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Booke of the Hidden #1
Booke of the Hidden
After a relationship gone bad in California, Kylie Strange moves to rural Maine for a fresh start. But she gets more than she bargained for when she finds a supernatural book bricked into the wall of her new tea shop, Strange Herbs and Teas. As soon as she opens the Booke of the Hidden, the quiet town of Moody Bog suddenly becomes a lot more interesting.
First the mysterious and handsome Erasmus Dark shows up unannounced, claiming to be a demon and warning Kylie of untold destruction. She waves him off, until a museum proprietor turns up dead, and the sheriff targets Kylie as a suspect. With the help of Erasmus and a ragtag group of local Wiccans, Kylie unravels the Booke's secrets, and they begin to believe the culprit is someone--or something--much more sinister than a run-of-the-mill human murderer.
Award-winning author Jeri Westerson crafts a tale of magic, murder, and romance, drawing us into the mystical world that surrounds Strange Herbs and Teas.
First the mysterious and handsome Erasmus Dark shows up unannounced, claiming to be a demon and warning Kylie of untold destruction. She waves him off, until a museum proprietor turns up dead, and the sheriff targets Kylie as a suspect. With the help of Erasmus and a ragtag group of local Wiccans, Kylie unravels the Booke's secrets, and they begin to believe the culprit is someone--or something--much more sinister than a run-of-the-mill human murderer.
Award-winning author Jeri Westerson crafts a tale of magic, murder, and romance, drawing us into the mystical world that surrounds Strange Herbs and Teas.
330 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2017
124 people are currently reading
990 people want to read
About the author
Jeri Westerson
51 books431 followersLos Angeles native JERI WESTERSON currently writes two new series: a Tudor mystery series, the King’s Fool Mysteries, with Henry VIII’s real court jester Will Somers as the sleuth and a Sherlockian pastiche series called An Irregular Detective Mystery, with one of Holmes’ former Baker Street Irregulars opening his own detective agency. She’s also written fifteen Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Mysteries, a series nominated for thirteen awards from the Agatha, to the Macavity, to the Shamus. She’s written several paranormal series (including a gaslamp-steampunk fantasy series), standalone historical novels, and had stories in several anthologies, the latest of which was included in SOUTH CENTRAL NOIR, an Akashic Noir anthology. She has served as president of the SoCal Chapter of Mystery Writers of America, president and vice president for two chapters of Sisters in Crime (Orange County and Los Angeles), and is also a founding member of the SoCal chapter of the Historical Novel Society. See JeriWesterson.com for discussion guides, book trailers, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
September 16, 2017
Kylie Strange wanted to get as far away from her ex as she could when they broke up so when she spotted a place for sale in Maine she figured she couldn't get any further away from California than that. Arriving in Moody Bog Kylie has nothing but hope for her fresh start quickly getting to work to set up for the opening of her new shop, Strange Herbs & Teas. When working in the store however Kylie ends up finding a rather strange book hidden within the wall of the shop, The Booke of the Hidden.
Once Kylie opens up the book things begin happening that she doesn't quite believe. A stranger shows up warning her away from the book that no one should even know exists so Kylie tracks down a man that know more about the legend surrounding the book only to come away with more questions than answers. And no sooner is Kylie back from her visit than the police show up at her door saying the man she'd asked about the book had been murdered. Soon Kylie finds herself teamed up with a demon and a coven of witches with a curse on the loose since the book had chosen her to open it.
Booke of the Hidden by Jeri Westerson is an adult urban fantasy read with all the fun things involved in it that I'm normally a huge fan of, witches, demons and other various elements. However, as much as I could say nice about this one, good writing, likable characters, interesting plot etc. There just seemed to be that little something extra missing for me, that bit of a spark to make me fall in love with the story.
I think for me with this particular read my biggest drawback was that it seemed to be a rather slow going story. There are things happening but the progress and story built rather slowly so being one that prefers a fast paced or intense books first and foremost I think that might be the one thing that didn't make this story pop out the way I'd like. In the end I thought it was good but not one that really stood out from all the other books of this type.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Once Kylie opens up the book things begin happening that she doesn't quite believe. A stranger shows up warning her away from the book that no one should even know exists so Kylie tracks down a man that know more about the legend surrounding the book only to come away with more questions than answers. And no sooner is Kylie back from her visit than the police show up at her door saying the man she'd asked about the book had been murdered. Soon Kylie finds herself teamed up with a demon and a coven of witches with a curse on the loose since the book had chosen her to open it.
Booke of the Hidden by Jeri Westerson is an adult urban fantasy read with all the fun things involved in it that I'm normally a huge fan of, witches, demons and other various elements. However, as much as I could say nice about this one, good writing, likable characters, interesting plot etc. There just seemed to be that little something extra missing for me, that bit of a spark to make me fall in love with the story.
I think for me with this particular read my biggest drawback was that it seemed to be a rather slow going story. There are things happening but the progress and story built rather slowly so being one that prefers a fast paced or intense books first and foremost I think that might be the one thing that didn't make this story pop out the way I'd like. In the end I thought it was good but not one that really stood out from all the other books of this type.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
January 15, 2018
4.5/5 stars
The Booke of the Hidden is the first book in a new series by the same name, by Jeri Westerson. I really, really enjoyed this supernatural/urban fantasy read. It follows our main character Kylie, as she moves across the country to a town in Maine, where she opens up her own Herb & Tea shop. There she finds a book hidden in the wall, called the Booke of the Hidden. From there, she is swept up in a crazy whirlwind demon hunting adventure that reminded me of part Buffy the Vampire Slayer and part Supernatural. I cannot wait to read more about this series.
Kylie is a feisty main heroine. She has no problem standing up for herself, which I loved about her. Even when she first meets the mysterious Mr. Dark, she doesn't mind putting him in his place. I loved that Kylie was immediately embraced into this quirky small town. It is already a spiritual town. Kind of like in Buffy, where the town seemed to be the epicenter of supernatural activity. Except in this case, it is not because of a hell mouth, but rather because of the Booke. The Booke is really rather fascinating, so I am going to put a spoiler in place right here, which is really not much of a spoiler since it's descirbed within the first 50 pages of the story, but click on if you want to see how the Booke works.
There is a light budding romance in The Booke of the Dead. I really liked the romance, but I wanted more of it. If I am being honest with myself, the light romance is the reason I couldn't commit to 5 stars for this otherwise excellent story. I am really hoping that the romance will develop into something more in the next book, because I love the dynamic between the two of them. Bring on more romance! (even if it is a love triangle, I will take it)
Bottom line: If you are a fan of demon hunting adventures, set in a cool atmosphereic small town, with plenty of supernatural baddies, then The Booke of the Hidden is a great book for you. It is the start of what is sure to be an exciting series. I can't wait for the second book. I love the spunky main character and I am really interested to see the whole cast of secondary characters developed more. Plus, I totally want more romance! I really enjoyed The Booke of the Hidden.
The Booke of the Hidden is the first book in a new series by the same name, by Jeri Westerson. I really, really enjoyed this supernatural/urban fantasy read. It follows our main character Kylie, as she moves across the country to a town in Maine, where she opens up her own Herb & Tea shop. There she finds a book hidden in the wall, called the Booke of the Hidden. From there, she is swept up in a crazy whirlwind demon hunting adventure that reminded me of part Buffy the Vampire Slayer and part Supernatural. I cannot wait to read more about this series.
Kylie is a feisty main heroine. She has no problem standing up for herself, which I loved about her. Even when she first meets the mysterious Mr. Dark, she doesn't mind putting him in his place. I loved that Kylie was immediately embraced into this quirky small town. It is already a spiritual town. Kind of like in Buffy, where the town seemed to be the epicenter of supernatural activity. Except in this case, it is not because of a hell mouth, but rather because of the Booke. The Booke is really rather fascinating, so I am going to put a spoiler in place right here, which is really not much of a spoiler since it's descirbed within the first 50 pages of the story, but click on if you want to see how the Booke works.
There is a light budding romance in The Booke of the Dead. I really liked the romance, but I wanted more of it. If I am being honest with myself, the light romance is the reason I couldn't commit to 5 stars for this otherwise excellent story. I am really hoping that the romance will develop into something more in the next book, because I love the dynamic between the two of them. Bring on more romance! (even if it is a love triangle, I will take it)
Bottom line: If you are a fan of demon hunting adventures, set in a cool atmosphereic small town, with plenty of supernatural baddies, then The Booke of the Hidden is a great book for you. It is the start of what is sure to be an exciting series. I can't wait for the second book. I love the spunky main character and I am really interested to see the whole cast of secondary characters developed more. Plus, I totally want more romance! I really enjoyed The Booke of the Hidden.
August 8, 2019
Kylie Strange, after breaking up with her boyfriend, moves from California to the village of Moody Bog, Maine, to open up a tea and herb shop. After finding a mysterious book with occult powers hidden in a wall in her shop, she soon becomes involved with a friendly Wiccan coven, a helpful demon named Erasmus Strange, the local sheriff, and a biker gang that has its own demon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this supernatural fantasy. It's very well written, with some laugh-out-loud moments, some scary encounters with a succubus and an incubus, a bit of romance, and a cast of colorful, well-portrayed characters that were fun to read about.
Highly recommended, and I'll be reading the next book in the series very soon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this supernatural fantasy. It's very well written, with some laugh-out-loud moments, some scary encounters with a succubus and an incubus, a bit of romance, and a cast of colorful, well-portrayed characters that were fun to read about.
Highly recommended, and I'll be reading the next book in the series very soon.
November 4, 2017
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
I was pretty consistently amused by everything in BOOKE OF THE HIDDEN which is one of my favorite feelings to have while reading. From the absolutely ridiculous plot, quirky small town characters, to the kind of random and weird but working for me romance between Kylie and Erasmus. I love books where the main character just randomly stumbles into a world and has to figure everything out before some doom befalls them or the world. This book is basically your classic example of that with an intriguingly mysterious book wrapped in a dark history and a burgeoning romance.
I loved Kylie right off the bat. She owns a tea shop (my favorite kind of shop) and is just trying to get start her life again after a bad break up. She's kind of sarcastic, quirky, and pretty open-minded for someone who just discovered witches and demons are real. I really enjoyed Erasmus's introduction as you don't know if he is supposed to be the antagonist or not so you are kind of left feeling persistently suspicious of him for a long time. That suspicion wanes as he ends up working closer with Kylie to clean up the mess that opening the Booke of the Hidden caused. While I enjoy some sexy flirty, I am wondering if they are going to continue with developing this relationship in future books. Their banter is really fun but they don't really click with me as a long term romance.
As I got to the end of BOOKE OF THE HIDDEN I began to get concerned that nothing was resolved and hoped this was the beginning of a series. Luckily, it is as per the author note at the end! The writing is engaging with a mystery plot that can easily be expanded into a few more books. I enjoyed spending time with Kylie and all of the other characters and am looking forward to what new paranormal creature they will meet in the next book.
I was pretty consistently amused by everything in BOOKE OF THE HIDDEN which is one of my favorite feelings to have while reading. From the absolutely ridiculous plot, quirky small town characters, to the kind of random and weird but working for me romance between Kylie and Erasmus. I love books where the main character just randomly stumbles into a world and has to figure everything out before some doom befalls them or the world. This book is basically your classic example of that with an intriguingly mysterious book wrapped in a dark history and a burgeoning romance.
I loved Kylie right off the bat. She owns a tea shop (my favorite kind of shop) and is just trying to get start her life again after a bad break up. She's kind of sarcastic, quirky, and pretty open-minded for someone who just discovered witches and demons are real. I really enjoyed Erasmus's introduction as you don't know if he is supposed to be the antagonist or not so you are kind of left feeling persistently suspicious of him for a long time. That suspicion wanes as he ends up working closer with Kylie to clean up the mess that opening the Booke of the Hidden caused. While I enjoy some sexy flirty, I am wondering if they are going to continue with developing this relationship in future books. Their banter is really fun but they don't really click with me as a long term romance.
As I got to the end of BOOKE OF THE HIDDEN I began to get concerned that nothing was resolved and hoped this was the beginning of a series. Luckily, it is as per the author note at the end! The writing is engaging with a mystery plot that can easily be expanded into a few more books. I enjoyed spending time with Kylie and all of the other characters and am looking forward to what new paranormal creature they will meet in the next book.
February 3, 2022
I received a free copy via NetGalley.
I was torn about how to rate this book for a while. It was a tie between 4 and 5 stars, and I settled for five because I liked some aspects a lot, and I'm already looking forward to possible future books in the series.
'Booke of the Hidden' had a bumpy start, and I wasn't sure if I would like it for maybe the first 50 pages. Overused tropes and cringe-worthy dialogue made me anxious, but it turned out to be a fantastic read that I would recommend to urban fantasy fans.
The story is set in the small Maine town of Moody Bog - one of those places where people can track their families back for generations. It's a small-town community that promises the calm, fresh start Kylie is looking for. After leaving her Californian life behind, she wants to look forward and focus on the opening of her very own tea and herb shop. Within days of the big day, she comes across a mysterious book in the old house she bought, and soon her life is filled with Wiccans, demons, and much less calm days than expected. The book intertwines old family stories, demonology, and a romance that isn't allowed to be.
When I started to read the book, I expected an urban fantasy. I'm just much more used to urban fantasy novels playing in big cities, but honestly, the lovely Maine backdrop added its add-on to the setting. Whenever I spot a Maine setting, I get excited because it reminds me of some of my favorite King novels, primarily set in Maine. I haven't been there yet, and I don't believe that a vacation will take me there, but you'll never know. This was a big plus in my book.
The author did a good job showing some of the usual small-town aspects, but I was missing something that would make the town of Moody Bog unique. I haven't found that yet, but this seems to be the first novel in a series - maybe there'll be more about the place in later books. You could tell that the town and its inhabitants are essential.
First, I've got to say that I liked most of the characters - especially those side characters that played a massive part in progressing the story but - and this is a big one - ...
My biggest pet peeve is the main character: I can't relate because I get bored just reading about them. I know that with all the books published these days, it's hard to come up with someone entirely new and intriguing, but I at least expect an author to try. Somehow, I also felt reminded of Buffy The Vampire Slayer... The bow is a giant Deus ex-machine, but I was willing to overlook it.
Kylie wasn't easy for me to relate to. Just leaving her 'old life' head-over-heels because of an ex-boyfriend and then starting anew where every guy falls for her is just something I'm not interested in. However, as the story progressed, I began to see more in her character, and I came to a point where I might enjoy reading more about her story.
Her relationship with Erasmus (let's not talk about the names in this book!) wasn't something I enjoyed reading about in the beginning. Seriously, I haven't seen that many cringe-worthy situations in a while. It got a lot better as the story progressed, which is why even after finishing the book, I still hope that the author would fix the beginning. It almost ruined the book for me.
And while I like the whole he's-a-demon-now-what issue, I'm not too fond of the love triangle. Why did I think that its golden age has come and gone? I never was a fan and probably never will be. It was kind of okay with this novel because there are a lot of philosophical discussions linked to it, but I hope that the author will resolve it soon.
I was happy to see tidbits of information about tea and herbs scattered throughout the story, and I would love to know the author to add more of them in future books.
The fact that I already think about what to expect from future books shows you that I had a great time reading 'Booke of the Hidden' despite the few annoying points. The writing was entertaining and made me laugh occasionally, and once I made it past the beginning of the novel, I couldn't put it down again. Great read!
I was torn about how to rate this book for a while. It was a tie between 4 and 5 stars, and I settled for five because I liked some aspects a lot, and I'm already looking forward to possible future books in the series.
'Booke of the Hidden' had a bumpy start, and I wasn't sure if I would like it for maybe the first 50 pages. Overused tropes and cringe-worthy dialogue made me anxious, but it turned out to be a fantastic read that I would recommend to urban fantasy fans.
The story is set in the small Maine town of Moody Bog - one of those places where people can track their families back for generations. It's a small-town community that promises the calm, fresh start Kylie is looking for. After leaving her Californian life behind, she wants to look forward and focus on the opening of her very own tea and herb shop. Within days of the big day, she comes across a mysterious book in the old house she bought, and soon her life is filled with Wiccans, demons, and much less calm days than expected. The book intertwines old family stories, demonology, and a romance that isn't allowed to be.
When I started to read the book, I expected an urban fantasy. I'm just much more used to urban fantasy novels playing in big cities, but honestly, the lovely Maine backdrop added its add-on to the setting. Whenever I spot a Maine setting, I get excited because it reminds me of some of my favorite King novels, primarily set in Maine. I haven't been there yet, and I don't believe that a vacation will take me there, but you'll never know. This was a big plus in my book.
The author did a good job showing some of the usual small-town aspects, but I was missing something that would make the town of Moody Bog unique. I haven't found that yet, but this seems to be the first novel in a series - maybe there'll be more about the place in later books. You could tell that the town and its inhabitants are essential.
First, I've got to say that I liked most of the characters - especially those side characters that played a massive part in progressing the story but - and this is a big one - ...
My biggest pet peeve is the main character: I can't relate because I get bored just reading about them. I know that with all the books published these days, it's hard to come up with someone entirely new and intriguing, but I at least expect an author to try. Somehow, I also felt reminded of Buffy The Vampire Slayer... The bow is a giant Deus ex-machine, but I was willing to overlook it.
Kylie wasn't easy for me to relate to. Just leaving her 'old life' head-over-heels because of an ex-boyfriend and then starting anew where every guy falls for her is just something I'm not interested in. However, as the story progressed, I began to see more in her character, and I came to a point where I might enjoy reading more about her story.
Her relationship with Erasmus (let's not talk about the names in this book!) wasn't something I enjoyed reading about in the beginning. Seriously, I haven't seen that many cringe-worthy situations in a while. It got a lot better as the story progressed, which is why even after finishing the book, I still hope that the author would fix the beginning. It almost ruined the book for me.
And while I like the whole he's-a-demon-now-what issue, I'm not too fond of the love triangle. Why did I think that its golden age has come and gone? I never was a fan and probably never will be. It was kind of okay with this novel because there are a lot of philosophical discussions linked to it, but I hope that the author will resolve it soon.
I was happy to see tidbits of information about tea and herbs scattered throughout the story, and I would love to know the author to add more of them in future books.
The fact that I already think about what to expect from future books shows you that I had a great time reading 'Booke of the Hidden' despite the few annoying points. The writing was entertaining and made me laugh occasionally, and once I made it past the beginning of the novel, I couldn't put it down again. Great read!
March 17, 2024
I listened to the audiobook for this one. I want to like this more than I did. the narrator is fantastic and the story was good but the main character makes choices that are just stupid, not just mistakes but really dumb choices. Over and over again. I liked it enough to finish it and give the next one a chance. But getting on the back of a bad guys motorcycle not just once but twice and having an option not to? Really?
January 28, 2018
This was a fantastic paranormal romance. Kylie is a fantastic lead, and I loved her snarky attitude. Her relationship with Erasmus is interesting and what will happen with the sheriff? What is Kylie's family's history? I look forward to getting to know the other characters as well. I found this book to be one of the best in this genre.
November 3, 2017
I’m always in the mood for a fantastic Urban Fantasy, there’s something about that mix of magic, adventure and romance in a, normally, somewhat familiar setting that I love. However, it has been a while since I have found anything new that’s whetted by appetite, so I decided to go all Indiana Jones and explore and in the wilds of NetGalley I came across Booke of the Hidden. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite the treasure that I was hoping for. When I read UF I like something to be a little gritty, I want the heroine to have depth, strength (even if she doesn’t know it) and intelligence. I want the love interest to do more than decorate the book with his gorgeous abs and massive biceps. And lastly I want an interesting story set in world that is well thought out and full of potential. Unless it is a superb 5 star book you don’t always get these things all at once especially on book 1 of a series, but you get enough to get stuck in and encourage you to continue. However, Booke of the Hidden didn’t really have any of the things I love, it didn’t feel like an UF it had the feel of a trying-to-be-charming, yet ultimately shallow cozy mystery.
It’s mixture of cookie cutter “eccentric” secondary characters, a broody love interest with as much depth as a paddling pool and the clueless, yet plucky heroine made this predictable and shallow. There was nothing below the surface, the world although not really explained also didn’t leave me intrigued about what wasn’t said, mainly because I didn’t feel like there wasn’t anything further to learn. And the storyline of a demon on the loose I completely lost interest in. I read this book to get to the end rather than out of enjoyment.
Needless to say, I won’t be continuing reading this series it wasn’t quite what I expected and wasn’t to my taste. A book that I did love and the premises are kind of similar is Deadly Curiosities by Gail Z Martin, which I recommend you check out if you like the type of UF I do.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
July 26, 2017
Kylie Strange is the heart of "Booke of the Hidden". How could she not be?? It is after all her fault for (accidently) causing all this mayhem by taking down that blasted wall, finding the BOOKE, then opening said book (as I now call the book of Hell) that not only released a succubus but a demon. Lets face it... since opening the BOOKE her life has gone to hell. But at least she has an attractive demon helping her, right? It seems Kylie isn't 100% sure about Erasmus Dark...what she does know is that he's tall, dark (pun intended) and handsome; and seems to be the silent type. How is Kylie supposed to figure what to do if he doesn't answer any of her questions?? Needless to say it is frustrating, luckily for Kylie her new friends of Moody Bog are there to help.
My overall thoughts on the book?? It's an enjoyable read if you love magic, mystery, and a bit of romance. The author has really brought the characters to life and created a world in which you'll want more of.
Until next time Kyle Strange.....
received ARC from netgalley in exchange for review
My overall thoughts on the book?? It's an enjoyable read if you love magic, mystery, and a bit of romance. The author has really brought the characters to life and created a world in which you'll want more of.
Until next time Kyle Strange.....
received ARC from netgalley in exchange for review
November 8, 2017
I’m always in the mood for a fantastic Urban Fantasy, there’s something about that mix of magic, adventure and romance in a, normally, somewhat familiar setting that I love. However, it has been a while since I have found anything new that’s whetted by appetite, so I decided to go all Indiana Jones and explore and in the wilds of NetGalley I came across Booke of the Hidden. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite the treasure that I was hoping for.
When I read UF I like something to be a little gritty, I want the heroine to have depth, strength (even if she doesn’t know it) and intelligence. I want the love interest to do more than decorate the book with his gorgeous abs and massive biceps. And lastly I want an interesting story set in world that is well thought out and full of potential. Unless it is a superb 5 star book you don’t always get these things all at once especially on book 1 of a series, but you get enough to get stuck in and encourage you to continue. However, Booke of the Hidden didn’t really have any of the things I love, it didn’t feel like an UF it had the feel of a trying-to-be-charming, yet ultimately shallow cozy mystery.
It’s mixture of cookie cutter “eccentric” secondary characters, a broody love interest with as much depth as a paddling pool and the clueless, yet plucky heroine made this predictable and shallow. There was nothing below the surface, the world although not really explained also didn’t leave me intrigued about what wasn’t said, mainly because I didn’t feel like there wasn’t anything further to learn. And the storyline of a demon on the loose I completely lost interest in. I read this book to get to the end rather than out of enjoyment.
Needless to say, I won’t be continuing reading this series it wasn’t quite what I expected and wasn’t to my taste. A book that I did love and the premises are kind of similar is Deadly Curiosities by Gail Z Martin, which I recommend you check out if you like the type of UF I do.
October 31, 2017
3.5 Stars
I haven't read a good Paranormal/Urban Fantasy story in a while and with Halloween around the corner I was looking for something to satisfy my craving for a spooky read. Booke of the Hidden sounded exactly the type of read I was looking for. I really liked the setting, it was atmospheric and creepy, and just perfect for this time of year. I also found the premise of the book very interesting. Kylie moves away from her annoying ex to a small town in Maine and opens a herb & tea shop. While renovating the shop she finds an old book hidden in the wall. When she opens the book she unknowingly unleashes demons and other vile creatures that were trapped in the book. It's now up to her to capture and send them back. She gets some help from Erasmus, a demon attached to the Booke and Wiccans, the local coven.
Booke of the Hidden is full of action, interesting characters, and a touch of romance. I liked our main heroine, Kylie. She is funny and quirky. There are also a number of endearing secondary characters (I especially liked Wiccans and the Sheriff), and interesting villains, both human and supernatural. I wasn't entirely sold on the romance between Kylie and Erasmus, it wasn't very convincing and felt forced a little. I wanted more sparks and chemistry. I hope the romance will get better in the next book. According to the author there will be six books in the series and I definitely will be checking them out and following Kylie's adventures.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
I haven't read a good Paranormal/Urban Fantasy story in a while and with Halloween around the corner I was looking for something to satisfy my craving for a spooky read. Booke of the Hidden sounded exactly the type of read I was looking for. I really liked the setting, it was atmospheric and creepy, and just perfect for this time of year. I also found the premise of the book very interesting. Kylie moves away from her annoying ex to a small town in Maine and opens a herb & tea shop. While renovating the shop she finds an old book hidden in the wall. When she opens the book she unknowingly unleashes demons and other vile creatures that were trapped in the book. It's now up to her to capture and send them back. She gets some help from Erasmus, a demon attached to the Booke and Wiccans, the local coven.
Booke of the Hidden is full of action, interesting characters, and a touch of romance. I liked our main heroine, Kylie. She is funny and quirky. There are also a number of endearing secondary characters (I especially liked Wiccans and the Sheriff), and interesting villains, both human and supernatural. I wasn't entirely sold on the romance between Kylie and Erasmus, it wasn't very convincing and felt forced a little. I wanted more sparks and chemistry. I hope the romance will get better in the next book. According to the author there will be six books in the series and I definitely will be checking them out and following Kylie's adventures.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
December 15, 2017
Generally speaking, I don't gravitate towards witchy books but this one had a couple of things going for it before I even started---the description sounds awesome and I already knew I'd enjoy this because it's written by Jeri Westerson. If you ask me, Ms. Westerson is one of those authors who is way under-recognized and I've been happy with everything by her I've ever read.
When Kylie finds that book, she does what anybody would do, she opens it. What follows---a coven of witches, a possible demon, murder and a bit of romance---turn this find into something quite out of the ordinary but Kylie keeps her cool, for the most part, and her interactions with Erasmus are often laugh out loud funny. Even the name of the town, Moody Bog, draws out a smile and, while the pacing is a little on the slow side, I chalk that up mostly to setting things up for the books to come. I came to feel really attached to the kind of creepy but appealing Moody Bog and its inhabitants and to the story that leads Kylie and her new "friends" down a most unlikely path on the way to solving the murder.
So, did Booke of the Hidden live up to its description? Yes, it certainly did and its essential differences from Ms. Westerson's other work make this a really fun departure from her straightforward historical mysteries. Despite my slight aversion to witch-related stories, I'll definitely be back for the next book in the series.
When Kylie finds that book, she does what anybody would do, she opens it. What follows---a coven of witches, a possible demon, murder and a bit of romance---turn this find into something quite out of the ordinary but Kylie keeps her cool, for the most part, and her interactions with Erasmus are often laugh out loud funny. Even the name of the town, Moody Bog, draws out a smile and, while the pacing is a little on the slow side, I chalk that up mostly to setting things up for the books to come. I came to feel really attached to the kind of creepy but appealing Moody Bog and its inhabitants and to the story that leads Kylie and her new "friends" down a most unlikely path on the way to solving the murder.
So, did Booke of the Hidden live up to its description? Yes, it certainly did and its essential differences from Ms. Westerson's other work make this a really fun departure from her straightforward historical mysteries. Despite my slight aversion to witch-related stories, I'll definitely be back for the next book in the series.
November 24, 2018
Booke of the Hidden (Booke of the Hidden #1) by Jeri Westerson.
Kylie Strange has finally taken the plunged and left her boyfriend and the herbs & tea shop they shared. She's moved as far away from California to start a new life. The town she's decided on is rather a quaint village-the village of Moody Bog in Maine.
Kylie is in her new home now surrounded by people she's never met. So it's time to get to work cleaning up and making this home her own. Something had to be done with that wall and Kylie starts hacking away when she comes to a place with that wall. In that place is a book, a very old book. The question remains what is the book all about and why was it hidden within this wall. She starts browsing through it and finds all the pages left blank.
Enough with this book time to find a repair man to do as inexpensive a patch work on it as possible. The manager at the hardware store recommends Doc for a repairman. Everybody in the village knows Doc. A retired and beloved Doctor that now works in his spare time a a repairman. soon doc is over the house working on covering that hole in the wall as best he can. soon they get to talking about the town and the residents living there.
Kylie learns much about the town and it's residents including that doc is a Wiccan and a member of a local Wiccan group.
The Wiccan group consists of :
Jolene-a young lap top expert.
Nick-an easy going kid trying to find where he belongs.
Seraphine- a supposed seer of sorts.
Doc-retired from the medical field but part time repairman.
Kylie at first is thrown off balance a bit when meeting with these people but soon finds herself more at ease. Everyone in the group seems down to earth in their own sort of way.
While Kylie begins to feel her way around this new environment a figure lingers outside her home close to the woods. It appears to be a man, but then just a quickly disappears.
This review is just a short glimpse into Kylie's new world and I'm so glad I decided to join her. This author is nothing less than a true story teller. The characters were well defined and colorful lending depth to the experiences that await. As each new situation around they grew in their relationship to each other as well in strength of their (let me say) convictions. Absolutely loved this book on kindle and have ordered the next book. Very highly recommended!
Kylie Strange has finally taken the plunged and left her boyfriend and the herbs & tea shop they shared. She's moved as far away from California to start a new life. The town she's decided on is rather a quaint village-the village of Moody Bog in Maine.
Kylie is in her new home now surrounded by people she's never met. So it's time to get to work cleaning up and making this home her own. Something had to be done with that wall and Kylie starts hacking away when she comes to a place with that wall. In that place is a book, a very old book. The question remains what is the book all about and why was it hidden within this wall. She starts browsing through it and finds all the pages left blank.
Enough with this book time to find a repair man to do as inexpensive a patch work on it as possible. The manager at the hardware store recommends Doc for a repairman. Everybody in the village knows Doc. A retired and beloved Doctor that now works in his spare time a a repairman. soon doc is over the house working on covering that hole in the wall as best he can. soon they get to talking about the town and the residents living there.
Kylie learns much about the town and it's residents including that doc is a Wiccan and a member of a local Wiccan group.
The Wiccan group consists of :
Jolene-a young lap top expert.
Nick-an easy going kid trying to find where he belongs.
Seraphine- a supposed seer of sorts.
Doc-retired from the medical field but part time repairman.
Kylie at first is thrown off balance a bit when meeting with these people but soon finds herself more at ease. Everyone in the group seems down to earth in their own sort of way.
While Kylie begins to feel her way around this new environment a figure lingers outside her home close to the woods. It appears to be a man, but then just a quickly disappears.
This review is just a short glimpse into Kylie's new world and I'm so glad I decided to join her. This author is nothing less than a true story teller. The characters were well defined and colorful lending depth to the experiences that await. As each new situation around they grew in their relationship to each other as well in strength of their (let me say) convictions. Absolutely loved this book on kindle and have ordered the next book. Very highly recommended!
February 19, 2024
More like 2.75
This started out with the perfect premise: Kylie moves into a little village to open a tea shop only to find a mysterious book hidden in a wall and magic and monsters starts from there.
Finding a magical book (or item) was always one of my favourite fantasies as a child so this was right up my alley.
Unfortunately this is kind of where my intrigue ended.
With the hidden “booke” comes a tall, dark and brooding demon who Kylie is simultaneously annoyed with and smitten by. For no reason whatsoever. Sorry, but them being „inexplicably drawn to one another” isn’t enough for me. The love interest is physically attractive and has a sexy accent (whatever that means). Otherwise, he isn’t very appealing: never answering questions, even when he could have given helpful answers. Being jealous, where he had himself rejected any relationship. Generally being condescending. No, this wasn’t happy banter in my opinion. It was two people who didn’t like one another, but were apparently too good-looking to be passed by one another.
The author also tries to force a love triangle, in which the second love interest has even less chemistry with Kylie…
It was mostly frustrating, especially when the love story threatened to overtake the otherwise interesting story. Like, hey, there are monsters on the loose who kill more people the longer you two idiots dance around the demon/human issue. Get your stuff together and solve some problems!
Like, I liked the mystery surrounding the book and Kylie’s link to it. I liked how there were bits and pieces strewn throughout the story. But these pieces were only small scenes hidden between a lot of walking around, accomplishing nothing while failing to establish a real chemistry. That made the story be rather slow going and even boring at times.
I also found Kylie’s very slow acceptance of the problem at hand unnerving. It was mostly her inaction that lead to her failure (and the death of a couple of people), as she seemed more prone to throwing out a sarcastic remark and rejecting any responsibility than acting upon the clues she already has. So, the only characters I actually liked where the witches of the Wiccan coven. From the older women with her online witchy shop to a very research experienced high schooler with psychic powers and a semi-retired doctor who dabbles in the occult – these were actually so much more interesting than the main leads!
I don’t know if I will continue with this series, though I did see some reviews saying that it would get better, so…maybe? I am still interested to uncover the family history of this small town witchery. But I am absolutely not interested in seeing more of Erasmus Dark’s and Kylie “wow you’re last name is really strange!” Strange’s not-relationship...
This started out with the perfect premise: Kylie moves into a little village to open a tea shop only to find a mysterious book hidden in a wall and magic and monsters starts from there.
Finding a magical book (or item) was always one of my favourite fantasies as a child so this was right up my alley.
Unfortunately this is kind of where my intrigue ended.
With the hidden “booke” comes a tall, dark and brooding demon who Kylie is simultaneously annoyed with and smitten by. For no reason whatsoever. Sorry, but them being „inexplicably drawn to one another” isn’t enough for me. The love interest is physically attractive and has a sexy accent (whatever that means). Otherwise, he isn’t very appealing: never answering questions, even when he could have given helpful answers. Being jealous, where he had himself rejected any relationship. Generally being condescending. No, this wasn’t happy banter in my opinion. It was two people who didn’t like one another, but were apparently too good-looking to be passed by one another.
The author also tries to force a love triangle, in which the second love interest has even less chemistry with Kylie…
It was mostly frustrating, especially when the love story threatened to overtake the otherwise interesting story. Like, hey, there are monsters on the loose who kill more people the longer you two idiots dance around the demon/human issue. Get your stuff together and solve some problems!
Like, I liked the mystery surrounding the book and Kylie’s link to it. I liked how there were bits and pieces strewn throughout the story. But these pieces were only small scenes hidden between a lot of walking around, accomplishing nothing while failing to establish a real chemistry. That made the story be rather slow going and even boring at times.
I also found Kylie’s very slow acceptance of the problem at hand unnerving. It was mostly her inaction that lead to her failure (and the death of a couple of people), as she seemed more prone to throwing out a sarcastic remark and rejecting any responsibility than acting upon the clues she already has. So, the only characters I actually liked where the witches of the Wiccan coven. From the older women with her online witchy shop to a very research experienced high schooler with psychic powers and a semi-retired doctor who dabbles in the occult – these were actually so much more interesting than the main leads!
I don’t know if I will continue with this series, though I did see some reviews saying that it would get better, so…maybe? I am still interested to uncover the family history of this small town witchery. But I am absolutely not interested in seeing more of Erasmus Dark’s and Kylie “wow you’re last name is really strange!” Strange’s not-relationship...
December 11, 2018
Kylie Strange moves to Maine to get away from a relationship gone bad in California. She decides to open a tea and herb shop in Muddy Bog, Maine. Before her shop opens, she discover an ancient book, bricked up in a wall. When she opens it, little does she know she has released demons into the world and now it is her job to track them all down and imprison them in the Booke of the Hidden once again. Aided by the demon, Erasmus Dark, and a coven of Wiccans, Kylie not only has to track down a succubus, but get her shop ready to open on time. And then, a local biker gang conjures another demon, who brings an incubus along. Just another day in the life of the Chosen Host of the Booke of the Hidden.
October 29, 2017
Beware of things unseen!
This was so not what I expected. It was a crazy, wild ride and such a departure for Westerson.
(And to think she dreamt about the major elements of the story--amazing--ah the subconscious!)
A new entry into the urban paranormal genre complete with a mild mannered Wiccan group, a woman escaping a bad relationship who flees from California to Maine. Was she summoned or was it all just coincidence? Right!
What do you do when you break down a brick wall in your new abode and find a musty old book. You open it and summon ... things that go beyond the wildest imagination for Kylie Strange.
I loved the magical cross bow.
I loved the demon (not quite the daemon lover of Scottish fame) or whatever Mr. Erasmus Dark might be. The quips Kylie directs at him are hilarious.
I'm not sure about Sheriff Bradbury.
I loved the Wicca coven including the teenager who is a cross between Wynona Rider and Julia Stiles.
Suddenly, for the coven and Kylie, fighting demons, incubus and such us becomes the norm.
Then there's the coven dedicated to dark, and a different demon.
And let's not forget the sector of town who once upon a time, in the past, would have happily burnt all of the above at the stake, of which one member has hereditary links to Kylie.
A great start to a new series.
A NetGalley ARC
This was so not what I expected. It was a crazy, wild ride and such a departure for Westerson.
(And to think she dreamt about the major elements of the story--amazing--ah the subconscious!)
A new entry into the urban paranormal genre complete with a mild mannered Wiccan group, a woman escaping a bad relationship who flees from California to Maine. Was she summoned or was it all just coincidence? Right!
What do you do when you break down a brick wall in your new abode and find a musty old book. You open it and summon ... things that go beyond the wildest imagination for Kylie Strange.
I loved the magical cross bow.
I loved the demon (not quite the daemon lover of Scottish fame) or whatever Mr. Erasmus Dark might be. The quips Kylie directs at him are hilarious.
I'm not sure about Sheriff Bradbury.
I loved the Wicca coven including the teenager who is a cross between Wynona Rider and Julia Stiles.
Suddenly, for the coven and Kylie, fighting demons, incubus and such us becomes the norm.
Then there's the coven dedicated to dark, and a different demon.
And let's not forget the sector of town who once upon a time, in the past, would have happily burnt all of the above at the stake, of which one member has hereditary links to Kylie.
A great start to a new series.
A NetGalley ARC
October 6, 2017
DISCLAIMER ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN—- Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC
Booke Of the Hidden
Jeri Westerson
RELEASE DATE OCT 31 2017
So Jeri is probably one of my new favourite authors!
Booke of the Hidden was the perfect mix of creepy, paranormal, mystery, and adventure. Kylie Strange (I actually really liked her name even if it was a little corny) has caused a world of destruction (albeit not exactly on purpose) when she discovers a book behind a wall and opens it. I mean who wouldn't open a book they found behind a wall? Could be historically relevant, could be a treasure map, or could release a succubus and a demon. Of course this is a paranormal book and so she opened it and released the latter of those options. Basically the rest of the book is spent trying to clean up the mess she accidentally caused with Erasmus Dark (you know the demon from the book) and a local Wiccan group she has befriended. I will say that I love books and I love to read but you are not getting me to join a knitting club thing just to commandeer something from someones library.
I was left with a few sort of uhhhh I don't think soooo's.
I mean the Wiccan group was really forth coming and I mean REALLY forth coming to someone they just met. Who for all they know could be mocking them or something.
Overall though I say go for it! It was enjoyable and a quick read for entertainment.
Here is the description from NetGalley
To get a fresh start away from a bad relationship, Kylie Strange moves across the country to open a shop in a seemingly quiet town in rural Maine. During renovations on Strange Herbs & Teas, she discovers a peculiar and ancient codex, The Booke of the Hidden, bricked into the wall. Every small town has its legends and unusual histories, and this artifact sends Kylie right into the center of Moody Bog’s biggest secret.
While puzzling over the tome’s oddly blank pages, Kylie gets an unexpected visitor—Erasmus Dark, an inscrutable stranger who claims to be a demon, knows she has the book, and warns her that she has opened a portal to the netherworld. Kylie brushes off this nonsense, until a series of bizarre murders put her, the newcomer, at the center. With the help of the demon and a coven of witches she befriends while dodging the handsome but sharp-eyed sheriff, Kylie hunts for a killer—that might not be human.
Character creation - 4- I did think that Kylie and Erasmus could have used a little more umpft and that some of the other characters were just really flat
Plot - 5 - There could have been a bit more explaination as to what line of mythology we were working with. Are we assuming that Erasmus is a Christian demon like you know demons and angels or more of a Daemon from other lines?
Addiction Level - 4 - I did put it down once to read something else when it got a little repetative.
Overall I'd say 4.5
Booke Of the Hidden
Jeri Westerson
RELEASE DATE OCT 31 2017
So Jeri is probably one of my new favourite authors!
Booke of the Hidden was the perfect mix of creepy, paranormal, mystery, and adventure. Kylie Strange (I actually really liked her name even if it was a little corny) has caused a world of destruction (albeit not exactly on purpose) when she discovers a book behind a wall and opens it. I mean who wouldn't open a book they found behind a wall? Could be historically relevant, could be a treasure map, or could release a succubus and a demon. Of course this is a paranormal book and so she opened it and released the latter of those options. Basically the rest of the book is spent trying to clean up the mess she accidentally caused with Erasmus Dark (you know the demon from the book) and a local Wiccan group she has befriended. I will say that I love books and I love to read but you are not getting me to join a knitting club thing just to commandeer something from someones library.
I was left with a few sort of uhhhh I don't think soooo's.
I mean the Wiccan group was really forth coming and I mean REALLY forth coming to someone they just met. Who for all they know could be mocking them or something.
Overall though I say go for it! It was enjoyable and a quick read for entertainment.
Here is the description from NetGalley
To get a fresh start away from a bad relationship, Kylie Strange moves across the country to open a shop in a seemingly quiet town in rural Maine. During renovations on Strange Herbs & Teas, she discovers a peculiar and ancient codex, The Booke of the Hidden, bricked into the wall. Every small town has its legends and unusual histories, and this artifact sends Kylie right into the center of Moody Bog’s biggest secret.
While puzzling over the tome’s oddly blank pages, Kylie gets an unexpected visitor—Erasmus Dark, an inscrutable stranger who claims to be a demon, knows she has the book, and warns her that she has opened a portal to the netherworld. Kylie brushes off this nonsense, until a series of bizarre murders put her, the newcomer, at the center. With the help of the demon and a coven of witches she befriends while dodging the handsome but sharp-eyed sheriff, Kylie hunts for a killer—that might not be human.
Character creation - 4- I did think that Kylie and Erasmus could have used a little more umpft and that some of the other characters were just really flat
Plot - 5 - There could have been a bit more explaination as to what line of mythology we were working with. Are we assuming that Erasmus is a Christian demon like you know demons and angels or more of a Daemon from other lines?
Addiction Level - 4 - I did put it down once to read something else when it got a little repetative.
Overall I'd say 4.5
June 11, 2018
"I handed [the storekeeper] my debit card and perused the colorful kitchen gewgaws hanging on the wall behind him. "Say, Barry, you don't know of any caves hereabouts, do you?"
"Caves? Plan on doing some spelunking?" He laughed at his own joke and I tried to smile. Erasmus frowned. Barry coughed to hid his silenced laughter. "Do you mean the old Indian caves up Falcon's point? They got those drawings in there. Petroglyphs or something. Old Indian paintings. County is trying to make it a preservation spot. That was Karl Water's bailiwick, but now, of course..." He shook his head. "Savage shame what happened to him. And curious, too. I heard the rumors, but..." He handed my debit card back and was suddenly looking below my chin. "That's a mighty unusual necklace you got there," he said, reaching for the amulet.
Erasmus's hand darted forward and grabbed him by the wrist.
"Don't touch it!"
Barry froze, eyes round as he stared at Erasmus.
"Erasmus!" he let the man go. "I apologize for my friend here. He's just visiting me. From California."
"He don't sound like he comes from California," said Barry, rubbing his wrist.
Meet Kylie Strange. Yes, that's actually her name. After suffering a nasty breakup with her boyfriend of 2 years, she decides to pull up her roots and move across country from California to Maine to open a tea shop. The town she picks is more of a remote hamlet, with reticent townspeople, and old alliances. Not letting that stop her, she moves into her 200 year old shop building, and gets to work remodeling. In the process, she demolishes a wall, and finds a brick wall behind it. Curiosity (and lots of wine) fuel her to demolish the *BRICK* wall to see why on earth it's inside her normal walls. She finds an ancient, leather bound volume titled "Booke of the Hidden". Not 10 minutes later a knock sounds on her door, and she opens it to find a dark, mysterious stranger in a long duster coat. And the plot just gets crazier from there.
Kylie has unwittingly opened a portal to the demon world, and only she can trap the beings that are now roaming the woods of Maine. She's not alone though. She has the help of the mysterious stranger, Erasmus. Also, because the world is full of coincidences, there is a coven of Wiccan in her hamlet who are not only forthcoming about their nightly activities, but are also more than willing to help the newcomer. Making up the coven is the county doctor, named Doc of course. Then there's the middle aged hippie, a coffee barista, and a not-to-be underestimated 16 year old girl. The six of them must work fast, before the demons' victim count starts to rise.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a quick urban fantasy read, you could do worse than Westerson's offering. She writes decent prose infused with humor that had me giggling more than once. Kylie is a spunky heroine who isn't afraid to give humans and demons alike a piece of her mind. There are just too many tropes and coincidences to give the book more than an average rating though, especially when Westerson added romance to the plot in a fairly awkward manner. Only recommended as a library checkout. Given a rating of 2/5 stars or "Average".
Quote: "But you know for certain."
"That's where you are wrong. I don't know for certain. I only know with uncertainty."
"That's better than nothing."
"Uncertainty is not better than nothing. Where in Beelze's name did you learn your appalling logic?"
Stuff I learned: Not much of anything. :/
"Caves? Plan on doing some spelunking?" He laughed at his own joke and I tried to smile. Erasmus frowned. Barry coughed to hid his silenced laughter. "Do you mean the old Indian caves up Falcon's point? They got those drawings in there. Petroglyphs or something. Old Indian paintings. County is trying to make it a preservation spot. That was Karl Water's bailiwick, but now, of course..." He shook his head. "Savage shame what happened to him. And curious, too. I heard the rumors, but..." He handed my debit card back and was suddenly looking below my chin. "That's a mighty unusual necklace you got there," he said, reaching for the amulet.
Erasmus's hand darted forward and grabbed him by the wrist.
"Don't touch it!"
Barry froze, eyes round as he stared at Erasmus.
"Erasmus!" he let the man go. "I apologize for my friend here. He's just visiting me. From California."
"He don't sound like he comes from California," said Barry, rubbing his wrist.
Meet Kylie Strange. Yes, that's actually her name. After suffering a nasty breakup with her boyfriend of 2 years, she decides to pull up her roots and move across country from California to Maine to open a tea shop. The town she picks is more of a remote hamlet, with reticent townspeople, and old alliances. Not letting that stop her, she moves into her 200 year old shop building, and gets to work remodeling. In the process, she demolishes a wall, and finds a brick wall behind it. Curiosity (and lots of wine) fuel her to demolish the *BRICK* wall to see why on earth it's inside her normal walls. She finds an ancient, leather bound volume titled "Booke of the Hidden". Not 10 minutes later a knock sounds on her door, and she opens it to find a dark, mysterious stranger in a long duster coat. And the plot just gets crazier from there.
Kylie has unwittingly opened a portal to the demon world, and only she can trap the beings that are now roaming the woods of Maine. She's not alone though. She has the help of the mysterious stranger, Erasmus. Also, because the world is full of coincidences, there is a coven of Wiccan in her hamlet who are not only forthcoming about their nightly activities, but are also more than willing to help the newcomer. Making up the coven is the county doctor, named Doc of course. Then there's the middle aged hippie, a coffee barista, and a not-to-be underestimated 16 year old girl. The six of them must work fast, before the demons' victim count starts to rise.
Bottom line: If you are looking for a quick urban fantasy read, you could do worse than Westerson's offering. She writes decent prose infused with humor that had me giggling more than once. Kylie is a spunky heroine who isn't afraid to give humans and demons alike a piece of her mind. There are just too many tropes and coincidences to give the book more than an average rating though, especially when Westerson added romance to the plot in a fairly awkward manner. Only recommended as a library checkout. Given a rating of 2/5 stars or "Average".
Quote: "But you know for certain."
"That's where you are wrong. I don't know for certain. I only know with uncertainty."
"That's better than nothing."
"Uncertainty is not better than nothing. Where in Beelze's name did you learn your appalling logic?"
Stuff I learned: Not much of anything. :/
November 17, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this book! Loved everything about it! Can't wait to read the next book in the series and all the books that come after that!!
Kylie is the quintessential "every woman" who suddenly finds herself forced into a word of crazy and has to figure out how to deal with that. She is likable and relatable and I really enjoyed going on her adventures with her.
The supporting characters - the good, the not-so-good, and the "we're not sure if they're good or not" - really help make this book more than just another paranormal action story. "The Wiccans" as Kylie takes to calling her group of helpers really add to both the drama and the humour in the book. They not only help Kylie to navigate the weird stuff she has to figure out, but they also help to offset the intensity with moments of normalcy and humour.
The world-building here is also really good, although because this is the first book, we don't get a ton of detail about the "other side" here and the motivations of the people - and non-people - involved are still pretty undefined. I'm hoping future books will flesh that out for readers.
There really wasn't anything about this book I didn't like. I really enjoyed every moment I spent with Kylie et al, and I am very much looking forward to continuing with this series!! Highly recommended for those who like paranormal fiction. I think this will be a new favourite series for me.
Kylie is the quintessential "every woman" who suddenly finds herself forced into a word of crazy and has to figure out how to deal with that. She is likable and relatable and I really enjoyed going on her adventures with her.
The supporting characters - the good, the not-so-good, and the "we're not sure if they're good or not" - really help make this book more than just another paranormal action story. "The Wiccans" as Kylie takes to calling her group of helpers really add to both the drama and the humour in the book. They not only help Kylie to navigate the weird stuff she has to figure out, but they also help to offset the intensity with moments of normalcy and humour.
The world-building here is also really good, although because this is the first book, we don't get a ton of detail about the "other side" here and the motivations of the people - and non-people - involved are still pretty undefined. I'm hoping future books will flesh that out for readers.
There really wasn't anything about this book I didn't like. I really enjoyed every moment I spent with Kylie et al, and I am very much looking forward to continuing with this series!! Highly recommended for those who like paranormal fiction. I think this will be a new favourite series for me.
October 15, 2020
Several other reviewers have described this as a cozy mystery version of urban fantasy. I think that sums this up perfectly. Kylie Strange is about to open her new tea and herb shop when she finds an ancient book, has a semi-helpful demon show up, meets some quirky friendly Wiccans, and proceeds to hunt down the baddies. There are also plenty of quirky but firmly stereotypical townsfolk that play minor roles and a handsome sheriff. I enjoyed it the way I enjoy a doughnut, a tasty little treat but ultimately unsatisfying. It's urban fantasy lite. That's not a bad thing, necessarily, but it needed a good bit more character development and some introspection to get me invested. As much as I appreciate a bit of romance in my urban fantasy, the romance in this one was awkward and ill timed. When it happens (and be warned there's a triangle), it just doesn't fit with the current plot narrative.
This isn't bad at all. I'm still on the fence about whether to read the next one. I have so many questions after book 1 that I'd like answered, but I'm not sure I care enough to find out. Maybe...
This isn't bad at all. I'm still on the fence about whether to read the next one. I have so many questions after book 1 that I'd like answered, but I'm not sure I care enough to find out. Maybe...
June 13, 2019
Kylie Strange’s life has been cursed; there is no other possible answer to her terrible choice in men; but Kylie is about to change that, by leaving Southern California and moving to a small town in Maine where she is about to open her own business; Strange Herbs and Teas.
As she prepares her shop for opening day, Kylie inadvertently puts a hole in a wall, where she sees a brick wall behind it. Curiosity killed the cat and now it is Kylie’s turn to suffer the consequences!
Inside the brick wall Kylie finds an old Book which she hopes she will be able to sell to help with her expenses. Little does she realize how dangerous a simple Booke can be!
Simply by unlocking the book and opening the cover, Kylie lets loose ancient demons, including the demon keeper of the book.
Now, at the mercy of the beast, Kylie must team up with a local ragtag group of Wiccans to recapture the demons and set the world right once again!
As she prepares her shop for opening day, Kylie inadvertently puts a hole in a wall, where she sees a brick wall behind it. Curiosity killed the cat and now it is Kylie’s turn to suffer the consequences!
Inside the brick wall Kylie finds an old Book which she hopes she will be able to sell to help with her expenses. Little does she realize how dangerous a simple Booke can be!
Simply by unlocking the book and opening the cover, Kylie lets loose ancient demons, including the demon keeper of the book.
Now, at the mercy of the beast, Kylie must team up with a local ragtag group of Wiccans to recapture the demons and set the world right once again!
September 2, 2018
Starts out decently but about halfway thru the cliche tropes appear. First, Kylie Strange is declared to be the Chosen Host, which ironically we had just discussed this trope in my book club meeting. Then being an urban fantasy requirement, she takes on a nonhuman and human as lovers so we can get the love triangle started. In both cases, the love interest seems very forced and mutual attraction happens almost instantly. Finally the village of Moody Bog seems to have an astounding amount of stuff, including an amazing hardware/furniture store, Chinese take out and the like, it's really like a medium sized town, so the setting feels a bit off. It does avoid the catty heroine cliche that many urban fantasies seem to have.
An OK read but I'll not be reading anymore.
An OK read but I'll not be reading anymore.
October 31, 2017
This book is not the type of book I usually read, but since Ms. Westerson wrote it, and I love everything else she's written that I've read (Crispin's medieval novels, etc.), I wanted to give this a shot, and I'm glad I did! It's full of action and intrigue, intensely scary parts and even some romance, which makes it all good. I love the tea shop idea - we don't have them where I live, and I can envision having a great cup of amazing tea there. I am looking forward to the 2nd book in this series, to read not only what Ms. Westerson has in store for us, but to see how the relationships progress.
October 31, 2017
I recieved an eArc from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book was just not for me. I couldn’t connect with the characters and wasn’t held by the plot. Jeri Westerson’s writing was solid, I just didn’t connect. I found both Kylie and Erasmus to be incredibly frustrating characters. I didn’t enjoy spending time with them and found the other characters to be somewhat thin.
This book was just not for me. I couldn’t connect with the characters and wasn’t held by the plot. Jeri Westerson’s writing was solid, I just didn’t connect. I found both Kylie and Erasmus to be incredibly frustrating characters. I didn’t enjoy spending time with them and found the other characters to be somewhat thin.
March 3, 2025
Fun book. Erasmus is a great character. Not loving the love triangle 🙄🙄 (hate that troupe) but the story is good. Kylie Strange is strange indeed; there has to be more in her background and hopefully more revelations come soon. Her coven supports her, Ed the sheriff is ehhh why do we need him?? And the crossbow is a character in of itself. With the booke releasing some creatures that need to be recovered, Kylie, her coven, and the mysterious Erasmus have their work cut out for them.
November 5, 2023
3 Stars
*A slightly corny Urban Fantasy novel lacking in spookiness and atmosphere*
Continuing with my spooky season reads, I pulled Booke of the Hidden from my backlist TBR. I did have to refresh my memory about the synopsis, because it has been a while since I added it, and I got some details confused with The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane since they are both about young women who return to their roots in New England, discover a magic book, and family secrets.
In Booke of the Hidden, Kylie Strange moves to a small town in Maine after a bad breakup, discovers a magic book that turns out to be some sort of lock to a portal that releases monsters. And whoever touches the book is bound to recapture the monsters. Things are made more complicated when a mysterious demon shows up and may or may not be trying to help Kylie.
For starters, I am not sure how old Kylie was supposed to be, but she - and the writing - felt young. I had a difficult time believing she was a business owner when acted like a clueless teenager so much of the time. I’m guessing she was supposed to be late twenties maybe? I’m shelving it as New Adult because it felt so YA but with sex thrown in and slightly older characters.
The demon, Mr. Dark, was not scary at all. There were too many mentions of him having a hurt expression on his face for me to think of him as even a tiny bit menacing. He was a grumbly, slightly entertaining curmudgeon. But I was hoping for the loveable morally grey type of demon like Crowley from Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch. Sadly, Mr. Dark didn’t really deliver.
The instalust in the story really didn’t help. I can’t recall the last time I read this much instalust without any chemistry. It was just random spit swapping. Lots of awkward flirting and even more awkward seduction attempts. Plus they just had to throw a love triangle in as well – which felt sleazy since the third party didn’t realize he was in the triangle to begin with. It kind of made me hate Kylie.
And speaking of the lack of chemistry, the explicit sex scenes were odd and, you guessed it, awkward. It was just too much. Plus the cheating and manhandling were so off-putting. And great Merlin’s beard, save me from all the angst. These characters were so immature and emotionally stunted. I hated all their bickering, accusations, and refusal to take responsibility for having consensual sex.
It was also annoying that Mr. Dark was so vague about everything then would get so irritated when Kylie didn't figure things out. And while he may have been magically prevented from revealing some things, it definitely felt like others things were withheld just as an excuse for things to go wrong and be dragged out.
And the premise of the book was hard to swallow. There is this semi-sentient magical book that releases a bunch of demons the instant anyone touches it. Then that person is magically bound to kill all the demons and journal about in the book (which blanks out each time a new person starts the cycle again). Or else. And this just continues on for all eternity apparently. There were some holes in that for sure. The book wants to contain the demons, but it also calls to "worthy" people to trick them into opening it? Because, and I quote, "it gets bored." Then on top of that, there was a heavey-handed dose of Destiny thrown in.
There also wasn’t much believable tension or danger. It all felt too easy. Kylie found all the right people who had all the right information right whenever she needed it. She got her magical monster-slaying crossbow and didn’t even need to practice because "these things have been created with a purpose. Things that have been created with a purpose simply work." What a cop out! The darn thing automatically loaded with whatever bolt was needed to kill whichever monster she was fighting. And it aimed itself. You don't need a Mary Sue character when anyone with a pulse can apparently pull it off as long as they were tagged by Destiny.
It wasn’t a terrible book, despite my complaints. It was a quick, easy read. But I doubt I will continue with the series. I wanted something spookier and much more atmospheric. And less angsty.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 4 Stars
Writing Style: 3 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 3 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 3 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 3 Stars
*A slightly corny Urban Fantasy novel lacking in spookiness and atmosphere*
Continuing with my spooky season reads, I pulled Booke of the Hidden from my backlist TBR. I did have to refresh my memory about the synopsis, because it has been a while since I added it, and I got some details confused with The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane since they are both about young women who return to their roots in New England, discover a magic book, and family secrets.
In Booke of the Hidden, Kylie Strange moves to a small town in Maine after a bad breakup, discovers a magic book that turns out to be some sort of lock to a portal that releases monsters. And whoever touches the book is bound to recapture the monsters. Things are made more complicated when a mysterious demon shows up and may or may not be trying to help Kylie.
For starters, I am not sure how old Kylie was supposed to be, but she - and the writing - felt young. I had a difficult time believing she was a business owner when acted like a clueless teenager so much of the time. I’m guessing she was supposed to be late twenties maybe? I’m shelving it as New Adult because it felt so YA but with sex thrown in and slightly older characters.
The demon, Mr. Dark, was not scary at all. There were too many mentions of him having a hurt expression on his face for me to think of him as even a tiny bit menacing. He was a grumbly, slightly entertaining curmudgeon. But I was hoping for the loveable morally grey type of demon like Crowley from Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch. Sadly, Mr. Dark didn’t really deliver.
The instalust in the story really didn’t help. I can’t recall the last time I read this much instalust without any chemistry. It was just random spit swapping. Lots of awkward flirting and even more awkward seduction attempts. Plus they just had to throw a love triangle in as well – which felt sleazy since the third party didn’t realize he was in the triangle to begin with. It kind of made me hate Kylie.
And speaking of the lack of chemistry, the explicit sex scenes were odd and, you guessed it, awkward. It was just too much. Plus the cheating and manhandling were so off-putting. And great Merlin’s beard, save me from all the angst. These characters were so immature and emotionally stunted. I hated all their bickering, accusations, and refusal to take responsibility for having consensual sex.
It was also annoying that Mr. Dark was so vague about everything then would get so irritated when Kylie didn't figure things out. And while he may have been magically prevented from revealing some things, it definitely felt like others things were withheld just as an excuse for things to go wrong and be dragged out.
And the premise of the book was hard to swallow. There is this semi-sentient magical book that releases a bunch of demons the instant anyone touches it. Then that person is magically bound to kill all the demons and journal about in the book (which blanks out each time a new person starts the cycle again). Or else. And this just continues on for all eternity apparently. There were some holes in that for sure. The book wants to contain the demons, but it also calls to "worthy" people to trick them into opening it? Because, and I quote, "it gets bored." Then on top of that, there was a heavey-handed dose of Destiny thrown in.
There also wasn’t much believable tension or danger. It all felt too easy. Kylie found all the right people who had all the right information right whenever she needed it. She got her magical monster-slaying crossbow and didn’t even need to practice because "these things have been created with a purpose. Things that have been created with a purpose simply work." What a cop out! The darn thing automatically loaded with whatever bolt was needed to kill whichever monster she was fighting. And it aimed itself. You don't need a Mary Sue character when anyone with a pulse can apparently pull it off as long as they were tagged by Destiny.
It wasn’t a terrible book, despite my complaints. It was a quick, easy read. But I doubt I will continue with the series. I wanted something spookier and much more atmospheric. And less angsty.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 4 Stars
Writing Style: 3 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 3 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 3 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 3 Stars
August 15, 2017
This was a pretty good supernatural book. Kylie Strange moves from California to Maine after her mother dies and she breaks up with a jerk of a boyfriend. Something just draws her to the building for sale in the small town of Moody Bog. While she is fixing up the building to be her tea and herb shop she finds an old book hidden in the wall. That lets loose all sorts of strange things in town. Now it's up to Kylie and her new Wiccan friends to stop the evil that has come to their small town before history repeats itself.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
September 8, 2017
Booke of the Hidden is the first of a pretty promising paranormal series. Readers are introduced to Kylie Strange, a young woman who picks up and moves from California to Maine to start a new phase of her life as a small business owner when she opens a tea shop. While she's setting up her new digs, she finds a mysterious booke hidden in a wall which begins a series of events that take her relatively normal life on a very abnormal, supernatural path. The book includes a variety of supernatural themes to include demons, succubae, demon slaying with a magical crossbow, and witchcraft which I thought were handled quite well by the author. Kylie herself is a perfectly likeable character. She's a little spunky and I found her inner dialogue pretty entertaining. The only thing I wasn't too thrilled about with her was that she came across as falling too easily for the men in her life. Pace and writing were enjoyable. I would still be interested in getting to know her and the other characters a bit better and to see where things go with future books.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
September 14, 2017
This is a good start to a new fantasy wiccan series. Kylie Strange moves to Moody Bog Maine to open her tea and herb shop. She discovers a book hidden in her shop and unleashes some powerful demons and power into the small town's coven. Great characters make this story move quickly, it's an easy read for readers from young adult to older. Kylie's position in town is going to be powerful and some of the locals are not happy. Seeing how she grows her business and handles the demons to come will make an interesting read.
September 2, 2017
A good and interesting cozy urban fantasy. The murders are not bloody and gory. Doc Boone is my favorite character. I want to read the rest of the books in this series.
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