This book has a very different premise than the cozy mystery stories I usually read. But my interest in it has currently changed and I don't believe I'd be able to give it a completely non bias review.

This is a fun mystery cozy introducing Bellamy Bay as the setting of a cute mystery story. I really enjoy cozy mysteries and this author is one I would read again. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.

Interesting characters with linked heritage to Mermaids. I enjoyed this mystery and it’s going on my keep reading list. The setting of NC ocean side town adds to the atmosphere of mystery.

A Spell For Trouble is the first book in a new cozy in a series called an Enchanted Bay Mystery by Esme Addison. The book will be available on May 12 of this year. A Spell For Trouble follows Aleksandra Daniels. 
Known as Alex a young woman who has experienced a tragedy then loses her job. She visits her estranged relatives after they invite her to come stay with them. While visiting her family in Bellamy Bay Alex discovers that besides having to solve some family mysteries she must solve a murder. When Alex’s aunt Lidia finds herself accused of murder Alex makes it her personal mission to solve it. To the dismay of the suspects and the detective charged with solving the crime. 

Overall, the premise in this book is interesting. All cozies have a theme and this one is magic. Addison however puts her own twist on the magical theme to set it apart. The book also focuses on Alex and her maternal side of the family the Sobieski’s. The Sobieski’s are of Polish descent and the there is a use of a few Polish words and several mentions of Polish cuisine. I felt this enriched the backstory of the family and added to the charm of the book. 

The plot moves fast to an extent. Which is my main gripe with this book. Alex arrives and there is not much time to establish and rebuild the familial ties before she discovers her family is magical. It would have been nice to have a few chapters where they develop a bond. After doubting the validity of magic briefly, she accepts it. Most people would either believe in magic right away, or think their family is crazy.

Sometimes the plot slows down because Alex focuses on yet another murder suspect. The flow sometimes felt forced because a certain character’s behavior was obvious. It felt like either they were a red herring or the killer. When a cozy makes it obvious who the killer is early on and then keeps trying to clear other suspects first that can be maddening. As the reader you just know right?

Those of us who read cozies regularly become amateur sleuths by proxy via our books. We become adept in the way a cozy works; we pick up on subtle clues and plot devices. You could tell who the killer was. So some content felt like filler. 

I also dislike the introduction of two love interests. I have been reading the Hannah Swensen Mysteries for years now. If you are familiar with Hannah Swensen, she had two boyfriends through most of the series. It grew old fast. Hannah Swensen is a perfect example why there should be one love interest at a time in cozies. These series can last well over twenty books and I can sense a love triangle being built up. I felt the two love interests were so different yet I felt like there wasn't much chemistry with either. Alex has enough on her plate and I am thinking the last thing she needs is two suitors competing for her affections. 

I liked the book despite my small criticisms. The premise was unique enough and the surprise twist at the ending was unexpected. These days with so many cozy series available to read it is hard to make a cozy series stand out. I felt Addison did that. I would read the second book in the series without hesitation. The two love interests though give me pause. Hopefully, there is a resolution to that aspect in the next book. 

I rated A Spell For Trouble 4 out of five stars on Goodreads. I felt there were a few unique aspects to the story that made it different from most of the cozies I have read lately. Trust me on this I have read several cozies lately and many of them were average. I feel this series has potential so read it when it comes out.

Aleksandra has been estranged from her mother’s family for 20 years, but reunited with them in their small town of Bellamy Bay. Returning to help them run the family business, Alex soon realizes they sell more than herbal remedies— they just might be witches. When her aunt is arrested for poisoning someone, Alex decides to investigate the murder, and her family’s history. This is the first in a great new series. Has everything I like in a paranormal cozy mystery. I look forward to the next one.

This is a wonderful start to a new series and I can't wait to see it grow.
Alex is a bit hasty and fiery in her investigation and the same with her magic learning, and at times this comes across as a bit annoying, I think she develops well and she is just getting her footing in both aspects of her new "careers".
I really enjoyed the supporting characters, but some less than others, as with all books. I do think the hot and cold of the detective was a little bit stilted and forced.
The story flowed well, and I loved Bellamy Bay, and can't wait to see what mystery comes next!

I love witches and magic and this book did not disappoint. Alex is down and out after losing her job and decides to go back home to family she hadn't seen in twenty years. Much to her surprise, there are few family secrets she didn't know either.

When a patron of the family's apothecary shop, Botanika, dies suddenly, Alex's aunt is arrested. Alex jumps right with determination to solve the murder.

I thought I knew who the murderer was, but I didn't, which is odd for me. Although I'm not sure clues were there. I enjoyed the characters and the setting of Bellamy Bay even without the sense of being there. And the story was good.

I would recommend this book to cozy mystery readers and will ask my library to add it to their collection. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

A spell for trouble .
A new author for me to read .
I love a first book to a new series.
I enjoyed this clever mystery.
Fantastic storyline, Alex getting to know about her family members on her father’s side, meeting new and old friends also finding out about herself.
Pleasure to read ,I couldn’t put it down.
Many thanks to crooked Lane books and NetGalley for advance copy.
If I could I would definitely gave it more stars ⭐️

4.5/5 stars for the read.
Set in the fictional seaside town of Bellamy Bay, North Carolina, this novel uses the charm of its Southern setting to enhance the plot. There are lovely descriptions of architecture and gardens and seascapes, which are never overdone but do provide a lovely sense of the novel’s setting. Juxtapose that against the Polish heritage of the main family (and the yummy traditional deserts prepared) and you’ve got a very atmospheric read.

The secondary characters introduced include a loving, witchy aunt with a temper that causes the earth to shake; a sweet, bubbly cousin who’s ready to guide Alex in the ways of her new magical world; another more practical, police officer cousin; and a nosy frenemy journalist. Add to that, not one but, two potential love interests, each with his own charms, and you’ve got a cast of characters to keep you very entertained. I’m not one to enjoy a love triangle in my cozy mysteries, but something about this one is different and very enjoyable to read.

The main protagonist Alex, never knew she was a witch and only when she arrives to spend time with her Bellamy Bay relatives does some of her past come out. The descriptions of Alex learning about her family, herself and trying to control her new powers are fun and at times touching, as she is often reminded of her mother who died far too young. Alex is a determined, bright, feisty heroine who dives right into the mystery of who killed Randy Bennett and why they tried to frame her aunt for the crime. Her over-zealousness at times might have been annoying, but Alex manages to reign in her bossy streak; and tries to be respectful of Jack’s police investigation. She certainly makes it clear she believes he’s barking up the wrong tree, however. I love that when she gets too over-confident, her family and even potential nemesis/ love interest, Dylan call her out on her behaviour. It’s going to be fun reading how Alex masters her powers through the series.

The mystery of who killed Randy is a twisty one; and as much as we want to believe Aunt Lidia is innocent, there are some moments that really make the reader pause to consider her potential involvement. Several suspects and motives are revealed as Randy’s personal and professional life details come to the fore. The red herrings are just enough to make you doubt if you know who the real culprit is. The big reveal is high on drama, tension and action; and is a very fitting end to the story.

I’m looking forward to reading more stories in the series. I’m going to have to wait a while though, as this first novel is due to be published in May! Hopefully, we’ll get one more before the end of the year. I can’t wait to find out how Alex settles into her new life and if she’s going to have to choose between Dylan and Jack… or has she already?

A Spell for Trouble is an entertaining cozy mystery. Great plot with a cast of quirky characters. Mystery fans will love this book. I received an arc from the publisher and Netgalley and this is my unbiased review.

While there is the potential for better editing and further character development, I found this mystery enjoyable and engaging. The setting was charming and the family dynamics, while not always subtle, were relatable. I can imagine that this series would be particularly appealing to someone questioning their career.choice. I will definitely read the next in this series.

Mystery was my first love when it comes to book genres. Over the years I’ve read many different authors and mystery series. This new series did not disappoint me. I loved it! Charming characters, small town life in North Carolina, a dog and witchcraft all come together to form this awesome story. I look forward to reading more in this series. I’ve found myself a new author!
At the beginning of the book, the main character, Alex, is at a crossroads in her life. Her father just died (mom died years ago), She’s out of a job and she’s gone from NYC to NC to visit family. While there, she learns that her family are witches and so is she. When a man dies and her aunt is arrested, Alex decides to find the real killer.
Along the way, Alex meets a fellow New Yorker who happens to be a detective for the local police. There is an instant connection between the two but because he’s investigating the murder, all dating is put on hold. She also meets this hot CFO who happens to be from the rival family. He seems genuine but Alex is confused because of who his family is. Both men are there for her when she runs into trouble. I look forward to seeing these two characters try to get her attention in the books to come.
Overall, this book is just plain awesome. If you like mysteries then you’ll enjoy this one.

I usually don't read cozies about witches but I really enjoyed this one. Alex as the sleuth was always in Jack the investigaters way especially after they put her aunt in jail and then on house arrest. It was a page turner trying to figure out who done it . I was surprised. I recommend this book if you like ones about witches.

This was a cute book about a family of witches. Alex went to visit family that she hadn't seen in years after she was let go from her job. While there she discovered her family had some unique talents and was very surprised to learn that she had some abilities of her own. When her aunt is accused of murder, she makes it her mission to find out who the real killer was. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone.

A sweet cozy mystery with a paranormal spin.

Aleskabdra visits Bellamy Bay for the first time since being a child. Memories are complicated, her mom died here, there are family secrets - which frankly are a bit kooky. They're a family of magical healers for generations? Righhhhhttt - just a small detail for Alex
for Alex to come to grips with.

Out of work, Alex goes to work in the family shop where they make special ( code for magical) soaps, teas and remedies for the townspeople. As Alex begins to feel at home, her aunt is accused of murdering a customer and old enemy.

Alex sets out to prove her innocence. Along the way Alex joins forces with a childhood friend, a new detective in town.

More secrets are revealed during the search for the real murderer - she rediscovers a friend she happily played with as a child, Dylan, whom she’s very attracted to, as well as new detective

More secrets are exposed - she finds out she’s a witch, along with the rest of her family, but her powers are not easily controlled.

A hard to identify murderer and ,great character development.

I’m looking forward to the next book

Alexandra Daniels hasn't set foot in the quiet seaside town of Bellamy Bay, North Carolina in over twenty years. Ever since her mother's tragic death, her father has mysteriously forbidden her from visiting her aunt and cousins. But on a whim, Alex accepts an invitation to visit her estranged relatives and to help them in their family business: an herbal apothecary known for its remarkably potent teas, salves, and folk remedies.
Bellamy Bay doesn't look like trouble, but this is a town that harbors dark secrets. Alex discovers that her own family is at the center of salacious town gossip, and that they are rumored to be magical healers descended from mermaids. She brushes this off as nonsense until a local is poisoned and her aunt Lidia is arrested for the crime. Alex is certain Lidia is being framed, and she resolves to find out why.
Alex's investigation unearths stories that some have gone to desperate lengths to conceal: forbidden affairs, family rivalries, and the truth about Alex's own ancestry. And when the case turns deadly, Alex learns that not only are these secrets worth hiding, but they may even be worth killing for.

I had a hard time with this one. There were a few errors that I hope the editor fixes -- they are eating cake & one character breaks a cookie and the quote "Fake as a two dollar bill" (guys these exist).
My biggest plot issue is the harping on an alibi for the time of death. He was poisoned! He could have drunk that tea at any time. The murderer did not have to be there. This really ruined it for me.
Also, Alex comes off as too dumb to live. She's supposed to be a professional risk assessor, but she's running into situations, accusing people of murder. The cop she has a thing for should have locked her up for her own safety if not to get her out of his case.

This gave me slight Magical Bakery Series vibes. Magical/Aromatherapy cozies are one of my favorites. A really fun start to a new series.

Thank you to Crooked Lane and NetGalley for providing the ARC.

A Spell for Trouble is the PERFECT paranormal, cozy mystery to snuggle up with! I haven't read a paranormal cozy in a while but this one would stand well with books by Bailey Cates, Juliet Blackwell, and Heather Blake. I am so excited to see how this series plays out and am hoping it's as MAGICAL as this one!

Actual Rating: 4 stars
Full review will be posted come release day!

I enjoyed this book so much so that I was sorry when it ended. I want to know what happens next. I enjoyed the characters and the small town setting. It was an interesting mystery in how they figured out who did it and how it was wrapped up.

Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I received this ARC via Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books, in return for an honest review. This is the first novel in a new series, set in Bellamy Bay, NC. Aleksandra ‘Alex’ Daniels decides to visit her mother’s sister and her family for the first time in over 20 years, following the recent death of her father. Alex’s mother died on their last trip to the town and her father wanted nothing to do with Bellamy Bay. With his death, Alex decides to reconnect with her mother’s family and strange events begin. First is Alex’s change in career. She’d been a very successful risk manager and now works for her aunt, Lidia, in the family herbal remedy store, Botanika. One day, an irate customer berates her aunt and is discovered dead by poisoning the next morning. This puts Lidia squarely in the police’s crosshairs as the culprit. As Alex works with her cousin, Minka, to uncover the truth of the murder, Alex learns more than one truth about her family. It turns out that the women are all water witches. There’s also an interesting triangle that evolves between Alex, the police detective and a member of a prominent local (and witch) family, the Wesleys. It’s a good start to the series, with a well-told story, and I look forward to more from the author.