing and world will suck you in, make you part of it, and keep you breathlessly on the edge of your seat. There is an insane hook at the end, and I can't wait for the next book.
I don't often put authors on my immediate pre-order-without-asking-questions list, but Reggi Dupree and Hoodoo are firmly on that list. She will also be on my to be re-read list.
Hoodoo is the town equivalent of going to an old friend's house. You know there will probably be dishes in the sink and a few cobwebs in the corner, but you'll also get amazing food, great conversation, and nobody will judge if you unbutton your jeans. There’s a hint of rawness to the writing, as though the creativity has not been polished out of it, and that contributes to the genuine feeling. The characters are multidimensional, diverse, and complex in every sense: race, gender, sexuality, paranormal species, and more. The vibe reminds me in some ways of Schitt's Creek, where everyone is accepted as normal and it isn't a big deal. We need a lot more of that in the real world.
There were more than a few moments where I had to set the book down and reflect because I simply did not see something coming. As an avid reader, it is rare to have a book catch me completely by surprise. Reggi Dupree's writing and world will suck you in, make you part of it, and keep you breathlessly on the edge of your seat. There is an insane hook at the end, and I can't wait for the next book.
I don't often put authors on my immediate pre-order-without-asking-questions list, but Reggi Dupree and Hoodoo are firmly on that list. She will also be on my to be re-read list.
April 4, 2023
I enjoyed this book so much that I don't know where to start. My favorite aspect is the main character -Gwen speaks to my soul - aging, but a total badass. Beautiful and strong. Takes no BS from anyone. Brassy and sassy and so engaging. So powerful and tough but a little bit scared under the surface. She is raw, genuine, and realizes she might not have seen everything the same in her 20s as she does when she returns for a summons to receive an inheritance from her hometown in Hoodoo, Texas. Hoodoo is about what it sounds like - paranormal. Different. Comprised of shifters, witches, vampires and more - and most of them believe she killed her best friend when she was 18.
While she grew up there and her family lives there, Gwen hasn't called Hoodoo home in a long time. She bet on them believing in her and turned out to be wrong, so she hadn't come back. When she is summoned for an inheritance with lots of strings attached, she does as she's told and shows up - but she is hoping to be in town overnight, have the inheritance meeting in the morning and head out of town after. As per usual in her life, and in Hoodoo - things get mixed up for Gwen.
Th ere aren't many people on her side in Hoodoo and she knows it, but after witnessing a murder she knows she can't leave yet. Gwen deals with the entirety of the book and her life with humor, snark, a level of badassness that I hope to achieve some day - and honesty and raw feelings. I really felt like I was connected to her and it was so wonderfully written. Creative but realistic with the stories she has lived, I will be a Reggi Dupree reader for life!
While she grew up there and her family lives there, Gwen hasn't called Hoodoo home in a long time. She bet on them believing in her and turned out to be wrong, so she hadn't come back. When she is summoned for an inheritance with lots of strings attached, she does as she's told and shows up - but she is hoping to be in town overnight, have the inheritance meeting in the morning and head out of town after. As per usual in her life, and in Hoodoo - things get mixed up for Gwen.
Th ere aren't many people on her side in Hoodoo and she knows it, but after witnessing a murder she knows she can't leave yet. Gwen deals with the entirety of the book and her life with humor, snark, a level of badassness that I hope to achieve some day - and honesty and raw feelings. I really felt like I was connected to her and it was so wonderfully written. Creative but realistic with the stories she has lived, I will be a Reggi Dupree reader for life!
March 29, 2023
3.5 Stars
Return to Hoodoo is Book #1 in the Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue series by Reggi Dupree. It is a fun paranormal mystery with murder, magic, mayhem, banter, antics, friendship, family, colourful quirky characters, action, adventure, the supernatural, curses, thrills, drama, vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, demons, gods, curses, crime and investigation, and even a touch of romance.
This is the first book that I have read by Reggi Dupree, so I really didn’t know what to expect from her story. But I thought the premise sounded like fun, and I really love paranormal mysteries, so I snaveled a copy and set off to explore. Since reading this, I have discovered that there is a prequel novella that is set before this book, and I really wish I’d known that before I started on this book, as I think knowing what happens there might have made my experience of this instalment even better. I felt that I wanted more backstory and character information etc here, and all those answers might be found in Hoodoo Heaven. So I will definitely be going back to read that to see if I’m right.
What a zany, crazy, fun story- with just the right amount of intrigue to keep me flipping the pages. The characters really make this story, it really wouldn’t be the same without them. They are a quirky bunch, adding an extra element of interest to the book.
Looking forward to seeing where we go from here. Bring on the next instalment- “Conjure Ink” (Book #2- due to release soon).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Reggi Dupree!
Return to Hoodoo is Book #1 in the Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue series by Reggi Dupree. It is a fun paranormal mystery with murder, magic, mayhem, banter, antics, friendship, family, colourful quirky characters, action, adventure, the supernatural, curses, thrills, drama, vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, demons, gods, curses, crime and investigation, and even a touch of romance.
This is the first book that I have read by Reggi Dupree, so I really didn’t know what to expect from her story. But I thought the premise sounded like fun, and I really love paranormal mysteries, so I snaveled a copy and set off to explore. Since reading this, I have discovered that there is a prequel novella that is set before this book, and I really wish I’d known that before I started on this book, as I think knowing what happens there might have made my experience of this instalment even better. I felt that I wanted more backstory and character information etc here, and all those answers might be found in Hoodoo Heaven. So I will definitely be going back to read that to see if I’m right.
What a zany, crazy, fun story- with just the right amount of intrigue to keep me flipping the pages. The characters really make this story, it really wouldn’t be the same without them. They are a quirky bunch, adding an extra element of interest to the book.
Looking forward to seeing where we go from here. Bring on the next instalment- “Conjure Ink” (Book #2- due to release soon).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Reggi Dupree!
October 17, 2022
I know this author by another name, so was surprised to find I didn’t love this book from her.
The premise is quite fun but the execution was just off for me. Not as good as the prequel story.
I can’t say that I actually like Gwen. She seems over interested in thinking sexually about nearly everyone she meets. Even thinking that Carlos, her teenage love who turned his back on her when she needed him the most, was hot. Just didn’t feel right.
Sort of seemed dragged out with a lot of unneeded information used as filler.
You know there is going to be more information needed but it is very slow coming out.
The fact Gwen wouldn’t listen to what Duncan had to say was just silly.
He kept telling her he needed to give her information but she kept brushing him off.
Everything wraps up very quickly and then we get a cliffhanger ending, so we will need to read the next book to get the answers to things left open.
But in this book we are left not knowing how Carlos and the cavalry knew where to go and what the truth was.
How did the baddie hide their true intent from shifters, vampires and witches. Would be a bit hard to do I would think with all those abilities around.
Too many errors for my reading pleasure.
I was offered this book for an honest review. I wanted to read the prequel first, and this book was out in Kindle Unlimited by the time I had done that.
The premise is quite fun but the execution was just off for me. Not as good as the prequel story.
I can’t say that I actually like Gwen. She seems over interested in thinking sexually about nearly everyone she meets. Even thinking that Carlos, her teenage love who turned his back on her when she needed him the most, was hot. Just didn’t feel right.
Sort of seemed dragged out with a lot of unneeded information used as filler.
You know there is going to be more information needed but it is very slow coming out.
The fact Gwen wouldn’t listen to what Duncan had to say was just silly.
He kept telling her he needed to give her information but she kept brushing him off.
Everything wraps up very quickly and then we get a cliffhanger ending, so we will need to read the next book to get the answers to things left open.
But in this book we are left not knowing how Carlos and the cavalry knew where to go and what the truth was.
How did the baddie hide their true intent from shifters, vampires and witches. Would be a bit hard to do I would think with all those abilities around.
Too many errors for my reading pleasure.
I was offered this book for an honest review. I wanted to read the prequel first, and this book was out in Kindle Unlimited by the time I had done that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2023
Gwen has just returned to her hometown of Hoodoo to collect on an inheritance. Her plan is to only remain long enough to sign papers and leave again. For Gwen, Hoodoo holds nothing, but painful memories and she just wants to put the past behind her and leave town as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, things do not go as she had planned when she discovers that there are strings attached to collecting on the inheritance that require her remaining longer than intended. As if that is not enough to deal with, Gwen witnesses a murder and because of her past and subsequent reputation around town she becomes the prime suspect.
I absolutely loved this book and the author’s writing style which really drew me into the story. Not only were the scenes vividly described but the dialogue was brilliant and cracked me up more than once. The characters were ones that I was drawn to, especially Gwen. She was down-to-earth, unstoppable, funny, witty, real, raw, and did not take nonsense from anyone. Gwen is someone that I could easily find myself wanting to hang out with. The town of Hoodoo fascinated me with the fact that it was full of ghosts, vampires, werewolves, and witches. I want to take a trip there to explore the supernatural, starting with the house Gwen inherited. Absolutely amazing book and brilliant writing!
I absolutely loved this book and the author’s writing style which really drew me into the story. Not only were the scenes vividly described but the dialogue was brilliant and cracked me up more than once. The characters were ones that I was drawn to, especially Gwen. She was down-to-earth, unstoppable, funny, witty, real, raw, and did not take nonsense from anyone. Gwen is someone that I could easily find myself wanting to hang out with. The town of Hoodoo fascinated me with the fact that it was full of ghosts, vampires, werewolves, and witches. I want to take a trip there to explore the supernatural, starting with the house Gwen inherited. Absolutely amazing book and brilliant writing!
March 27, 2023
Return to Hoodoo a magical story and is book 1 of 2 in the Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue duo. What an adventure there is in this Paranormal Women's Fiction and Reggi’s amazing writing skills. How have I not come across this author before? Mind boggles.
Hoodoo is a place with such a diversity of characters who are a quirky and unusual mix of complexity, multidimensional, multifaceted and dare I say all in all a crazy bunch of riff raff. With ghostly servants, uncontrollable relations, witches, cantankerous vampires, vindictive ex’s, werewolves, magic, a haunted house and so much more.
Reggie has given us a gift and one beautifully and skilfully woven tale with so many threads that you do not want to put down. It will have you laughing, on the edge of your seat and an ending that may just do your head in and a pinch of sadness.
I love that the MC is a little older than the norm and has had real life experience. Well real life for her in this unruly town.
It’s so easy to get lost in this crazy world of action, murder and mayhem where midlife does not look the same.
I love paranormal, supernatural, mysteries that are thrillers with a little romance.
I cannot wait to get stuck in to the next book.
Hoodoo is a place with such a diversity of characters who are a quirky and unusual mix of complexity, multidimensional, multifaceted and dare I say all in all a crazy bunch of riff raff. With ghostly servants, uncontrollable relations, witches, cantankerous vampires, vindictive ex’s, werewolves, magic, a haunted house and so much more.
Reggie has given us a gift and one beautifully and skilfully woven tale with so many threads that you do not want to put down. It will have you laughing, on the edge of your seat and an ending that may just do your head in and a pinch of sadness.
I love that the MC is a little older than the norm and has had real life experience. Well real life for her in this unruly town.
It’s so easy to get lost in this crazy world of action, murder and mayhem where midlife does not look the same.
I love paranormal, supernatural, mysteries that are thrillers with a little romance.
I cannot wait to get stuck in to the next book.
April 24, 2023
The title of this book grabbed my attention right away. Also I’m a huge fan of all things paranormal, so I was pleasantly surprised and thrilled that I quickly became hooked with this story. This book has everything: snarky wit, vampires, witches, inheritance drama, a haunted mansion, werewolves, and a good old mystery.
Gwen Carter is the main character and I gotta say I love her sass. She returns to her hometown much to her chagrin, due to a mysterious inheritance matter. While trying to minimize her stay, she has another run of bad luck, as she witnesses a horrific murder. To make matters worse, she is a possible suspect. She deals with obstacles, sarcasm, ghosts, a handsome ex, and all things paranormal in this book.
This is my first time reading a book from this author and I enjoyed it. I think the main character is easily relatable to most readers and who doesn’t love a strong leading lady? You definitely get the feeling that if you knew her in real life, she would tell you how it is, straight forward, no BS but would never lie and act like she knows everything.
I enjoyed reading a fantastic story with a diverse set of characters and a beautiful atmosphere. I can’t wait to read something, anything else from the author.
Gwen Carter is the main character and I gotta say I love her sass. She returns to her hometown much to her chagrin, due to a mysterious inheritance matter. While trying to minimize her stay, she has another run of bad luck, as she witnesses a horrific murder. To make matters worse, she is a possible suspect. She deals with obstacles, sarcasm, ghosts, a handsome ex, and all things paranormal in this book.
This is my first time reading a book from this author and I enjoyed it. I think the main character is easily relatable to most readers and who doesn’t love a strong leading lady? You definitely get the feeling that if you knew her in real life, she would tell you how it is, straight forward, no BS but would never lie and act like she knows everything.
I enjoyed reading a fantastic story with a diverse set of characters and a beautiful atmosphere. I can’t wait to read something, anything else from the author.
April 20, 2023
Gwen Carter is asked to return to Hoodoo Texas to claim her inheritance, however it involved more than signing papers during an overnight trip but rather her staying in the family house. It is bad enough that she can see ghosts and communicate with the dead especially at the most inopportune times, but now she has another gift that she must get accustomed to using. Hoodoo is not the typical friendly down home Texas town, Oh No! It is filled with paranormal creatures and witches that run the entire town. How can Gwen even think about returning to her hometown after being driven away for a crime she did not commit? Are the deaths that are currently taking place in town related to the crime in the past she was accused of? Will she learn more about her past and grow into her gifts or throw her hands up and walk away? Wonderful main character so full of sass and fire! I just adore Gwen as she moves headstrong into her inheritance and cannot wait for more! The story was easy to read and kept me turning pages as fast as I could. The excitement doesn’t give up from page one to the end and is such a fun read. It was so easy to visualize the characters and the town. A definite must read!
May 8, 2024
A paranormal fantasy book with a perimenopausal woman set in a magical town full of vampires, witches, and wolves called Hoodoo, TX, YES PLEASE!
Gwen has been running from bad memories and the town she grew up in. An inheritance has brought her back to the place she’s swore she never go back to. She’ll inherit more money than the towns JR Ewing, but she has to stay in a mystical haunted mansion and town for 6 months to get it. She doesn’t need the money, she a very successful tattoo artist all over the world, but she doesn’t want the former slave owners family to get it.
Gwen is hilarious, sassy and smart. She is has powers but have been suppressing them since she was a child. She’s a badass, but a mouse scares the shit out it her. She also has the wealthy, hot, and mysterious Ashe who will destroy the earth to protect her and says they are destined to be together. Her family and friends are so funny and true southern gun slinging Texans. If only she can people from trying to kill her for the 3rd time.
That cliff hanger when we finally learn who Ashe is 🤯. On to the next one.
Gwen has been running from bad memories and the town she grew up in. An inheritance has brought her back to the place she’s swore she never go back to. She’ll inherit more money than the towns JR Ewing, but she has to stay in a mystical haunted mansion and town for 6 months to get it. She doesn’t need the money, she a very successful tattoo artist all over the world, but she doesn’t want the former slave owners family to get it.
Gwen is hilarious, sassy and smart. She is has powers but have been suppressing them since she was a child. She’s a badass, but a mouse scares the shit out it her. She also has the wealthy, hot, and mysterious Ashe who will destroy the earth to protect her and says they are destined to be together. Her family and friends are so funny and true southern gun slinging Texans. If only she can people from trying to kill her for the 3rd time.
That cliff hanger when we finally learn who Ashe is 🤯. On to the next one.
April 24, 2023
This book is classified as Paranormal Women's Fiction, which is an amazing genre that you should definitely check out if you haven't already.
I am in love with Reggi Dupree's fast-paced, no-nonsense, creative writing style. Her style along with her satirical character's personalities and clever dialogue remind me a lot of my favorite author, Daryanda Jones.
The main character, Gwen Carter, is a middle-aged woman of color who is as real as they come and truly a breath of fresh air. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Gwen must return to her hometown that she fled from years earlier. Hoodoo, her hometown, makes her feel abnormal in a town full of odd balls. It's here that Gwen questions what she is? Who can she trust? How does she deal with the prejudices people believe about her past? She, along with a wonderful cast of diverse secondary characters, search for these answers and more. I can't wait for the rest of this series, and honestly I plan on reading anything Reggi Dupree writes as she's an amazing lyrical wizard.
I am in love with Reggi Dupree's fast-paced, no-nonsense, creative writing style. Her style along with her satirical character's personalities and clever dialogue remind me a lot of my favorite author, Daryanda Jones.
The main character, Gwen Carter, is a middle-aged woman of color who is as real as they come and truly a breath of fresh air. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Gwen must return to her hometown that she fled from years earlier. Hoodoo, her hometown, makes her feel abnormal in a town full of odd balls. It's here that Gwen questions what she is? Who can she trust? How does she deal with the prejudices people believe about her past? She, along with a wonderful cast of diverse secondary characters, search for these answers and more. I can't wait for the rest of this series, and honestly I plan on reading anything Reggi Dupree writes as she's an amazing lyrical wizard.
April 5, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in a new paranormal women’s fiction series, and it had me captivated from start to finish. Main character Gwen Carter is not happy having been summoned to her hometown of Hoodoo, Texas, and gained a second magical disability. Having accepted an inheritance which was too complicated to refuse, Gwen is then a witness to a murder by black magic. When Gwen finds herself at the top of the suspect list, she fears that she won’t be able to break her family’s curse. It’s not just her family legacy at stake if she can’t prove that she’s not behind the murders, it’s her life. Gwen is convinced that the current murders are actually connected to the one that made her leave her home in shame. This is an enjoyable and engaging supernatural thriller, with a wonderful main character, Gwen who is both likeable and relatable. The descriptive narrative brings both the characters and the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline.
April 15, 2023
I threw myself into this book so completely that when the end came, it felt like sudden cold air across my skin while I was warm & cozy. I didn't want to stop reading for anything, & then the end just popped up & swerved me hard. I had to recover for a day before I could write this. Return to Hoodoo is PHENOMENAL in so many ways, & all the best ones. The author's writing style is so unique & refreshing, & I felt like I was hearing it all from Gwen herself, like we were old friends. She is such a character to a root for, & I wish I could give her real life encouragement. & universe, could I PLEASE get an Ash ?? like for real. PLEASE. It's fantastic that Gwen is 45 & still learning & figuring things out. That perspective of age is refreshing & comforting. Intriguing characters aside, the storyline & writing are equally incredible. Love Reggi Dupree's voice, creativity, & style. All the other books in this series will be devoured just as voraciously expeditiously.
April 24, 2023
This is the first book in the Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue series. This looks like it is going to be a fun series to read. It is full of adventure, mystery, danger, supernatural beings and magic.
I really enjoyed this story, I loved Gwen's character. She is very strong and sassy and after everything she has been through you can understand why she is the way she is. The only downside for me was that I didn't realise there was a prequel before this story which would have explained the backstory to Gwen, however i will be going back to read this book and the prequel again before book 2.
This story is definately a page turner with secrets being revealed and danger along the way. Gwens world is very entertaining with a strange family and all the other creatures only normally found in stories she has a lot to navigate. This story leaves you wanting more and I cant wait for the next book.
I really enjoyed this story, I loved Gwen's character. She is very strong and sassy and after everything she has been through you can understand why she is the way she is. The only downside for me was that I didn't realise there was a prequel before this story which would have explained the backstory to Gwen, however i will be going back to read this book and the prequel again before book 2.
This story is definately a page turner with secrets being revealed and danger along the way. Gwens world is very entertaining with a strange family and all the other creatures only normally found in stories she has a lot to navigate. This story leaves you wanting more and I cant wait for the next book.
March 29, 2023
Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel is the first book in the Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book series. At first, I was unsure what to think about the book, but once I got further, I got sucked into Gwen's story. This paranormal story is set in the familiar but unfamiliar Hoodoo, Texas. I enjoy Gwen's character and how she speaks about how she has grown comfortable with herself. We all view the past differently when we look back on it, and she has a great voice while explaining where she has come from. Set in a small town, you get a mix of the comfort of home with the gossip of Gwen's return. She left under unusual circumstances and returns under unusual circumstances as well. I can hear the town gossiping now.
Now that I have delved into this series, I look forward to reading more.
Now that I have delved into this series, I look forward to reading more.
April 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, filed with everything supernatural in one town, a ton filled with vampires, werewolves, ghosts, demons, witches, and so much more. I absolutely loved Gwen she is a fierce strong-willed woman, a great person that could be a leader, knowing what she want and take no BS from anyone. This book was really fast paced but it I felt like something was missing, I wanted to know more about what happened before in the past. I wanted to understand what the reasoning was and to see and feel more on what she had gone thou. I really feel like there needs to be more back story. But this book was amazing and a really good read with the character development and the amazing pictures it painted to feel like you were really in this book. Can’t wait to know what is in store with all everyone involved and the adventure this will continue with.
April 17, 2023
What a cute story! I really enjoy the whole paranormal theme plus this has characters that are midlife. I liked seeing her struggle with her past, current and future. This is one of my favorite tropes and this one held up to what I expect. The story is fast paced, has snappy dialogue and tons of characters. I came to care about Gwen and wondered what was going to happen with her. She is smart, witty and has a great sense of humor. This easily comes through with every scene she is in.
The secondary characters are plentiful and delightful. I love the town and the different townies. I really learned to care for a lot of them and wonder what will happen to them in the future. I look forward to finding out.
Overall this suspensful story really held my interest. It does end with this story being completed but the future of Gwen and her friends will be found out in future stories.
The secondary characters are plentiful and delightful. I love the town and the different townies. I really learned to care for a lot of them and wonder what will happen to them in the future. I look forward to finding out.
Overall this suspensful story really held my interest. It does end with this story being completed but the future of Gwen and her friends will be found out in future stories.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews