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Village Flower Shop #2
Karma Camellia
Murder lurks behind the prettiest blooms...
The past doesn’t always stay in the past. Deeds can come back to haunt us. That’s what happens to florist Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, when her old boyfriend turns up out of the blue saying he wants another chance. Turns out he’s really on the run from crime. Meanwhile there’s a competition among some of the women in the Cotswold village of Willow Waters to support the church vicar, a widower who graciously accepts everything from home-baked bread to hand-embroidered vestments. Is someone too competitive?
Life in the charming village may look picture-perfect on the outside, but like the camellias now in bloom, there can be stinging insects hiding amongst the perfect petals.
Karma Camellia is the second in the Village Flower Shop series of paranormal cozy mysteries. If you enjoy a little magic with your murder, along with beautiful flowers, a mysterious Lord living in a run-down castle and a circle of women who are closer than sisters, this is the series for you.
The past doesn’t always stay in the past. Deeds can come back to haunt us. That’s what happens to florist Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, when her old boyfriend turns up out of the blue saying he wants another chance. Turns out he’s really on the run from crime. Meanwhile there’s a competition among some of the women in the Cotswold village of Willow Waters to support the church vicar, a widower who graciously accepts everything from home-baked bread to hand-embroidered vestments. Is someone too competitive?
Life in the charming village may look picture-perfect on the outside, but like the camellias now in bloom, there can be stinging insects hiding amongst the perfect petals.
Karma Camellia is the second in the Village Flower Shop series of paranormal cozy mysteries. If you enjoy a little magic with your murder, along with beautiful flowers, a mysterious Lord living in a run-down castle and a circle of women who are closer than sisters, this is the series for you.
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First published June 29, 2022
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About the author
Nancy Warren
361 books1,887 followersNancy Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 novels.
She’s known for writing funny, sexy and suspenseful tales. She’s an avid hiker, animal lover, wine drinker and chocolate fiend. Favorite moments in her career include being featured on the front page of the New York Times, being the answer to a crossword puzzle clue in Canada’s National Post newspaper and being a finalist three times in the Rita awards. She has won the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times magazine.
Get a free short story when you sign up for Nancy's newsletter at www.NancyWarrenAuthor.com or join Nancy in her private Facebook group to talk about books, knitting, pets & life.
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She’s known for writing funny, sexy and suspenseful tales. She’s an avid hiker, animal lover, wine drinker and chocolate fiend. Favorite moments in her career include being featured on the front page of the New York Times, being the answer to a crossword puzzle clue in Canada’s National Post newspaper and being a finalist three times in the Rita awards. She has won the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times magazine.
Get a free short story when you sign up for Nancy's newsletter at www.NancyWarrenAuthor.com or join Nancy in her private Facebook group to talk about books, knitting, pets & life.
www.facebook.com/groups/NancyWarrenKn...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 26, 2022
Karma Camellia is the second book in the Village Flower Shop series by Nancy Warren.
This book is such an ABSOLUTE Joy!
Peony Bellefleur is such a wonderful main character. She is a wonderful role model to Char, who she has taken in. The characters are so well written and complex.
I love the family that Peony has created for herself with her sister witches and her wonderful mom of course.
The sleepy village is so wonderful, and the description of the flowers brings such a beautiful peace and joy.
There is more than one mystery, and the author does a fantastic job at integrating them seamlessly.
Alex , the mysterious Lord , and Peony are getting closer, and it is really fun to see their relationship move along.
This is such a fantastic book, and I highly recommend reading the first book in the series, Peony Dreadful.
Such a wonderful book with fantastic characters and a great mystery that kept me guessing until the last page.
This book is such an ABSOLUTE Joy!
Peony Bellefleur is such a wonderful main character. She is a wonderful role model to Char, who she has taken in. The characters are so well written and complex.
I love the family that Peony has created for herself with her sister witches and her wonderful mom of course.
The sleepy village is so wonderful, and the description of the flowers brings such a beautiful peace and joy.
There is more than one mystery, and the author does a fantastic job at integrating them seamlessly.
Alex , the mysterious Lord , and Peony are getting closer, and it is really fun to see their relationship move along.
This is such a fantastic book, and I highly recommend reading the first book in the series, Peony Dreadful.
Such a wonderful book with fantastic characters and a great mystery that kept me guessing until the last page.
July 2, 2022
Peony Bellefleur is as lovely as the blossoms at the village flower shop in Karma Camellia (Village Flower Shop #2) by Nancy Warren. Peony is the perfect mentor for Char who is in need of guidance when an old ex comes back around. Then there is the widower church vicar who has more attention-giving women than you can shake a stick at in this story. How true that is not just in the Cotswold village of Willow Waters that women come from all around to gain a widower’s attention and maybe more. From here the mysteries grow with a wee bit of romance too.
A delightful look at small town life and mystery with a little magic thrown in for good measure. A story that has a found sisterhood that is stronger than most siblings have in this life. Also like Agatha Christie’s small town’s life is not always full of the good and the kind. Bad activities done by bad people lurk behind closed doors.
While it is the second in the series jump into Karma Camellia today then go back to the start with book one.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A delightful look at small town life and mystery with a little magic thrown in for good measure. A story that has a found sisterhood that is stronger than most siblings have in this life. Also like Agatha Christie’s small town’s life is not always full of the good and the kind. Bad activities done by bad people lurk behind closed doors.
While it is the second in the series jump into Karma Camellia today then go back to the start with book one.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 20, 2025
3.5-Star Review for Karma Camellia by Nancy Warren
Karma Camellia, the second book in Nancy Warren’s Village Flower Shop series, continues to blend cozy mystery with light paranormal charm in the quaint village of Willow Waters. With flowers in full bloom and secrets sprouting just beneath the surface, this installment delivers another gentle mystery wrapped in small-town warmth and subtle witchy vibes.
The story follows young witch Char as her past collides with her present when an old flame returns—bringing more trouble than romance. Meanwhile, the village buzzes with a friendly (or is it?) competition among women hoping to win the affections of the local widowed vicar. The combination of romantic tension, magical undertones, and a dash of scandal keeps the pages turning, even if the stakes feel more personal than pulse-pounding.
Warren excels at setting—her depiction of the English countryside is cozy and immersive, and the flower shop’s magical touches are a treat. However, the mystery itself unfolds at a leisurely pace and lacks the tight twists that make for a truly gripping whodunit. Some of the plot points resolve a bit too conveniently, and a few secondary characters could have used more dimension.
Still, Karma Camellia is a pleasant read, especially for fans of gentle mysteries with strong female friendships, a touch of the supernatural, and a hint of romance. While not the strongest mystery in Warren’s extensive cozy catalog, it offers just enough intrigue—and plenty of charm—to make it a satisfying addition to the series.
Karma Camellia, the second book in Nancy Warren’s Village Flower Shop series, continues to blend cozy mystery with light paranormal charm in the quaint village of Willow Waters. With flowers in full bloom and secrets sprouting just beneath the surface, this installment delivers another gentle mystery wrapped in small-town warmth and subtle witchy vibes.
The story follows young witch Char as her past collides with her present when an old flame returns—bringing more trouble than romance. Meanwhile, the village buzzes with a friendly (or is it?) competition among women hoping to win the affections of the local widowed vicar. The combination of romantic tension, magical undertones, and a dash of scandal keeps the pages turning, even if the stakes feel more personal than pulse-pounding.
Warren excels at setting—her depiction of the English countryside is cozy and immersive, and the flower shop’s magical touches are a treat. However, the mystery itself unfolds at a leisurely pace and lacks the tight twists that make for a truly gripping whodunit. Some of the plot points resolve a bit too conveniently, and a few secondary characters could have used more dimension.
Still, Karma Camellia is a pleasant read, especially for fans of gentle mysteries with strong female friendships, a touch of the supernatural, and a hint of romance. While not the strongest mystery in Warren’s extensive cozy catalog, it offers just enough intrigue—and plenty of charm—to make it a satisfying addition to the series.
August 2, 2022
2022 bk 219. It just didn't grab my attention in the way #1 did. Not sure if it was because I was reading it online or what, but so much more time seemed to be spent on romance than the mystery that I had a hard time getting through the book. That said, I still like the characters and Warren's description of the homes and surroundings of the Cotswald community.
August 26, 2022
The author does such an outstanding job of connecting you to the characters by making you feel like a confidant rather than a reader. The narrator enhances that by making it feel like she is talking directly to you rather than just saying the words. I absolutely love this author and narrator combination! They are the perfect duo and I can't wait for more of this series to come! The town's busybody and worst gossip has been murdered and it looks like the guilty party is nicely wrapped in a bow, but there is more than just one potential suspect that should be under investigation and it looks like the crew need to get their witchy intuitions on the job before an innocent man is sent down the river for the wrong crime! Fortunately, Peony and her friends are up to the task of investigating, but will it come at the risk of their own lives! I absolutely love this cast and in fact, the author does a great job of making me feel like one of the cast rather than an outsider. I can't wait to hear what happens in the next book!!!
September 21, 2022
3.75 stars
Just as cosy and lovely as the first book! I would 100% binge this series if there were more books.
AND I would like to move in.
Willow Waters seems like a great place + I'd love to work in the flower shop.
Can't wait for book 3!
Just as cosy and lovely as the first book! I would 100% binge this series if there were more books.
AND I would like to move in.
Willow Waters seems like a great place + I'd love to work in the flower shop.
Can't wait for book 3!
April 22, 2024
I liked this one more than the last one but this still isn't my favorite of Warren's series. Also it still took about halfway through the book to get to the murder. Also we got confirmation on Alex's secret. It was hinted at in the last book. And by hinted I mean all but outright told us.
June 29, 2022
Peony knows flowers have their own messages and can convey feeling and emotions, even negative ones. Of course, in a small English village, gossip is the currency and there’s always one vindictive purveyor of rumours.
While enjoying a beautiful morning in her garden, Peony spots a man coming on to her property. Her protégé, young witch Char’s past has come back to roost. Mick, the tough guy and felon who broke her heart is pleading for a second chance. Is he telling the truth? Reluctantly, Peony puts him to work with Owen, gardener for Leamington House on a stone path in the garden. But when vicious tongued villager Dolores Prescott is literally and perhaps symbolically stabbed in the back and Mick is caught running from the house, his guilt is a forgone conclusion. Except, Peony and even Char are having second thoughts. Meanwhile, Alex, Lord Fitzlupin, has asked Peony to come up with some extravagant arrangements to impress a French vintner very picky about his buyers.
The reclusive baron never lets anyone see the inside of his castle. It will need a huge makeover to impress the Frenchman and his chic wife. To Peony’s surprise and delight, Alex asks her to attend as a fourth for the evening. But the murder is never far from her mind. At the funeral reception for the unloved Delores, all the facts come together. You will never guess who the killer is. Were the cops right for a change?
Great storyline and the characters are growing and blossoming (pun intended) nicely. All of Nancy’s series are well worth reading and I wouldn’t be surprised if you find the others to be as good as Karma Camelia.
While enjoying a beautiful morning in her garden, Peony spots a man coming on to her property. Her protégé, young witch Char’s past has come back to roost. Mick, the tough guy and felon who broke her heart is pleading for a second chance. Is he telling the truth? Reluctantly, Peony puts him to work with Owen, gardener for Leamington House on a stone path in the garden. But when vicious tongued villager Dolores Prescott is literally and perhaps symbolically stabbed in the back and Mick is caught running from the house, his guilt is a forgone conclusion. Except, Peony and even Char are having second thoughts. Meanwhile, Alex, Lord Fitzlupin, has asked Peony to come up with some extravagant arrangements to impress a French vintner very picky about his buyers.
The reclusive baron never lets anyone see the inside of his castle. It will need a huge makeover to impress the Frenchman and his chic wife. To Peony’s surprise and delight, Alex asks her to attend as a fourth for the evening. But the murder is never far from her mind. At the funeral reception for the unloved Delores, all the facts come together. You will never guess who the killer is. Were the cops right for a change?
Great storyline and the characters are growing and blossoming (pun intended) nicely. All of Nancy’s series are well worth reading and I wouldn’t be surprised if you find the others to be as good as Karma Camelia.
June 29, 2022
Karma Camellia
Vintage Flower Shop Cozy Mystery #2
Author: Nancy Warren
Release date: 29th June 2022
The past, once buried, doesn't always stay that way.
For Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, the bad history comes knocking in the shape of her ex boyfriend Mick, who reckons he just wants to make a new start with her; nothing to do with his own criminal past catching up on him....
Char’s familiar—a talking parrot Norman, is having none of it. Peony, owner of Bewitching Blooms and newly emerging witch, senses some vulnerability in him, but she also wants to be careful. No way she wants Char mixed up with him again. So instead of a place to stay with them, she offers casual work around the property, whilst gardener and friend Owen, from the Lemmington Estate, offers him a bed at his cottage hidden away from the estate.
It's all very middle to upper class, so beyond my realm of experience, but it's also a beautiful Cotswolds village with magic, cosy crime and a cat! You can't really go wrong!
The local women primped and posted up buying for the vicar William's attention and baking for him is hilarious. Aprons at dawn and all that as they compete for his attention. At first, that is.
Then of course there's the handsome and mysterious Lord Fitzlupin aka Alex Stanford, who's gotten under her skin. The closer they become as friends, the more she starts to feel for him.
There's a reveal Warren has already hinted at, that comes to fruition, and some of the secondary characters are quirky and fun.
I'm really starting to enjoy this series and I'm looking forward to more.
Vintage Flower Shop Cozy Mystery #2
Author: Nancy Warren
Release date: 29th June 2022
The past, once buried, doesn't always stay that way.
For Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, the bad history comes knocking in the shape of her ex boyfriend Mick, who reckons he just wants to make a new start with her; nothing to do with his own criminal past catching up on him....
Char’s familiar—a talking parrot Norman, is having none of it. Peony, owner of Bewitching Blooms and newly emerging witch, senses some vulnerability in him, but she also wants to be careful. No way she wants Char mixed up with him again. So instead of a place to stay with them, she offers casual work around the property, whilst gardener and friend Owen, from the Lemmington Estate, offers him a bed at his cottage hidden away from the estate.
It's all very middle to upper class, so beyond my realm of experience, but it's also a beautiful Cotswolds village with magic, cosy crime and a cat! You can't really go wrong!
The local women primped and posted up buying for the vicar William's attention and baking for him is hilarious. Aprons at dawn and all that as they compete for his attention. At first, that is.
Then of course there's the handsome and mysterious Lord Fitzlupin aka Alex Stanford, who's gotten under her skin. The closer they become as friends, the more she starts to feel for him.
There's a reveal Warren has already hinted at, that comes to fruition, and some of the secondary characters are quirky and fun.
I'm really starting to enjoy this series and I'm looking forward to more.
June 29, 2022
So, Karma Camellia!
I loved, loved this second book in this Village Flower Shop series!!! I am officially a huge fan of this series! I already enjoyed so much the first book of this very enjoyable series, but now I am totally hooked 😊
Nancy Warren has a way of creating such a charming and fun characters that it makes you want to meet them in real life yourself! And with this series it’s of course not different from her other series! The mix she brings in this freshly started series by adding some magic, a bit of romance, friendship and mystery into her stories, makes it truly an interesting, beautiful and enjoyable bouquet.
So this time Peony is in for not only a mysterious death but also a secret that will come to light. Can she handle an unplanned visit that will turnout in a disaster? Should she have done things differently? And will Peony, her lodgers and her quirky mother by joining forces, be able to bring justice to the victim? Or is the victim a culprit herself?
Many questions I know, but all will be revealed in this awesome read!
I can say I truly enjoyed it a lot, and can say that I am already looking forward and very excited to read Nancy’s next installment in this awesome flowering cosy mystery series!
I loved, loved this second book in this Village Flower Shop series!!! I am officially a huge fan of this series! I already enjoyed so much the first book of this very enjoyable series, but now I am totally hooked 😊
Nancy Warren has a way of creating such a charming and fun characters that it makes you want to meet them in real life yourself! And with this series it’s of course not different from her other series! The mix she brings in this freshly started series by adding some magic, a bit of romance, friendship and mystery into her stories, makes it truly an interesting, beautiful and enjoyable bouquet.
So this time Peony is in for not only a mysterious death but also a secret that will come to light. Can she handle an unplanned visit that will turnout in a disaster? Should she have done things differently? And will Peony, her lodgers and her quirky mother by joining forces, be able to bring justice to the victim? Or is the victim a culprit herself?
Many questions I know, but all will be revealed in this awesome read!
I can say I truly enjoyed it a lot, and can say that I am already looking forward and very excited to read Nancy’s next installment in this awesome flowering cosy mystery series!
July 3, 2022
"The past doesn’t always stay in the past. Deeds can come back to haunt us."
This was a great addition to an addicting new series as we return to Willow Waters and the life Peony Bellefeur, her family and her acquaintances. This time, Bewitching Blooms is the scene of some interesting goings on. Can the flowers help...or make things worse?
Char is drawn back into her former boyfriend Mick's circle and she knows better. But Mick seems sincere enough that he is hired to help set Peony's new garden path with the help of Owen, who's been where Mick is.
And then Mick turns up at the wrong time when a body is discovered and is arrested as the prime suspect. Did he do it? If so, why?
However, if he didn't, who did?
Toss in the reclusive Lord Fitzlupin, two squabbling"frenemies" and a vicar and secrets come out in both good and bad ways. How might things change? Well, here's hoping Nancy Warren will soon regale us with the next book. Highly Recommended 5/5
[I received this book from the author and voluntary read and reviewed it]
This was a great addition to an addicting new series as we return to Willow Waters and the life Peony Bellefeur, her family and her acquaintances. This time, Bewitching Blooms is the scene of some interesting goings on. Can the flowers help...or make things worse?
Char is drawn back into her former boyfriend Mick's circle and she knows better. But Mick seems sincere enough that he is hired to help set Peony's new garden path with the help of Owen, who's been where Mick is.
And then Mick turns up at the wrong time when a body is discovered and is arrested as the prime suspect. Did he do it? If so, why?
However, if he didn't, who did?
Toss in the reclusive Lord Fitzlupin, two squabbling"frenemies" and a vicar and secrets come out in both good and bad ways. How might things change? Well, here's hoping Nancy Warren will soon regale us with the next book. Highly Recommended 5/5
[I received this book from the author and voluntary read and reviewed it]
July 2, 2022
𝐾𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑎 𝐶𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑎, Book #2 of the Village Flower Shop series,
by Nancy Warren
Warren strikes again with another quick and fun read in this second book in her new Village Flower Shop series. As usual, the characterizations are amazing, the plotting and pacing excellent, there are plenty of suspects to keep the reader guessing to the end, there is enough action to please all the action fans, great dialogue, plenty of snark and humor, and definitely some romance. I struggled right up to the writing of this review to decide what to rate it. The proofing wasn't as good as usual, even though I only found 3 errors I'm sure of, and perhaps 1 more that was a term I am not familiar with. On the plus side, there was the fun mention of suet pudding, with Peony not knowing what that was. As my grandmother served it every Christmas, I'm well acquainted with suet pudding and with plum pudding, too (which contains no plums), both served with sauces (a gravy-like sauce with sausage for the suet pudding, and a lemon hard sauce for the plum pudding). That brought back many good memories.
But those errors all stopped me in my tracks, pulled me out of the story, and that is never good.
The three errors were:
1. Chapter 4, page 34 on my Kindle: "...I'd ever warmed to the woman..." rather than never warmed.
2. Chapter 17, page 138: "...pouring milk in to it slowly." rather than into it.
3. Chapter 24, page 189. "There's only so long you can run for." Okay, yes, grammatically, this should read "in which you can run," as you aren't supposed to end a sentence with a preposition. But we often do that. But, this sentence didn't make sense written this way, IMHO, and it would have been better just to leave the last word off and end the sentence with run.
The unknown term is a UK slang term. The word itself means "without or not near to anyone else" and is used in the UK to mean alone. That fits with where it was found (Chapter 12, Page 99): "Been sitting there on my tod for almost forty-five minutes,..." As you might imagine, my American brain went straight to a different meaning.
There was one more thing, this one in Chapter 1 at page 8, that I didn't think fit with someone like Peony, who loved flowers and nature in general. Here is the sentence phrase: "As I murmured and pulled up a pesky clover leaf..." Clover is one of the favorite foods for bees of all kinds, and other pollinators. As a flower lover, she would be as concerned about pollinators as with the flowers she sells in her shop and grows in her gardens. It just didn't fit for her to call it pesky, no matter where it was located. Maybe she could have said stray clover leaf or misplaced clover leaf, but pesky? My entire front side yard is clover and I'm planning to sow more later this summer. When I read the sentence, my first thought is this woman can't really care about flowers if she doesn't care about pollinators.
So, there you have it. I did enjoy the novel and struggled as to how to rate it. I'm looking forward to the 3rd book in the series.
by Nancy Warren
Warren strikes again with another quick and fun read in this second book in her new Village Flower Shop series. As usual, the characterizations are amazing, the plotting and pacing excellent, there are plenty of suspects to keep the reader guessing to the end, there is enough action to please all the action fans, great dialogue, plenty of snark and humor, and definitely some romance. I struggled right up to the writing of this review to decide what to rate it. The proofing wasn't as good as usual, even though I only found 3 errors I'm sure of, and perhaps 1 more that was a term I am not familiar with. On the plus side, there was the fun mention of suet pudding, with Peony not knowing what that was. As my grandmother served it every Christmas, I'm well acquainted with suet pudding and with plum pudding, too (which contains no plums), both served with sauces (a gravy-like sauce with sausage for the suet pudding, and a lemon hard sauce for the plum pudding). That brought back many good memories.
But those errors all stopped me in my tracks, pulled me out of the story, and that is never good.
The three errors were:
1. Chapter 4, page 34 on my Kindle: "...I'd ever warmed to the woman..." rather than never warmed.
2. Chapter 17, page 138: "...pouring milk in to it slowly." rather than into it.
3. Chapter 24, page 189. "There's only so long you can run for." Okay, yes, grammatically, this should read "in which you can run," as you aren't supposed to end a sentence with a preposition. But we often do that. But, this sentence didn't make sense written this way, IMHO, and it would have been better just to leave the last word off and end the sentence with run.
The unknown term is a UK slang term. The word itself means "without or not near to anyone else" and is used in the UK to mean alone. That fits with where it was found (Chapter 12, Page 99): "Been sitting there on my tod for almost forty-five minutes,..." As you might imagine, my American brain went straight to a different meaning.
There was one more thing, this one in Chapter 1 at page 8, that I didn't think fit with someone like Peony, who loved flowers and nature in general. Here is the sentence phrase: "As I murmured and pulled up a pesky clover leaf..." Clover is one of the favorite foods for bees of all kinds, and other pollinators. As a flower lover, she would be as concerned about pollinators as with the flowers she sells in her shop and grows in her gardens. It just didn't fit for her to call it pesky, no matter where it was located. Maybe she could have said stray clover leaf or misplaced clover leaf, but pesky? My entire front side yard is clover and I'm planning to sow more later this summer. When I read the sentence, my first thought is this woman can't really care about flowers if she doesn't care about pollinators.
So, there you have it. I did enjoy the novel and struggled as to how to rate it. I'm looking forward to the 3rd book in the series.
March 13, 2024
I love Nancy Warren's Vampire Knitting Club so I am always up to checking out her many new series. I'm pleased to say the Village Flower Shop has a fun feel to it, although I think Vampire's Knitting Club is always going to be my favorite.
I did not realize this was book 2 so at first I was a little lost with the characters but quickly caught on and found the characters fun, interesting and a little goofy. (Norman the parrot familiar.) Instead of vampires, the main characters are witches.
Of course there is a handsome Lord of the Manor for Peony to swoon over and--not a surprise--he's swooning over her, too. You can guess what kind of supernatural he is when you learn his titled name. (But we find out in this book, so don't sweat it if you don't get it.)
A nasty villager with a sharp tongue has been found murdered. A lot of people can be guilty since she had no problem being an equal opportunity back stabber. I was surprised when the killer was revealed. Which is the great thing about a well written murder mystery--the "wow, I didn't see that coming."
I did not realize this was book 2 so at first I was a little lost with the characters but quickly caught on and found the characters fun, interesting and a little goofy. (Norman the parrot familiar.) Instead of vampires, the main characters are witches.
Of course there is a handsome Lord of the Manor for Peony to swoon over and--not a surprise--he's swooning over her, too. You can guess what kind of supernatural he is when you learn his titled name. (But we find out in this book, so don't sweat it if you don't get it.)
A nasty villager with a sharp tongue has been found murdered. A lot of people can be guilty since she had no problem being an equal opportunity back stabber. I was surprised when the killer was revealed. Which is the great thing about a well written murder mystery--the "wow, I didn't see that coming."
August 27, 2022
I don't recall reading the first book but I still enjoyed this one. This is a book full of interesting characters, some charming and some not so much. I couldn't guess the murderer until it was revealed at the end. Looking forward to reading the next book.
Amazon synopsis:
The past doesn’t always stay in the past. Deeds can come back to haunt us. That’s what happens to florist Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, when her old boyfriend turns up out of the blue saying he wants another chance. Turns out he’s really on the run from crime. Meanwhile, there’s a competition among some of the women in the Cotswold village of Willow Waters to support the church vicar, a widower who graciously accepts everything from home-baked bread to hand-embroidered vestments. Is someone too competitive?
Life in the charming village may look picture-perfect on the outside, but like the camellias now in bloom, there can be stinging insects hiding amongst the perfect petals.
Amazon synopsis:
The past doesn’t always stay in the past. Deeds can come back to haunt us. That’s what happens to florist Peony Bellefleur’s protégé and young witch, Char, when her old boyfriend turns up out of the blue saying he wants another chance. Turns out he’s really on the run from crime. Meanwhile, there’s a competition among some of the women in the Cotswold village of Willow Waters to support the church vicar, a widower who graciously accepts everything from home-baked bread to hand-embroidered vestments. Is someone too competitive?
Life in the charming village may look picture-perfect on the outside, but like the camellias now in bloom, there can be stinging insects hiding amongst the perfect petals.
May 17, 2023
Good
Peony has a lot going on in her Cotswold town, and when it ends in murder, she and her friends decide that they’re going to have to investigate.
We learn a lot about certain characters in this book, and I’m sure it won’t be a surprise since Peony is quite good at thinking onto the page!
It’s an enjoyable, and quite a quick read. The setting gives it a Miss Marple feel, and the characters are quirky enough to keep the reader engaged. In the end, many of us will find ourselves wanting to live in the village of Willow Waters.
Although it is a standalone mystery, there are some stories that build upon those from before, so it’s best read as part of the series.
A truly enjoyable, lighthearted paranormal cosy mystery for those who like a little magic in their armchair detective work.
Peony has a lot going on in her Cotswold town, and when it ends in murder, she and her friends decide that they’re going to have to investigate.
We learn a lot about certain characters in this book, and I’m sure it won’t be a surprise since Peony is quite good at thinking onto the page!
It’s an enjoyable, and quite a quick read. The setting gives it a Miss Marple feel, and the characters are quirky enough to keep the reader engaged. In the end, many of us will find ourselves wanting to live in the village of Willow Waters.
Although it is a standalone mystery, there are some stories that build upon those from before, so it’s best read as part of the series.
A truly enjoyable, lighthearted paranormal cosy mystery for those who like a little magic in their armchair detective work.
June 28, 2022
Karma Camellia is the 2nd book in the Village Flower Shop series by Nancy Warren. While part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone cozy mystery.
I don't even know where to start....I absolutely loved this book! The storyline was incredible and trying to solve the mystery was so much fun! I loved the characters and I am enjoying getting to know them a little better. I feel like they are quickly becoming part of my book family!
If you enjoy cozy mysteries or anything paranormal, I totally recommend this book! The characters are great and the story is so interesting! This is one of those books you won't be able to put down!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don't even know where to start....I absolutely loved this book! The storyline was incredible and trying to solve the mystery was so much fun! I loved the characters and I am enjoying getting to know them a little better. I feel like they are quickly becoming part of my book family!
If you enjoy cozy mysteries or anything paranormal, I totally recommend this book! The characters are great and the story is so interesting! This is one of those books you won't be able to put down!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2022
Ms. Warren is onto book 2 of her new series in the cost little town of Willow Waters. Who knew such things happened over spilled wine?
The story of Peony Bellefluer and her wonderful little flower shop is developing along with her local mysterious bachelor. She is a young widow finding her way on her own in her creaky old farm house and her lovely little flower shop.
The local ladies are battling over the attention of the vicar and more than spilled wine happens and a murder of a local trouble stirrer happens when she is stabbed in the back.
Can you solve the mystery before the end of the book? Pay attention as you never know who was the one that was the culprit.
This series is definitely worth picking up and reading!
The story of Peony Bellefluer and her wonderful little flower shop is developing along with her local mysterious bachelor. She is a young widow finding her way on her own in her creaky old farm house and her lovely little flower shop.
The local ladies are battling over the attention of the vicar and more than spilled wine happens and a murder of a local trouble stirrer happens when she is stabbed in the back.
Can you solve the mystery before the end of the book? Pay attention as you never know who was the one that was the culprit.
This series is definitely worth picking up and reading!
June 29, 2022
A delightful second edition to the Flower Shop Mysteries. We get a more in depth look into the characters we are learning to love while clues abound to solve the most recent Willow Waters murder. Could it be the jealousy of one parishioner toward another? After all, the widower vicar is a very attractive man in a congregation of eligible women! Did the seamstress seek revenge on the woman who caused the “accidental?” red wine spillage on her beautiful hand embroidered white alter cloth? Was it the opportunistic ex-con boyfriend of Char caught in the act of stealing? We also have our suspicions confirmed concerning another special member of our team. Although I was surprised when the murderer is revealed, as I thought back into the story, the subtle clues were there.
July 4, 2022
Karma Camellia by Nancy Warren
Village Flower Shop Series Book Two
Peony loves her quiet little town of Willow Waters. Only, it’s not so quiet anymore. A second murder has been committed, and the guilty party may very well be a man in town because of her. Mick is a thief, but is he a murderer? Peony isn’t so sure.
This cozy mystery is full of unique characters. Not only the humans but also Norman, a wise-cracking macaw. And then there is her mother, Jessie Rae, who is usually too busy talking with spirits to bother with the living around her. The handsome baron, who she suspects has a secret, her protégé, Char, who is a young witch just learning her powers, and many unique Willowers.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Village Flower Shop Series Book Two
Peony loves her quiet little town of Willow Waters. Only, it’s not so quiet anymore. A second murder has been committed, and the guilty party may very well be a man in town because of her. Mick is a thief, but is he a murderer? Peony isn’t so sure.
This cozy mystery is full of unique characters. Not only the humans but also Norman, a wise-cracking macaw. And then there is her mother, Jessie Rae, who is usually too busy talking with spirits to bother with the living around her. The handsome baron, who she suspects has a secret, her protégé, Char, who is a young witch just learning her powers, and many unique Willowers.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
August 30, 2022
I liked this one. I like the idea that she runs a flower shop and uses her knowledge and powers to infuse the flowers with things that can help other people. Norman, the parrot that is a familiar, is tolerable although annoying at times. I like the Char character quite a bit.
Someone Char knew shows up and he's basically bad news. Peony tries to help him. Some women in the village are interested in the single vicar. One woman makes a beautiful altar cloth but another 'accidentally' spills win on it and ruins it.
Result is as expected, and that's a murder.
Alex is also an interesting character and we learn why. One guy gets arrested for the murder but Peony has her doubts it was him. It's a neat combination of crime novel/flower shop basis and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
Someone Char knew shows up and he's basically bad news. Peony tries to help him. Some women in the village are interested in the single vicar. One woman makes a beautiful altar cloth but another 'accidentally' spills win on it and ruins it.
Result is as expected, and that's a murder.
Alex is also an interesting character and we learn why. One guy gets arrested for the murder but Peony has her doubts it was him. It's a neat combination of crime novel/flower shop basis and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
April 22, 2025
Yup. I guessed Alex was a werewolf/wolf shapeshifter early on in book one, so I was glad they actually revealed that in this book and didn’t drag that out throughout the series. I guess instead they will drag out Peony revealing to Alex she is a witch instead?
I’m still continuing with this series because I do like the vibe of witch / werewolf (similar to Lucy & Rafe’s vibe of witch instead / vampire in the Vampire Knitting Club books). And I like that their relationship has been kind of introduced earlier on in the series so that maybe it can get more developed… but I do have to say that I still prefer the author’s other series & characters so much more. Still having a hard time adjusting to these ones.
I’m still continuing with this series because I do like the vibe of witch / werewolf (similar to Lucy & Rafe’s vibe of witch instead / vampire in the Vampire Knitting Club books). And I like that their relationship has been kind of introduced earlier on in the series so that maybe it can get more developed… but I do have to say that I still prefer the author’s other series & characters so much more. Still having a hard time adjusting to these ones.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2022
Karma Camellia is both a stand-alone read and the Second 'Village Flower Shop Paranormal Mystery '.
This is a delightful coz y mystery set in a normally quiet English villagd. It has all the charm and characters that you would expect to find in such a location. Peony Bellefleur is a florist and a witch and she adds just the right but something to her creations to fit the occasion.
Flowers. magic, murder, a past love, a wolf, a budding romance and a delightful parrot familiar called Norman are some of the delights that make this book such a good read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and definitely recommend it to all paranormal or cozy fans and anyone looking for a good, easy to read story.
This is a delightful coz y mystery set in a normally quiet English villagd. It has all the charm and characters that you would expect to find in such a location. Peony Bellefleur is a florist and a witch and she adds just the right but something to her creations to fit the occasion.
Flowers. magic, murder, a past love, a wolf, a budding romance and a delightful parrot familiar called Norman are some of the delights that make this book such a good read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and definitely recommend it to all paranormal or cozy fans and anyone looking for a good, easy to read story.
August 22, 2022
💖 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📚 Genre: cozy mystery / urban fantasy
💻 Kindle Unlimited - yes
💕 Positives:
* This one flows much better into the story. Less of an info waterfall and more into building the characters.
* The mystery was perfect! I didn't solve it, but I loved trying to figure it out.
* The ending was amazing! The scene was absolutely perfect.
🚫 Negatives:
* None.
⚡Trigger Warning: None. This one is safe for all readers.
🌟 Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It flowed so much better than the first one in the series and the ending was pretty action packed (in a good way). Loved the characters and the cozy British setting. Hoping that the third book comes out soon.
📚 Genre: cozy mystery / urban fantasy
💻 Kindle Unlimited - yes
💕 Positives:
* This one flows much better into the story. Less of an info waterfall and more into building the characters.
* The mystery was perfect! I didn't solve it, but I loved trying to figure it out.
* The ending was amazing! The scene was absolutely perfect.
🚫 Negatives:
* None.
⚡Trigger Warning: None. This one is safe for all readers.
🌟 Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It flowed so much better than the first one in the series and the ending was pretty action packed (in a good way). Loved the characters and the cozy British setting. Hoping that the third book comes out soon.
June 27, 2022
Another perfect cozy mystery from Nancy Warren! This series has the same magic as Warren’s other series.
I am loving reading about Peony and her flower shop. I am so excited for Peony and Alex, I can’t wait to see how their relationship “blooms” 🌷
I really enjoy how Warren’s books have a romantic element about them, but also focuses on the magic and power of friendships. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series!!
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it)
I am loving reading about Peony and her flower shop. I am so excited for Peony and Alex, I can’t wait to see how their relationship “blooms” 🌷
I really enjoy how Warren’s books have a romantic element about them, but also focuses on the magic and power of friendships. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series!!
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2022
Another fun visit to Willow Waters joining Peony Bellefleur and her witchy gang of friends. Being a typical small town in the Cotswold, many activities center around the church. But it’s a surprise when an new altar cloth is destroyed by a chalice of wine. Arguments ensue and blame is put on different people. But it’s a surprise to find one of them murdered. On the other hand Peony has landed on job with the Lord. Read this and find out where that relationship will go. Love the characters in this second book of a great series.
June 29, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I love the characters, the setting and the mystery. I found myself swept away to the Cotswolds. Into this wonderful little village.
Peony Bellefleur is a wonderful character. She's very well written. Her character is complex and likeable.
Like all of Nancy Warren's books the mystery is complex and well done. But it's always the characters that keep me coming back to her books.
I highly recommend this book. It has a great mystery and it's a fun escape!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Peony Bellefleur is a wonderful character. She's very well written. Her character is complex and likeable.
Like all of Nancy Warren's books the mystery is complex and well done. But it's always the characters that keep me coming back to her books.
I highly recommend this book. It has a great mystery and it's a fun escape!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 30, 2022
Dolores Prescott, the most disliked woman in Willow Waters, is found stabbed to death on her kitchen floor. The most likely suspect is ex-convict (and Char's ex-boyfriend) Mick Fry, who was caught running from Dolores' house while her body was still warm.
Mick admits he entered the house intending to rob it, but vehemently denies that he killed Dolores. Believing that Mick might be telling the truth, Peony Bellefleur and her friends start investigating who in the town might have motive, means, and opportunity.
The solution, revealed at Dolores' funeral, shocks the entire town...
Mick admits he entered the house intending to rob it, but vehemently denies that he killed Dolores. Believing that Mick might be telling the truth, Peony Bellefleur and her friends start investigating who in the town might have motive, means, and opportunity.
The solution, revealed at Dolores' funeral, shocks the entire town...
December 18, 2022
Witches and werewolves, oh my!
Peony Bellefleur is back, and tangled up in another murder mystery. When villager Dolores "accidentally" ruins the altar cloth that her "best" friend Elizabeth had created for the local church, it sets off a chain reaction that ends with finding Dolores with a knife in her back. Could it have been Char's ex boyfriend, Mick? Not only that, but now it seems there is a werewolf stalking the community. Can Peony ferret out the murderer before he or she strikes again? Read on, and find out!
Peony Bellefleur is back, and tangled up in another murder mystery. When villager Dolores "accidentally" ruins the altar cloth that her "best" friend Elizabeth had created for the local church, it sets off a chain reaction that ends with finding Dolores with a knife in her back. Could it have been Char's ex boyfriend, Mick? Not only that, but now it seems there is a werewolf stalking the community. Can Peony ferret out the murderer before he or she strikes again? Read on, and find out!
April 24, 2023
Really enjoying this series.
After reading the Great Bakeoff series from this author, I knew this series would be just as good. I was floored when the old ladies had a church tiff and one of them had an embroidery ruined. Man, I know the work that goes into something like that. So definitely I had to read on. I liked book one a bit better because there was more of the bird and her friend from the flower shop. But this one really caught your attention and made you want to finish it. Can't wait to dig into book three.
After reading the Great Bakeoff series from this author, I knew this series would be just as good. I was floored when the old ladies had a church tiff and one of them had an embroidery ruined. Man, I know the work that goes into something like that. So definitely I had to read on. I liked book one a bit better because there was more of the bird and her friend from the flower shop. But this one really caught your attention and made you want to finish it. Can't wait to dig into book three.
July 1, 2024
This one was perhaps less believable in terms of the culprit but it was an interesting mystery all the same. A hated old woman and her best friend fighting, a new ex convict in town, and general shenanigans by the townsfolk had the finger pointing every which way. Unlike the book club books, Peony doesn’t usually point the finger though. She teams up with Alex to talk things through. I really like that aspect of these books. Main witch girl always gets a potentially supernatural guy to talk through theories with. It’s just a hint of potential romance to please my soul! I want some more!
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