April Curses and May Hearses

Harper and Moon Investigations #5

by Trixie Silvertale

Ding! Dong! The witch is dead? Mitzy Moon is looking forward to a memorable first anniversary. Though celebrating in a snowbound land wasn’t quite the event she had in mind. But this psychic sleuth must put her party plans on ice when a local shopkeeper suffers a senseless attack.

After discovering a magical talisman missing from the crime scene, Mitzy struggles to uncover further clues. And the moment she desperately needs her alchemy mentor’s guidance, the trouble takes a personal turn… now she fears she could be the next target.

Can Mitzy and Erick dig up crucial evidence before this killer fills more coffins?

April Curses and May Hearses is the fifth book in the hilarious paranormal cozy mystery series, Harper and Moon Investigations, a spinoff from the popular Mitzy Moon Mysteries. If you like snarky heroines, supernatural intrigue, and a dash of romance, then you’ll love Trixie Silvertale’s spellbinding secrets.

Buy April Curses and May Hearses to to lay a villain to rest today!

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Ghosts, Fiction, Paranormal

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2024

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Trixie Silvertale grew up reading an endless supply of Lilian Jackson Braun, Hardy Boys, and Nancy Drew novels. She loves the amateur sleuths in cozy mysteries and and obsesses about all things paranormal. Those two passions unite in her Mitzy Moon Mysteries, and she's thrilled to write them and share them with you.

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Reviews

[Rebecca Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this wonderful book by author
Trixie Silvertale. Moon and Eric are so
good together. Can't wait to read the next book.
Highly recommend reading any or all of her
wonderful books...

[Katinka · Rating 4 out of 5]

When one of the local shops in Pin Cherry Harbor is ransacked, and the shop owner is left in the hospital, naturally her son hires Harper-Moon Investigations to solve the mystery of who attacked his mother and to make sure whoever it was winds up behind bars. His mother being a woman who had held a long-standing mutual animosity with Mitzy’s “ghost-ma” and who was also a purveyor of the mystical arts, made it doubly important that Mitzy and Eric are involved. Add in a jail break and other old enemies/rivals returning and this is quite a danger-filled adventure for the pair of private investigators.

I received an advance review copy of this book, and as always, Ms. Silvertale does not disappoint. This book kept me interested and reading, and I finished it within two days of starting it. Both Mitzy and Erick have their hands full solving this crime, and not only are both Mitzy herself and Erick in danger, but so are those closest to the pair. This is not merely a small crime or murder that they are trying to solve, as the events unfolding, if not stopped, could have far reaching effects that go well beyond their town. The mystical and paranormal events unfolding in this story are quite significant, and if Mitzy and Erick fail, allowing the one behind it all to succeed, there will undoubtedly be quite a few more deaths left in the wake of this evil force.

I apologize for being so vague as to what is happening, but I really do not want to give away any of the multiple twists and turns that take place in this book. If I did, that would spoil your enjoyment from reading and discovering everything yourself, and what fun is that? But trust me, if you enjoy Cozy mysteries with a paranormal twist, have read and enjoyed any of the other books by Ms. Silvertale involving Mitzy Moon, former sheriff Erick Harper, their mystical friends and family, as well has the trouble that seems to follow them, then you will definitely enjoy reading this book. I would recommend giving it a try. And while you can likely pick up on much of what has gone before from the contents of this story, it will be much easier to truly understand some of it if you have read some of the previous books in this series first.

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitzy is set to celebrate her first year anniversary with Erick but things go sideways when a local woman, looked at as a gypsy by the locals is attacked and her place is ransacked. Mitzy is asked by her son to look into the matter and it soon becomes evident that the perpetrator was not a normal thief but after a specific item which was taken! Mitzy is able to visit with her in the hospital and obtain some vital information and clues before she dies and Mitzy knows who she is now dealing with!

Add to this is a prison break and threats on her and Silas’s lives and this case shapes up to be probably the most intense case they have ever faced against their most formidable foe ever! It will take all of Silas, Mitzy, Erick and his friend as well as Silas’s friend along with our one and only Pyewacket and a host of spirits who have been called back to assist to stop this sorcerer from her diabolical and evil design to
harness a power that could change everything!

This is a book you won’t want to miss! The thrills and excitement will keep you going and you’ll be in for a shock in the end as well!

Trixie has managed to once again deliver a book packed with humor, action, adventure, love, devotion and an unputdownable book you’re going to throughly enjoy!

I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend not only this book but both these series to you for your reading enjoyment! Anything you pick up written by Trixie will be a joy indeed to read believe me! I’ve read them all and I’ve loved every one!

I really feel that Artemis is the most evil villain I’ve come across because of the power she possesses!
She fights against them all and almost succeeds. Only a couple of things weakened her concentration enough to cause her to falter!

Let’s see how Erick and Mitzy can get Alex exonerated from two murder charges that he was convicted for for acting under the control of Artemis!
Coming up with the evidence is going to be a mighty tall order!

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

April Curses & May Hearses is the latest Harper and Moon Investigations mystery. This fun paranormal cozy mystery series is about a psychic PI and her husband, a former sheriff. In this book, Mitzy is looking forward to her and Erick's first wedding anniversary, but puts her own plans on hold to look into an attack on a local new-age shop owner and a mysterious item that may have been stolen.

This book starts out like a typical robbery/assault case, but Mitzy soon discovers the break-in and the attack is much more supernatural in origin. Mitzy has to call upon abilities from deep inside to overcome a dangerous adversary. Meanwhile, Erick steps in to assist on another case that may prove to be riskier than he thought and may even have ties to what Mitzy is working on. Together, they are a formidable team that will do what it takes to protect their loved ones and each other. 

I love that this cozy series that has a touch of the paranormal with Mitzy being psychic and Mitzy being able to see and communicate with her deceased grandmother, affectionately called "Ghost-ma". This book has a little more magic and alchemy than I usually read, but it does set up a very dramatic showdown with both scary and touching moments for the main characters. Paranormal cozy reads as well as fans of the series will really enjoy the book.

I received an advance copy from the author, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "April Curses and May Hearses," Trixie Silvertale weaves a thrilling tale that kept me engaged from start to finish. As Mitzy Moon anticipates celebrating her first anniversary with Erick, the unexpected occurs when a local shopkeeper falls victim to a senseless attack. With a missing magical talisman at the crime scene, Mitzy finds herself embroiled in a dangerous investigation, fearing she could be the next target.

Silvertale's strength lies in her ability to create quirky and relatable characters that readers can't help but root for. Mitzy's wit and determination make her a captivating protagonist, and her dynamic with Erick adds a touch of romance to the story. Additionally, the supporting cast, including Silas and Pyewacket, contributes to the book's charm and humor.

The plot unfolds with twists and turns, as Mitzy delves into the mystery surrounding the attack and uncovers a sinister plot orchestrated by a formidable foe. Silvertale masterfully blends elements of paranormal intrigue with moments of suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Trixie Silvertale delivered yet another winner that left me eagerly awaiting the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily leave this review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitzy and Erick are going to celebrate their first anniversary. But not quite yet since the woman who owns a local store is attacked, store ransacked and only a special talisman is missing. Three cons have escaped their incarceration and are on the loose. Mitzy was asked by the son of the woman to investigate and find the murderers who killed his mother. Of course, complicating things a bit, the son is the nemesis of ghost-gran. But what is worse, before the woman died, Mitzy was able to get some clues to the problem and who she is looking for. Also, the taliman taken, if in the wrong hands can cause major problems since it is very powerful. It also means that her mentor, Silas and Mitzy could be next. So it takes a whole slew of characters including Silas, Mitzy, Erick, Silas' friend and some ghosts to stop this diabolical sorcerer and her evil plans. This is a wonderful page turner with lots of twists and turns that keeps you guessing until the very end. This is a great series with really good characters and some laughs along the way. I highly recommend this book, in fact I highly recommend this whole series! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Darla Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitzy Moon and Erick Harper are looking forward to their first anniversary although Mitzy is ready for the snow to clear. But when a local store owner is brutally and senselessly attacked, Harper and Moon are on the case. Mitzy soon discovers a missing talisman and works to find the clues they need. However, the trouble soon turns personal and Mitzy may be the next target. Can Mitzy and Erick find the killer and put a stop to the murder before anyone else dies?

I've really enjoyed this series, which is a spinoff of the Mitzy Moon series, and this book's a prime example of why. This book's well-written with wonderful characters and it's a quick, fun read. The captivating story immediately drew me in and kept me hooked from beginning to end while the mystery had many twists and turns that will keep you intrigued and on your toes. This is an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series with well-rounded characters and each book is a tantalizing tale that will keep you engaged. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next one. I highly recommend both book and series which I believe is best read in order.

[Mike Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series

This is an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series. A fun cast of characters and an entertaining storyline. Mitzi moon is young woman that inherited her grandmother‘s wealth and rare bookstore. She also inherited a few gifts from her grandmother. A bit of psychic ability a bit of magical ability And a mentor that is teaching her a great number of alchemist ways and tricks. In this series there’s a bit of magic there’s a bit of alchemy there’s a bit of mystery there’s a bit of psychic ability there is a cow cat that is a miracle all on its own. Her husband used to be the sheriff and now is a partner in a private investigator business with Mitzi. By the way her grandmother’s ghost happens to be anchored to that book store. Occasionally they get a murder occasionally they get a mystical mystery occasionally they get some strange crime but it’s always an interesting Bit of action as Mitsy and her mentor and others figure it out. And enjoy the adventure.

[Trisha Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I love the most about these books is how the author keeps it going from the first page to the last. No distractions, no infilling, just pure story! In this investigation, we find ourselves thrust head-first into what could be compared to something straight out of a fantasy 'Potter-style' episode. An incident occurs in a hocus pocus style shop and Mitzy soon realises it has the mark of an old adversary written all over it.

With a fantastic mix of recall on past events and great teamwork, Mitzy, Erick, Pyewacket, Silas, and others work together. Ghost-ma is a little more in the background this time, but what she does have to say is worth listening to! This murder has many twists and turns which involve the past, present, and, I suspect, the future as things unravel. Great read and a deep delve into other-worldly, paranormal, and magical happenings. Expect a full serving of emotions and you won't be disappointed. Another hit!

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A witch is attacked in her own shop, and Mitzy is called upon by the son of the woman, who as it turns out is the nemesis of ghost-ma, to help in the investigation. An ancient talisman is taken during the attack on the shop and it seems this needs an incantation to be activated, but once it is it could prove to be very powerful and harmful in the wrong hands. Mitzy discovers that Silas, her alchemist mentor is a target, and soon discovers that she could be one too. Can she and Erick put the escaped prisoners back behind bars before it is too late, and can they keep the talisman from being activated? This story becomes highly personal, turns very dark at times and I think is one of the most powerful in the Harper and Moon Investigations series which I really enjoy reading. I love Mitzy but even more so I love Pyewacket, our famous and magical caracal who gives more than his share of help in finding clues. This time round he might have even saved Mitzy's life.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.

Mitzy and Erick are cute newlyweds. I like how much they adore each other. She finally came clean to Erick about the supernatural, and he seems to be warming up to the idea…slowly.

I enjoy the stories about Erick and Mitzy. This may be my favorite of all the Mitzy Moon stories so far. Not only is a powerful gypsy murdered, but Mitzy, Erick and Silas, Mitzy’s mentor, are in danger too. Silas is such a great character, and I enjoyed him being so involved in this case.

Trixie Silvertale’s writing flows well and is always entertaining. Pin Cherry Harbor is one of my favorite places to visit. The characters are unique and fun, Mitzy usually finds herself in trouble, Erick is the perfect husband and although it’s a murder mystery, the author is good at looking at things from a humorous POV. I can’t wait for the next story!

[Wulfwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical Mystery Adventure

Each book just gets better! Book five of Harper and Moon Investigations is hold your breath action packed. It also takes you on an emotional roller coaster. This one was absolutely amazing! I don't know how Trixie Silvertale will top this but I'm excitedly looking forward to it.
Do you enjoy magic, good characters that include a caracal, a mystery that is filled with adventure and a fast paced story? Dive into the world of Mitzy Moon and Erick Harper. You are best off beginning at the start with Mitzy Moon Mysteries unless you have no patience. You can start with Harper and Moon Investigations. If you enjoy romance mixed in with your mysteries, though, you will enjoy getting to know Mitzy, seeing her grow and fall in love all the while solving some intriguing and magical mysteries in each book of the Mitzy Moon Mysteries. Either series will have you enchanted and eager for the next book!

[Roxx Tarantini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another one I couldn't put down!

You know, every time I read a new Harper and Moon adventure and see the scrapes they get into, I think, "Oh no, we're going to lose someone!" And that would be sad because these characters are so well drawn that the reader feels like they're dear friends. But thankfully, we don't.

I'm happy for that; but I do love the highs and lows that bring us to the conclusion each time. Each new adventure is enthralling and makes it hard to put the book down. Until you reach the very end, and then you wait - sometimes impatiently - for the next adventure.

Another great read!

[I was fortunate to be able to read a pre-publication copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]

[Sue Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! The suspense in this one got so intense I had to skip to the end to make sure everybody I love in this series was still alive at the end! Maybe they were; maybe they weren't. I'm not telling. Read the book and find out, but maybe keep a cup of Tension Tamer Tea on the table next to your favorite reading spot. And if you're on any heart medications (though I suspect the target audience for this series is more Mitzie's age than Ghostma's age when she transitioned) be sure not to skip them when you read this book.

Once I read the ending, I had to go back to where I left off to find out how it all transpired. Then, I went back to the beginning and read the whole book over again straight through. Definitely one of the best books of either series so far! Even though I read this series through Kindle Unlimited, I think this is one I want for my library. It's a keeper!

[Michael Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Jail Break and A Dark Powered Terror

Mitzi and Eric and the whole gang are back and ready to protect in this fifth installment of the Harper and Moon Investigations. You will be delighted as you read this book which I believe is one of the best in the series, first we have three escaped convicts who must be found and returned back to prison and after that there is an enemy to anyone who uses their powers for good to deal with, sound interesting to you? Well it should and you should run right out, buy this book and read it as fast as you can so that you will know exactly what I’m talking about, you won’t regret it. Just don’t read it so fast that you don’t enjoy it my friends, after all we read to enjoy;)

[Margery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well! To say I loved this book does not describe how much I enjoyed it! Ms. Trixie has woven a journey filled with suspense, action and alchemy. Mitzy and Eric have so many things before them. A death of a powerful witch, the escape of 3 criminals Eric put in prison, who vow to get even with Eric. As if that should be all, there is an evil sorceress who is after Mitzy and Silas, but, that is not all! Erics' father also escapes his jail cell. I sat at the edge of my seat, totally unable to go to bed. All I can say is this was a total tornado of action packed suspense that totally wowed me! I rarely read a book twice, but I AM going to re-read it right away!

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The excitement in this series never wanes, so this book is no exception.

Although Mitzy and Erick are trying to celebrate their wedding anniversary, their plans are halted by outside influences. The owner of a local shop is attacked and hospitalised and her son has asked Mitzy for help. At the same time there is a problem at the county prison, which involves Erick - indirectly. Whilst Mitzy could do with help from her mentor, their are problems from another source and Mitzy has to work without his help. As usual, things are more intertwined than they first appear to be.

I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily leave this review.

[Javon50 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I say this every time, but this is the best book in the series so far. Just when you think all the intrigue and excitement is over and you can catch your breath, you discover you are on another roller coaster of a ride. You will find a local gypsy who is attacked, Mitzi will go undercover to find the culprit, while a mysterious and dangerous person has stolen an object that can change everything. Meanwhile the ever-present Silas is at the center of all the danger heading their way while Erick is on his own dangerous adventure. I love this book and series! This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story! This one has so many things happening at once, but they are all interconnected. When Mitzy is asked to look into the reason a shop owner was attacked, and she is given an old grimoire to protect. She gives it to Silas, and he tells her to not contact him again until he tells her it is safe. Like she will sit back and not help Silas when he is ready to sacrifice himself for her. Erick is looking for escaped convicts and they are both looking for an old enemy who will use anyone to get what she wants. None of them are sure if they will live through this one. Will any of them make it?

[Amanda Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ania

Ghost-ma's nemesis is in hospital, having been attacked and robbed in her store by an unknown assailant, and Mitzy goes to help her son Tadjo find out what's missing.

Silas goes into hiding when the missing artefact comes to be known and warns Mitzy to be careful. But we all know how difficult she's going to find that.

Meanwhile, Erick is on his way to a troubling situation at the local prison involving three escapees and his father in the sick bay refusing to speak.

Artemis is in Pin Cherry Harbour, and a showdown is on the way... she's searching for her mother, but little does she realise that her actions had consequences.

[Patricia A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitzy and Erick have a lot going on. Their anniversary is approaching but must put on hold. Too many things are happening at once and again they are on the case to say the day. This book was action packed and full of twists s turns. It was fast paced and kept you on your toes in a good way you didn’t want to put it down. The battle with Artemis was amazing and descriptive. In the end they finally get to celebrate their anniversary with an adventure. So far I think this is the best yet. Can’t wait to see what’s next!

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really well written, enjoyable, and active cozy mystery series. The books function best when you've started with Book 1. The Haper and Moon Investigations series is an off shoot of the Mitzi Moon series. There is action and a decent mystery, usually a murder. Mitzi has a growing psychic ability that doesn't overtake the plot. Also, the stories are concise without a lot of useless filler. Mitzi does get into some situations, of course. They aren't always due to overstepping with really dumb plans though. I fully enjoy the books and always look forward to the next in line.

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, that was something! So good!!!

That was epic! And that’s not a word I normally use. But it’s the right word for this book. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I **may** have even squealed at one scene! Epic, just epic! I loved Silas’ role. He was grand! And Pye, wow! I seem to keep repeating myself, but it was just the best! The book was full of that typical Mitzy humor that I so love. We have another winner!

[Darcysmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Wow! Wow! I think this may be the best Harper & Moon Investigations book yet! It has everything: danger, intrigue, villains, heroes, and a twisty case to solve!
Mitzy and Eric face danger both separately and together as they work to stop old foes bent on revenge. Thankfully, they have friends old and new ready to help them. And, of course, everyone's favorite caracal is poised to save the day.
I highly recommend April Curses and May Hearses.

[Angie R Geissman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderfully written book in this series. Ghostma’s arch rival is killed and Mitzy and Erick take the case. While working on this 3 convicts escape from prison and this puts Erick in danger they have a grudge against him. Then his fathers escapes from prison. The evil Artemis kidnaps Mitzy. This book has a lot of exciting things going on. I especially like how you get a hint of how powerful Pye is. Can’t wait for the next one!

[Misha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This adventure for Mitzy is rather emotional. Her and Erick are finding themselves neck deep when they set out to find who attacked a gypsy in her store. Her son has hired Mitzy to solve this but this takes a serious walk on the paranormal side of things especially when a sorceress is determined to take over the world by any means necessary and she doesn't care who she kills in the process.. Fabulous read!!!

[Theresa Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series! Each book has wonderful twists and unexpected turns. Set aside an evening to read this book because you won't be able to stop reading!

I particularly enjoyed the tension that is built during the book. This story includes a very unexpected twist involving an old enemy and so much that surprised me. Thank you to Trixie Silvertale for another amazing addition to this series!!

[Kate Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful trip to Pin Cherry Harbour with some of my favourite fictional characters. Trixie’s books are a perfect example of a great cozy mystery, an interesting storyline with characters that come to life on the page and stay with you long after you finish the book. No bad language or scenes of explicit nature mean that this is suitable for pretty much everyone in my opinion. I adore the world the author has created and can’t wait for the next visit.

[AnnaRose Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fate

I feel this is what fate has had in store for those in almost Canada. Fate brought Mitzy to Pin Cherry Harbor, then she falls for the sheriff (literally). Fate brought her Silas, and Pye. She has gained so much when she moved here. The loss of a parent is never easy,they say time heals all wounds. Ya, it doesn't it just gets a little tolerable. Way to go Pye! Give that cat his reward of fruity puffs, he's earned it. On to the next adventure!!💚💙😉

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitzy does it again. When three convicts escape from the prison and Erick, her too-hot-to-handle husband, goes to help capture them, Mitzy is in a situation (that's all I'm saying so I don't have any spoilers). Does she get her happy ending? Does she get a new ring? And, what does Captain Stubing have to do with it all? Well, what are you waiting for? Go get some answers.