August 27, 2021
Sanders's second installment in the "Witch Way Librarian" series (after Bait and Witch) sees librarian--and new witch--Josie Way in the midst of a murder investigation. A new retreat center is proposed for the old mill site of Wilfred, OR, and the town's occupants are eager to see the project completed as the land is rumored to be cursed. Josie uses her magical abilities with books to resolve the curse, but is distracted when her crush, FBI agent Sam, returns to town. When Sam's soon-to-be ex-wife Fiona goes missing after visiting the cursed land, Josie uses her magical powers to help clear Sam's name. But then the project's architect turns up dead, unveiling a larger plot. VERDICT This cozy mystery has the right balance of suspense and quirky, small-town humor. The tone is always cute and lighthearted, and Josie's magical connection to books is a refreshing spin on witchcraft. Recommended for fans of Lynn Cahoon and Esme Addison, and cozy mystery enthusiasts who like a little sprinkle of the paranormal. --Mara Shatat, Ursuline Coll. Lib., Pepper Pike, OH
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