Axes & Alchemy - A Guest Post, Review, & Giveaway

I'm very happy to welcome Cosmo Merlin de Beaufort to Cozy Up With Kathy Today. You can find Cosmo on the pages of the Willowmere Mystery series. AXES & ALCHEMY is the second book in the series and was released last week.

 

Let me guess, dear reader. Now that you’ve discovered that there’s more to me than meets the eye, you have a few burning questions.

Rest assured, it’s only to be expected. Uppermost on your mind is certainly the mind-boggling conundrum what I, Cosmo Merlin de Beaufort, a cat of unusual beauty and illustrious past lives, am doing in a small town like Willowmere, Oregon. Surely a penthouse in Manhattan or an apartment close to the Champs-Elysées in Paris, even a castle in the Scottish Highlands would be more suitable for me.

How right you are. Maybe I will tell you another time about my past. First though I need to make sure that my biographer is deserving of my confidence. So far, she hasn't strayed from the truth, but it's early days. You never know when a human's imagination runs away with them!

I assume the second most important question on your mind - in some cases it might even have been the first - is whether you too have a wise, four-legged or winged mentor in your life.

The answer is: Yes, it’s entirely possible that your nonhuman family member is indeed your familiar, even if they don’t talk to you.

You see, not all powers are created equal, but animals and familiars have been watching over you for eons. To be fair, some of you are worthier than others - sadly we have learned that humans are not the most trustworthy of species, present company excluded, of course.

You have already proven yourself to be discerning, smart, lovable even. Otherwise, you would not be reading this. (And, yes, I can tell all this just by connecting with you through a blog post. This is a mere glimpse of the things I am capable of.)

But we were talking about your pets. Ask yourself these questions. How did your pet come into your life? Did your gaze lock somewhere at a rescue center or on the street? Did you see a picture of them? Did you feel an instant connection? A tug on your heartstrings?

Then, when you brought them home, what did you experience when you bonded? Was it a warm, fuzzy feeling when a tiny paw touched your hand or you fondled their ears or stroked a silky back? Didn't you relax? Breathe easier? Feel happy?

Isn't the sound of a meow or a bark or a chirp or bird song lifting your heart?

As for your trusted pet (or animal companions as I prefer to call us) watch over you? Do they curl up next to you when you’re unwell or heartbroken? Stand faithfully guard when you need protection?

Not to mention the many, many occasions when one of us has saved a human when there was a fire breaking out or filthy gas escaping.

Not all of us may be able to teach you valuable lessons like I do with Bex, but I am a feline of quite unusual powers, even among familiars.

But believe me, we all try to share with you lessons on how to be good, how to create a community, how to connect. Whatever happens in your life, as long as you have an animal companion you will never truly be lonely. That, my dear friend, that in itself is magic.

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Review

AXES & ALCHEMY by Carmen Radtke
The Second Willowmere Mystery 

Capturing the memories of Willowmere's oldest residents is a wonderful idea. Turning the recordings into a podcast seems like a novel way to share their wisdom. That is until the talk turns to hidden treasure in Willowmere. Whether pirate doubloons or the secret of alchemy itself, Bex Merriweather is right to be concerned. Even though the podcast is quickly removed0 treasure seekers appear and the nursing home is under siege! Bex's witchy warning system goes off giving her extreme hot flashes that have nothing to do with perimenopause and everything to do with someone else wielding magick. When a disliked townsperson is murdered there are too many suspects with a multitude of possible motives. With the help of her mentor, Cosmo, Bex will have to up her witch skills in order to protect the town and solve yet another murder!

Bex and Cosmo make a great team. While Cosmo teaches and trains, Bex infuses her own charm and spunk. I also enjoy how she investigates the mystery with her friends and especially how they get Ms. Vine to join in! The mystery is complex with lots of new characters and so many motives...almost too many. I like that there's a new venue in town, with new owners, but partway through the book they just seemed to fade away.

Woven into the murder mystery is a magickal one. Magickal items are left around the library. Yet, in the end the significance was never addressed. Who left the labradorite? Why? We don't know. Does it have something to do with what happened in the last chapter? Will it be explained in the next book?  

Showing once again that women in midlife are powerful and purposeful AXES & ALCHEMY is a fun mystery that combines magick, murder, and community. I look forward to seeing what happens next, especially with the introduction of Fleur!

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 Axes and Alchemy (A Cozy Midlife Witch Mystery) Willowmere Mysteries by Carmen Radtke

About Axes and Alchemy

Axes and Alchemy (A Cozy Midlife Witch Mystery) Willowmere Mysteries
Paranormal Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series
Setting - Oregon Independently Published
Publication Date: ‎ August 15, 2025
Number of Pages: ~230

Pirate loot and deadly feud … So much for a peaceful next chapter: Novice witch Bex Merriweather has her hands full running a leading library and secretly studying magic under the critical eye of her opinionated familiar and mentor, cat Cosmo. The last thing newly divorced perimenopausal Bex needs is more tasks needing her attention. But when a podcast connects a pirate treasure and voodoo magic with tranquil Willowmere and treasure hunters as well as occultists flock to the town, feuds erupt. When a dead body is found, Bex and Cosmo can’t discount the idea that greed and black magic had something to do with the murder. But can she protect her secret and the town without exposing the truth about her inheritance? And is somebody already on her trail – somebody wishing her ill? With only her cat and her trusted circle of friends, Bex sets out to catch a killer before the treasure of a long dead pirate claims another victim. Axes and Alchemy is the second case in this fun-filled series. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries, magical mayhem, and heroines who believe it’s never too late for a new chapter—or a little witchcraft!

About Carmen Radtke

Carmen has spent most of her life with ink on her fingers and a dangerously high pile of books and newspapers by her side.

She has worked as a newspaper reporter on two continents and always dreamt of becoming a novelist and screenwriter.

When she found herself crouched under her dining table, typing away on a novel between two earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand, she realised she was hooked for life.

The shaken but stirring novel made it to the longlist of the Mslexia competition, and her next book and first mystery, The Case Of The Missing Bride, was a finalist in the Malice Domestic competition in a year without a winner. Since then she has penned several more cozy mysteries, including the Genie and Adriana Darling ghost mysteries and the Jack and Frances series set in the 1930s.

Carmen now lives in Italy with her human and her four-legged family. Although she possesses no witchy powers, she’s known to be easily held spellbound by animals.

Author Links:

Website - https://www.carmenradtkeauthor.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carmenradtkeauthor

Purchase Link - Amazon

A Witch Awakens - An Interview, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Ellis Elliott to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Ellis writes the Fire Circle Mystery series. A WITCH AWAKENS is the first book in the series and was released earlier this month.

 
Kathy: In A WITCH AWAKENS we meet Cece (Tennessee) Brown who is a ballet teacher. As a theatre major I was required to study many years of dance and ballet was my favorite. Did you ever study ballet? Do you enjoy watching ballet?

EE: Yes! Ballet was my favorite, too! I’ve taught ballet for most of my adult life, taking in a local studio as a child from age 6 to 18, and then taking class in a regional ballet company while in college. I’ve been teaching since I was my teacher’s assistant in high school. I believe dance teaches us so much, besides the obvious physical benefits, and love the language of the body as much as words.

Kathy: Cece begins to realize she shares a family proclivity for a bit of second sight. Do you believe that some people have this gift? Do you know people who do? 

EE: Absolutely. I believe it comes from deep listening, consistent and deep attention, and the ability to accept and respond to the voice of your intuition. And I have had the privilege of knowing a couple of people who have cultivated this ability.
 

Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries? 

EE: I love the puzzle of a mystery, and for cozies in particular, the setting and characters. The world is harsh enough, and cozies offer intrigue mixed with just enough reality. They then couple that with the gift of a delightful new world.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres? 

EE: Yes. I am a poet and poetry lover. My first book, BREAK IN THE FIELD, was based on my grad school thesis and centers around my profoundly disabled son. After finishing that one, I wanted to try a different genre where I could let my imagination steer the ship awhile.

Kathy: Tell us about your series.

EE: The series centers around Cece, an almost 30-year-old woman who fails at making a living as a professional dancer and returns to teach dance in her grandmother’s studio in the mountains of East Tennessee. While she has always been aware of her neurodivergence, she comes to understand there is more to it than she previously thought, when her grandmother and great-aunt begin to explain the lineage of “granny women” she is a part of. These mountain women, known for their herbal healing and intuitive wisdom, also each have particular psychic gifts. The series will follow Cece and her elders as she discovers her own gifts, learns the complicated and powerful legacy she is a part of, and works to discover how best to use her gifts in the world.

Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

EE: I guess it would be our main character, Cece, but it is hard to pick! I choose her probably because I remember my younger self and how I was in such a rush to figure everything out, when with age we realize we never will.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

EE: I spent summers with my mother’s family in the mountains of East Tennessee. The women in the book were inspired by my own grandmother and her sister. I discovered granny women from reading the memoir of my great-great-grandfather about his experiences in East Tennessee in the Civil War.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

EE: I relied on my editor, and the publisher of my poetry book, to help edit and shape my first cozy mystery. When they changed over to hybrid-publishing, I decided to use their services to put this book into the world. They’ve been wonderful. 

 

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

EE: Poets Mary Oliver and Ada Limón, along with writers Barbara Kingsolver and Agatha Christie.

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

EE: I usually have fiction, non-fiction, and poetry going at once. That simply means I have the attention span of a gnat and have to flit between the three. Right now I’m reading STONEYARD DEVOTIONAL by Charlotte Wood,  THE COMFORT OF CROWS by Margaret Renkl, and SALTING THE OCEAN: 100 POEMS BY YOUNG POETS from Naomi Shihab Nye.

Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us? 

EE: I build dollhouses and make miniatures, take yoga and dance classes, love the water, reading, writing, and traveling with my husband, especially to go see our kids.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

EE: Yogurt, crunchy peanut butter, diet ginger beer, and jasmine rice.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

EE: Yes, this is the first one in “The Fire Circle Mysteries” series.

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

EE: Writing has always been my way to process the world, but with fiction writing I get to discover my own imagination, which is a whole different kind of adventure.

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Review

 

A WITCH AWAKENS by Ellis Elliott
The First Fire Circle Mystery 

Something's brewing in Eureka Grove, Tennessee and it's not just the coffee.

After trying to make it big in the Big Apple without much success Cece Chagall has returned to Eureka Grove. Working at her Nana's dance studio and creating doll houses Cece is relatively happy. However, her "peculiars" are getting worse. Sudden scents assault her and sometimes she'll see an image, but unsure of their meaning they're more troubling than anything else. However, the charity ball has her too busy to do anything about it. After her dancers perform without mishap Cece is ready to relax and enjoy the event, until a panicked Calvin pulls her outside to the loading dock where he shows her the dead body he just found. Stunned at the loss of the woman she considered a second mom Cece is determined to help find the killer.

What a great book! While A WITCH AWAKENS has a murder mystery and an investigation the book is almost more about understanding yourself, where you come from, and finding your place in it. There's more than one puzzle to solve as well. There's a murder mystery, the mystery of Cece's "peculiars", and the mystery of the gold box. Everything comes together in this delightful debut. I love the characters, not only Cece, Nana, and Aunt Granny Hazel, but Aunt Granny's friends, especially Cat. I like the smidge of flirtation we get, wondering if Cece and Joe will rekindle the romance of their youth and smiling when she gets annoyed with his police professionalism. There are some laughs and lots of familial love. And of course. darling May!

My favorite part was the ending. Not when the murder was solved, I had an inkling about that, but the very ending. I was surprised at one thing, though I shouldn't have been, and then had a wide grin at the very last bit! I also really appreciated the author's note and the bibliography. I am proud to say I own one of those books and need to get more! 

Steeped in Appalachian lore A WITCH AWAKENS is a delightful debut featuring authentic characters in a neatly plotted mystery.

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 A Witch Awakens: A Fire Circle Mystery by Ellis Elliott

About A Witch Awakens

A Witch Awakens: A Fire Circle Mystery
Cozy Mystery 1st in Series
Setting - In the Tennessee mountains
Publisher: Hawkshaw Press (May 19, 2025)
Number of Pages: 238

A Witch Awakens is about an accidental detective Cece (Tennessee) Brown, who returns home to Tennessee after deciding the Big Apple just didn't suit her. While working as the local ballet teacher she helps her friend Bess to put on the annual Fall Ball. Unfortunately, during a thunderstorm the night of the ball, one of the town's most notable women is found dead. Cece was very close to the victim, and begins to have little dizzy spells where she starts to get pictures of things around her town, and feelings compelling her to visit certain locations. Under the guidance of her grandmother and her Aunt Granny, Cece begins to realize she shares a family proclivity for a bit of second sight. It's a story where Cece solves a mystery, but also begins to accept who she is, and where she's from, and what makes her little town, and herself, special. She solves the mystery of herself.

About Ellis Elliott

ELLIS ELLIOTT is a facilitator of the online writing group Bewilderness Writing. She also teaches writing and ballet in an after-school arts education program. Ellis holds an MFA from Queens University. She is a contributing writer for the Southern Review of Books, and serves as an editor/workshop instructor for The Dewdrop contemplative journal.

She is the author of the 2023 poetry chapbook, Break in the Field (Old Scratch Press), which KIRKUS calls “A deeply felt collection of candid verse.” Her work can also be found in numerous publications, including Signal Mountain Review, Plainsongs Poetry Magazine/Award Poem, Euphony Journal, and the Women of Appalachia Project Anthology. Ellis has a blended family consisting of six grown sons. She resides in West Palm Beach, Florida, with her husband, Tim, and a feisty dog named Mabel.  

Author Links:

• Website: https://bewildernesswriting.squarespace.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bewildernesswriting
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliselliott2020
• LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ellis-gatewood-elliott-30ab4059

Purchase Links - AMAZON -

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading A Witch Awakens by Ellis Elliott. This book is the first in the Fire Circle Mystery series and was released earlier this month.

Something's brewing in Eureka Grove, Tennessee and it's not just the coffee.

After trying to make it big in the Big Apple without much success Cece Chagall has returned to Eureka Grove. Working at her Nana's dance studio and creating doll houses Cece is fairly content. However, her "peculiars" are getting worse. Sudden scents assault her and sometimes she'll see an image, but unsure of their meaning they're more troubling than anything else. The charity ball has her too busy to do anything about it. After her dancers perform without mishap Cece is ready to relax and enjoy the event, until a panicked Calvin pulls her outside to the loading dock where he shows her the dead body he just found. Stunned at the loss of the woman she considered a second mom Cece is determined to help find the killer.

The Mystery in the Margins - An Interview, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome L. L. Gray to Cozy Up With Kathy today. L. L. writes the Havenwood Cozy Mystery series. THE MYSTERY IN THE MARGINS is the first book in the series and was released

 
Kathy: In THE MYSTERY IN THE MARGINS we meet Harper Sullivan, who has inherited her great-grandmother’s bookshop. Have you ever dreamed of owning a bookshop?

LLG: Oh, absolutely—though, in my dream, I don’t actually work in the bookshop. I think I dream of owning a cozy library instead, where I can curl up with baked goods, sip coffee, and pet the shop cat who magically handles all customer service. It’s the perfect business plan, don’t you think?


Kathy: Harper yearns for a place to call home, preferably with a delightful bakery nearby. Do you have a local bakery you like to visit? What are your favorite baked goodies to purchase?

LLG: I’m convinced that any bakery is my happy place. If it smells like sugar, chocolate, or bread, I’m in! Seasonal treats always catch my eye—gingerbread in winter, pumpkin anything in fall—but I’m also a sucker for a good chocolate croissant. And if there’s a caramel drizzle involved? Game over.


Kathy: The Havenwood Cozy Mystery series is a paranormal series. Why choose to add magic?

LLG: Because life is just better with a little sparkle, isn’t it? I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of hidden magic—things that feel ordinary on the surface but have this incredible depth and wonder beneath. Honestly, I think we all could use a little magic to brighten our everyday lives. Plus, who doesn’t secretly wish their bookshop could talk back to them?


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

LLG: There’s something about the combination of quirky small towns, lovable characters, and a touch of intrigue that just feels like a warm hug. Add a bit of humor and some baked goods, and you’ve got me hooked. I’ve always loved solving puzzles, so writing cozies felt like the perfect way to bring all those elements together.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

LLG: I do! I have a dark fantasy series called Smoke and Shadows, which is pretty much the polar opposite of Havenwood. Think grit, fire, and sharp edges. But if you’re into smart, strong, and sassy characters, it might still be your cup of tea—albeit a very dark one.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

LLG: The Havenwood Cozy Mystery series is like Gilmore Girls meets Hogsmeade, but with less drama and more magical shenanigans. It’s full of quirky characters, cozy small-town vibes, and just enough mystery to keep you guessing. Meanwhile, Smoke and Shadows dives into a much darker world—think epic battles, morally gray characters, and magic with consequences. Both are built around strong, clever characters, and each has its own unique flavor.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

LLG: Oh, it’s so hard to choose! I adore writing Luna because she says all the things I keep in my head (and throws in a sassy rabbit curse or two for good measure). But Ignatius is also a blast—he's such a cute little dragon! Also, there’s something about writing a magical shop that has its own personality. And of course, Honey is a delight, though she always makes me hungry with her treats!


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

LLG: Absolutely! My goal was to create a cozy, bookish community filled with quirky, relatable characters who feel like they could be your best friends. I wanted Havenwood to feel like a place readers could escape to—a town full of magic, charm, and characters you’d want to have coffee (or tea!) with while solving mysteries and getting into just the right amount of trouble.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

LLG: Honestly, I was looking for a new adventure. Writing and creating magical worlds gave me the chance to step into something exciting and share that spark with others. I wanted to bring readers along for the ride, to invite them into these stories. Plus, keeping all the bookish chaos bottled up seemed like a disservice—and to my characters would not approve. I wouldn't want to make Luna mad at me!
 

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

LLG: What a party that would be! I’d invite Rhys Bowen for her cozy mystery vibes, J.R.R. Tolkien for his incredible world-building (and to pick his brain about crafting magical worlds), Agatha Christie for her unmatched ability to craft mysteries, and Shayne Silvers for his absolute shenanigans and unexpected plot twists. It’d be the perfect blend of cozy, creative, and chaotic—and I’d probably spend the whole evening laughing.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

LLG: I’m diving into Auburn Tempest’s Urban Druid Chronicles—it’s such a fun series with great characters and lots of magic. Perfect for getting lost in!


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

LLG: Other than writing, I’m a musician, I love to draw, and I’m happiest when I’m out in nature—preferably somewhere with trees, a good breeze, and maybe a cozy spot to read.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

LLG: Coffee (because life), chocolate (obviously), apples (to balance things out), and cheddar cheese (because I'm still a Wisconsin girl at heart).


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

LLG: Oh, absolutely! I’ve got 17 books (and a couple of novellas) planned out for Havenwood—though knowing me, that number might grow. I also have a few other series battling for my attention, but alas, there are only so many hours in a day.


Kathy: What’s your favorite thing about being an author?

LLG: Hands down, it’s connecting with readers. Getting to chat with people who love books, magic, and mystery as much as I do is the absolute best. My readers are my kind of people!

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Review

 

THE MYSTERY IN THE MARGINS by L. L. Gray
The First Havenwood Cozy Mystery

 

It's been a long time since Harper Sullivan has been in Havenwood, Connecticut, but she's ready to settle down in the magical town. As the sole heir, Harper is looking forward to running Spellbooks, her great-grandmother's bookshop, even as she regrets not spending much time with Granny Bea before her death. But her excitement starts to fizzle when she learns that someone broke into the shop and stole several rare books. Her dreams take another hit when she learns that she is not the sole heir. Granny Bea has set a competition between Harper and her cousin to determine who will inherit Spellbooks. Harper has a lot of great ideas, but will her desire to be Spellbooks' new owner be enough to beat out the cousin she never knew existed? Perhaps if she were to discover who stole Granny Bea's books she'd have a leg up in the competition. Gathering old and new friends together Harper is determined to find the books, inherit the bookshop, and make Havenwood her forever home.

 

Welcome to Havenwood! I am in love with this absolutely enchanting town and its residents...well, most of them. Harper is a charming protagonist. She's caring, but has gumption and is not afraid to bend the rules a bit. I like that her magick is more mundane-and imminently useful! I also appreciate that she doesn't automatically trust everyone, even if she likes them, especially that certain Druid. A more than competent group of law enforcement officers are investigating and I really like each of them. I also like Harper's friends, new and old. I think my favorite character has to be Luna. This feisty rabbit with her rabbity cursing had me in stitches! 

There are no dead bodies in the first Havenwood Cozy Mystery, but there is a very well plotted intriguing mystery. Shadowy figures and a dastardly cousin, along with some shady activity bring angst. Action scenes provide excitement, but there are plenty of laughs too. 

 

Witches, vampires, werewolves, and more mystical characters come together to create a delightful series debut in THE MYSTERY IN THE MARGINS. You'll be craving some of Honey's baked goods while enjoying the love and camaraderie of good friends who are like family. I truly enjoyed my first visit to Havenwood and I can't wait to go back!

 

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 The Mystery in the Margins: A Cozy Mystery (Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mysteries) by L.L. Gray

About The Mystery in the Margins

The Mystery in the Margins: A Cozy Mystery (Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mysteries)
Paranormal Cozy Mystery 1st in Series
Setting - Connecticut
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Heroic Rose Publishing (August 25, 2024)
Hardcover: ‎ 258 pages Paperback: ‎ 258 pages

A quaint bookshop, a sprinkle of magic, and a dash of mystery.

Harper Sullivan yearns for a place to call home, preferably with a delightful bakery nearby. When news arrives that she's inherited her great-grandmother's bookshop in the charming town of Havenwood, Harper eagerly seizes the chance. Unbeknownst to her, the quaint bookshop carries more than just shelves of stories—it harbors inherited mysteries and a touch of magical mayhem.

But instead of the cozy haven she envisioned, Harper finds herself entangled in inheritance drama, a surprising cousin rivalry, and a daring book thief on the loose. Can she use her wits and witchy powers to untangle the mystery and safeguard her dreams from unraveling before they even begin?

Crack the case today! Grab your copy and solve the mystery!

About L.L. Gray

L.L. Gray writes warm, witty, and whimsical cozy mysteries filled with magic, mystery, and a dash of humor. Her books transport readers to charming worlds where lovable characters navigate twists and turns with a touch of magic. A lifelong lover of fantasy and myths, L.L. Gray blends humor and heart, crafting stories that feel like coming home. When she’s not writing, she’s often battling gnomes and other magical mischief-makers with her kids or connecting with readers online.

Author Links

• Website: https://llgray.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/llgrayauthor/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/llgrayauthor/?hl=en
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22508523.L_L_Gray
• Other: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/l-l-gray

Purchase Link - Amazon 

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading The Mystery in the Margins by L.L. Gray. This book is the first in the Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mystery series.

It's been a long time since Harper Sullivan has been in Havenwood, Connecticut, but she's ready to settle down in the magical town. As the sole heir, Harper is looking forward to running Spellbooks, her great-grandmother's bookshop, even as she regrets not spending much time with Granny Bea before her death. But her excitement starts to fizzle when she learns that someone broke into the shop and stole several rare books. Her dreams take another hit when she learns that she is not the sole heir. Granny Bea has set a competition between Harper and her cousin to determine who will inherit Spellbooks. Harper has a lot of great ideas, but will her desire to be Spellbooks new owner be enough to beat out the cousin she never knew existed? Perhaps if she were to discover who stole Granny Bea's books she'd have a leg up in the competition. Gathering old and new friends together Harper is determined to find the books, inherit the bookshop, and make Havenwood her forever home.

Six Stunning Sirens - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a series in which I've fallen woefully behind. Six Stunning Sirens by Lynn Cahoon is the sixth book in the Kitchen Witch Mystery series.

Blurb:

In a triumph for Mia’s catering business and cooking school, Mia’s Morsels is chosen to host a fall festival event in their Idaho mountain town—which means managing a bunch of stage moms and their social-media obsessed daughters as they get ready for the big beauty contest. There’s a lot riding on the results of the Harvest Moon Festival—it’s where the winning family receives an inside track to coven power.

But after one stage mom is found dead, and another winds up in the hospital, the coven suspects magical meddling. With a week to go before the coronation of the new queen, Mia must draw on her sleuthing powers to find out what’s going on—and whether this competition has gotten a little too cutthroat . . .

Witchy Bad Blood - An Interview, Excerpt, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome C. A. Phipps to Cozy Up With Kathy today. C. A. writes the Midlife Potions Mystery series. Witchy Bad Blood is the fourth book in the series and was released last week.

Kathy: Jess would rather be waving a spatula than a wand. What about you? Which would you rather wield?

CAP: I love baking too! It comes a close second to writing.

Kathy: Jess has a snarky cat familiar. Do you have a cat, snarky or otherwise?

CAP: Not right now, but I have had one. Instead I have a prima donna dog. She has us wrapped around her tiny paw and knows it!

Kathy: Jess wants to open a bakery. Do you like to bake? What's your favorite thing to bake? Do you have a favorite bakery item to eat?

CAP: As I said I do love to bake and will give most things a try although nothing too fancy. I bake scones most weeks which are very English and easy. Savory scones are amazing and perfect for winter with soup. My favorite bakery item is carrot cake.

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about writing paranormal cozies?

CAP: Anything goes! Not only to I get to make my fictitious world I can let my imagination run free.

Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

CAP: Having read Agatha Christie and Enid Blyton growing up it felt like a natural fit.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

CAP: I’ve written contemporary romance for years.

Kathy: Tell us about your series. 

CAP: Right now I have 4 series. Midlife Potions is my only paranormal series but the first book in a new one will be coming out for Christmas. It centers around Jessica Lavender who becomes a witch at 45. Her cat explains the situation which as you can imagine is a shock. Now she must go home and run her mom’s potions store and since she is a baker Jess is not happy about it.

Maple Lane Mysteries features Madeline Flynn who comes home to care for her Gran and gets to have her dream of opening her own bakery. When a friend is found murdered she must solve the crime before her ex-boyfriend, now the sheriff, puts her in jail!

The Cozy Café Mysteries has three sisters who are fighting to keep their mom’s café going, but the Mayor and his cronies have other ideas. They are suckers for rescue pets.

The Beagle Diner Mysteries is about a celebrity chef hounded by the paparazzi. Along with her corgi, Cinnamon, Lyra St Claire is embroiled in a murder that changes their lives.

Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

CAP: My favorite character is always the one I am currently writing about. Right now it is Jessica Lavender in Midlife potions. The fact that she is older means I can relate to how she feels in certain circumstances.

Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

CAP: In another life I would have been so happy to have a bakery. Sharing recipes with readers and imagining them trying them out makes me happy.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

CAP: I had so many stories languishing when I met my small posse of like-minded authors at a conference. We pushed each other forward and 45 books later….

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

CAP: Agatha Christie, Jane Austen, Marian Keyes, Diana Gabaldon.
 

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

CAP: The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley.

Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

CAP: After baking, I sew and make miniature settings from packs – coffee shop, flower shop etc. I also love watching Football and Rugby.

Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

CAP: Cheese, milk, chocolate and flour.

Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

Yes already have the next book in the series up for preorders as well as 2 for books in other series and a preorder for a cookbook! My next series will begin in December but has no title yet.

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

CAP: Being my own boss is right up there with doing something I love.

**************************************************************************

Book Excerpt: 

Maestro must trust her enough to agree to finally let her have the one thing she’d dreamed of since she was a child. Not a bakery to work in—her bakery. "You won’t be sorry, Maestro. I’ll work as hard as you need me to." "I’m counting on it," the cat said dryly. "Now, perhaps you should test our theory and go bake something that you might encourage someone to eat." While Jess pondered how his mind had changed so fast, even though he hated the idea, she was ridiculously happy and couldn’t help showing it. "Actually, that could be an issue." His eyes narrowed. "In what way?" "People want to eat my food," she teased. "I certainly don’t need to push them to do it with a spell.” He snorted and the crabby cat disappeared for a brief moment so that he looked adorably cute, making her want to hug him. She refrained. Ever since he revealed he was a talking cat and she discovered she was a witch, displays of affection became off-limits. She’d owned him for five years before that incredible day changed her life and her mom had had him before that. Five years of snuggles, kisses, and pats. Then, nothing. Maestro eyed her for a moment, his expression uncharacteristically confused. Then he coughed and continued along the path. "We should get back. Your sister still needs supervision most of the time." Secret sister, she corrected in her head, as a wave of coldness ran over her body. "Maestro…" Turning quickly at her tone, he raced back to her side. "What is it?" "Something smells wrong. There’s something in the woods that doesn’t feel right.” His ears flick left and right. "Something—or someone?" They peered through the trees, her nose searching for the source of the smell, trying to discern its meaning. It couldn’t be deemed as friendly. Was it a warning? Danger or perhaps death? She shivered. To know what death smelled like was all kinds of wrong.

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 Witchy Bad Blood: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery (Midlife Potions) by C. A. Phipps

About Witchy Bad Blood

Witchy Bad Blood: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery (Midlife Potions)
Paranormal Cozy Mystery 4th in Series
Setting - Good Fortune - Oregon
Independently Published (June 1, 2024)
Print length: ‎ 169 pages

Family can be deadly!

No one, including Jess, had any idea she was anything exceptional. Until she began solving crimes.

The trouble is, she'd rather be waving a spatula than a wand and her snarky cat familiar isn't happy about it.

She's listed her priorities: 1 Bring her mom back from the ghostly realm. 2 Open a bakery. 3 Try to keep her mouth shut about her secret sister—who she has to work with. 4 Don't ask questions about her father.

Having a plan will make life bearable-as long as there isn't another murder and she doesn't mess anything up!

This paranormal cozy mystery will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about magic and murder.

Midlife Potions Witchy Awakening Witchy Hot Spells Witchy Flash Back Witchy Bad Blood

About C. A. Phipps

C. A. Phipps is a USA Today best-selling author from beautiful New Zealand. Cheryl is an empty nester living in a quiet suburb alongside her wonderful husband, 'himself'. With an extended family to keep her busy when she's not writing, there is just enough space for a crazy mixed breed dog who stole her heart! She enjoys family times, baking, and her quest for the perfect latte.

Author Links: 

You can find me via my website and pick up the book at the same time: http://caphipps.com  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/cozymysteryreaderhangout  

BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/c-a-phipps  

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/caphipps  

Twitter/X https://twitter.com/CherylAPhipps 

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/caphippsauthor/   

Purchase Links - Amazon B&N Kobo  

You can find me via my website and pick up the book at the same time: http://caphipps.com Or get your copy via any other platform: https://books2read.com/witchy-bad-blood  

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Gone with the Witch - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a book on my TBR pile. Gone with the Witch by Angela M. Sanders is the fifth book in the Witch Way Librarian Mystery series. I am way behind in this series and need to catch up!

Blurb:

When human bones are discovered beneath an old outhouse covered in blackberry vines, no one knows who they once belonged to. But elderly Helen Garlington wants Sam the sheriff to test the remains, suspecting they may solve the mystery of her long-vanished husband. It’s not a match, and Helen takes it hard, drowning her disappointment in sherry at the tavern—where she sees a contestant on a game show who she swears is her missing spouse, Martin. To ease the woman’s mind, Josie contacts the show to track down the look-alike guest, who kindly agrees to travel to Wilfred—and is then found dead the next morning.
 
Horrified by this fatal turn of events, Josie asks the spellbound books for help, seeking the aid of Sherlock Holmes. But strange things continue to happen—frightening images flash on the screen of a long-abandoned movie theater and flocks of crows seem to appear wherever she goes. Is Josie about to meet her own Moriarty? It will take all her courage to untangle the twisted vines of this mystery before this chapter in the colorful story of Wilfred claims another life . . .

Tragic Tuesday - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Denise Jaden to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Denise writes the he Tabitha Chase Days of the Week mystery series. Tragic Tuesday is the seventh book in the series and will be released this Thursday!

Kathy: In Tragic Tuesday Tabby decides that creating a community garden will help unite the town of Crystal Cove. Have you ever been involved in a community garden?

DJ: I have not. I do, however, have friends who are part of community gardens, and my mom lives in a complex where there is a community garden right outside her window, and she is regularly telling me about the goings-on in and around that garden.

 

Kathy: Do you enjoy gardening? If so, what are your favorite things to grow?

DJ: I really love gardening, but I have to admit, it’s usually only every few years when I put in the time and effort to do anything significant. But once I get going, I love figuring out what each plant needs to thrive, and especially watching them grow.

 

Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

DJ: I love the puzzle of cozy mysteries. At first, as a reader, I found the genre daunting because of the many characters involved. But now I love treating it like a puzzle. I write down character names as I’m reading and tidbits I think may be important. It’s really a fun genre and very intellectually stimulating!

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

DJ: I used to write some young adult fiction and some romance, and I may go back to those one day, but at the moment I’m enjoying the cozy mysteries too much.


Kathy: Tell us about your series. 

DJ: The Tabitha Chase Days of the Week Series is set in the seaside town of Crystal Cove, Oregon. Tabby lives aboard her late aunt’s houseboat with her spectacled psychic cat, and even though Tabby has never considered herself similar to any of the local witches, she is slowly learning about her family’s magical gifts.

My other cozy mystery series is the Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Capers. Mallory and her cat Hunch solve the mysteries of Honeysuckle Grove, West Virginia with the help of her former seventh-grade crush—now a swoon-worthy detective, and an obstinate teenager whose dad has just been murdered.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

DJ: It’s hard to choose, but if I HAD to, I’d have to pick Sherlock the cat. He wears glasses on his face and a magical crystal around his neck and mind-speaks to Tabby—but only when he’s in the mood.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

DJ: I polled my readers about a year ago and asked what kind of cozy mystery series they’d like to see me write next. The resounding answer was a Para-cozy. I’ve never been a big reader of paranormal, so I decided to write the series from the point of view of a character who is skeptical of all things magical. It works for both of us!


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

DJ: Back when I was writing young adult fiction, a million years ago, my critique partner convinced me to try to get a literary agent. It was great feeling like I had an agent on my side, and very exciting when I started having interest in my books from publishers.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

DJ: Oh, gosh, that’s a tough one! I would have to pick at least one Biblical author—probably John. I would also love to invite Elana Johnson, Gillian Flynn, and Agatha Christie. I think they would all have a lot of insight and I imagine it would be a very lively party!
 

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

DJ: At the moment, I’m reading through a new book I’m working on and trying to plot the ending. While I do this sort of work, I prefer not to read anything else. This book will be the start of a new cozy mystery series set on a cruise ship.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

DJ: In my spare time, I love to go to the gym and I also have been a Polynesian dancer for many years. I also dabble in graphic design—mostly to promote my books—but I really enjoy creative ventures other than writing. It gives my mind the break it needs.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

DJ: Cheese, protein powder, chia seeds, and romaine lettuce. That sounds strange, but those are the things I could come up with that we always have!


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

DJ: Yes! Like I said above, I am hard at work on a new mystery set on a cruise ship. It will launch a new series and I’m really excited to share it with readers!


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

DJ: I LOVE interacting with readers. If you have ever thought of writing to an author and decided not to, I would encourage you, please do it! I love getting to know readers and what they enjoy about my books. I also love working in my pajamas. J

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 Tragic Tuesday: A Tabitha Chase Days of the Week Mystery by Denise Jaden

About Tragic Tuesday

Tragic Tuesday: A Tabitha Chase Days of the Week Mystery
Cozy Mystery 7th in Series
Setting - Oregon
Independently Published (March 14, 2024)
Number of Pages - 250

It’s springtime, and Tabby figures what better way to unite the town of Crystal Cove than creating a community garden! The problem is, she knows nothing about tending the earth. However, there are several folks in town who have strong beliefs in how to start a garden right—unfortunately, all of these strong beliefs seem to disagree with one another.

Tabby thinks she has it handled when she comes up with a system that makes each group of gardeners feel valued in their plans and opinions, but when one of the most opinionated women turns up dead in the middle of the fresh soil, it seems she has another murder on her hands—and one she feels at least partially responsible for.

Join Tabby, Jay, Aaron, and Sherlock as they investigate and try to get to the bottom of this garden tragedy.

About Denise Jaden

For a limited time, stop by Denise's website at www.denisejaden.com, sign up for her newsletter, and get a bonus mystery just for signing up! Get freebies, exclusive content, and book news - you can unsubscribe at any time!

Denise Jaden is a co-writer for the Rosa Reed Mystery Series by Lee Strauss. The Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Capers will be released throughout the year. Her young adult novels have received critical acclaim and her non-fiction books are touted as staples for any writers' bookshelf.

In her spare time, she acts with the Vancouver film industry and dances with a Polynesian dance troupe. She lives just outside Vancouver, Canada with her husband, her son (a budding filmmaker), and one very spoiled cat.

Author Links: 

Website:http://www.denisejaden.com  

Bookshop: http://shop.denisejaden.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denisejadenauthor  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/denisejaden  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denise.jaden 

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2919206.Denise_Jaden 

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/denise-jaden  

Purchase Link - Amazon 

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Mrs. Morris and the Mermaid - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

MRS. MORRIS AND THE MERMAID by Traci Wilton
The Eighth Salem B&B Mystery 

 

Charlene Morris is thrilled to have a full house at her B&B. Her guests are in Salem for the city's first Mermaid parade. Brandy Flint, Charlene's friend and resident witch, managed to bring the recluse and star of the famed mermaid movie Sirena into town to celebrate the film's anniversary. The stars from the recent reboot of the film have also arrived and rabid fans are taking sides. When Charlene discovers a major player dead, the whole event could be washed away. With the help of her ghostly best friend Charlene will have to uncover the murderer and make sure this first Mermaid event is not the last.

Many people forget that the word fan comes from the word fanatic. Instead of merely liking and showing appreciation, fanatics take things to the next level and are excessive in their devotion. While MRS. MORRIS AND AND THE MERMAID has some fans, it also has a host of true fanatics whose beliefs and actions lead to murder.  

I always enjoy visiting Charlene's B&B. She treats her guests like family. In fact her hospitality can be a bit over the top, being overprotective of her guests and wanting their every needs met. I certainly wouldn't pass up Millie's cooking, however, and wish I had her and Will taking care of my home! 

 

Several suspects and lots of bad behavior, along with stars who are too high and mighty populate the pages of MRS. MORRIS AND THE MERMAID. Even our victim wasn't that nice. And I certainly wanted to smack the smirks off the young stars of the reboot. As for the fan club presidents...whoo boy.

In addition to the murder, there's a good deal of personal drama in the eighth Salem B&B Mystery. Charlene is starting to open her heart up to romance with Sam, but is sneaking around and not being completely honest a true relationship? And then there's Jack. No spoilers, but what an ending.

 

Movie stars, mermaids, and murder combine in a unique mystery, decades in the making. MRS. MORRIS AND THE MERMAID is a delightful tale that questions your ability to truly know someone.

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 Mrs. Morris and the Mermaid (A Salem B&B Mystery) by Traci Wilton

About Mrs. Morris and the Mermaid

Mrs. Morris and the Mermaid (A Salem B&B Mystery)
Cozy Mystery 8th in Series
Setting - Massachusetts
Publisher: ‎ Kensington Cozies (February 20, 2024)
Mass Market Paperback: ‎ 368 pages

Set in Salem, Massachusetts, this fun, cozy series sees a widowed B&B owner teaming up with a charming ghost to solve murders—an engaging read for fans who like a paranormal tinge to their mysteries.

Charlene and her handsome spectral friend, Dr. Jack Strathmore, are thrilled that their Salem, Massachusetts, B&B is overflowing with mermaids in advance of the town’s newest attraction—a mermaid parade! Retired Hollywood actress Trinity Powers has even agreed to appear on the lead float to commemorate her breakout role as the eponymous mermaid in the blockbuster cult classic, Sirena. The parade also features Trinity’s rival, an up-and-coming ingénue, who stars in the film’s recent (and somewhat controversial) reboot. Though their rabid fan clubs seem ready to tear each other—and the festivities—apart, the vying actresses are keeping it cool, for now . . .

But when Charlene discovers a mermaid murdered, she realizes a killer is out to steal the show. With the help of Jack and Detective Sam Holden, Charlene plunges into the case, determined to stop a killer from striking again . . .

About Traci Wilton

 

From cozy mysteries to seaside romance, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over sixty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite tale for everyone. Mystery lovers, check out her Scottish Shire series, set in the seaside town of Nairn, or the Salem B&B Mystery series, as Traci Wilton. Her latest project is an Irish Castle cozy as Ellie Brannigan. Whether it’s her ever-popular By the Sea romances, an Appletree Cove sweet romance, or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, living right near the ocean.  

Author Links:

Website https://www.tracihall.com/ 

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/tracie.hall.35/ 

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/traciella/  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Traciwiltonauthor/  

Twitter https://twitter.com/tracihallauthor  

Amazon https://amazon.com/author/tracihall  

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tracihallauthor/  

Kensington https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/author/traci-wilton/  

Purchase Links – Amazon - Kindle – Amazon - Paperback - B&N – Kobo - Bookshop.org 

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Murder in a Cup - A Review

 Review

MURDER IN A CUP by Lauren Elliott
The Second Crystals and CuriosiTEAS Mystery

Shay is eager to participate in the Fall Harvest Wine and Food Festival, but she's got an "inky" feeling. Trouble is coming. Before she knows it, trouble has arrived. A custody battle is about to begin over Tassi, Shay's young assistant. When a customer dies at a group tea leaf reading, Tassi's comments lead police to arrest her. Now her father is doing everything he can to destroy Shay as well. Liam's Gran is guiding Shay, but will that be enough?

My stomach was in knots with all the tension and conflict in the first part of the book. I get so upset when powerful people go after people I like in an attempt to destroy them. And that's exactly what Tassi's father does to Shay. And Shay is someone I like. It goes to show how invested I am in these characters and how much I care!

Family is a key ingredient in the Crystals and CuriosiTEAS Mystery series; the good, the bad, and the ugly. And there's plenty of ugly. On the good side, Gran is an amazing addition to the series. Wise and funny, she also can give Shay insight into her family and her gifts. I love seeing the relationships at play here, between Shay and her sister, Shay and Liam, and more.

MURDER IN A CUP ratcheted up my anxiety, giving me a tense emotional mystery and lots of family drama, before leaving me satisfied...except for a certain relationship whose timing isn't working just yet.

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading Murder in a Cup by Lauren Elliott. This book is the second in the Crystals and CuriosiTEAS Mystery series.  

Shay is eager to participate in the Fall Harvest Wine and Food Festival, but she's got an "inky" feeling. Trouble is coming. Before she knows it, trouble has arrived. An custody battle is about to ensue over Tassi, Shay's young assistant. When a customer dies at a group tea leaf reading, Tassi's comments lead police to arrest her. Now her father is doing everything he can to destroy Shay as well. Liam's Gran is guiding Shay, but will that be enough?

Killing Grinds - A Guest Post, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Stella  Rutherford to Cozy Up With Kathy today. You can find Stella on the pages of the Orchard Hollow Mystery series by A. N. Sage. KILLING GRINDS is the third book in the series and was released last month.

Ghost Couture: Tips for Dressing to Impress at Your Own Funeral

Hi, darling. Stella Rutherford here. After the tragic demise of my fabulous earthly existence, I've been stuck in Orchard Hollow with nothing to do but perfect my ghostly glam. That and help my witch Piper solve some murders, but that is not the good time you’d think it was. So, let me spill the ectoplasm on how to slay the afterlife runway at your own funeral.


Accessorize with Ethereal Elegance:

Who says death can't be accessorized? A floating veil adds that touch of mystery, plus it's perfect for those days when you just want to go incognito among the living.


The Perfect Ghostly Gown:

Choose a gown that screams "I died, but make it fashion." Opt for fabrics that flow: tulle, silk, and the occasional hint of gossamer for that added touch of celestial chic.


Glow-in-the-Dark Manicure:

Don't forget your nails, darling! Now when I say, glow-in-the-dark, I don’t mean literally. We’re all adults here, let’s act like it. No, you want a stylish manicure on those claws that will last you for, well, ever. A nice French mani is your best friend.


A Haunting Headpiece:

Top off your look with a celestial headpiece. It's essential to remind everyone that, even in the great beyond, your style reigns supreme.

Séance-Ready Stilettos:

Just because you're floating doesn't mean you can't rock a killer pair of stilettos. Opt for a pair that complements your ghostly ensemble, and remember, you can never go wrong with a red bottom.

Remember, my spectral sisters, death is just another runway. So, embrace your afterlife with style, flair, and a touch of supernatural sass. Who says you can't be the best-dressed ghost in town? Cheers to the afterlife, where the fashion never dies!

*****************************************************************

Review

KILLING GRINDS by A. N. Sage
The Third Orchard Hollow Mystery

Piper Addison is putting the research into her odd brand of magick on the back burner. Her ghostly familiar has finally started to open up about her death. Sarah wants details and, since Piper has been successful at figuring out murders, despite nearly getting killed herself, she asks Piper for help. But someone doesn't want Piper poking into the past.  Will Piper discover what really happened to Sarah Rutherford? Or is she more likely to become a ghost herself?

KILLING GRINDS is a story of friendship. Even though uncovering the truth may lead to Stella moving on and Piper losing her familiar and best friend, Piper follows through. She even follows through when threats are made against her life. And even when Sarah doesn't want her following certain avenues. I also like Piper's friendship with Celia...who puts a certain coven leader in her place after she badmouths Piper and, of course, Piper's developing relationship with Joe.

The third Orchard Hollow Mystery is laugh out loud funny, while it also touches your heart strings. Piper's clumsiness, especially when it comes to her romantic encounters, had me in stitches, as did her dealings with Harry. And when the mystery was solved, the very ending had me gasp! I can't wait to see what happens next!

Funny and intriguing KILLING GRINDS is a fast paced magickal adventure. 

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 Killing Grinds (Orchard Hollow Mystery) by A.N. Sage

About Killing Grinds

Killing Grinds (Orchard Hollow Mystery)
Paranormal Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series
Oliver-Heber Books (November 28, 2023)
Paperback: ‎ 274 pages

Piper Addison is in it deep. Turns out, finding out how your ghost familiar met her doom is not as easy as it sounds…

Tourist season is over and Orchard Hollow is as peaceful as ever. Piper Addison, the town witch and cafe owner, finally gets to kick back her sneakers and relax. The weather is glorious, her dusty love life has been resurrected, and she’s all caught up on binge watching shows. Nothing can be better!

Well, except for one slight problem.

Piper promised her ghost familiar she’d help find out what landed her in the land of the non-living.

It wouldn’t be so bad if the ghost didn’t have a case of amnesia and a serious need of an attitude adjustment. One thing is for certain, Piper’s familiar didn’t kick the bucket by choice.

Between figuring out the mystery of Stella’s demise, battling a raccoon for cookies, and tracing her mom’s steps hoping to reunite with a father she never met; Piper has her hands full. And this time, even her strange magic might not be enough to get her out of this bind.

Killing Grinds is a paranormal cozy mystery complete with an unlucky witch, a ghost familiar, and a feisty raccoon with a talent for getting into sticky situations.

About A.N. Sage

A.N. Sage is a bestselling, award-winning author of young adult fantasy and mystery. She has spent most of her life waiting to meet a witch, vampire, or at least get haunted by a ghost. In between failed seances and many questionable outfit choices, she has developed a keen eye for the extra-ordinary.

A.N. spends her free time reading and binge-watching television shows in her pajamas. Currently, she resides in Toronto, Canada with her husband who is not a creature of the night and their daughter who just might be.

A.N. Sage is a Scorpio and a massive advocate of leggings for pants.

Author Links: 

Website https://ansage.ca/ 

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/a.n.sage/  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/945090619339423  

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ANSageWrites  

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@ansagewrites  

Purchase Link – Amazon  

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Cafe Au Slay - An Interview, Review & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome A. N. Sage to Cozy Up With Kathy today. A. N. writes the Orchard Hollow Mystery series. CAFE AU SLAY is the second book in the series and was released this past week.

Kathy: In CAFE AU SLAY Orchard Hollow’s biggest secret is about to be revealed. Have you ever had to deal with keeping a big secret? 

ANS: I tend to be an open book for the most part. The only big secrets I keep are surprise releases and it's always so difficult to stay quiet!

Kathy: Piper Addison is a resident witch and coffee shop owner. If you were to visit her shop what kind of coffee would you get? 

ANS: Definitely the Mocha a la Joe from book one. I test out all the recipes I put in the books and this caramel mocha was absolutely delicious.

Kathy: The Orchard Hollow Mystery series features a feisty raccoon. I love raccoons. What made you decide to add one to your series? 

ANS: My family rescued a baby raccoon a long time ago and to this day, I still think about how much I wished we could have kept him. They are such clever little creatures and their need to get into everything makes them the perfect additions to a cozy mystery.

Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries? 

ANS: I have always written mysteries in one way or another. Something about solving clues and puzzles really draws me in. When I decided to switch to writing in the adult space (I wrote young adult prior to this), I knew it had to be a mystery. And I also knew it had to have magic. Put those two together and a perfect cozy setting is born.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres? 

ANS: Young adult fantasy.

Kathy: Tell us about your series. 

ANS: Orchard Hollow is a paranormal cozy mystery that follows an unlucky witch and her ghost familiar as they try to solve murders. It has a lot of humor, even more magic, and twists that will keep you guessing until the end. My other long-running series is Shadowhurst Mysteries. It features a spunky heroine, forbidden love stories, power-hungry covens and magic you won't be able to get enough of! If you like witchy stories full of twists and turns, you'll love this one. The final book comes out this year!

Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why? 

ANS: Stella Rutherford. Her attitude has been a favorite to write and I love that she is unapologetically herself.
 

Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series? 

ANS: The characters are what inspired this series. One day, I had an image in my head of a witch arguing with her ghost familiar and the first book grew from there.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work? 

ANS: I have been writing for decades, but it wasn't until I started writing in the young adult space that I decided to publish. Indie publishing was really taking off and I knew I had stories that others would want to read.

Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite? 

ANS: Victoria Schwab, Christopher Moore, Charles Dickens, and Edgar Allen Poe.

Kathy: What are you currently reading? 

ANS: BELLADONNA by Adalyn Grace. It's great!

Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us? 

ANS: I love to draw. I am actually about to open an Etsy shop called Glitter Fritter where I will be selling my pastel goth kawaii art as stickers and art prints.
 

Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry. 

ANS: Olives, pickles, cheese, turkey bacon.

 

Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series? 

ANS: KILLING GROUNDS, book 3 in Orchard Hollow is scheduled to be released in early fall of this year. And book 8 of Shadowhurst Mysteries, PORTAL OF RUIN, will be out in the summer.

Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author? 

ANS: Using my creativity to inspire people. I love writing stories that fuel people's imaginations.

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Review

CAFE AU SLAY by A. N. Sage

The Second Orchard Hollow Mystery

When famed paranormal investigator Archer Lee comes to Orchard Hollow Piper Addison knows that nothing good will come of it. After all, the paranormals who inhabit the town enjoy a quiet life, not broadcasting who they really are. They have no desire to be exposed, let alone hunted. Even so, she agrees to let the pompous man film in her café, Bean Me Up. A decision she regrets when his assistant drops dead, poisoned, and murder finds itself at her door once more.  Piper will need copious amounts of coffee and a little bit of magic if she’s going to deal with her recalcitrant teenaged employee, rambunctious raccoon, and snarky ghost of a familiar, let alone uncover a killer.

 

Friendship and self discovery are at the core of CAFE AU SLAY. I appreciate how Piper is coming into her own in the second Orchard Hollow Mystery. Yes, she still has issues, but she's developing better relationships. While she has a lot to sort out with Joe, she may be gaining a friend, who is also a witch. Her relationships with Stella and Harry are becoming more meaningful and she's even started a positive working relationship with Sheriff Romero. What's even more exciting is that she's starting to get a clue on what's behind her wonky powers and discovering who she really is. I enjoyed realizing clues from the first book that intimated these things!

 

The mystery was ingenious, with red herrings, intertwining motives, and lots of plausibility muddying the waters. Surprises, lots of humor, and heartfelt moments kept me captivated. Unfortunately, there were some glaring grammatical errors that truly threw me out of the story. I also want more than one chapter a book told from Harry's point of view!

Unique characters make CAFE AU SLAY a funny and inventive paranormal mystery.

 

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 Cafe au Slay: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery (Orchard Hollow) by A.N. Sage

About Cafe au Slay

Cafe au Slay: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery (Orchard Hollow) 
Paranormal Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series
Cauldron Press (April 24, 2023)
Paperback: ‎ 384 pages

Piper Addison is not a normal witch. If she’s even a witch at all…

Life after the big four-oh isn’t so bad. Piper Addison, resident witch and coffee shop owner, finally found her groove. Business is flourishing, her ghost familiar is miraculously supportive, and she might even have a date for the weekend.  

There’s only one small catch… A dead body puts Piper in an impossible situation.

Orchard Hollow’s biggest secret is about to be revealed, and Piper might be the only one who can save the town’s paranormal residents. If only she can get a handle on her strange magic.

If that wasn’t enough, the town sheriff trusts Piper to solve the case. Can she help catch the killer before the whole world finds out about magic?

Cafe au Slay is a paranormal cozy mystery, complete with an unlucky witch, a ghost familiar, and a feisty raccoon with a talent for getting into sticky situations.

About A.N. Sage

 

A.N. Sage is a bestselling, award-winning author of young adult fantasy and mystery. She has spent most of her life waiting to meet a witch, vampire, or at least get haunted by a ghost. In between failed seances and many questionable outfit choices, she has developed a keen eye for the extra-ordinary. A.N. spends her free time reading and binge-watching television shows in her pajamas. Currently, she resides in Toronto, Canada with her husband who is not a creature of the night and their daughter who just might be. A.N. Sage is a Scorpio and a massive advocate of leggings for pants.  

Author Links: 

Website https://ansage.ca/  

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Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/945090619339423  

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ANSageWrites  

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Purchase Link – Amazon 

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