Tara Lush ushers in a new series with this bewtiching novella!
This novella is the prequel to a brand new paranormal cozy mystery series, a spinoff of the popular Crescent Moon Mysteries. My first time reading this author, and I loved this witchy tale!
One of the immediate draws of this novella is the relatable protagonist, Renee Zinn. A fifty-four-year-old witch, she's still trying to figure life out and is at a crossroads. Her return to her Vermont hometown of Hemlock Hollow for Thanksgiving becomes a trip down memory lane as she reconnects with family, her childhood best friend, her handsome ex, and townsfolk. Her family has run the town's general store/witch supply shop for decades, but her mother's slowing down, and her sister Pippa wants to sell it. As Renee grapples with personal and familial challenges, she's pulled into a local mystery.
This is not a whodunnit, although there are strange occurrences in the woods that Renee looks into. Instead, this is a character-driven introduction rich in world-building. The charming setting is a small Vermont town brimming with magic, witches, maple everything, and even a talking animal. In addition to getting to know Renee, we learn about her family's history in Hemlock Hollow and meet some warm supporting characters. The magic is woven in organically as are other paranormal elements. Renee can read auras, which I loved as a way to learn more about everyone.
Since this is the beginning of the spinoff series, readers can jump in here and not feel lost. This novella is well-written, super cozy, and chock full of nostalgic 80s references and witchy fall vibes. It is a quick, fun read, and I cannot wait for the first book of the series! A great pick for anyone who enjoys paranormal mysteries or lighter witchy reads.
Thank you to author Tara Lush for the gifted book! Publication date is November 4, 2024
My steep was Maple Cream Earl Grey by Portal Tea, from my October Amoda Tea box. It's delicious and perfect for this story!
Happy November, friends!
PUBLISHER'S SYNOPSIS:
Welcome to Hemlock Hollow, where the maple syrup flows, the magic never stops, and at least one moose talks...
Life's been a struggle recently for fifty-four-year-old witch Renee Zinn. But when she returns to her Vermont hometown for Thanksgiving, her everyday troubles are turned upside down by glowing sap, enchanted fireflies, and trees that refuse to lose their leaves.
Despite her sister's push to sell the family’s general store, Renee finds herself drawn back to Hemlock Hollow. But there's more to the old shop than meets the eye, as Renee soon discovers — in a whirlwind of magic, misadventure, singing wildlife, and endless cups of maple-infused everything.
A small town with endless secrets, strange phenomena, and forever friends…
This book is for you if you
• Mysteries set in magical New England towns
• Witches, talking animals, and maple-flavored mayhem
• The idea of a general store that's also a witchy supply shop
• Gentle magic woven into everyday life
• Whimsical world-building with a Vermont twist
• Paranormal women's fiction
• A midlife main character rediscovering her roots
• A big dose of humor and heart!
MAPLE SUGAR AND MAGIC is a spin-off novella to the Crescent Moon Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone. Enjoy with your favorite warm beverage and a cozy blanket…
Comments