Phoebe Winchester moves to the town of Ravencreek after her aunt’s death. Her aunt, Eudora, left her her home and bookstore as a way for Phoebe to start a new chapter. After a divorce from an unfaithful husband, a fresh start is just what she needs. Although some of the townsfolk are welcoming, the unlikable Deidre harasses Phoebe to sell her house and store. Shortly after another confrontation with her, Phoebe is called to the bookstore with word that a dead body has been found. 

I always enjoy a cozy mystery with a supernatural element to it. And I got elements of both with the dead body at Phoebe’s shop and the discovery that she was a witch just like her aunt. At first Phoebe didn’t want to be involved in the case but curiosity led her to asking around and wondering what valuable thing  her aunt had possessed. I liked the descriptions of the town and the people that resided in it as well as the stories of aunt Eudora. She seemed like a remarkable and funny woman in life, who was dedicated to helping others, whether it be a shoulder to cry on or with her teas and baked goods filled with magic. 

I enjoyed seeing Phoebe run the bookshop and tea shop and how right at home she felt as she settled in. I liked the budding friendships forming between her and Imogen, her shop assistant, as well as with Amy, the bakery owner next door. Also, who could forget Bob, the cat, who added humor to the story. 

Overall, I enjoyed the story and all the characters involved. I didn’t particularly like Phoebe’s instant like for a character as it seemed a bit weird and forced at times. I would have liked it if we had seen more of her magic at play especially once we knew what her power was. The ending although a bit surprising made sense once all was revealed. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.