Leeds

Review of Owl Hallows’ Eve by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
A Halloween festival in a town full of mediums.
A medium dead in the corn maze.
And a debt to the god of the dead that just came due.

Astra Arden has avoided Cassandra—hard to feel welcome when the mayor blames you for her son’s death. But when the town’s ghosts go silent and Hades calls in her mother’s old favor, avoiding it stops being an option. Someone in Cassandra is keeping a soul that belongs to the Underworld, and the Arden sisters have until the festival ends to bring it home.

Then a medium turns up dead under a sign in her own handwriting, the town closes ranks, and the mayor bans Astra from the grounds. Now she’s solving a murder from the couch above a gas station—in a town that won’t talk, hunting a soul in a town that talks to nothing else.

And midnight is coming either way.

Review:
“My sister had more faith in her father’s good nature than three thousand years of literature did, and I kind of loved her grumpy gothic butt for it.” (Page 104)

I absolutely loved this book. Astra has come so far from where she started out; she has friends and family that she relies on and communicates with. She is learning to be better in the roles she hasn’t had before, such as wife, and at being a sister who is present but not smothering or acting in a more parent role. This book focused on something important from earlier in the series; the star cards. While perhaps we have become too accustomed to the intervention and appearance of Gods/Goddesses in the lives of the Ardens, given the lineage of the sisters, it was great to see how connected (or not) the rest of the pantheon really is with the family. This book really helped put the timeline of Astra’s return home in perspective with how grown up and mature Ayla has become, and how she does have a life and identity outside of the family. I loved this mystery, and I honestly hadn’t seen what had happened coming at all! There were a lot of twists and turns, confusion, and ultimately, a conclusion that makes the next book need to be available immediately!

Cliffhanger warning, but the book was phenomenal!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl the Small Things by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
Astra Arden just wants one quiet week at home.

After a locked-island murder investigation that left the whole team running on coffee fumes and borrowed sleep, she’s earned it. But the moment she walks through the door, she discovers Aunt Gwennie has been secretly dating Detective Briggs—and before Astra can process that, things around the house start going wrong.

Small things, at first.

A shelf collapses when no one’s near it. The garden gate swings shut on Briggs’s fingers. A batch of Gwennie’s famous snickerdoodles tastes like soap. Arden House has always had a personality, but this feels personal.

Then the small things stop being small.

Someone—or something—has Briggs in its sights. And with the human detective dodging hexes he can’t see, Astra has to figure out who’s targeting him and why before the small things turn deadly.

But the deeper Astra digs, the more she realizes the threat isn’t coming from outside. It’s coming from inside the family — from a ghost who can’t let go and a house that takes sides.

Welcome back to Arden House. The snickerdoodles are fresh, the owl is judging you, and the walls have opinions.


Review:
“Interrogation and sisterhood share exactly one technique, and it’s this one. Patience.” (Page 20)

“He’s going to keep coming back either way. He’s got that energy. He’s like if a casserole wouldn’t take no for an answer.” (Page 23)

This series has been doing a great job of shifting focus from having only Astra as the star of the show to showcasing other people in the family. This time, both Althea and Ayla played pivotal roles in figuring out exactly what is going on. Briggs is a good man so it’s great that the family comes together to support him, and while it seemed like the answer to what was happening might have been obvious, it was slightly different than what was expected. As usual, a quick, fun, light, clean read by Leanne Leeds.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl is Calm by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
A wellness retreat for the magically exhausted.
A guru floating in a sensory tank.
A “relaxing” weekend that’s anything but zen.

After fighting an elf for the soul of her sister, Astra Arden is ready for a nap. Her sister Althea, fresh from a dimensional kidnapping, needs serious R&R. The solution? A girls’ weekend at Serenity Springs. It’s supposed to be all lavender mists, crystal grids, and silence… until that silence is shattered by a scream.

When the retreat’s charismatic guru is found floating face-down in a sensory deprivation tank, the “no stress” policy is officially void. Trapped behind wards that dampen their magic to ensure “deep healing,” Astra and her sisters must root out a killer among the zen-obsessed guests without their usual powers.

With Lothian trying to smuggle in contraband caffeine and Archie engaging in a turf war with the retreat’s peacock mascot, Astra has to find the truth before her relaxing getaway becomes a permanent vacation.

Review:
Someday the Arden family is going to have a reprieve; but this wellness retreat is not that day. This book did great at giving a good mystery that I personally figured out quite early on but despite that, I was more concerned with the people. Having experienced life without magic for the first time ever, the Arden sisters are forced to consider what and who they are if they cannot rely on magic. It can be easy to take something that you had innate talent and wonder if you actually are good at it or if you were just lucky, but as the Arden family discovers, what you can do is very much linked to how you spent your time honing the skills around those talents. A quick an easy read, missing only the sass of our favourite bacon loving owl. Would recommend to anyone looking for a cozy mystery with no spice.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl Be Dreaming by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
For witch Astra Arden, newlywed life is almost perfect.
A little too perfect.
Even her snarky owl familiar, Archie, is getting suspicious.

After the chaos of her wedding, Astra is ready for some peace, but instead of mayhem, Forkbridge is facing a wave of… blissful departures. One by one, residents are vanishing overnight, leaving behind happy notes about chasing their wildest dreams. It’s a mystery with no victims, a crime with no culprit, and a town that’s getting emptier by the day.

When Astra’s own sister is the next to follow a mysterious magical calling, the disappearances hit too close to home. Astra senses an ancient, alluring power at work—one that doesn’t want to hurt anyone; it only wants to grant their every wish… forever.

Now, Astra must solve a case where the only crime is getting everything you’ve ever wanted.

No gore, intimate scenes, or swearing – only a captivating story suitable for adults.

Review:
“Real connection isn’t about getting everything you want. It’s about choosing to want the people who choose you back.” (Page 289)

Astra has come a long way from the girl who refused to wear anything but her military uniform and gloves! It’s interesting how Astra is now having to explain and use knowledge and experiences she’s had since coming home to combat with her younger sister feeling how she once felt. Given how clearly Astra wants her sister back more than anything, one has to wonder if the other two who had gone missing would have been chased quite so fervently. As a newlywed it’s great to see Astra trying to plan thinking of others and not just rushing in and expecting to be able to handle everything on her own all the time. It’s been great seeing her grow and adapt and learn and become more than what her job had been in the past, or the star power thrust upon her. I also really loved how a certain cop became a main player in this particular story; it reminded me of how things used to be with Emma and Astra.

As always, a nice cozy mystery and looking forward to the next one, which is available on May 21st.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl Take Thee by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
Wedding bells are in the air for witch Astra Arden and her werewolf fiancé Lothian—not to mention her divine owl familiar Archie and his feathery bride-to-be Noctua. But when a guest turns up dead at their joint bachelor-bachelorette party, “till death do us part” takes on an entirely new meaning.

With both weddings just days away, Astra finds herself juggling seating charts, cake tastings, and a murder investigation that’s hitting too close to home. Even worse, the victims’s dying message points to someone in the wedding party as the killer. Could one of their nearest and dearest be harboring deadly secrets beneath their celebratory smiles?

As magical mishaps plague the wedding preparations and suspicion falls on their friends and family, Astra and Archie must race against time to unmask the murderer before they say “I do.” With wedding gifts arriving that seem more like threats and mysterious omens appearing at every turn, the path to matrimonial bliss is anything but smooth.

Can Astra solve the case and still make it down the aisle? Or will this wedding celebration end with a funeral instead of a reception?

Review:
“Bacon transcends tradition. It’s universal. Timeless.” (Page 5)

“… love isn’t about finding someone perfect but about finding someone whose imperfections fit perfectly with yours.” (Page 430)

This book had one of the most intricate and well done mystery plots I have read in a Leeds book in a while! For the first part of the book I found myself frustrated that nothing seemed to relate to Astra’s past in the military and specifically her pyrometry power but both of those things became integral to the plot of this novel! I do wish that there had been more mention of what type of owl Archie is, as I found myself at a loss at one point. I also wish that the cover more accurately portrayed what Astra’s wedding vision is, though perhaps this is the “Percy-ified” version with Blushing Bride pink.

I loved the layers to this mystery and how while certain fae may have been trying to help, they couldn’t outright do so. There were definitely many worries that the wedding would not happen in time, or that a curse would befall them for having to postpone. Though there was tension with Astra’s mother (as always) it was so sweet how much she wanted to be there for her daughter… though I’m sure the cost will equal another book’s adventure in the future. The ending of this book was absolute perfection, and all my love goes to Midnight the owl for being the best little boy he could be!

I recommend this series to anyone who loves cozy modern fantasy mystery and especially owls.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl of Your Dreams by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When a mystical star card directs witch Astra Arden to help Mrs. Finch—Forkbridge’s most vocal anti-witch crusader—she can hardly believe it. But when the elderly woman herself appears at Astra’s door, terrified by supernatural occurrences in her home, Astra knows she can’t ignore divine guidance.

Something strange is happening with Mrs. Finch’s extensive cat figurine collection, and Astra’s investigation uncovers disturbing connections to Eleanor Reynolds, a teacher who vanished three years ago. A hidden journal reveals hints of a secret society operating in Forkbridge, using ancient binding magic for sinister purposes.

As Astra digs deeper into Forkbridge’s mysteries, she faces resistance from Mrs. Finch herself, who remains stubbornly skeptical despite mounting evidence. Meanwhile, Astra’s familiar Archie struggles with his own commitment issues when his partner demands a formal bonding ceremony.

As the clock ticks down and sinister secrets lurk in the shadows, can Astra uncover the truth? Is Mrs. Finch an innocent victim—or has Astra been helping the very villain she’s hunting?

No gore, intimate scenes, or swearing – only a captivating story suitable for adults.

Review:
“The fear of loss, of pain, of change–it was universal, transcending species.” (Page 24)
“Part of life is knowing that you will care about people, and someday, you will lose them–or they you.” (Page 154)

As always, the Owl Star Witch Mystery books read quickly– they are gripping with interesting mysteries while still maintaining the “cozy” aspect Leanne Leeds exceeds at with, as she states, no gore, intimate scenes, or swearing. This book allowed us to see further into the life of one of the most anti-witch residents and shows that while you may have differences of opinion or merely not get on with someone, there is more to someone than what you see on the outside. While perhaps this book didn’t make Mrs. Finch and the Arden family allies, it helped bridge the gap between them, knowing that no one truly has ill will/hopes towards the others. Most of this book was spent with Astra trapped, which is why this is four stars for me; she’s my favourite!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Spells Like Poltergeist Spirit by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
Astra Arden’s back, and this time, she’s got a poltergeist problem in “Spells Like Poltergeist Spirit,” the 18th book in The Owl Star Witch Mysteries!

When a mischievous poltergeist starts wreaking havoc in Forkbridge, Astra and her sisters must figure out to banish the troublesome spirit. The timing couldn’t be worse for this supernatural upset, too—Astra’s relationship with Lothian is on the rocks after she turned down his proposal, and even her best friend Emma is giving her the cold shoulder.

As the poltergeist’s antics escalate from harmless pranks to dangerous destruction, Astra races against the clock to uncover the source of the spirit’s unrest and send it packing. But with her personal life in shambles, can she keep her focus long enough to solve the mystery?

Packed with humor, heart, and a heaping helping of otherworldly mischief, “Spells Like Poltergeist Spirit” is a must-read for fans of this bewitching series! As always, No gore, intimate scenes, or swearing—only a captivating story suitable for adults.

Review:
One of my favourite things about the Owl Star Witch Mysteries is that they’re a quick, easy, cozy reads with interesting mysteries. This book actually had a lot of good life advice about mistakes and being in love, that you have to do the work, and that love is wanting to be a part of what someone is/doing–not forcing someone to choose between them. I also quite enjoyed the magical lesson Ayla gave about how all energy can be transformed. This particular mystery had a lot of twists and turns that I didn’t necessarily see coming. Did I figure out who the poltergeist was well before it was mentioned? Yes. The why? Not so much. I thought this was a great addition to the mysteries so far, and I absolutely loved the ending!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl Shook Up by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When Aunt Gwennie’s famous snickerdoodles go missing before the annual cookie competition, Astra and her sisters prepare for a bitter battle over the sweet treats. But the trouble turns deadly when Aunt Gwennie’s rival, Agatha Blackwell, is found dead with a snickerdoodle stuffed in her mouth.

With Archie’s help, Astra dives into the cutthroat competition of Forkbridge’s baking scene. Secrets are simmering about Agatha’s controversial new recipe, stolen ingredients, and suspected poisonings. As she sifts through motives and investigates shifty behavior behind the scenes, Astra discovers that she may be in over her head.

Can Astra clear Aunt Gwennie’s name and crack the case before the cookie crumbles? Or will the sisters watch Aunt Gwennie’s cookie legacy come crashing down like an underbaked soufflé?

Find out in this delectable tale filled with baked goods, betrayal, and bewitching hijinks galore.

No gore, intimate scenes, or swearing – only a captivating story suitable for adults.

Review:
As always, a decent story, quick read cozy mystery by Leanne Leeds. There were a few parts that I personally felt were a bit jumpy. Clearly a big point of this novel was to show that Astra wasn’t prioritizing the correct things, needs to learn to organize herself better, but it seemed daft that she never really investigated anything regarding the sudden death. She sort of visited the scene and checked her own house, but the whodunit being found out (and her presence when it did) was entirely coincidental. There were many angles and loose ends left out about Carla, Iva, and Clarkson. I really did love the introduction of another magic-tech gadget from her magical military days. I do hope that such things will continue to make appearances. All in all, a good quick read, and I’d recommend to anyone who likes modern fantasy cozy mystiers.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of A Hoot and a Hex by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
The Ides of March bring mayhem and magic when Astra Arden and her sisters host the Roman-themed festival of Hilaria in Forkbridge. But the revelry comes screeching to a halt when Councilwoman Viola Tullus is found dead, entombed in concrete like a modern-day Roman building sacrifice.

With angry accusations flying as swiftly as Archie, Astra must sift through a myriad of motives to cement the truth. Could the killer be a disgruntled citizen seeking revenge against the controversial councilwoman? Was her desire to bulldoze family farms to make way for new developments simply too much for someone to bear?

Between keeping the festival running smoothly, managing her annoyed owl, and juggling her romantic relationship with the werewolf, Astra has her hands full. And with a clever killer masking themselves in the festival crowds, danger lurks around every toga-draped corner.

Can Astra catch the killer before Forkbridge falls like the Roman Empire? Or will the dark deeds continue under the cover of festivity? Find out in this delightful tale filled with twists, turns, and a talon-ful of trouble.

This paranormal cozy mystery is perfect for adults and free of gore, intimate scenes, and profanity.

Review:
Another sweet jump into Astra’s life. It’s neat to see how she’s doing in terms of building better relationships, especially with her father and Lothian. I do love that there is always so much background done on festival and mythological things in these books. Even Noctua’s name had an interesting meaning and backstory, and it was very neat how Leeds had them discover it in a totally relevant and believable way. While the cse seemed quite obvious, I loved all the twists and turns and reveals that I didn’t see coming. I quite loved this story and hope that in the future Emma goes back to full time police work, and that Lothian offers Logan a job!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Owl Out of Magic by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When the Arden sisters are enlisted to sprinkle some magic on Forkbridge’s annual Halloween Festival, they expect nothing scarier than costume contests and jack-o’-lanterns. But the spooktacular celebration takes a sinister turn when Ayla finds Councilman Marcus Clinton’s body chillingly posed in a decorative coffin outside City Hall.

With Forkbridge transformed into a carnival of costumes, it’s nearly impossible to separate harmless tricksters from potential killers. Between a zombie flash mob, strange noises in city hall, and a woman walking the streets dressed up like the goddess Athena, there’s too much information and too few clues.

Can Astra and her sisters peel back the layers of the killer’s disguise, unmasking them before they blend into the ordinary? Or will the elaborate festival costumes shroud the true face of evil lurking among them?

The clock is ticking, and it’s more than just a game of trick or treat!

Review:
“Your destiny still awaits, Astra of the Stars.” (Page 357, Chapter 20)

Back to holiday themed books, it was great to see the entire family together working towards a common goal; well, most of the family. I quite enjoyed the role that Apollo (and Hermes) played in this one, especially how he truly cared whenever Astra was upset. It was interesting seeing Lothian and Astra’s relationship during this particular book as in previous ones they had come across as much more of partners (in work, not just dating) than this one–good development. The mystery in this was perfect; multi-layered and convoluted enough to keep your attention and always wondering exactly who did what, why, and what you’re missing. I am looking forward to continuing the series as it continues to come out!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯