Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard (304 pgs. Avon) is the first book in the Ophelia and Abby Mystery Series. I didn't read this book for any challenge, I just spotted it at the library one day. Isn't it nice to read something just because sometimes?
Ophelia Jensen is the local librarian in the small town of Summerset, Iowa, a place where the townspeople know everything and everyone. She moved to Summerset four years prior, after a great tragedy struck in the big city. Her grandmother, Abby, had lived in Summerset for over 50 years and it seemed like a great place to go to get away from her troubled past. She wants to be left alone, to her own thoughts and feelings. Because Ophelia is keeping secrets. Abby is a witch, with the power to see things and cast certain spells. And Ophelia, herself, has the power of sight. A power that she doesn't want, and has been denying since the tragedy occurred.
But then mysterious stranger Rick Davis enters town, full of questions about Ophelia and the mysterious thefts of anhydrous chemicals...the kind used by big meth labs. And as much as Ophelia tries to deny it, she is drawn to Rick. He is full of questions and insults.....and is wildly handsome. Abby "sees" trouble in the future for Ophelia, and tries to get her to open herself up to the magick that lies within. But Ophelia is too stubborn to believe....until she and Rick stumble across a dead body!
This little mystery is a really decent start to this witching series. I was a little put off by Ophelia's introvertedness. Not only was she a loner, she was downright rude to a lot of people. I really didn't warm up to her until the very end. I do think that other books will prove that Ophelia can be a much better character. I liked Abby and her ways. She was wise and warm. And Darci, another librarian, was great fun!! This book was darker than I thought it would be....not like a lot of the cute little witch books that have hit the market. The mystery was solid, and kept me guessing until the very end. Although I didn't love this book, there was enough there for me to enjoy. And enough of a start that I will continue reading the series! 3.5/5
8 comments:
It is nice to break free of the challenges for a breather, isn't it? I have this one in my TBR collection and am looking forward to reading it. Thanks for the warning about the main character. I'll be prepared for that now and not so put off--it sounds like something that would put me off otherwise.
This one sounds like great fun! Even better, it is part of a series. I love finding a new series with characters I like, love mysteries, and love the supernatural in novels. This sounds as if it fits all 3 categories. Thanks!
Wendy - I was a little put off by Ophelia at first. After you understand where she came from, it's easier to understand her. I think the series could be really good. Better than this one. I hope you like it when you read it!
Jenclair - Well..it's definitely got all three!! I think this was a good start, but I think the next book could be better!
hmmm.. sounds like quite a cosy little read.
does the cat feature in it? :)
Looks good. I'll check it out. Thanks for the review.
This one sounds right up my alley - thanks for the review! Excuse me now while I nip over to my library's website to put it on hold...
:-)
Hmmmm I'm tempted because I want to start new series but I'm not sure from your review whether to dive in or not? Argh, decisions decisions!
this sounds like a good read, I agree, its nice to take a break form reading challenges or my TBR list and pick up a book at random. Its even nicer when the book turns out to be a great one.
have a good week :)
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