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A Magical Misfits Mystery #2
Down the Hatch
In the idyllic village of Avebury, murder is on the menu.
Myrtle, new owner of the Witch’s Retreat B&B, juggles way too many plates. As if wrestling with erratic magic while running a business wasn’t enough, she faces pleas to lead the coven. Throw in the budding romance with “witch hunter” Chris and the shenanigans of Petty, the zombie flower, and Myrtle is in trouble.
Then the tourists start dying.
The police are called in, but Myrtle’s bestie, Sergeant Sarah Widdlethorpe, gets no chance to build her case. When the death count rises, the clues pile up—and they point way too close to home. Myrtle has to act fast to save the coven from discovery.
But soon it becomes clear she’s facing something far worse than a serial killer…
Myrtle, new owner of the Witch’s Retreat B&B, juggles way too many plates. As if wrestling with erratic magic while running a business wasn’t enough, she faces pleas to lead the coven. Throw in the budding romance with “witch hunter” Chris and the shenanigans of Petty, the zombie flower, and Myrtle is in trouble.
Then the tourists start dying.
The police are called in, but Myrtle’s bestie, Sergeant Sarah Widdlethorpe, gets no chance to build her case. When the death count rises, the clues pile up—and they point way too close to home. Myrtle has to act fast to save the coven from discovery.
But soon it becomes clear she’s facing something far worse than a serial killer…
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2023
18 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Lina Hansen
7 books68 followersLINA HANSEN has been a freelance travel journalist, teacher, bellydancer, postal clerk and science communication specialist stranded in the space sector. Numbed by factoid technical texts, she set out to write the stories she loves to read— cozy and romantic mysteries with a dollop of humour and a magical twist. After living and working in the UK, Lina, her husband, and their feline companion now share a home in the foothills of Castle Frankenstein.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 26, 2023
Entertaining witches listening 🎶🔰
Myrtle had inherited the Witches Bed and Breakfast. The summer solace is occurring shortly and the witches coven is gathering, druids, Wiccans, and tourists. Then a murder occurs and the fun begins. Who is the killer? How was he killed? Then another murder and an attempt. Myrtle learns the truth leading to the killer. I would recommend this British 🏰👑 two book series and author to 👍 readers of family and friends relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡🏡
Myrtle had inherited the Witches Bed and Breakfast. The summer solace is occurring shortly and the witches coven is gathering, druids, Wiccans, and tourists. Then a murder occurs and the fun begins. Who is the killer? How was he killed? Then another murder and an attempt. Myrtle learns the truth leading to the killer. I would recommend this British 🏰👑 two book series and author to 👍 readers of family and friends relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡🏡
February 17, 2023
I enjoyed this second installment of the Magical Misfits. It took me a a chapter or two to get back up to speed on who's who in the story but once I got my bearings it was a fun read. In the run up to the Summer Solstice, Avebury is brimming with tourists. The tempertures are unusally hot and everyone's nerves are frazzled. Myrtle is still trying to understand her magical skills and her fliration with witch hunter, Chris continues. When tourists start to die, Myrtle fears her coven of underperforming witches will fall under suspicion. the pace is brisk with lots of action as Myrtle and her friends try to solve the murder. I didn't guess the killer's identity until the end! A fun fast read!
Highly recommend the series.
Highly recommend the series.
January 22, 2023
If you’re looking for a cozy with a touch of paranormal and a pinch of quirkiness, this is your book. It’s exactly what I needed to escape reality for awhile.
Myrtle is a witch who now owns a B&B and leads a coven…and is dating a witch hunter. Needless to say, she’s got a lot going on, but when bodies start piling up, she has to do what she can to find out who is behind it and put an end to it, otherwise she and her coven stand to be exposed or worse.
Myrtle is a witch who now owns a B&B and leads a coven…and is dating a witch hunter. Needless to say, she’s got a lot going on, but when bodies start piling up, she has to do what she can to find out who is behind it and put an end to it, otherwise she and her coven stand to be exposed or worse.
January 22, 2023
I was attracted to the charming cover illustration on this book, and I was hoping for a nice cosy murder mystery.
This book was quirky, entertaining and fun. I liked the protagonist, and found her endearing. I found myself chuckling at the little ways in which I related to her, and I warmed to the other characters too. The story also had a magical theme, which I liked.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
This book was quirky, entertaining and fun. I liked the protagonist, and found her endearing. I found myself chuckling at the little ways in which I related to her, and I warmed to the other characters too. The story also had a magical theme, which I liked.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
April 3, 2023
Never a Dull Moment . . .
There is no denying that Myrtle Coldron has her hands full! She is the new owner of a Bed & Breakfast while also trying to control her magic. Being a new witch takes a bit of practice! And maybe with the guidance of her cat, Tiddles, and Petty, her magical zombie primula with nubby green leaves and pink flowers, she can learn how to at least use a wand – if the plant can stop laughing at her. Her weak coven also wants her attention to lead them and train them. And in the middle of all of this excitement, she gets involved in trying to solve a mystery as a number of deaths keep piling up. The tourists dying are definitely not good for business! Can Myrtle and Chris Lentulus, her romantic interest, investigate and find the murderer before more people die – and before unwanted attention turns toward her coven?
There is no denying that Myrtle Coldron has her hands full! She is the new owner of a Bed & Breakfast while also trying to control her magic. Being a new witch takes a bit of practice! And maybe with the guidance of her cat, Tiddles, and Petty, her magical zombie primula with nubby green leaves and pink flowers, she can learn how to at least use a wand – if the plant can stop laughing at her. Her weak coven also wants her attention to lead them and train them. And in the middle of all of this excitement, she gets involved in trying to solve a mystery as a number of deaths keep piling up. The tourists dying are definitely not good for business! Can Myrtle and Chris Lentulus, her romantic interest, investigate and find the murderer before more people die – and before unwanted attention turns toward her coven?
January 17, 2023
I don’t know what to think about this book. I had a hard time getting into it. I think the characters are a little thin on the personality, there are a lot of characters. The author uses a weird name for magic, at least I assume it’s for magic as there’s no explanation of what it means. I was interested in what happened by the end, it just felt slow. I did guess who the bad witch was, it seemed obvious. #DowntheHatch. #NetGalley
February 25, 2023
I hadn’t read the first book in this series, and I didn’t even realize this was the second book until I started reading it. At first, I was a little confused because of this. However, that didn’t impede me figuring out most things fairly quickly. I thought this book was fun and mostly well-written, but I did think that it was a little wordy and some parts of the universe weren’t well defined, but some of that could have been defined in the first book. All in all, I did enjoy this book, and it was fun and enjoyable. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
March 25, 2023
Publication Date: 01st April 2023
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Slow start but gets better in the second half
Myrtle has her hands full with the Witch’s Retreat B&B, unpredictable magic, and constant pressure to lead a new-found coven with (over) enthusiastic members. She doesn’t even have the time to indulge in her budding romance with Chris, a software developer and witch hunter.
As if things aren’t hard enough, a body turns up in the local pub, followed by another death. Sergeant Sarah Widdlethorpe is trying hard to structure the cases as her pig-headed boss complicates matters. Myrtle is happy to help, of course.
However, it’s not long before Myrtle realizes something is terribly wrong, and magic is way too involved in the process. Can she get to the bottom of the truth?
The story comes in Myrtle’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I read the first book in the series some 2.5 years ago. It was one of my first NetGalley ARCs. I lost track and worried I missed the subsequent books but turns out that the second book is here and releasing next month.
Though I hardly remember anything, I could recollect a few bits and pieces as I continued with this one. It helped get into the plot. This one can still be read as a standalone, but only if you want to go with the flow instead of wondering what terms like skyelles mean. You’ll figure it out soon.
The beginning is slow, and the first-person narration doesn’t help. Myrtle’s POV takes time to get used to (I remember struggling with it even in the first book). She is still not happy being a witch and having magic (duh, give it to me!).
The second half is where many things happen, so the story does get better once we settle in. In fact, there’s some noteworthy character development in the climax, which makes me hopeful about book three (I’m sure there will be one, given how this ends).
As a typical small-town cozy mystery, the book has enough characters that come and go. That’s not an issue. The problem lies with the lack of depth in the main characters. We don’t get much to connect with either of them (and Chris should have had a better role given his background).
So what made the book better for me? Petty, of course!
Petty is a magical primula (Primrose) Myrtle creates (or brings to life in book one). And guess what? Petty is a familiar… yep, we have cats, rabbits, and animals as familiars, but a plant is something new and super cool. Moreover, Petty is a treat to read about. I so wish she has a POV of her own. I loved all scenes involving this darling plant. There’s a pet cat, too, but almost overshadowed by Petty (can’t say I object).
To summarize, Down the Hatch is a decent cozy mystery with some magic, murder, and mayhem during the summer solstice. Pick it up if want to meet an adorable plant familiar. There are bits of humor that keep the story lighthearted most of the time.
Thank you, NetGalley and Literary Wanderlust, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#DowntheHatch #NetGalley
***
P.S.: Myrtle has a vast collection of shower gels in multiple scents. She chooses a different scent each time to go with her mood. I’m so envious of her!
The cover is well-done without feeling crowded. Each element in it is significant in the book.
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Slow start but gets better in the second half
Myrtle has her hands full with the Witch’s Retreat B&B, unpredictable magic, and constant pressure to lead a new-found coven with (over) enthusiastic members. She doesn’t even have the time to indulge in her budding romance with Chris, a software developer and witch hunter.
As if things aren’t hard enough, a body turns up in the local pub, followed by another death. Sergeant Sarah Widdlethorpe is trying hard to structure the cases as her pig-headed boss complicates matters. Myrtle is happy to help, of course.
However, it’s not long before Myrtle realizes something is terribly wrong, and magic is way too involved in the process. Can she get to the bottom of the truth?
The story comes in Myrtle’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I read the first book in the series some 2.5 years ago. It was one of my first NetGalley ARCs. I lost track and worried I missed the subsequent books but turns out that the second book is here and releasing next month.
Though I hardly remember anything, I could recollect a few bits and pieces as I continued with this one. It helped get into the plot. This one can still be read as a standalone, but only if you want to go with the flow instead of wondering what terms like skyelles mean. You’ll figure it out soon.
The beginning is slow, and the first-person narration doesn’t help. Myrtle’s POV takes time to get used to (I remember struggling with it even in the first book). She is still not happy being a witch and having magic (duh, give it to me!).
The second half is where many things happen, so the story does get better once we settle in. In fact, there’s some noteworthy character development in the climax, which makes me hopeful about book three (I’m sure there will be one, given how this ends).
As a typical small-town cozy mystery, the book has enough characters that come and go. That’s not an issue. The problem lies with the lack of depth in the main characters. We don’t get much to connect with either of them (and Chris should have had a better role given his background).
So what made the book better for me? Petty, of course!
Petty is a magical primula (Primrose) Myrtle creates (or brings to life in book one). And guess what? Petty is a familiar… yep, we have cats, rabbits, and animals as familiars, but a plant is something new and super cool. Moreover, Petty is a treat to read about. I so wish she has a POV of her own. I loved all scenes involving this darling plant. There’s a pet cat, too, but almost overshadowed by Petty (can’t say I object).
To summarize, Down the Hatch is a decent cozy mystery with some magic, murder, and mayhem during the summer solstice. Pick it up if want to meet an adorable plant familiar. There are bits of humor that keep the story lighthearted most of the time.
Thank you, NetGalley and Literary Wanderlust, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#DowntheHatch #NetGalley
***
P.S.: Myrtle has a vast collection of shower gels in multiple scents. She chooses a different scent each time to go with her mood. I’m so envious of her!
The cover is well-done without feeling crowded. Each element in it is significant in the book.
May 8, 2023
Review “Down the Hatch” by Lina Hansen Myrtle Coldron runs a Bed and Breakfast establishment in Avebury called “Witches Retreat” She is also a witch, part of the Witches Coven in the area. The members like to keep knowledge of the Coven quiet though, since the community is not fond of witches. This is rather unfair since there are also groups of Wiccans and Druids openly practising their arts. The current head of the Coven is getting older and wants Myrtle to take over leading the group. Myrtle is reluctant because she has only recently discovered she is a witch and is struggling to get control over her witch skylles. In fact all of the Coven members, except for the current leader and her grand-daughter, are struggling to use their skylles. Meanwhile, the current leader is not only unhappy with the undeserving and untalented druids and wiccans making use of their (the witches) sacred standing stones, but she’s also really angry because so are all those travellers and tourists! Then a traveller dies and is found in the cellar of the local pub. Myrtle tries to help solve the puzzle behind this death, because she doesn’t want any of her friends to be charged with being the murderer. A second person dies with the same symptoms. The medical examiner discovers that while the first death might be attributable to heart trouble, the second person shouldn’t be dead at all! Myrtle begins to put together an idea as to what’s really going on, but needs more information. When a third person dies, some of that information presents itself. With help from her fellow witches and non-magical friends, the identity of the murderer finally emerges. A very interesting and entertaining “who dun it”! In the spirit of openness, I was asked to read and review this book by the author. Since I enjoyed this book, I have downloaded the first book of this set, not having already read it. I’m curious as to the backstory.
- DEBBIE O.
- DEBBIE O.
February 10, 2023
Down the Hatch: A Magical Misfits Mystery by Lina Hansen is about Myrtle Coldron, a witch who is not in complete control of her magic, and as she struggles, others want to take charge of the coven. Myrtle finds herself taking on a lot of responsibilities, including running her family’s bed and breakfast business, while other events unravel around her. When she unexpectedly meets Chris Lentulus, a descendant of witch hunters, when a body is discovered in the basement of a local pub. Together, the unlikely pair must work to find out who’s responsible for the death and follow clues to catch a killer before another murder occurs.
This was a fun story to read. I love reading mysteries and enjoy the subtle clues sprinkled throughout the plot while peeling back layers of each character in the book. The story kept me guessing until the end, and I also liked the romantic elements between Myrtle and Chris. I enjoyed the setting of the British village and the quirky witch characters from the local coven. This dimension added an exciting element where they had to hide their true identity from the town’s non-witch residents.
I like the plot’s premise, which details the witches’ control of their magic, the potential for magic to go seriously wrong, and lots of humor throughout the story. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series, trying to solve new, entertaining mysteries, and discovering more about each character. It’s an excellent story for anyone who enjoys fantasy fiction, romance, and mystery genres.
Down the Hatch: A Magical Misfits Mystery by Lina Hansen is about more than solving a mystery; it’s a fantastic read that focuses on unique challenges, individual struggles, and a bit of romance throughout.
This was a fun story to read. I love reading mysteries and enjoy the subtle clues sprinkled throughout the plot while peeling back layers of each character in the book. The story kept me guessing until the end, and I also liked the romantic elements between Myrtle and Chris. I enjoyed the setting of the British village and the quirky witch characters from the local coven. This dimension added an exciting element where they had to hide their true identity from the town’s non-witch residents.
I like the plot’s premise, which details the witches’ control of their magic, the potential for magic to go seriously wrong, and lots of humor throughout the story. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series, trying to solve new, entertaining mysteries, and discovering more about each character. It’s an excellent story for anyone who enjoys fantasy fiction, romance, and mystery genres.
Down the Hatch: A Magical Misfits Mystery by Lina Hansen is about more than solving a mystery; it’s a fantastic read that focuses on unique challenges, individual struggles, and a bit of romance throughout.
May 17, 2023
Myrtle Coldron is a new witch still coming to terms with her magical abilities. She also runs the local Bed and Breakfast in the tourist town of Avebury and is kind of dating a witch hunter.
Avebury is starting to get busy with tourists as the summer solstice is near, plus the weather is extremely hot which is great for business but not so great for working in or for keeping your cool, in more ways than one.
When tourists start dying Myrtle is worried about her business and her coven witch friend being suspects and so they decide to investigate but the bodies keep on coming. Can they find the suspect and keep their coven hidden?
Down the Hatch is the second book in the Magical Misfits Mystery series by author Lina Hansen. I haven’t read the first book but was reliably informed that this one could be read as a standalone, which I would say it can be but be prepared to be baffled for a few chapters whilst you work out what is happening.
The plot is entertaining and I loved the characters, especially Dot. I was intrigued by the murder investigation and how Avebury was home to not just witches but other mystical beings yet the coven was the only one not open for all to know about.
I found the book to be a quick read though a little quirky. I’m a big fan of stories containing witches though not much of a cosy mystery fan (I prefer full gore thrillers), so I wasn’t sure what to expect but it gave me some light relief and kept me interested and engaged throughout.
Overall, Down the Hatch was a mixture of genres. It was humorous in parts, contained mysterious moments, was set in modern times, and yet contained magical folk, oh, let’s not forget the fab detective work either. If you love all of the above then grab your copy today!
Avebury is starting to get busy with tourists as the summer solstice is near, plus the weather is extremely hot which is great for business but not so great for working in or for keeping your cool, in more ways than one.
When tourists start dying Myrtle is worried about her business and her coven witch friend being suspects and so they decide to investigate but the bodies keep on coming. Can they find the suspect and keep their coven hidden?
Down the Hatch is the second book in the Magical Misfits Mystery series by author Lina Hansen. I haven’t read the first book but was reliably informed that this one could be read as a standalone, which I would say it can be but be prepared to be baffled for a few chapters whilst you work out what is happening.
The plot is entertaining and I loved the characters, especially Dot. I was intrigued by the murder investigation and how Avebury was home to not just witches but other mystical beings yet the coven was the only one not open for all to know about.
I found the book to be a quick read though a little quirky. I’m a big fan of stories containing witches though not much of a cosy mystery fan (I prefer full gore thrillers), so I wasn’t sure what to expect but it gave me some light relief and kept me interested and engaged throughout.
Overall, Down the Hatch was a mixture of genres. It was humorous in parts, contained mysterious moments, was set in modern times, and yet contained magical folk, oh, let’s not forget the fab detective work either. If you love all of the above then grab your copy today!
April 2, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of this story.
“Down the Hatch” is an enchanting mystery. I was immediately pulled down the rabbit hole into Myrtle Coldron’s magical world of witchcraft, cozy B&Bs and small town politics.
The lush, beautifully detailed descriptions of idyllic Avebury village, with its prehistoric stone circle, combined with the bewitching and complex characters are sublime. It is impossible to put this book down once you start reading.
I absolutely adored Myrtle and her indomitable spirit.The fledgling witch has her plate full with murder, fine dining, and being thrust into the unsolicited role of protector in her family of witches. All while she’s still learning to master her skylles.
It doesn’t help that magic killed her aunt Eve and unexpectedly created her familiar, Petty, a rare zombie primula that moves with the erratic stealth of an unleashed genie.
My favorite parts of the story involve scenes with the non humans that cohabitate with Myrtle. A lovely senior cat named Tiddles and the Primula show stealer, Petty.
Myrtle is a wonderful character that I could immediately relate to as she struggled to overcome her self-doubt and take the leap into embracing her magic. She grows more determined once the danger threatens her and her loved ones.
It was an intense experience to witness the love between the Wytchett family, despite their suspicion of outsiders and the friction between the Coven’s stronger personalities.
“Down the Hatch” perfectly melds the elements of mystery, murder, and romantic love with perfect alchemy. I highly recommend this wonderful story.
“Down the Hatch” is an enchanting mystery. I was immediately pulled down the rabbit hole into Myrtle Coldron’s magical world of witchcraft, cozy B&Bs and small town politics.
The lush, beautifully detailed descriptions of idyllic Avebury village, with its prehistoric stone circle, combined with the bewitching and complex characters are sublime. It is impossible to put this book down once you start reading.
I absolutely adored Myrtle and her indomitable spirit.The fledgling witch has her plate full with murder, fine dining, and being thrust into the unsolicited role of protector in her family of witches. All while she’s still learning to master her skylles.
It doesn’t help that magic killed her aunt Eve and unexpectedly created her familiar, Petty, a rare zombie primula that moves with the erratic stealth of an unleashed genie.
My favorite parts of the story involve scenes with the non humans that cohabitate with Myrtle. A lovely senior cat named Tiddles and the Primula show stealer, Petty.
Myrtle is a wonderful character that I could immediately relate to as she struggled to overcome her self-doubt and take the leap into embracing her magic. She grows more determined once the danger threatens her and her loved ones.
It was an intense experience to witness the love between the Wytchett family, despite their suspicion of outsiders and the friction between the Coven’s stronger personalities.
“Down the Hatch” perfectly melds the elements of mystery, murder, and romantic love with perfect alchemy. I highly recommend this wonderful story.
June 30, 2023
This is the second in a series. I read it just to see where the story might go after the chaotic events of the last.
This is a cozy mystery with magic as its foundation. This is magic with a big M. A coven of witches is trying to compile all their individual family magic into one place so that they can all learn to grow their own skills. I actually liked the central mystery more than the power dynamics in the background.
In the previous book, the lead protagonist had recently discovered something about her family that she knew nothing about. She has been handed the responsibility of seeing her late aunt’s plan to its fruition. This is chaffing on her, especially since her powers seem like an unasked-for burden.
Myrtle hits the ground running in this installment since this story starts almost exactly where the other left off. We begin with a suspicious death that draws the police back into the same orbit as the other people we have come to recognize. There is a continuing narrative of the old witch hunters and the magicky people who left, but to know more about that, one will have to read the next. I may not be continuing with the series, but it is one I think the more fantasy-oriented fans of the cozy mystery genre would better appreciate.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publisher but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
This is a cozy mystery with magic as its foundation. This is magic with a big M. A coven of witches is trying to compile all their individual family magic into one place so that they can all learn to grow their own skills. I actually liked the central mystery more than the power dynamics in the background.
In the previous book, the lead protagonist had recently discovered something about her family that she knew nothing about. She has been handed the responsibility of seeing her late aunt’s plan to its fruition. This is chaffing on her, especially since her powers seem like an unasked-for burden.
Myrtle hits the ground running in this installment since this story starts almost exactly where the other left off. We begin with a suspicious death that draws the police back into the same orbit as the other people we have come to recognize. There is a continuing narrative of the old witch hunters and the magicky people who left, but to know more about that, one will have to read the next. I may not be continuing with the series, but it is one I think the more fantasy-oriented fans of the cozy mystery genre would better appreciate.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publisher but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
June 24, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Myrtle is having a hard time adjusting to the fact that she is a witch and she has powers she has yet to understand. She is being urged to take a leadership role in the Avebury coven which is a sad coven indeed. Never particularly powerful, what magic they had has fallen into disuse and there are only a couple of witches, Myr included, who have much potential.
So when tourists who have descended on Avebury for the solstice begin to die, Myrtle feels obligated to find the cause so that the coven can stay under the radar. When the cause of the deaths becomes known and the killer is identified, any chance of not getting more involved in coven affairs is crushed. Myrtle is going to have to step up or there will be more death and chaos.
There are interesting side stories throughout the book but the cat and mouse game that plays out is the heart of it. Myrtle’s fight internally and externally with her destiny keeps the reader engaged. And there are some delightful characters such as Myrtle’s unusual familiar. I got a kick out of their interaction. Four purrs and two paws up.
So when tourists who have descended on Avebury for the solstice begin to die, Myrtle feels obligated to find the cause so that the coven can stay under the radar. When the cause of the deaths becomes known and the killer is identified, any chance of not getting more involved in coven affairs is crushed. Myrtle is going to have to step up or there will be more death and chaos.
There are interesting side stories throughout the book but the cat and mouse game that plays out is the heart of it. Myrtle’s fight internally and externally with her destiny keeps the reader engaged. And there are some delightful characters such as Myrtle’s unusual familiar. I got a kick out of their interaction. Four purrs and two paws up.
April 1, 2023
MYRTLE COLDRON KICKS UP THE HEAT!
Myrtle Coldron is back in another mystery that threatens the shaky coven forming in Avebury . . . and just in time to stir in chaos and fear into the lunar festival and the many tourists that have descended on the (normally) quiet town.
Like a crispy, crackly loaf of bread that rises in the oven, DOWN THE HATCH will tickle your tastebuds and leave even the harshest mystery critics quite satisfied.
Take amazing imagery that frames a three-dimensional cast of characters, add a diabolical plot and contorting clues that implicate too many persons of interest to seat at the Whacky Bramble during dinnertime, and you've got DOWN THE HATCH!
It's no secret that Lina Hansen can cook up a good mystery. So, if you're hungry for sleuthing with a pinch of magic and a dash of danger, treat yourself to this delicious delicacy today!
Myrtle Coldron is back in another mystery that threatens the shaky coven forming in Avebury . . . and just in time to stir in chaos and fear into the lunar festival and the many tourists that have descended on the (normally) quiet town.
Like a crispy, crackly loaf of bread that rises in the oven, DOWN THE HATCH will tickle your tastebuds and leave even the harshest mystery critics quite satisfied.
Take amazing imagery that frames a three-dimensional cast of characters, add a diabolical plot and contorting clues that implicate too many persons of interest to seat at the Whacky Bramble during dinnertime, and you've got DOWN THE HATCH!
It's no secret that Lina Hansen can cook up a good mystery. So, if you're hungry for sleuthing with a pinch of magic and a dash of danger, treat yourself to this delicious delicacy today!
January 8, 2024
I don’t read cozy mysteries often, but this one had a paranormal twist, and I LOVE all things paranormal. Myrtle is a witch who’s trying her best to learn how to control her powers. She’s also dating a witch hunter and is the new leader of her coven, so she has her hands full. Then someone is murdered in her charming little English town. When the clues lead back to her coven, she has to figure out who the murderer is.
Myrtle was a delightful character. She was strong, smart, witty, and completely relatable. She’s unsure of herself and where she stands in her world, but she’s actively trying to figure it out. She has a great set of kooky friends and coven members that fill her days with laughter and drama. The descriptions of the English village were so detailed. I’d love to visit there.
I haven’t read the first book in the series, and that’s okay. This book stands on its own.
Myrtle was a delightful character. She was strong, smart, witty, and completely relatable. She’s unsure of herself and where she stands in her world, but she’s actively trying to figure it out. She has a great set of kooky friends and coven members that fill her days with laughter and drama. The descriptions of the English village were so detailed. I’d love to visit there.
I haven’t read the first book in the series, and that’s okay. This book stands on its own.
June 11, 2024
Did you know strong emotions power magic? Myrtle has such magical “skylles” (skills). She doesn’t only have that to contend with but the body found in the basement of the local pub. As tourists descend on the village for the solstice the timing couldn’t be worse.
Another death occurs, somehow people are being poisoned. Who’s responsible? A friend? A neighbour? A tourist? A coven member?
During a heatwave, with the coven at risk of exposure, Myrtle must figure it out, acting as an amateur sleuth, without making too much of a fool of herself in front of her love interest. Luckily she has a magical familiar to help.
Easy to read, nice tension building, for fans of cosy murder mysteries with magic, animals and love.
Another death occurs, somehow people are being poisoned. Who’s responsible? A friend? A neighbour? A tourist? A coven member?
During a heatwave, with the coven at risk of exposure, Myrtle must figure it out, acting as an amateur sleuth, without making too much of a fool of herself in front of her love interest. Luckily she has a magical familiar to help.
Easy to read, nice tension building, for fans of cosy murder mysteries with magic, animals and love.
February 23, 2023
Down the Hatch by Lina Hansen is book #2 in A Magical Misfits Mystery series. This is a paranormal cozy mystery which features Myrtle Coldron who is an untrained witch who isn't confident in her abilities at the beginning. Critical incidents add to her confidence when Myrtle finds she can accomplish more magic than she thought. The other members of the coven have weak skills, if any, so Myrtle is called on to help establish training for them. The mystery in this book is quite intriguing and I enjoyed reading along as it is solved.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 31, 2023
Is it weird to be excited about another murder, so you can visit your favorite magical town again? Maybe. But if you'd read this series, you'd be excited about a new installment, too! Myrtle is back, and of course things can't stay quiet for long. This time, everyone you fell in love with in book one is back to solve the mystery of dying tourists. An unforgettable town, amazing characters, and a plot with so many twists you'll be kept guessing until the very end. It's easy to get wrapped up in the book, so grab your favorite cup of tea and curl up with this amazing cozy mystery.
April 7, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the series, it is a magical murder mystery story.
Myrtle is a witch and runs a B&B, but during a busy summer, the tourists start turning up dead. Will Myrtle be able to keep her covens identity a secret while helping her friends solve the murders, all while also coming to understand her own magical skills and her flirtations with a witch hunter.
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Myrtle is a witch and runs a B&B, but during a busy summer, the tourists start turning up dead. Will Myrtle be able to keep her covens identity a secret while helping her friends solve the murders, all while also coming to understand her own magical skills and her flirtations with a witch hunter.
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 22, 2023
a solid 3.5, rounded up because I liked it quite a bit.
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review.
I enjoyed this! It took me a bit to remember who all the characters were, but I had fun. The mystery was engaging, though I found a few bits confusing. A good, solid book that kept me invested throughout. There were some cute bits that made me smile. If you liked the first, I think you will like this one, too.
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review.
I enjoyed this! It took me a bit to remember who all the characters were, but I had fun. The mystery was engaging, though I found a few bits confusing. A good, solid book that kept me invested throughout. There were some cute bits that made me smile. If you liked the first, I think you will like this one, too.
April 2, 2023
This was a fun read. We learn history and about magic because the main character is a new witch, against her will. She's blessed with a magical plant which provides great support. Not only is she learning about being a witch, but how to own and run a B&B, help organize a coven. All of this against the back drop of trying to solve murders!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2023
I love this delightful series: solid mysteries, interesting world building, likeable characters. The setting is amazing as Amesbury is wonderful magic place.
I had to wait nearly to 3 years to read this second instalment and I was very happy and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Let's hope there will be a new one soon.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I had to wait nearly to 3 years to read this second instalment and I was very happy and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Let's hope there will be a new one soon.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
June 14, 2023
Bewitching Mystery
This novel has a lot of what I like about the Midsomer Murders detective program, with a witch as the protagonist and detective. The unwilling leader of a witches' coven must find a murderer from a cast of Wiccans, pagans, and tourists in a charming English village. An enjoyable read, with many twists and turns on the way to the solution. One highlight for me was the sentient plant, which brought a spark to the mystery.
This novel has a lot of what I like about the Midsomer Murders detective program, with a witch as the protagonist and detective. The unwilling leader of a witches' coven must find a murderer from a cast of Wiccans, pagans, and tourists in a charming English village. An enjoyable read, with many twists and turns on the way to the solution. One highlight for me was the sentient plant, which brought a spark to the mystery.
April 6, 2023
Great sequel in the Magical Misfits Mysteries series, it had a great mystery going on and worked with the first book. I enjoyed what i read and thought it worked overall. It had a great writing style and I hope there is more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2023
DNF. I tried, I really tried to finish this but I haven't read the first book and I was completely mystified. The writing, characterization and plot of this book were quite good, but, overall, I feel like this series needs to be read in order to make sense.
April 6, 2023
This was not only a good story in general but a good whodunnit. I have to admit Petty is my favorite character. Ornery lol. I loved it. I laughed and just loved every minute!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2024
I was given a review copy of this book and found it entertaining and engaging.
I loved the idea of magic and this, coupled with crime, was a fun read.
I liked the writing style and the characters suited the plot.
Nicely done.
I loved the idea of magic and this, coupled with crime, was a fun read.
I liked the writing style and the characters suited the plot.
Nicely done.
September 19, 2024
The adventures of Myrtle are always fun. These books are a great mix of mystery, adventure, and humor, and Lina Hansen has a lovely, descriptive writing style. I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series!
June 24, 2023
Need to get away from your actual daily life and sink into something good... This is the book you'll want to read!
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