Witches and Wine ( A Paranormal Cozy Mystery)(California Witching Book 1)

written by Samantha Silver with Megan Marple
reviewed from Kindle

 Every so often I like to read a cozy in between other perhaps not-so-cozy books. Let's face it, I'll read almost any genre but not quite all, I have my limits. I enjoy paranormal cozies and this one hit the spot.

What do you say when somebody tells you that you are a witch, yes that is the right word, our heroine is a witch and she will soon be making some sweeping changes in her life. For instance, she is currently working in a no-future job at a car lot, when a lovely woman, Barbara, a complete stranger to her tells her she is a witch. Surprised that she didn't know she was "different" we learn that she was in fact adopted...no witchy parents to help her understand odd things about herself. Already I'm enjoying this book. This girl's life is about to become bizarre. Taylor is happy to leave her job and is on her way with Barbara to Rosemary Creek to live and learn. How does she come to meet this lovely woman with so much confidence in Taylor that she even offers her to share her own daughter Karen's suite? Interesting story, an event that Barbara witnesses. Taylor has just saved someone's life but is not even aware of what she has done. There are a lot of interesting things that occur that Taylor is in control of...or almost in control. She is constantly shocked at what she herself is doing. There will be a lot of twists and turns as the two girls try to solve a mystery with witchcraft while Karen's mother is being held for the murder of her ex-husband. Will witchcraft and magic win out?

I enjoyed the humour of this story. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the two girls Karen and Taylor, and the secrets they each had. Oh, yes, Taylor most definitely is a witch. She wants to be a veterinarian. Since her "specialty" is healing, what could be better than to work with animal rescue?

Circle of Nine: Beltany by Valerie Biel

Published by Travels and Travails publishing

I enjoyed reading this book. I'm sure it will appeal to young adults, teens, tweens and adults alike. Certainly worthy of the Gotham Writers Award. The angst of young people, the temptations, disappointments and fears are clearly defined throughout the book, witchcraft or not. I was completely engrossed by the book which contained the history of Brigit Quinn's family and of white magic. No vampires nor werewolves to distract me from the enjoyment of the families, Brigit's special gift and what the characters are able to do.

Brigit is fifteen years old, and until now had lived a normal life with her mother. She has friends who are normal friends and a boy friend. This is the story of her life, but also the history of her family. A trip to Ireland for Brigit's first Beltany ceremony (Beltane is May Day) swings the story around. I loved the book, it gave me suspense, history, the struggle of good and evil, all the while building in a natural flow to the climax which was unexpected. This book took me longer to read than it would have if my own life hadn't been interrupted several times while reading it which annoyed me to no end. I was so involved in the story that interruptions were a complete bother. No matter, it was easily picked up when I was able but I intend to read it again from start to finish as it should be. I also look forward to reading more from Valerie Biel. Great storyline. 5 star reading

Charmed to Death: an Ophelia and Abby Mystery by Shirley Damsgaard

Originally posted Friday, February 27, 2009
Just the series for those who like their witches gently turned out.

Number 2 in the Ophelia and Abby series, Ophelia, the apprehensive witch, finds herself stumbling alone without the guidance of her grandmother Abby, her trainer, tracking a witch-killer.

The troubles began with the death of Ophelia’s good friend five years previously, leaving her fearful of her destiny. Abby is the powerful witch but the two though able to perform many of the same feats, do not necessarily have the same gifts and Abby has the feeling that she will not be able to help her granddaughter on this mission. She can only give her clues as to what Ophelia’s visions may portend. The women of the family have passed down this destiny, skipping a generation here and there, one of the missed being Abby’s daughter, Ophelia’s mother. Abby gives Ophelia some ancient Norse runes that belonged to her great grandmother believing she will gain her insights through them. The runes come with a journal, and awaken deep feelings within.

After an accident leaves Abby in a coma, it is up to Ophelia, ready or not, to be strong and learn. She must be the one to complete the mission. This series of books is light-hearted, fun, and yet interesting. There are some continuing characters in the series, each well-developed or developing individually. I love these books and turn to one of them whenever I am in need of calming my mind from weightier matters or tomes. The promise shown in this, the second book, is something I look forward to in each and every one. Totally enjoyable, no vampires, beasts, or were-people, just two enduring and loving witches. A quick, easy read.