What do you think?
Rate this book
Practical Potions #1
Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder
The first in the Practical Potions series.
Sella is tired of being a failure.
She has a lovely, cozy shop—an heirloom from her mother—, a snarky feline familiar, and one, single friend to call her own. It should be enough. But Sella’s magical abilities left a stain on her hometown, and even years away didn’t repair her reputation. The life of a kitchen witch is rough when everyone thinks Sella’s magical blends of coffee and tea will leave them with boils instead of the intended “motivation” or “self-compassion.”
But when a murder shakes the town and Sella’s best friend becomes suspect one, failure is a luxury they can’t afford. Luckily, the murdered woman—a confident ghost with a fiery determination for justice—is ready to help… and she’s more than Sella ever bargained for. With her friends, her familiar, and a bit of magic, Sella is ready to prove herself once and for all.
Although, perhaps she should brew a strong cup of “courage” first.
Just in case.
Sella is tired of being a failure.
She has a lovely, cozy shop—an heirloom from her mother—, a snarky feline familiar, and one, single friend to call her own. It should be enough. But Sella’s magical abilities left a stain on her hometown, and even years away didn’t repair her reputation. The life of a kitchen witch is rough when everyone thinks Sella’s magical blends of coffee and tea will leave them with boils instead of the intended “motivation” or “self-compassion.”
But when a murder shakes the town and Sella’s best friend becomes suspect one, failure is a luxury they can’t afford. Luckily, the murdered woman—a confident ghost with a fiery determination for justice—is ready to help… and she’s more than Sella ever bargained for. With her friends, her familiar, and a bit of magic, Sella is ready to prove herself once and for all.
Although, perhaps she should brew a strong cup of “courage” first.
Just in case.
278 pages, Paperback
First published October 23, 2023
53 people are currently reading
3484 people want to read
About the author
Wren Jones
4 books80 followersWren Jones lives in the Sonoran Desert with her family and two cats. Like most writers, she has been a storyteller for a long time. After her daughter was born, true crime felt a little too true, and darker fiction felt a little too dark. She started reading cozy mysteries, and after a while, she realized a little dose of fantasy and bi-rep was what she was missing. She figured what better time to research, write, and launch a novel that she’d been procrastinating on than while working full-time and raising a tiny human, so here we are.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
October 13, 2023
Cozy Fantasy murder mystery? YES! Loved this book, can't wait read more about this world. Will be back with a detailed review in a bit. In the meantime, if you see this, THIS BOOK IS OUT TODAY. Get yourself a copy and be cozy.
April 9, 2024
Cute
I'll start by saying, to be completely fair, I picked this up to be a palette cleanser after going through a big fantasy series. It worked well enough for that. I chose it simply by the cover, which is adorable and wonderful, and when I read the synopsis it sounded cute. And it was, it just wasn't quite...enough. This book is obviously first in a series, and served as a good set up for more, so hopefully what follows will get better and better.
Non-spoiler issues: There were a lot of grammatical errors, spelling, punctuation errors, and even entire missing words throughout the book, that simple editing should catch and clean up. There were also a lot, and I mean, a LOT of weird metaphors used throughout. I understand a well placed one here and there, but this seemed a little overdone. The idea of the story was good, and the cozy fantasy vibes were just right, but the writing was a bit lacking.
Spoilers beyond this point!
Spoiler-y issues: First, what race are the people who aren't human? We are told Lohrna is some form of shifter, but we aren't told what, and everyone else is described as either human or not human and having horns. What race is simply "having horns?"
There were moments in the story, where people who could neither see nor hear Cali, would respond after Cali finished speaking, and even respond accordingly as if they heard her, which pulled me from the story as I realized them. The author did a good job of mentioning the trouble Lohrna had "seeing" Cali, but didn't do so great at showing that people couldn't hear her.
The ending was very quick and to the point. The murder happened simply because an untrained witch saw a branding on someone and felt the need to kill them and that's that? It felt very forced and unnecessary.
Lastly, honestly, the whole story could've been told in 150 pages, because nothing truly happened throughout the book. Most of it was just a day by day play-by-play that was kind of unnecessary. It didn't flow well, and there wasn't much to actually keep me engaged as the reader. It took me four days to finish a book that would normally take me two because nothing drew me in. The only thing that kept me coming back was knowing after I finished it, I could start something else.
Overall, 2.5 stars would be my rating. The plot is a good idea, and cute and cozy, it just needed better writing and definitely better editing to reach a higher rating. Perhaps it was the author's first and it'll only get better from here.
I'll start by saying, to be completely fair, I picked this up to be a palette cleanser after going through a big fantasy series. It worked well enough for that. I chose it simply by the cover, which is adorable and wonderful, and when I read the synopsis it sounded cute. And it was, it just wasn't quite...enough. This book is obviously first in a series, and served as a good set up for more, so hopefully what follows will get better and better.
Non-spoiler issues: There were a lot of grammatical errors, spelling, punctuation errors, and even entire missing words throughout the book, that simple editing should catch and clean up. There were also a lot, and I mean, a LOT of weird metaphors used throughout. I understand a well placed one here and there, but this seemed a little overdone. The idea of the story was good, and the cozy fantasy vibes were just right, but the writing was a bit lacking.
Spoilers beyond this point!
Spoiler-y issues: First, what race are the people who aren't human? We are told Lohrna is some form of shifter, but we aren't told what, and everyone else is described as either human or not human and having horns. What race is simply "having horns?"
There were moments in the story, where people who could neither see nor hear Cali, would respond after Cali finished speaking, and even respond accordingly as if they heard her, which pulled me from the story as I realized them. The author did a good job of mentioning the trouble Lohrna had "seeing" Cali, but didn't do so great at showing that people couldn't hear her.
The ending was very quick and to the point. The murder happened simply because an untrained witch saw a branding on someone and felt the need to kill them and that's that? It felt very forced and unnecessary.
Lastly, honestly, the whole story could've been told in 150 pages, because nothing truly happened throughout the book. Most of it was just a day by day play-by-play that was kind of unnecessary. It didn't flow well, and there wasn't much to actually keep me engaged as the reader. It took me four days to finish a book that would normally take me two because nothing drew me in. The only thing that kept me coming back was knowing after I finished it, I could start something else.
Overall, 2.5 stars would be my rating. The plot is a good idea, and cute and cozy, it just needed better writing and definitely better editing to reach a higher rating. Perhaps it was the author's first and it'll only get better from here.
February 27, 2024
The ultimate cozy fantasy-mystery. Filled with sassy familiars, friendly ghosts, and suspicious humans.
I was so excited to hear that this book would get an audiobook version this year because that's my preferred medium for "cozy" stories and I think it will be accessible for a wider audience.
"fun for the whole family" literally because my mom, brother, and dad read it (and loved it) before me!
I was so excited to hear that this book would get an audiobook version this year because that's my preferred medium for "cozy" stories and I think it will be accessible for a wider audience.
"fun for the whole family" literally because my mom, brother, and dad read it (and loved it) before me!
October 1, 2023
Perfect cozy Fall murder mystery! I really loved Sella and Lorhna! Their friendship was so sweet and genuine. Cali was so funny and had such a great outlook considering she was a ghost and had no problem haunting people til they gave her what she wanted. And Beejee the talking cat had me rolling. So grumpy and cynical and I loved it
👻 witchy vibes 🪄
👻 funny Ghost with a positive outlook
👻 Murder Mystery
👻 Found family
👻 snarky animal familiar that talks 🐈⬛
👻 bookshop and bakery
👻Redemption for FMC
👻 Low Stakes and fast paced.
Perfect read for fall or spooky season. It keeps you guessing til the end. I hope this becomes a series bc I would love to read more in this world!
4.5 ⭐️
👻 witchy vibes 🪄
👻 funny Ghost with a positive outlook
👻 Murder Mystery
👻 Found family
👻 snarky animal familiar that talks 🐈⬛
👻 bookshop and bakery
👻Redemption for FMC
👻 Low Stakes and fast paced.
Perfect read for fall or spooky season. It keeps you guessing til the end. I hope this becomes a series bc I would love to read more in this world!
4.5 ⭐️
October 12, 2023
ARC for honest review
This book is perfect if you like mysteries, fantasy, and especially anything cozy! Make yourself a cup of tea, get cozy under a blanket, and starting reading "Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder". This novel kind of gave me similar feelings to 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch', which is a huge compliment as I love that show!
So happy this is the start of a series!
This book is perfect if you like mysteries, fantasy, and especially anything cozy! Make yourself a cup of tea, get cozy under a blanket, and starting reading "Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder". This novel kind of gave me similar feelings to 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch', which is a huge compliment as I love that show!
So happy this is the start of a series!
October 9, 2023
4.5/5 ARC Copy
A perfect fall cozy fantasy mystery, this was a great feel good read combining cozy vibes with an egaging plot. I love the world Jones showed us, teasing the reader with details throughout without taking away from the plot or deadening the scenes, I can't wait to explore more of this fantastical world in Jones' future books. I loved the character of Cali, and Beejee perfectly embodies the grumpy sassy cat everyone knows! There were twists and turns throughout to keep the reader guessing, but with enough clues scattered that the ending felt satisfying.
If you're looking for a fun read with cozy fantasy vibes and a good plot this is a perfect read.
A perfect fall cozy fantasy mystery, this was a great feel good read combining cozy vibes with an egaging plot. I love the world Jones showed us, teasing the reader with details throughout without taking away from the plot or deadening the scenes, I can't wait to explore more of this fantastical world in Jones' future books. I loved the character of Cali, and Beejee perfectly embodies the grumpy sassy cat everyone knows! There were twists and turns throughout to keep the reader guessing, but with enough clues scattered that the ending felt satisfying.
If you're looking for a fun read with cozy fantasy vibes and a good plot this is a perfect read.
October 2, 2023
Thank you so much for letting me ARC read this, it was AMAZING! 🎃🍂
This is the absolute PERFECT book to read during this fall/spooky season. Even though this was a murder mystery that kept me on my toes, it was still SOOOO COZY!!
My absolute favorite character was Beejee, the sassy cat, AKA Cali’s familiar. He was such a mood the whole book.
If I lived near Cali’s bakery, I’d never leave. It sounded PERFECT!!! Please make me a cup of coffee with extra calming and self love!!
If you want to read a cozy murder mystery with a kitchen witch, a werewolf, a ghost, a HILARIOUS talking cat, with some lgbt representation, this is the book for you!!
🐈⬛💎🎃🍂🔥🕯️
I hope this becomes a series !! I would LOVE to get to know more about some characters, their backstories and love interests !! 💗
4.5 stars
This is the absolute PERFECT book to read during this fall/spooky season. Even though this was a murder mystery that kept me on my toes, it was still SOOOO COZY!!
My absolute favorite character was Beejee, the sassy cat, AKA Cali’s familiar. He was such a mood the whole book.
If I lived near Cali’s bakery, I’d never leave. It sounded PERFECT!!! Please make me a cup of coffee with extra calming and self love!!
If you want to read a cozy murder mystery with a kitchen witch, a werewolf, a ghost, a HILARIOUS talking cat, with some lgbt representation, this is the book for you!!
🐈⬛💎🎃🍂🔥🕯️
I hope this becomes a series !! I would LOVE to get to know more about some characters, their backstories and love interests !! 💗
4.5 stars
Read
July 3, 2025Having DNF'd 5 books from the cozy-fantasy genre, I was sure this was going to be the 6th in the list but I forced myself to get through it. It seems that the genre of cozy fantasy is the literary version of a #momfluencer setting up a beige room and beige toys for her child. Yeah, you got the fancy toys, but at what cost? In theory, cozy fantasy looks good, a low-stakes fantasy to curl up in your bed with, maybe with a cup of tea or hot cocoa but that's where the "coziness" of it ends. The actual story is not even frustrating, that is the worst part, because frustration at least signals an emotion. this book left me neutral from the start to the end. While searching this book to rate it, I couldn't even remember the name of this book, that's how boring this was.
To credit the author, the plot is good. It had a lot of potential. It just isn't executed well. I think my 5th standard history book would elicit more emotions from me than this book did.
The problem, I am noticing, with *most* writers in this genre is that they have this brilliant quirky idea but they just cannot execute it. What is expected to be a low stakes yet fun story turns into a story that elicits neither excitement, nor curiosity, not even a shred of care.
I really wanted to like this book and that is the issue. I don't dislike it, I just haven't been influenced enough to force myself to experience any emotion in response to this and that is the really saddest part. So I'll leave this with a review and no rating.
To credit the author, the plot is good. It had a lot of potential. It just isn't executed well. I think my 5th standard history book would elicit more emotions from me than this book did.
The problem, I am noticing, with *most* writers in this genre is that they have this brilliant quirky idea but they just cannot execute it. What is expected to be a low stakes yet fun story turns into a story that elicits neither excitement, nor curiosity, not even a shred of care.
I really wanted to like this book and that is the issue. I don't dislike it, I just haven't been influenced enough to force myself to experience any emotion in response to this and that is the really saddest part. So I'll leave this with a review and no rating.
December 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this! Super cozy murder mystery complete with a witch and her talking cat, a ghost, and all things magical. Beejee (the talking cat) was absolutely charming, the friendships (both new and old) were sweet and lovely.
September 15, 2024
3.5 This book was cute and cozy, and it had some fun small town, witchy, found family vibes. It was low stakes fantasy, which I liked, but I wish the mystery bit were not so predictable. I enjoyed it but don’t think I’d revisit the book in the future…
October 11, 2023
I was so excited to receive an ARC of this cozy mystery and I was not disappointed. The friendship between Sella and Lohrna was really lovely to read, and Cali was a really fun sunshine character. This book has the perfect cozy feels for autumn and I loved the magic. I wish I could put a dash of hope or calm or confidence in my morning coffee! I will definitely continue on with the series in the future and I look forward to seeing where Wren takes these characters in the sequel!
October 12, 2023
The perfect book to get you out of a slump. ARC review.
The small town cozy vibes and magical mystery led me on a journey that was easy to follow along with and contained characters you’ll grow to love.
Stella, a local witch with some pain points in her past, her sharp-tongued feline companion Beejee, and her best friend Lohrna are compelled to help Cali (a ghost) solve her own murder. As they wander the town searching for answers, we learn more about the magical world they live in and watch as these companions learn more about their pasts and each other.
The book is easy to read and the plot is easy to follow making it a perfect way to reset after a stressful day or recover after reading something heavy. I can’t wait to see where these relationships go in book 2!
The small town cozy vibes and magical mystery led me on a journey that was easy to follow along with and contained characters you’ll grow to love.
Stella, a local witch with some pain points in her past, her sharp-tongued feline companion Beejee, and her best friend Lohrna are compelled to help Cali (a ghost) solve her own murder. As they wander the town searching for answers, we learn more about the magical world they live in and watch as these companions learn more about their pasts and each other.
The book is easy to read and the plot is easy to follow making it a perfect way to reset after a stressful day or recover after reading something heavy. I can’t wait to see where these relationships go in book 2!
March 31, 2024
This series has some potential, maybe.
I love the premise and the talking cat, but often found myself confused at what was happening and where we were.
Not a lot happened, especially for a murder mystery. Overall just meh.
I love the premise and the talking cat, but often found myself confused at what was happening and where we were.
Not a lot happened, especially for a murder mystery. Overall just meh.
October 16, 2023
The takeaway: the setting is charming, and the descriptions will have you drinking way too much coffee, but the mystery and some characters tend to be as wispy as plumes of steam over your mug.
The good: This is exactly the book you want to be reading at this time of year. The ambience, setting, and descriptions of food and people are thick, warm, and rich. Even in the overly warm southwest, this book can transport you to a rainy countryside near the ocean. It’s magic is simple and subtle. Additionally, I liked many of the characters, especially Beejee and Lohrna. They were charming even if I felt like I didn’t really know them by the end.
The bad: I didn’t really like Sella. I kept expecting to like her, but she never quite materialized. What did manifest was often an odd combination of insecure and disdainful that I gave up on ever finding endearing about halfway through.
I also felt like the mystery was a bit vague, but this is more than likely because the story spent more time on the setting and tone, and I can’t argue that in a cozy fantasy that the mystery should fade a bit to prioritize what the book does so well.
The ugly: None.
Recommended? If you like cozy fantasy and a dash of murder with your coffee, yes.
I was sent an advance copy of this work; however, all opinions are my own.
The good: This is exactly the book you want to be reading at this time of year. The ambience, setting, and descriptions of food and people are thick, warm, and rich. Even in the overly warm southwest, this book can transport you to a rainy countryside near the ocean. It’s magic is simple and subtle. Additionally, I liked many of the characters, especially Beejee and Lohrna. They were charming even if I felt like I didn’t really know them by the end.
The bad: I didn’t really like Sella. I kept expecting to like her, but she never quite materialized. What did manifest was often an odd combination of insecure and disdainful that I gave up on ever finding endearing about halfway through.
I also felt like the mystery was a bit vague, but this is more than likely because the story spent more time on the setting and tone, and I can’t argue that in a cozy fantasy that the mystery should fade a bit to prioritize what the book does so well.
The ugly: None.
Recommended? If you like cozy fantasy and a dash of murder with your coffee, yes.
I was sent an advance copy of this work; however, all opinions are my own.
October 5, 2024
I loved the vibes of this book, it was definitely cozy and I love the idea of running a magical tea and coffeeshop
But the writing and plot could use a lot of work... the beginning was very slow and the ending was rushed. The main character was very passive which was frustrating for most of the book; she let a lot of people gossip about her or make rude comments and wouldn't really say anything. And it was also really aggravating how often other characters (especially her friends) pressured her into doing things throughout the book, i was so mad for her
But the writing and plot could use a lot of work... the beginning was very slow and the ending was rushed. The main character was very passive which was frustrating for most of the book; she let a lot of people gossip about her or make rude comments and wouldn't really say anything. And it was also really aggravating how often other characters (especially her friends) pressured her into doing things throughout the book, i was so mad for her
October 1, 2023
Received as ARC: This cozy mystery has the loveliest setting. I loved reading about the different folk in the town and their animal characteristics, it added such depth to their personalities. This book is perfect for Sabrina fans and love cozy reads with a lot of baking! I loved the relationship that grew between Sella and Cali. My dream would be to have someone make this into a cozy, potion making game I could replay forever!
May 22, 2024
An enchanting read!! It’s a mix of magic, friendship, mystery and playfulness.
A kitchen witch who reluctantly tries to help a ghost solve her murder. She also gets help from her shifter friend and her cynical cat familiar. I loved how welcoming and comfy this book felt while reading it, but also had a fun engaging mystery.
If you’re a cozy mystery enthusiast who likes a touch of magic, you will really enjoy this book. Can’t wait to read book 2 when it comes out.
A kitchen witch who reluctantly tries to help a ghost solve her murder. She also gets help from her shifter friend and her cynical cat familiar. I loved how welcoming and comfy this book felt while reading it, but also had a fun engaging mystery.
If you’re a cozy mystery enthusiast who likes a touch of magic, you will really enjoy this book. Can’t wait to read book 2 when it comes out.
October 26, 2024
I loved the talking cat familiar and the cozy witch vibes. I do wish there was more world building, I feel a lot of things were told or alluded to but not necessarily shown in full. I liked the plot, I just wish there was more to it? Feel like there is a lot left to explore. But overall I enjoyed it!!
November 6, 2024
I absolutely loved this cozy witchy read. I will be reading the sequel to this book. As a witch who loves true crime and murder mystery this book was an easy read, though it took me longer than I thought since I didn’t have a lot of time to read these past two weeks.
December 16, 2024
CAWPILE 6.29
3.5 STARS
Picked this one up as I wanted something 'cozy' and it is cozy despite murder!
I loved all the different representation, the vibes were really good and I loved our main character Sella. I felt the ending was a bit flat but I am interested enough to pick up the sequel.
3.5 STARS
Picked this one up as I wanted something 'cozy' and it is cozy despite murder!
I loved all the different representation, the vibes were really good and I loved our main character Sella. I felt the ending was a bit flat but I am interested enough to pick up the sequel.
September 26, 2023
This cozy mystery was amazing. Wren paints this magical world you wish you could exist in while simultaneously pulling you into a murder mystery. It also made me crave scones lol I adored the characters and can’t wait to hopefully see more from them again one day!
October 26, 2024
A beautiful cozy read, fantastic for the fall.
August 25, 2024
4.5 stars!
October 14, 2023
ARC for honest review:
Pack your bags and get ready to move to Marra as Wren invites you into the wonderfully crafted lives of Sella the Kitchen Witch and her friends.
I generally don’t read mystery novels but this one had me hooked from the start. Every time I opened the book felt like visiting a friend and I found myself wishing I really could sit in Sella’s loft by the fire enjoying a scone and sipping her magic infused teas.
The characters are thoughtfully made with unique names and you get to know them all fairly well.
You can absolutely feel the sarcasm of her sassy familiar Beegee as he bellows his soon to be infamous line “I have grievances”!
It has definite Sabrina the Teenage Witch meets Supernatural vibes and the mystery had me guessing until the end.
I don’t have any negatives to share, it was good…
read it, get a good laugh and make some new fictional friends. I know I’ll be going back to reread. Save me a seat next to Lohrna and Cali <3
Pack your bags and get ready to move to Marra as Wren invites you into the wonderfully crafted lives of Sella the Kitchen Witch and her friends.
I generally don’t read mystery novels but this one had me hooked from the start. Every time I opened the book felt like visiting a friend and I found myself wishing I really could sit in Sella’s loft by the fire enjoying a scone and sipping her magic infused teas.
The characters are thoughtfully made with unique names and you get to know them all fairly well.
You can absolutely feel the sarcasm of her sassy familiar Beegee as he bellows his soon to be infamous line “I have grievances”!
It has definite Sabrina the Teenage Witch meets Supernatural vibes and the mystery had me guessing until the end.
I don’t have any negatives to share, it was good…
read it, get a good laugh and make some new fictional friends. I know I’ll be going back to reread. Save me a seat next to Lohrna and Cali <3
October 8, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A cozy mystery with a kitchen witch, a ghost, and a talking cat? Yes, please! ❤️
This is the perfect book if you want a cozy fantasy with a touch of murder mystery full of vivid magical moments. The characters and setting are lovable & memorable, and the plot is fairly straightforward.
I’m looking forward to the next book. I’d love to spend more time with Stella, Beejee, and the rest of the town!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A cozy mystery with a kitchen witch, a ghost, and a talking cat? Yes, please! ❤️
This is the perfect book if you want a cozy fantasy with a touch of murder mystery full of vivid magical moments. The characters and setting are lovable & memorable, and the plot is fairly straightforward.
I’m looking forward to the next book. I’d love to spend more time with Stella, Beejee, and the rest of the town!
November 20, 2024
Who says it's too late for a Halloween review? There's still plenty of time to dive into this enchanting murder mystery and add some cozy witchy vibes to your autumn reading lineup!
I was so excited to read Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder and it definitely doesn't disappoint! Wren Jones has crafted an incredibly cozy cast of characters and the books reminds me a little of Shady Hollow by Juneau Black (another amazingly cozy murder mystery). Sella has recently moved back to town after an extended period away and is still trying to overcome the little magical mishap that happened in her youth—known to the locals as, “The Incident”. Her feline familiar, Beejee is the sassiest cat I've had the pleasure to read and I loved all of his witty little quips. When a murder happens in their quaint little town, Sella is haunted by the ghost of the victim and it’s up to her to solve the murder!
There’s a quite beautiful portrayal of grief in here that really tugged on my heartstrings. I lost a parent young so I felt I really related to Sella in that respect. I think it’s a sign of a good book when the author helps you tap into your own emotions that way. In a happy sad way of course!
Pick this one up for the cozy murder mystery but stay for the quirky characters and wholesome vibes!
I was so excited to read Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder and it definitely doesn't disappoint! Wren Jones has crafted an incredibly cozy cast of characters and the books reminds me a little of Shady Hollow by Juneau Black (another amazingly cozy murder mystery). Sella has recently moved back to town after an extended period away and is still trying to overcome the little magical mishap that happened in her youth—known to the locals as, “The Incident”. Her feline familiar, Beejee is the sassiest cat I've had the pleasure to read and I loved all of his witty little quips. When a murder happens in their quaint little town, Sella is haunted by the ghost of the victim and it’s up to her to solve the murder!
There’s a quite beautiful portrayal of grief in here that really tugged on my heartstrings. I lost a parent young so I felt I really related to Sella in that respect. I think it’s a sign of a good book when the author helps you tap into your own emotions that way. In a happy sad way of course!
Pick this one up for the cozy murder mystery but stay for the quirky characters and wholesome vibes!
September 26, 2023
Absolutely adorable! Cozy as hell. Beejee is our King!
I Absolutely adored this book. Every single one of these main characters feels like someone I would love to be friends with.
I think wren Jones did a great job making personable and relatable characters and just enough anxiety to get you to want to know what's going to happen next but not so much that it cancels out the overall very cozy comfortable vibe.
I do wish there was a little bit more detail in the world building. More detail is not by any means necessary to the storyline whatsoever, I just really enjoy having a little more help in being able to envision the town and the characters because it is so cozy I just want to be able to be there lol
4.7 out of 5 stars. Not a full 5 simply because I want more of it 😆
The ending feels set up to be able to maybe eventually have a series behind it and if it does I'm absolutely going to be here for it!!!
Live, Love, BeeJee.
I Absolutely adored this book. Every single one of these main characters feels like someone I would love to be friends with.
I think wren Jones did a great job making personable and relatable characters and just enough anxiety to get you to want to know what's going to happen next but not so much that it cancels out the overall very cozy comfortable vibe.
I do wish there was a little bit more detail in the world building. More detail is not by any means necessary to the storyline whatsoever, I just really enjoy having a little more help in being able to envision the town and the characters because it is so cozy I just want to be able to be there lol
4.7 out of 5 stars. Not a full 5 simply because I want more of it 😆
The ending feels set up to be able to maybe eventually have a series behind it and if it does I'm absolutely going to be here for it!!!
Live, Love, BeeJee.
April 11, 2024
As I have read more over the last several years, I have also set goals to broaden my reading in every way - genres, representation, and any other way that takes me out of whatever I’d read in the past. One of the greatest discoveries has been the ‘Cozy Fantasy’ genre represented by Travis Baldree, Diana Wynn Jones, Rebecca Thorne and others.
Add Wren Jones to that list as her debut novel Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder is an absolute joy. Sella is a kitchen witch returning to her home town after many years away following her mother’s death and ‘The Incident’ that has left her untrusted in town. Lorhna is her best friend, but also not trusted in town. Beejee is her cat familiar who is sassy and opinionated and evokes thoughts of Salem from the 90s show Sabrina. And then there’s a ghost - but I’ll leave hat for you to discover.
The story revolves around a murder mystery, but there is so much more - it is a tale of rediscovering who you are and understanding your past, of found family, helping others discover their own truth, of the many types of love all around us, and so much more. Every chapter has a nugget of love and caring to share, just as Sella brings something extra to every cup of coffee or tea and each warm scone she offers.
For me this was absolutely a five star read - I loved these characters and can’t wait for more books of their exploits … you can just tell they have more stories they’re dying to tell!
Update 4/11/2024: I seldom re-read books anymore, especially within a year of the initial read - but the release of this audiobook made me excited to dive back in. And everything is just as wonderful as I remembered - breezy pacing, fun world building, and engaging characters I can’t wait to join on future adventures!
Add Wren Jones to that list as her debut novel Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder is an absolute joy. Sella is a kitchen witch returning to her home town after many years away following her mother’s death and ‘The Incident’ that has left her untrusted in town. Lorhna is her best friend, but also not trusted in town. Beejee is her cat familiar who is sassy and opinionated and evokes thoughts of Salem from the 90s show Sabrina. And then there’s a ghost - but I’ll leave hat for you to discover.
The story revolves around a murder mystery, but there is so much more - it is a tale of rediscovering who you are and understanding your past, of found family, helping others discover their own truth, of the many types of love all around us, and so much more. Every chapter has a nugget of love and caring to share, just as Sella brings something extra to every cup of coffee or tea and each warm scone she offers.
For me this was absolutely a five star read - I loved these characters and can’t wait for more books of their exploits … you can just tell they have more stories they’re dying to tell!
Update 4/11/2024: I seldom re-read books anymore, especially within a year of the initial read - but the release of this audiobook made me excited to dive back in. And everything is just as wonderful as I remembered - breezy pacing, fun world building, and engaging characters I can’t wait to join on future adventures!
October 27, 2024
This is a perfect spooky season story! There is a witch, a familiar, a shifter, a ghost, and a murder mystery that must be solved!
The world building, background information, and character development are perfectly balanced for readers. It's so easy and exciting to stay engaged with Sella (the witch) and her crew as they go about solving the mystery.
Samantha Norbury does an excellent job with narration. I loved her ability to voice so many characters differently, and with wonderful emotion. She was a perfect narrator for these characters and this fun story!
If you love fantastical characters, mystery, a sassy sidekick cat, endearing friendships, and fantastic narration, get this audiobook!
No spice: YA
The world building, background information, and character development are perfectly balanced for readers. It's so easy and exciting to stay engaged with Sella (the witch) and her crew as they go about solving the mystery.
Samantha Norbury does an excellent job with narration. I loved her ability to voice so many characters differently, and with wonderful emotion. She was a perfect narrator for these characters and this fun story!
If you love fantastical characters, mystery, a sassy sidekick cat, endearing friendships, and fantastic narration, get this audiobook!
No spice: YA
September 28, 2023
(4.75 stars) -25 for this wasn't a calming read. I was 100% trying to figure out who the killer was.
Is Kiki's Delivery Service your favorite Ghibli movie but you wish there was more going on?
Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder is a middle-grade-esk book that follows a witch and her interactions with the townspeople. But with a twist a murderer on the prowl.
This book is officially under the "cozy fantasy" genre, and for how plot-heavy this book is, I'd personally say it doesn't actually fit under that genre. This book is a character-driven story where the main character makes some bad decisions (and some good ones) on a path to being forced to solve a ghost's murder.
If you are looking for something cozy, I'd recommend the fantasy novel Eventide, Tales of the Dragon's Bard #1 and it's sequel Swept Up by the Sea: A Romantic Fairy Tale.
Other reviewers seem to disagree.
I love the world-building of this book! We are dropped smack down into the setting and are slowly expanding random little details are are very interesting about the world here and I definitely wanted to know more!
Magic where you mix in a little bit a courage into your potions is such a cute little idea.
I personally guessed who the killer was as soon as they talked to the Main character (sadly, not when they were first mentioned), and also why as soon as it was possible to guess the motive.
It personally made me feel smart rather than patronized like Cemetry Boys (Now that was the worst mystery I've ever read. Great World building and characters!). However, I was shocked to read a different reviewer who claimed to have no idea till the reveal. They obviously don't lay CLUE with their family, lol.
I would put this murder on the same level as One Way (Frank Kittridge #1), where the killer is pretty obvious from the get go, but you fully understand why the main character has no idea. The fun of One Way is like watching someone play amungus and the anticipation for when the main character realized who the killer is (not you the reader). That book of course is a thriller, lol
For this book, the focus is more on using the murder as a *tool* to focus on the characters and the world.
"Who and why would someone kill our ghost?" is less the focus and more so on why someone would do it *in this world.*
Anyway, my favorite character was the Police-detective. I loved him as soon as he was introduced, cuz If I was him, I'd have arrested Sella 10 seconds, cuz OMG Sella!?!?? You are so SUS???? I have never seen a more suspicious character in my life.
If you enjoy this book, you'd probably also love Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch. Which is another middle-grade book about a witch in a small town causing (or perhaps fixing) toubled in that town.
If you want some more ghost shinagagines, you should read the middle-grade novel, Dial A Ghost.
Is Kiki's Delivery Service your favorite Ghibli movie but you wish there was more going on?
Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder is a middle-grade-esk book that follows a witch and her interactions with the townspeople. But with a twist a murderer on the prowl.
This book is officially under the "cozy fantasy" genre, and for how plot-heavy this book is, I'd personally say it doesn't actually fit under that genre. This book is a character-driven story where the main character makes some bad decisions (and some good ones) on a path to being forced to solve a ghost's murder.
If you are looking for something cozy, I'd recommend the fantasy novel Eventide, Tales of the Dragon's Bard #1 and it's sequel Swept Up by the Sea: A Romantic Fairy Tale.
Other reviewers seem to disagree.
I love the world-building of this book! We are dropped smack down into the setting and are slowly expanding random little details are are very interesting about the world here and I definitely wanted to know more!
Magic where you mix in a little bit a courage into your potions is such a cute little idea.
I personally guessed who the killer was as soon as they talked to the Main character (sadly, not when they were first mentioned), and also why as soon as it was possible to guess the motive.
It personally made me feel smart rather than patronized like Cemetry Boys (Now that was the worst mystery I've ever read. Great World building and characters!). However, I was shocked to read a different reviewer who claimed to have no idea till the reveal. They obviously don't lay CLUE with their family, lol.
I would put this murder on the same level as One Way (Frank Kittridge #1), where the killer is pretty obvious from the get go, but you fully understand why the main character has no idea. The fun of One Way is like watching someone play amungus and the anticipation for when the main character realized who the killer is (not you the reader). That book of course is a thriller, lol
For this book, the focus is more on using the murder as a *tool* to focus on the characters and the world.
"Who and why would someone kill our ghost?" is less the focus and more so on why someone would do it *in this world.*
Anyway, my favorite character was the Police-detective. I loved him as soon as he was introduced, cuz If I was him, I'd have arrested Sella 10 seconds, cuz OMG Sella!?!?? You are so SUS???? I have never seen a more suspicious character in my life.
If you enjoy this book, you'd probably also love Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch. Which is another middle-grade book about a witch in a small town causing (or perhaps fixing) toubled in that town.
If you want some more ghost shinagagines, you should read the middle-grade novel, Dial A Ghost.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews