The truth of what happened to Aunt Lavender has finally been dragged into the light—so why does everything feel darker than before?
With the help of Selene and an unexpected ally, we have one final mission to accomplish. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re not going down without a fight.
This was originally supposed to be the finale and it shows. Very emotional ending and proper sendoff for the team of unlikely friends. So glad there are more installments including book 11 releasing later this month!
Man, idk what to say, but this was okay. The protagonist is infuriating, she's so nice, wholesome, forgiving, and toothless that I'm surprised she even attempted to find her aunt. These six books could of easily been written into two mystery novels if the author trimmed the fat and focused on the aunts disappearance rather than the matlock murder mysteries that plagued the first 3 volumes. There is a lot of interesting stuff in here, but it is purposefully glossed over and given little context. I wish the author would of given the MC more backbone and grittiness to deal with the situations she ran into, but it ended up coming across as your average lady in over her head luckily getting results due to circumstances rather than skill. Selene was a great character, wish she was the protagonist, but it is what it is.
For all my issues with this series (Selene’s over-the-top snarky attitude, the fact that the last three books were actually one story), I really enjoyed how this one ended. Originally, the author had planned to wrap up Cora and Selene’s stories with Talisman Tails; however, she’s since told fans that she’s enjoying the world too much and plans to continue.
As a standalone story, Talisman Tails fails; however, as a finale to the series-long story arc of what happened to Aunt Lavender, the book shines. The story is filled with adventure and insight, bringing the plotline to a very satisfying conclusion. And while Selene is as feisty as ever, she finds a way to let Cora know she cares. I also appreciate that the author finally allows time for Cora and Clint to talk, clearing the air for their eventual HEA.
While I really enjoyed the story, I still had issues. Firstly, at the end of the previous book, bad guy August refers to his boss as “her,” yet as soon as this one begins in the same scene, we find out that his boss is unknown developer, Winslow (he/him). While it’s a small oversight, it’s annoying none the less. Additionally, Selene continues to spew hateful words at everyone, including those she cares about. Yes, it’s her defense mechanism, but I’m tired of it. Finally, there are times when Cora notices something she deems off, but then the author never comes back to it to let us know what made Cora feel that way.
Narration: Ms. Ronconi continues to provide the voice of Cora and her friends. Shared in the first person POV of Cora, Ms. Ronconi provides an upbeat voice for Cora, matching emotion fitting to the story. Ms. Ronconi slightly alters each character’s voice based on age, gender, background, and species. There are times that some characters sound very similar. Selene’s voice is still awesome: a perfect fit for the annoying cat.
Overall, I enjoyed the Nine Lives Magic series, and recommend to fans of paranormal cozies, just be forewarned that the final three books are basically one story. I look forward to seeing where the author takes Cora next.
My Ratings: Story: B Narration: B+
Review copy provided by Publisher Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
What a gripping story! I was gripped instantly, the action and mystery continued from the previous book. I literally could not close the book. Unseen cads and criminals and trying to stop them was something Cora, Clint and Selina tried to do on their own. They finally asked family for help. All I can say is they fixed many wrong and made the good things better. There was an exciting ending. Ms. Danielle surely created a book where you should be prepared to expect the unexpected!
Cora, feline sidekick Selene,sweetheart Clint and family and friends are on a magical rollercoaster ride as they finally battle the villains who kidnapped Cora’s aunt Lavender.
There are all kinds of magical spells, tricks and spells so adrenaline junkies will enjoy the twists and turns. Mystery lovers will greatly enjoy detangling the complexity of this well crafted tale and the wonderfully written end.
Excellent series and an absolutely worthwhile read
Each book in this series had built more and more tension on the story of Cora, witch owner of a candle shop and Selene who was the missing Aunt Lavender's familiar. We've trekked through strange places with people who may be friend or foe, piecing together the clues to a magical object that could destroy the world. The bad guy has one half, Aunt Lavender, the other which she stubbornly refuses to reveal even while kidnapped. Finally, the end is in sight but can Cora and Selene actually save both Aunt Lavender and keep the bad guy from obtaining and selling the magic object to the highest bidder? And how will Aunt Lavender react to the bonding of Cora and Selene? Well, I guess you're going to have to read it yourself, eh? Believe me, it's an epic ending to a fantabulous series. Or is it truly an ending?
I am so over Cora. I enjoyed most of the other series by this author so i started this one with enthusiasm. Sadly I found the main character dumb, whiny and overall annoying. The main story line about the lost aunt had been going on for several books. The way the main character deals with things is super frustrating and I am not sure I can finish to find out if they find her.
This book is the perfect ending to the series. The mystery of Aunt Lavender’s disappearance is finally solved and Cora and Selene get a happily ever after. I couldn’t have asked for a better ending to this funny and lovable series.
💕 Positives: * Love Selene and her sassy retorts. At least she has a backbone.
* Finally, the case of Lavender is solved! Only took 6 books. Ugh.
* The adventure through the portal was a blast. Made up for the first part of the book by far.
* The ending was great. About time for a HEA.
🚫 Negatives: * Slightly annoying, but anyone with basic g*n training knows to never put your finger on the trigger unless you're going to actually shoot it. Cora had her finger on the trigger while it was aimed at the ground. 🤦♀️ If you're an author, and you're writing about g*ns, then please take a basic g*n safety class before writing your story. They're free at most police stations and g*n stores.
* Selene's barbs aren't "verbal abuse". They're sassy retorts. There's a huge difference between verbal abuse and sassy retorts. While I'm glad that the author doesn't know exactly what that entails first hand, she still shouldn't throw it around, let alone in a cozy mystery.
* Cora doesn't make any sense in this book. Thanking Tabitha? That's a stretch. Where is her backbone?
⚡Trigger Warning: Abuse is mentioned, but it's not abuse in the slightest. 🤦♀️
🌟 Overall, I almost DNFed this book at verbal abuse comment. Abuse is a theme that I strongly stay away from in books, and thankfully cozy mysteries typically never have that topic. But after reading further, the author mistakenly described sassy retorts as verbal abuse. There is a HUGE difference between the two, and thankfully this book doesn't have abuse of any kind in it. But carelessly throwing around an abuse term without fully understanding it is another matter all together. Maybe the author should actually talk with abuse survivors before using it in her book. Authors not doing proper research is a huge pet peeve of mine, next to putting non-cozy themes in a cozy mystery.
The g*n thing was rather annoying as well. It's crystal clear that the author has never handled a g*n nor taken a basic gun safety class before. Once again, before writing about g*ns, she should do some very basic research.
I really didn't care for the first half of the book. Between that and the last two books being filler at best, it seemed like a one star. However, the ending made up for it. Finally got a happily ever after with all of the story plots neatly tied up, which was nice. I might read the next book. A part of me wants to keep reading the series mainly for Selene, but the other part of me is still really ticked off over the abuse mention (that wasn't actually abuse) and the poorly written g*n scene. I'll check out the reviews for the next one before diving in.
I'm so frustrated by this book series that I got on my computer to write this review. This will be a rant.
It has some merits - it's cute, Selene is hilarious even when she's annoying, and I kept reading for SIX BOOKS (granted, they're practically novella size, so really, two-three books) to find out what happened to Lavender. Maybe this time *starts book 3*. Nope. Surely now *gets silly cliffhangers at the ends of books 4 and 5. *Side rant - the cliffhangers felt like chapter cliffhangers, because they didn't feel like I'd reached the end of a book. The author just stops and decides that's where the next one starts, and then you're stuck.
Then we finally find Lavender...and she's THE WORST! I hate her! She's arrogant, rude, and doesn't even bother considering anyone else's struggles or feelings. Why is everyone looking for her? She's a big baby who isn't even thankful to be found. Every scene she was in made me want to scream, because I couldn't FATHOM anyone tolerating someone like her. Then she finds out about the familiar switch and she loses it. Excuse you? EXCUSE YOU, LAVENDER? Everyone might die because of you, but you're upset because people aren't doing what you want? I hated her. I didn't care to save her.
Then there's Templeton, who is just unnecessary. What's the point? It's an irritant that means nothing. In fact, that happens a LOT in these books, where we have pointless scenes that further nothing (or, in the case of Tabitha's former employer, send everyone on the wrong trail).
These are not mysteries. At least not for the reader. Everything is painfully obvious (only Cora is in the dark), and there are no clues to follow, she just stumbles into the answer out of nowhere.
And, since I'm ranting here, I want to point out the poor editing - this author needs to have a conversation with hers. There's a scene with her mother where they tell her everything that happened, and it is clearly stated "August will free Hannah once he has the Lotus." And then Cora notes that her mother doesn't believe that anymore than she or Selene does. Then, mere PAGES later, the stupid Sheriff Templeton shows up and says Hannah has been turned to stone, and the mom acts all shocked and horrified and the narration says Cora specifically left that part out. Um. No. You didn't. You talked about how August would free her if he got what he wanted. So what did mom think she was being freed from?? Then they double down, continuing on the whole "mom didn't know this" trail.
Between Lavender being the WORST character in the whole book and everything being soooo frustrating and pointless, I hated this book. I almost couldn't finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
In the previous book, Clint comes back just in time to help Cora and Selene in a tight spot. August is not at all who he seems to be, has more information and is far more dangerous than originally thought.
At the beginning of this book we learn a lot more from August about not only his brother Arthur but also his partner Winslow. Winslow is ruthless in his pursuit of the Lotus and won't give up until his has it. He found Lavender with a very expensive and elaborate spell. Things just haven't worked out for him the way he hoped.
First, they have to free Tabitha from the spell August had put on her. Then get Lavender out of captivity. The thing is when Lavender hears what they have to do to get her free, she's totally against it, and the fact that Selene is now Cora's familiar isn't helping at all.
Things have to move fast and with the meeting with Winslow coming up, Cora and Selene go to Lavender's house to retrieve their part of the golden lotus.
The problem is they can't remember where they put it. Apparently, Aunt Lavender has erased that from their memories, so they can't exchange it for her freedom.
Needing to brainstorm once again, they head to Lilac's house. With Tabitha there maybe they could still come up with a plan to save the day.
An untimely visit from Sheriff Templeton is only the first of many issues that come up. Reversal spells aren't working. They need a plan to get Lavender free and keep the lotus safe, one that won't fail.
Lots of finger crossing going on here as they get everything in place. I may have held my breath a few times too. There are plenty more twists and some surprises as well.
I can't wait to see what's next for Cora and Selene.
In Furry Fortunes it was revealed that Aunt Lavender had been kidnapped by August. At the very beginning of this book we learn it wasn’t just August who kidnapped Aunt Lavender but also his business partner, Winslow Anterhill. As Cora and Selene have already guessed Aunt Lavender was taken because they knew she had the missing piece of the Golden Lotus.
Now it’s up to Cora and Selene to make the decision to either give up Aunt Lavender’s half of the Golden Lotus or let her continue to stay in captivity. After confronting Aunt Lavender with August’s help Cora, Selene, Clint, Tabitha, and Lilac, Cora’s mom, come up with an idea to break out Aunt Lavender from her prison. This leads to a catastrophic outcome that puts everyone involved in danger.
In the end Cora, Selene, and their merry band of confidants successfully return Aunt Lavender to her house, find the fountain of youth and learn the secret it keeps, and start to live their new happy and improved lives.
I loved the ending to this storyline and can’t wait to see what mysteries the next books send us on!
This is the sixth book in the Nine Lives Magic paranormal mystery series by Danielle Garrett. It was intended to be the last book in the series but I’m delighted the author changed her mind. I’m looking forward to see what the next book brings since Aunt Lavender’s disappearance is resolved in this book.
I liked the characters, the mystery, and the weirdness. We learn what happened to Aunt Lavender and who was behind the abduction. Please read these in order or you may not feel that the book is a complete story. It is a continuation of “where is Lavender & is she alive?”
I listened to this book on Hoopla from my library.
Amanda Ronconi does a wonderful job as the narrator. Looking forward to the next story in the series.
4.75 out of 5:This is definitely one of the book series I wish would get turned into a show each book reads in an episodic way picking directly off where the last left off. Selene will always be my favorite and best part of this series. Especially her banter with her and Cora and her steadfastness in what she believes in what is right.
The plot twists in this series abound, These books are definitely ones I will recommend if you want quick and quirky reads especially if in a slump or need a cleanser between heavier reads.
This is book six of the Nine Lives Magic series and in this book, our MC Cora, and her obnoxious cat familiar, Selene, are looking to trade the Golden Lotus for Aunt Lavender. The villain is willing to do the trade, but there is a lot more going on than they suspect and more people involved. Cora needs to call on all her friends and family to help.
This book wrapped up the main arc of the series really well and I enjoyed it in spite of my main issue with this series (Selene’s way beyond snarky, lets call it mean, attitude.) This book was meant to be the end of the series, but I see there are now six more. I think I'll take a break now that this arc is complete, but I will return to read more of the adventures of Cora and Clint in Winterspell.
Very satisfying finale to this cozy series about Cora, her familiar, Selene, Cora’s missing Aunt Lavender, and the family and friends from the small town of Winterspell. Cora owns and runs a shop where she sells magic candles. Her candles can do aromatherapy-type things like relax people, or promote a good night’s sleep, or send the sleeper specific dreams targeted to them. They can create the illusion of being on a tropical island or a snowy mountainside cabin, or anything in between. Each book flows seamlessly into the next, but since Winterspell is such a charming place, that’s fine. Good characters, pleasing setting, imaginative magic spells, and an engaging plot line make the series a fine escape.
Cora and Selena have made a decision to get Aunt Lavender back. Cora is trying to keep everyone safe, but she doesn't really like how she has to go about it. Clint is there helping her every step of the way, but they have to resolve what happened to them. Cora and the others are on a dangerous path, but nothing will stop her from getting her aunt back, everything else will just have to wait.
It was a wonderful ending to a series that I am sad to see the end. The world, characters, and plot will have you reading until you are done. I recommend reading this book/ series, a great way to get away from the world for a while.
Selene, Cora, Clint, Lilac and Tabitha finally get Aunt Lavender back and are forced to take August, Arthur and his boss, Winslow, to the fountain of youth. Arthur was supposed to get the first drink, but Winslow took the first drink and died. The two brothers who fought over the golden lotus murdered their father for dividing the lotus. They were executed and the fountain poisoned. Clint is helping Cora grow her business. She opened a store outside of Seattle. Selene picked a new cat familiar for Lavender and is training him. Selene confirms her loyalty to Cora by showing Cora her string to immortality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was not expecting the majority of this book lol it’s not in your face plot twists as like Riley sager or Alice feeney but more subtle mind blowing shifts throughout. Let’s start with Arthur having a twin that Tabitha is in love with. Then there’s the fortune teller being a cheat, Clint not only coming back but marrying her in the end (I guess I was wrong about him this whole time), and another talking cat coming into the picture. Now that lavender has been found, bad guy killed, and a happily ever after ending, I wonder what the next one could be about? If I saw correctly there are 3+ more in the series so we shall see
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This story was a real page turner. Surprises and new revelations around each corner. Cora and Clint work together to try to find Cora's missing Aunt Lavender. Of course, Selene, Cora's familiar is "helping" in her own way, full of snark and some crazy ideas on what to do next in their search. There are twists and turns as their search gets more desperate to find her as they are on a deadline put onto them by the wealthy collectors looking for Lavender's half of the magical object. Love this series and happy to see that it will still go on with new books coming in the future.
Wow! This was the final book in the Nine Lives Magic series by Danielle Garrett. It was a terrific series and this last book had me on the edge of my seat! It was a great story with fascinating characters. This was an excellent final book with some unexpected twists. Don't wait - start reading the series now!
Amazon synopsis: The truth of what happened to Aunt Lavender has finally been dragged into the light—so why does everything feel darker than before?
With the help of Selene and an unexpected ally, we have one final mission to accomplish. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re not going down without a fight.
Fountain of Youth The truth of what happened to Aunt Lavender has finally been dragged into the light—so why does everything feel darker than before? With the help of Selene and an unexpected ally, we have one final mission to accomplish. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re not going down without a fight. The fountain of youth is just a myth. It's not true for the cruelty of the fact that the culprit was poisoned by the waters. I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
Like all the other Nine Lives Magic books, this is OK but fun. Easy, fluffy, quick. You don't read for the plot, you read for Selene, and if you get the audiobook the narrator does an excellent job of bringing the annoying cat to life.
I did give an extra star because Cora's story ended so nicely and the overall plot had an OK conclusion. That's what one wants with a finale, yeah?
If the author continues to write in this world, I will probably continue to read, especially if Amanda Ranconi continues to narrate.
Well Selene and Cora do it again! And this time we find Aunt Lavender. But things are tricky what with Hannah a statue and August pulling the strings. He claims to have a backer worse than him and demands a swap...Aunt Lavender for the lotus. But Lavender is having none of it and the duo is running out of time.
I loved this. Lavender is cooky and awesome. She really knows her stuff. And there was so much feeling. Danielle hit it out of the park!