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(Un)Lucky Valley #1
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes
Welcome to Lucky Valley where nothing is quite what it seems.
Lily Goode wasn’t aware she had an inheritance waiting for her in the form of a huge Victorian house in Lucky Valley, Colorado. Life might finally be coming together for her. That is if you don’t count the endless home repairs, dealing with eccentric Aunt Polly who claims they’re both witches, and Nolan Dawson the handsome home inspector who seems to have it out for her, then, sure, life is grand. Oh and not to mention the strange hallucinations and garden gnomes who are far more than lawn ornaments.
If mysterious accidents don’t do her in, then the rebellious gnomes just might. With the help of Aunt Polly, it’s up to Lily to discover who’s sabotaging her new home and trying to drive the Goodes out of Lucky Valley once and for all.
From NY Times & USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Michelle M. Pillow, a Cozy Mystery Paranormal Romantic Comedy.
Lily Goode wasn’t aware she had an inheritance waiting for her in the form of a huge Victorian house in Lucky Valley, Colorado. Life might finally be coming together for her. That is if you don’t count the endless home repairs, dealing with eccentric Aunt Polly who claims they’re both witches, and Nolan Dawson the handsome home inspector who seems to have it out for her, then, sure, life is grand. Oh and not to mention the strange hallucinations and garden gnomes who are far more than lawn ornaments.
If mysterious accidents don’t do her in, then the rebellious gnomes just might. With the help of Aunt Polly, it’s up to Lily to discover who’s sabotaging her new home and trying to drive the Goodes out of Lucky Valley once and for all.
From NY Times & USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Michelle M. Pillow, a Cozy Mystery Paranormal Romantic Comedy.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2018
469 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
Michelle M. Pillow
232 books3,533 followers📚 New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author of All Things Romance
🌎 www.MichellePillow.com
Michelle M. Pillow is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with millions of books sold worldwide. Best known for her paranormal and sci-fi romance and paranormal women’s fiction, she writes captivating stories that blend heart, humor, adventure, and a touch of magic—perfect for readers who love immersive worlds and unforgettable characters.
Her bestselling series include Dragon Lords, Lords of the Var®, Warlocks MacGregor®, Order of Magic, and Merely Mortal.
📖 Printable Booklist: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/42pg25jekx
A relentless explorer of both the real and the supernatural, Michelle has chased history through ancient ruins, climbed Mayan temples in Belize, and investigated haunted locations. She believes life is an adventure best fueled by curiosity, creativity, and copious amounts of coffee.
Now based in the American South, Michelle is involved in film and documentary projects with her talented husband. She is mom to a talented artist, and under the strict supervision of her furry overlords (a dog and a cat) who ensure she meets her deadlines. Most days, she can be found in her office wearing pajama pants, writing, plotting, and occasionally dancing to get the creative juices flowing.
She’s the award-winning author of the historical Maiden and the Monster and paranormal romance Love Potions. If you love dragon shifters, mischievous warlocks, and strong heroines who take charge of their destiny, her books are a perfect fit.
📬 Stay Updated! Sign up for exclusive news, sneak peeks, and giveaways:
https://michellepillow.com/newsletter...
💬 Connect with Michelle:
📖 Facebook: AuthorMichellePillow
🌎 Website: www.MichellePillow.com
🌎 www.MichellePillow.com
Michelle M. Pillow is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with millions of books sold worldwide. Best known for her paranormal and sci-fi romance and paranormal women’s fiction, she writes captivating stories that blend heart, humor, adventure, and a touch of magic—perfect for readers who love immersive worlds and unforgettable characters.
Her bestselling series include Dragon Lords, Lords of the Var®, Warlocks MacGregor®, Order of Magic, and Merely Mortal.
📖 Printable Booklist: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/42pg25jekx
A relentless explorer of both the real and the supernatural, Michelle has chased history through ancient ruins, climbed Mayan temples in Belize, and investigated haunted locations. She believes life is an adventure best fueled by curiosity, creativity, and copious amounts of coffee.
Now based in the American South, Michelle is involved in film and documentary projects with her talented husband. She is mom to a talented artist, and under the strict supervision of her furry overlords (a dog and a cat) who ensure she meets her deadlines. Most days, she can be found in her office wearing pajama pants, writing, plotting, and occasionally dancing to get the creative juices flowing.
She’s the award-winning author of the historical Maiden and the Monster and paranormal romance Love Potions. If you love dragon shifters, mischievous warlocks, and strong heroines who take charge of their destiny, her books are a perfect fit.
📬 Stay Updated! Sign up for exclusive news, sneak peeks, and giveaways:
https://michellepillow.com/newsletter...
💬 Connect with Michelle:
📖 Facebook: AuthorMichellePillow
🌎 Website: www.MichellePillow.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
August 26, 2023
Lily and her brother have come to Colorado to settle their mother’s estate. They are dismayed to discover a haunted house they are responsible for renovating. Also, inconveniently the entire town of supernaturals believes them to be the last witches descended from the powerful Goode family line, who must be responsible for everything that’s gone wrong in town in the last century, from hangnails to bad weather. Talk about superstition. They’ve assigned Nolan, resident werewolf, to drive Lily and her brother out of town. However, witchy Aunt Polly (and her awesome pet lobster) are there to convince them to stay. This was super cute and had adorably snarky dialogue. Add in a crazy raccoon living in the attic, some quirky ghosts, werewolves and other supernaturals, and it was just lots of fun.
June 26, 2018
So if you fancy a new series with the most quirky inhabitants then you really need to start reading about those who live in Unlucky Valley. Lily always knew her mother was odd but a witch ? Not just any old witch though but part of a family that has cursed a whole town. Now luckily when Lily inherits the family home she's got her brother with her plus a rather eccentric relative but honestly that's just the tip of the iceberg. Be prepared for lobsters, ghosts, shifters and gnomes who really are anything but ordinary !
If absolutely honest I do prefer this authors more sexy paranormal stories but there's a lot happening here that entertained this reader. This was a fun read with surprises galore and my voluntary take is of an advance copy . The first in what I hope will be a great series and my comments are honest and I believe fair
If absolutely honest I do prefer this authors more sexy paranormal stories but there's a lot happening here that entertained this reader. This was a fun read with surprises galore and my voluntary take is of an advance copy . The first in what I hope will be a great series and my comments are honest and I believe fair
June 30, 2018
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes by Michelle Pillow
A paranormal cozy mystery romance. This is the first in a spinoff of the Everlasting series by multiple authors. A town of paranormals. Although there are only witches, ghosts and a werewolf in this book, many paranormal entities are mentioned from the town which I’m guessing will be part of future books.
A plethora of garden gnomes accompanied Aunt Polly and Herman the lobster to Lucky Valley. The gnomes seem to show up wherever the action is, although no one sees them actually move. I want to know more about the apparently magical statues.
Cute. Entertaining.
A paranormal cozy mystery romance. This is the first in a spinoff of the Everlasting series by multiple authors. A town of paranormals. Although there are only witches, ghosts and a werewolf in this book, many paranormal entities are mentioned from the town which I’m guessing will be part of future books.
A plethora of garden gnomes accompanied Aunt Polly and Herman the lobster to Lucky Valley. The gnomes seem to show up wherever the action is, although no one sees them actually move. I want to know more about the apparently magical statues.
Cute. Entertaining.
June 26, 2018
This is a fun and entertaining story. The cast of characters are quirky, interesting, and a joy getting to know. Oh, and let’s not forget all those garden gnomes. A great start to a new series.
April 4, 2020
Witches, werewolves, ghosts and other paranormal creatures live in Lucky Valley, Colorado. In this book we meet Lily Goode, her brother, Florus Dante, and Aunt Polly. If you've read any of the books from Everlasting you've already met Aunt Polly and know that she is quirky, outrageous and an excellent witch. Mystery, magic, a little romance and likable character made this an enjoyable read with a few twists to keep me guessing.
August 6, 2018
Once Un-Removed?
Oh I love it, I finally get to read about some of the Crawford Goode history in Lucky Valley! Always wondered what really happened to Marigold Crawford Goode in Lucky Valley. This is going to be the beginning of new great things in Lucky Valley, if the ghosts of the past let it happen.
Lilly, Dante and Jessie did no have an easy life after their mom Marigold abandoned them on the steps of a firehouse at a very young age. Their memories of dear mom are not good at all. That's why when Aunt Polly calls them to come to Lucky Valley, Lilly and Dante are very suspicious of the reasons behind the inheritance that Marigold left them, nothing good ever came out of a Goode at least that's what the town residents say. But especially Unlucky Valley, those ghosts just won't stay buried and they say the Crawford Goode are to blame for that too.
Lilly and Dante just can't believe they are witches, or that the Gnomes just appear out of nowhere, not to mention all the other crazy stuff that's happening at the mansion and let's not forget fruity Aunt Polly and Herman the pet lobster.,
The only thing good from all this, or is he good, is Nolan, but then again he has the Dawson Curse!
Get ready to get a belly ache, it certainly had me in stitches.
Oh I love it, I finally get to read about some of the Crawford Goode history in Lucky Valley! Always wondered what really happened to Marigold Crawford Goode in Lucky Valley. This is going to be the beginning of new great things in Lucky Valley, if the ghosts of the past let it happen.
Lilly, Dante and Jessie did no have an easy life after their mom Marigold abandoned them on the steps of a firehouse at a very young age. Their memories of dear mom are not good at all. That's why when Aunt Polly calls them to come to Lucky Valley, Lilly and Dante are very suspicious of the reasons behind the inheritance that Marigold left them, nothing good ever came out of a Goode at least that's what the town residents say. But especially Unlucky Valley, those ghosts just won't stay buried and they say the Crawford Goode are to blame for that too.
Lilly and Dante just can't believe they are witches, or that the Gnomes just appear out of nowhere, not to mention all the other crazy stuff that's happening at the mansion and let's not forget fruity Aunt Polly and Herman the pet lobster.,
The only thing good from all this, or is he good, is Nolan, but then again he has the Dawson Curse!
Get ready to get a belly ache, it certainly had me in stitches.
July 15, 2018
I was so happy to see that Aunt Polly from Everlasting was in this book. She plays a big roll. Her Niece, several times removed, has inherited a house in (Un) lucky Valley. Lily and Dante grew up barely scraping by. They have no family and out of the blue inherit a big house, which needs a lot of work, and a lot of other stuff. Stuff like garden gnomes. Aunt Polly is so eccentric and full of magic. There is also the lovable lobster, Herman. Maybe Lily ad Dante finally have a forever home? But someone doesn’t like that they have moved in. They are trying their best to see that they leave. I love this author’s writing. It doesn’t seem to matter what genre she writes, she is always able to pull it off! If you like fun, quirky reads that are a mixture of paranormal and mystery, you will love this.
April 23, 2020
This was a cute enough cozy mystery, but I am not hooked enough to read the next one.
August 15, 2020
This year has been a tough reading year. I needed something light and fluffy to “reset” and hopefully jump start my reading stall. Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes was exactly what I needed! I’ve read Michelle M. Pillow before with Second Chance Magic which was a lot of fun. I’m not typically a cozy mystery reader, but paranormal cozy mystery? Well, I might be a convert now. I mean, look at that adorable cover to start!
Brother and sister Dante and Lilly Goode find out that their mother Marigold left them an inheritance in the town of Lucky Valley and have been called back by Aunt Polly. They aren’t excited, to say the least. After all, their mother left them and their other sister, Jessie, at the firehouse at a very young age. The town of Lucky Valley isn’t excited to have them back either. The Goodes have been blamed for all the bad luck. There’s a long history of bad blood between the town and its founders, The Goodes. Matter of fact, someone in the town wants them gone for good. Aunt Polly keeps telling them they come from a long line of magic and she’s going to help them get it back, they just think she’s nuts.
There’s so much quirkiness in this book! Aunt Polly is a hoot. She’s batty as can be but she makes sense to herself! Eccentric and off the wall, she was a favorite. Herman, the pet lobster. The army of garden gnomes. Lilly and Dante coming into their powers was a blast. The raccoon that ran off with their powers? Hilarious. Of course, the sexy werewolf code inspector that is supposed to be running them out of town decides that the Goodes might just be misunderstood. This story was so much fun to read. The characters were all great and the laughs just kept coming. Haunts and hijinx abound in Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes.
This is #1 in the (Un)Lucky Valley series by Michelle M. Pillow but #7 in the Happily Everlasting World with authors Jana Deleon, Kristen Painter, and Mandy M. Roth. It certainly won’t be my last in either series!
See more over at Wicked Cool Flight!
Brother and sister Dante and Lilly Goode find out that their mother Marigold left them an inheritance in the town of Lucky Valley and have been called back by Aunt Polly. They aren’t excited, to say the least. After all, their mother left them and their other sister, Jessie, at the firehouse at a very young age. The town of Lucky Valley isn’t excited to have them back either. The Goodes have been blamed for all the bad luck. There’s a long history of bad blood between the town and its founders, The Goodes. Matter of fact, someone in the town wants them gone for good. Aunt Polly keeps telling them they come from a long line of magic and she’s going to help them get it back, they just think she’s nuts.
There’s so much quirkiness in this book! Aunt Polly is a hoot. She’s batty as can be but she makes sense to herself! Eccentric and off the wall, she was a favorite. Herman, the pet lobster. The army of garden gnomes. Lilly and Dante coming into their powers was a blast. The raccoon that ran off with their powers? Hilarious. Of course, the sexy werewolf code inspector that is supposed to be running them out of town decides that the Goodes might just be misunderstood. This story was so much fun to read. The characters were all great and the laughs just kept coming. Haunts and hijinx abound in Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes.
This is #1 in the (Un)Lucky Valley series by Michelle M. Pillow but #7 in the Happily Everlasting World with authors Jana Deleon, Kristen Painter, and Mandy M. Roth. It certainly won’t be my last in either series!
See more over at Wicked Cool Flight!
September 9, 2019
4 Star review of Better Haunts & Garden Gnomes by Michelle M Pillow
Audio Review:
Michelle M Pillow is a relatively new author to me as is the narrator B.J. Harrison. This is a cozy mystery which was fun and entertaining.
I found the narration enjoyable and easy to listen too. His voices were good and he brought the story to life for me and enhanced my enjoyment.
It wouldn’t be a cozy mystery without some suspense and drama. Lily Goode hopes her luck has finally changed after inheriting a house from her estranged mother. However, strange accidents start to occur and Lily soon believes danger is coming.
The secondary characters including her brother Dante, were just as engaging, particularly Aunt Polly who had me cracking up at times.
A fun quick read with a few surprising twists and with enough clues to satisfy my inner detective spirit.
Audio Review:
Michelle M Pillow is a relatively new author to me as is the narrator B.J. Harrison. This is a cozy mystery which was fun and entertaining.
I found the narration enjoyable and easy to listen too. His voices were good and he brought the story to life for me and enhanced my enjoyment.
It wouldn’t be a cozy mystery without some suspense and drama. Lily Goode hopes her luck has finally changed after inheriting a house from her estranged mother. However, strange accidents start to occur and Lily soon believes danger is coming.
The secondary characters including her brother Dante, were just as engaging, particularly Aunt Polly who had me cracking up at times.
A fun quick read with a few surprising twists and with enough clues to satisfy my inner detective spirit.
April 9, 2020
Okay. This book completely hit the spot as far as I'm concerned. I wanted something light and angst-free that would entertain me and I got EXACTLY that. Sure, sure, Lily and her family are dealing with the long-term repercussions of their mother's neglect, but it worked for me. It worked.
So. Lily. She's the unwitting heiress of a run-down (or so it seems) Victorian AND all the magic in her bloodline. Well, she's not entirely the heiress of the magic. All her siblings get a piece of that pie. Unfortunately, since she's been kept in the dark about that particular perk of her family line, the magic comes as a big surprise. And with a few not-so-lucky incidents.
To be fair, though, I don't think the bad luck that follows the townsfolk around can be entirely laid at her and her siblings' feet. Frankly, being blamed for every little thing that goes wrong would wear after a while.
Misfiring magic, ghosts, a sexy werewolf, and family draaaaama (not to mention a batty as heck aunt who's about as helpful as a box of hair) made this a fun read. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
So. Lily. She's the unwitting heiress of a run-down (or so it seems) Victorian AND all the magic in her bloodline. Well, she's not entirely the heiress of the magic. All her siblings get a piece of that pie. Unfortunately, since she's been kept in the dark about that particular perk of her family line, the magic comes as a big surprise. And with a few not-so-lucky incidents.
To be fair, though, I don't think the bad luck that follows the townsfolk around can be entirely laid at her and her siblings' feet. Frankly, being blamed for every little thing that goes wrong would wear after a while.
Misfiring magic, ghosts, a sexy werewolf, and family draaaaama (not to mention a batty as heck aunt who's about as helpful as a box of hair) made this a fun read. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 26, 2018
Who doesn't love a bit of mystery, laugh out loud romance, and an eccentric aunt? I loved this book. Lily and her brother inherit and old house in need of lots of repairs. Her repair man is a pain in the butt and exceptionally hot. There are a ton of garden knomes that seem to have a mind of their own and an unwelcome town. There is obviously someone who doesn't want Lily and her brother in that house.
Great book, I can't wait to read the next one!!!
Great book, I can't wait to read the next one!!!
June 27, 2018
Awesome Story
I really enjoyed this book. Lots of paranormal activity and lots of surprises. There was a great mystery. It was not the typical murder mystery, but it was very interesting. I am looking forward to the next book in what I hope will be a good long series.
I really enjoyed this book. Lots of paranormal activity and lots of surprises. There was a great mystery. It was not the typical murder mystery, but it was very interesting. I am looking forward to the next book in what I hope will be a good long series.
February 8, 2019
Cute story.
January 3, 2021
Loving this author!
July 15, 2021
I am partial to gnomes. This book was as cute as any gnome. I must acquire more now. 😁
August 5, 2019
A little dragged out but still kinda fun. Loved the characters: Lily, Nolan, Dante, and especially Polly, she was so crazy.
A G-rated read.
As always B.J. Harrison was great.
July 12, 2022
Will the Goode siblings ever find a place to call home?
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes by Michelle M. Pillow is everything that I hoped for and more. Mrs. Pillow is able to create wonderful characters and a world that you just want to hop right in and join them. Now I know why my mom was laughing every time she was reading a book that had Aunt Polly in it. I loved all the characters and I was even more shocked at who was doing that one thing to Lily and Dante Goode. There were also some bad things about the book but I won’t talk about them just quite yet. There are also somethings that I can’t wait to find out in the next book.
What I liked about the book:
Aunt Polly is a fabulous character. I just love her and I want her and her crazy gnomery in my backyard. Well, as long as they don’t try to trip me.
I had no clue who did it. Such an awesome book.
Lily, Dante, and Jessamine Crawford Goode, I felt bad for all three of those characters. I hope that this will be a good fresh start for them.
I loved Nolan Dawson because he was such a good character and definitely proved himself worthy at the end in my opinion. Also, doesn’t help that they make a cute couple.
What I disliked about the book:
I didn’t like about this book is that there were some spelling errors and little things like that but it didn’t take me out of the book so all is forgiven. I would have liked more of Aunt Polly in the book. I also didn’t like that everyone just thought the Goode siblings were as bad as their mom and didn't give them a chance. Then again if they didn’t then there wouldn’t be a book. So, good work Ms. Pillow.
What I am curious about:
Will the two Goode siblings be able to get their sister there? Will everything be okay with their new house guest? Can Lily and Nolan make it work? Will the town give them a chance? Guess I will just have to wait and see until the next book!
Five Stars
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes by Michelle M. Pillow was so funny and awesome that I want to read the next book already. I was so sucked in that I had a hard time letting go to eat or do anything. I loved the Goode siblings and of course Aunt Polly. This book is definitely a five-star read and I recommend to anyone that loves paranormal cozy mysteries with romance.
Anyways until the next time enjoy this review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove. This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes by Michelle M. Pillow is everything that I hoped for and more. Mrs. Pillow is able to create wonderful characters and a world that you just want to hop right in and join them. Now I know why my mom was laughing every time she was reading a book that had Aunt Polly in it. I loved all the characters and I was even more shocked at who was doing that one thing to Lily and Dante Goode. There were also some bad things about the book but I won’t talk about them just quite yet. There are also somethings that I can’t wait to find out in the next book.
What I liked about the book:
Aunt Polly is a fabulous character. I just love her and I want her and her crazy gnomery in my backyard. Well, as long as they don’t try to trip me.
I had no clue who did it. Such an awesome book.
Lily, Dante, and Jessamine Crawford Goode, I felt bad for all three of those characters. I hope that this will be a good fresh start for them.
I loved Nolan Dawson because he was such a good character and definitely proved himself worthy at the end in my opinion. Also, doesn’t help that they make a cute couple.
What I disliked about the book:
I didn’t like about this book is that there were some spelling errors and little things like that but it didn’t take me out of the book so all is forgiven. I would have liked more of Aunt Polly in the book. I also didn’t like that everyone just thought the Goode siblings were as bad as their mom and didn't give them a chance. Then again if they didn’t then there wouldn’t be a book. So, good work Ms. Pillow.
What I am curious about:
Will the two Goode siblings be able to get their sister there? Will everything be okay with their new house guest? Can Lily and Nolan make it work? Will the town give them a chance? Guess I will just have to wait and see until the next book!
Five Stars
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes by Michelle M. Pillow was so funny and awesome that I want to read the next book already. I was so sucked in that I had a hard time letting go to eat or do anything. I loved the Goode siblings and of course Aunt Polly. This book is definitely a five-star read and I recommend to anyone that loves paranormal cozy mysteries with romance.
Anyways until the next time enjoy this review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove. This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
June 28, 2018
Michelle Pillow - Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes: A Cozy Paranormal Mystery - A Happily Everlasting World Novel (Unlucky Valley Book 1) (Volume 1)
How awesome is it that author Michelle Pillow has continued the Everlasting World Books with this spinoff series of Unluky Valley. I mean who doesn’t need more magic, sexy shifters, witches,etc., Lots of fun and humor and of course we can never get enough of Aunt Polly.
This series takes place in Colorado where there is an Unlucky Valley, a ghost town where many miners lost their lives a long time ago. Supposedly it had to do with the bad luck brought about by the two families that owned the mines and their “issues”.
Now the residents have all relocated and built peaceful lives in “Lucky Valley” away from the bad luck caused by the original witch families that owned the mines.
Lily and her brother Dante have moved to Lucky Valley to claim Lily’s Inheritance of an old house they learn is beyond disrepair but is loaded with magic. The siblings had no idea they are the descendants of the two witch families that owned the mines and they never dreamed magic, shifters and witches do exist. To top that off they learn that they are witches but have no idea how to find or control their new powers.
Aunt Polly ( a very distant relative) has come all the way from Everlasting to the rescue. Of course there is no helping from Polly that doesn’t cause her special brand of mischief, confusion and her strange Garden Gnomes that seem to follow her everywhere.
On top of facing a dilapidated home, their crazy family history and the fact that they are witches, The towns people are not thrilled to see the return of the families that bring horrible bad luck to their town. So the crazy incidents that start happening are too coincidental to be accidents.
Add in a very sexy shifter, Nolan, (wolf shifter/construction worker/building code enforcer) and romantic sparks and talks of “mates” gets added to the mayhem.
This is a really fun, exciting mystery/humorous/romantic/paranormal magic book that will have readers charmed, entertained and craving sequels to this series!
How awesome is it that author Michelle Pillow has continued the Everlasting World Books with this spinoff series of Unluky Valley. I mean who doesn’t need more magic, sexy shifters, witches,etc., Lots of fun and humor and of course we can never get enough of Aunt Polly.
This series takes place in Colorado where there is an Unlucky Valley, a ghost town where many miners lost their lives a long time ago. Supposedly it had to do with the bad luck brought about by the two families that owned the mines and their “issues”.
Now the residents have all relocated and built peaceful lives in “Lucky Valley” away from the bad luck caused by the original witch families that owned the mines.
Lily and her brother Dante have moved to Lucky Valley to claim Lily’s Inheritance of an old house they learn is beyond disrepair but is loaded with magic. The siblings had no idea they are the descendants of the two witch families that owned the mines and they never dreamed magic, shifters and witches do exist. To top that off they learn that they are witches but have no idea how to find or control their new powers.
Aunt Polly ( a very distant relative) has come all the way from Everlasting to the rescue. Of course there is no helping from Polly that doesn’t cause her special brand of mischief, confusion and her strange Garden Gnomes that seem to follow her everywhere.
On top of facing a dilapidated home, their crazy family history and the fact that they are witches, The towns people are not thrilled to see the return of the families that bring horrible bad luck to their town. So the crazy incidents that start happening are too coincidental to be accidents.
Add in a very sexy shifter, Nolan, (wolf shifter/construction worker/building code enforcer) and romantic sparks and talks of “mates” gets added to the mayhem.
This is a really fun, exciting mystery/humorous/romantic/paranormal magic book that will have readers charmed, entertained and craving sequels to this series!
October 9, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this! It was fun, it was light, it was a fast read and it was so engaging!
I think (Un)Lucky Valley would be a great place to live! A town full of supernatural people sounds like just my cup of tea! Even though they all have a big hate on for Lily and her family, and do NOT welcome them when they arrive to take over the family house on the outskirts of town, this is still my kind of town.
I really enjoyed the world-building the author does here. The creatures, their stories, and how past and present intersect was clever, quirky and really fun. The humour that runs through the book tickled me and made me laugh out loud more than once. Sarcasm is my think, and most of the main characters delivered a share of it as the story played out.
I also liked the sweet and gentle romance between Lily and Nolan [that's not a spoiler unless you've never read this genre AND didn't read the book description] they had their obstacles to get over, but it was enjoyable to go on their journey as they worked through things.
The supporting cast of characters in this world are just a hoot! Especially Aunt Polly - who is a complete nut case, but still lovable - but all the residents of Lucky Valley are just plain fun!
I really enjoyed everything about this, and will absolutely watch for future books set in Lucky Valley. I would love to go back there in future!!
I think (Un)Lucky Valley would be a great place to live! A town full of supernatural people sounds like just my cup of tea! Even though they all have a big hate on for Lily and her family, and do NOT welcome them when they arrive to take over the family house on the outskirts of town, this is still my kind of town.
I really enjoyed the world-building the author does here. The creatures, their stories, and how past and present intersect was clever, quirky and really fun. The humour that runs through the book tickled me and made me laugh out loud more than once. Sarcasm is my think, and most of the main characters delivered a share of it as the story played out.
I also liked the sweet and gentle romance between Lily and Nolan [that's not a spoiler unless you've never read this genre AND didn't read the book description] they had their obstacles to get over, but it was enjoyable to go on their journey as they worked through things.
The supporting cast of characters in this world are just a hoot! Especially Aunt Polly - who is a complete nut case, but still lovable - but all the residents of Lucky Valley are just plain fun!
I really enjoyed everything about this, and will absolutely watch for future books set in Lucky Valley. I would love to go back there in future!!
June 27, 2018
A well-written book with an ending I did not expect! I enjoyed reading this first book in the [Un]Lucky Valley series I am looking forward to reading the next book. A book I would recommend. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
October 4, 2018
Stupid. Worst I have listened to in a very long time. Not even good enough for a pre-teen. I love paranormal and cozies for this was a terrible example of both. I did not like it and definitely would NOT recommend it.
April 21, 2025
Talk about quirky, I loved every moment. Somehow I started this series with book two, so it did mean I had a vague idea of what or who was responsible but that in no way detracted from the enjoyment. It just meant I could sit back and let the enjoyment and high jinks unfold. There is no mystery as such and definitely no investigating, it's more somebody is using underhanded means to try and get Lily and her brother to leave but with curses, bad luck and newly acquired magic things don't go as planned. So as you can imagine there is humour spread throughout the book and that's before you are in the mysterious goings on in the house with gnomes, unusual animal familliar's and crazy aunts. This also means the story is very character driven and I just love aunt Polly with her eccentricities and unusual way of helping. Actually all the characters had me chuckling at something they did or said at one point or another. I know there is a second book in the series, I just hope there are more to come.
Lily Goode was abandoned at a fire station with her younger brother and sister, so she is use to taking care of everything. So when she finds out her mother has died and has left her a Victorian house in Lucky Valley, she thinks her mother has finally done something right. That is until she and her brother move to the small town. The house comes with an aunt they have never meet and her pet lobsters, an obscene number of gnomes, that she is sure is multiplying and a curse. Nobody in town wants to have anything to do with the Goode name and blame her ancestor for any bad luck that happens. Somebody is willing to do anything to get them to leave and vandalism and fires are just the start. Lily isn't one to be pushed around and when she learns the family secret, she and her brother decide to prove everybody wrong and make ago at a new life.
I did think a male narrator was an unusual choice because the main character is female. However he did such a good job that he soon stopped me thinking and just had me lost in the story.I
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Lily Goode was abandoned at a fire station with her younger brother and sister, so she is use to taking care of everything. So when she finds out her mother has died and has left her a Victorian house in Lucky Valley, she thinks her mother has finally done something right. That is until she and her brother move to the small town. The house comes with an aunt they have never meet and her pet lobsters, an obscene number of gnomes, that she is sure is multiplying and a curse. Nobody in town wants to have anything to do with the Goode name and blame her ancestor for any bad luck that happens. Somebody is willing to do anything to get them to leave and vandalism and fires are just the start. Lily isn't one to be pushed around and when she learns the family secret, she and her brother decide to prove everybody wrong and make ago at a new life.
I did think a male narrator was an unusual choice because the main character is female. However he did such a good job that he soon stopped me thinking and just had me lost in the story.I
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
October 18, 2022
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes introduced Lilly and her brother, Dante Goode. After being abandoned by their mother, Marigold, Lily and Dante were surprised that their mother left them anything. Their third sibling, Jessie, refused to have anything to do with their mother and refused her inheritance.
As far as Lily's concern regarding the house that she and her siblings inherited, she was going to sell the property and then find some place where she could create a home for herself and her siblings. Enter Aunt Polly, their eccentric aunt.
Aunt Polly has other plans for Lily and Dante. She was going to show them their heritage as being witches and to help them remove the curse on half the town of Lucky Valley.
From the beginning of the story, the Mayor of Lucky Valley wanted Lily and Dante gone and to claim their inherited property. Nolan Dawson was assigned to make sure that Lily and Dante are so buried with building code violations that they will abandon their property and leave Lucky Valley. With one look at Lily, Nolan has changed his mind of running Lily and Dante out of town. He was going to help renovate their home and make the house their home.
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes is a pretty good mystery. Everything in Lucky Valley (or rather Unlucky Valley) is not what readers/listeners would expected. Just when the readers/listeners think they know where the story is going, the story takes a different direction.
There is also a battle in this story with Aunt Polly commanding her gnomes. Funny and humorous.
Garden gnomes, werewolves, ghosts, and witches. With the strange phenomenons going on in their house and learning that Lucky Valley residents are supernaturals, and learning that she and Dante are witches, Lily would need to survive them in order to make Lucky Valley and Nolan her new beginning.
The narrator, B.J. Harrison did a pretty good job. He is a new narrator to me so I will reserved my opinion and see if he will grows on me.
As far as Lily's concern regarding the house that she and her siblings inherited, she was going to sell the property and then find some place where she could create a home for herself and her siblings. Enter Aunt Polly, their eccentric aunt.
Aunt Polly has other plans for Lily and Dante. She was going to show them their heritage as being witches and to help them remove the curse on half the town of Lucky Valley.
From the beginning of the story, the Mayor of Lucky Valley wanted Lily and Dante gone and to claim their inherited property. Nolan Dawson was assigned to make sure that Lily and Dante are so buried with building code violations that they will abandon their property and leave Lucky Valley. With one look at Lily, Nolan has changed his mind of running Lily and Dante out of town. He was going to help renovate their home and make the house their home.
Better Haunts and Garden Gnomes is a pretty good mystery. Everything in Lucky Valley (or rather Unlucky Valley) is not what readers/listeners would expected. Just when the readers/listeners think they know where the story is going, the story takes a different direction.
There is also a battle in this story with Aunt Polly commanding her gnomes. Funny and humorous.
Garden gnomes, werewolves, ghosts, and witches. With the strange phenomenons going on in their house and learning that Lucky Valley residents are supernaturals, and learning that she and Dante are witches, Lily would need to survive them in order to make Lucky Valley and Nolan her new beginning.
The narrator, B.J. Harrison did a pretty good job. He is a new narrator to me so I will reserved my opinion and see if he will grows on me.
June 26, 2018
Lily and Dante Goode have come to (Un) Lucky Valley because Aunt Polly is a relative and she knew their mother and she called so they could come and claim their family estate their mother left them. It was about to fall down around their ears but Aunt Polly is very positive they can get it into shape and they can live there and Lily wanted a home for her and her siblings. They have a sister Jesse that they left because she refuse to come. Now that they have talked to the lawyer and decided to stay if they can get someone to hire them because the estate only pays for repairs to the property but doesn't include food or clothes so Lily has to figure out a way take care of them. She met Nathan County clerk has many citations that they have to take care of or they could lose the property. They get help from Nathan and he is not sure that a spell has not been put on him he cannot stay away since he heard her laugh at her brothers joke in the lawyers office. He helps as much as he can with everything going on with is issues during the full moon but is hiding the truth. Since the Goode's came to town things are starting to happen and the people their feel that they are just as bad as their mother. Lily and Dante's familiar's, You have to love Aunt Polly's spells, Herman, the ghost and the fighting gnomes and then someone is continually trying to run them off or burn them out, which turns out to be a the biggest surprise of figuring out what Marigold's Ghost is trying to make clear. A very heartwarming, magical spells, killer ghost and fighting gnomes romantic love story. Some things left unresolved but their must be another book here. Totally enjoyed the characters. Recommend. I am voluntarily reviewing this book gifted to me by the author without obligation.
January 29, 2022
Hilarious paranormal mystery, a dash of romance & a lot of crazy
POV: dual / 3rd person
HUMOR: yes
F BOMBS: no
STANDALONE: yes
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: sibling tied up & half dead for a magical spell, potions, ghosts/hauntings, animal shifters/other paranormal characters, spirit animals/familiars, neglectful mother, drug references, house/lawn fires, unlucky & unexplained accidents/mishaps
CHARACTERS: Lily Goode and younger brother, Dante, meet their crazy Aunt Polly Crawford in the town of Lucky Valley where they have to deal with code enforcement officer/werewolf shifter Nolan Dawson, among other paranormal beings
OVERALL: Hilarious read if you're in the mood for a paranormal mystery with a dash of romance and a lot of crazy
PROS:
1. Creative story without the f-bomb fillers
2. Great world-building though sometimes chaotic
3. Interesting/Likable characters
4. Hilarious
CONS:
1. Some details of scenes were shared but not explained; one was explained at the end
2. Being new to magic, things were never explained nor taught to Lily and Dante until near the end
3. Didn't feel the chemistry between MCs. H seemed to like h more than she liked him until near the end.
NOTEWORTHY:
1. This is a clean romance - only kissing - no course language/explicit scenes
Although this can be read as a standalone, there are still loose ends/unfinished business as this is a series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
POV: dual / 3rd person
HUMOR: yes
F BOMBS: no
STANDALONE: yes
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: sibling tied up & half dead for a magical spell, potions, ghosts/hauntings, animal shifters/other paranormal characters, spirit animals/familiars, neglectful mother, drug references, house/lawn fires, unlucky & unexplained accidents/mishaps
CHARACTERS: Lily Goode and younger brother, Dante, meet their crazy Aunt Polly Crawford in the town of Lucky Valley where they have to deal with code enforcement officer/werewolf shifter Nolan Dawson, among other paranormal beings
OVERALL: Hilarious read if you're in the mood for a paranormal mystery with a dash of romance and a lot of crazy
PROS:
1. Creative story without the f-bomb fillers
2. Great world-building though sometimes chaotic
3. Interesting/Likable characters
4. Hilarious
CONS:
1. Some details of scenes were shared but not explained; one was explained at the end
2. Being new to magic, things were never explained nor taught to Lily and Dante until near the end
3. Didn't feel the chemistry between MCs. H seemed to like h more than she liked him until near the end.
NOTEWORTHY:
1. This is a clean romance - only kissing - no course language/explicit scenes
Although this can be read as a standalone, there are still loose ends/unfinished business as this is a series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2023
I am a little short on time, but I will say I love it. Aunt Polly, kinda kooky, with a heart of gold witch, who knows how old, Gotta love 'er! She's always up to some thing with her potions & spells but she's adorable. Lily & her brother, Daunte Goode travel to Lucky Valley to take a look at the inheritance the mother who abandoned them years ago has left them. The youngest sister won't even go, why bother? It turns out to be a decrepit old house that appears to be falling apart with a barn some land with a lot of garden gnomes. Aunt Polly is there to try to help them get everything set up. All they want is home to call their own. The town wants them gone, if the house is abandoned a few months longer the town can claim the land & knock down the house. The town believe the Goode family cursed the town with bad luck back when the mines were open & it never quit. Nolan Dawson a home inspector is supposed to help get them out of town. When they go to the lawyer to see if there is anyway to get away from it, they find out a few things. They had a little sister, Amaryllis, who died not long after she was born, unknown to them. There is a trust to keep up the buildings & property but can't be used for anything else. The house has to be lived in by them & can only be passed down to family. Lily decides that if there is money to rebuild they might be able to do it. They find out the own the old mines & ghost town as well. She thinks they will open a B&B house, it has so many rooms. Nolan is around them trying to find more ways to cite them. He learns that they are not bad people & know nothing about witches. When Lily & Daunte get back to the house they find it looking like a constructor had already been there making repairs when they had been turned down by almost every constructor around for about 100 miles. They find out it is Aunt Polly using magic spells. They can't believe it. She can't believe that they don't know about magic, supernaturals or not have any powers of their own. Over the time they are trying to get things together Lily finds out Nolan is a werewolf. He decides to try to help them get their B&B up & running. There is a lot of vandalism going on. Lily finds out about why the town wants them gone. The bad luck that has settled on the town & belief that the Goodes' cursed it with their feud with the Crawfords. Lily wants to show everyone they are not the ones who did it, but bad impressions are hard to break. When a ghost steals Nolan's truck, it turns up in over a cliff in the ghost town. Nolan, Lily & Aunt Polly go to take a look. They call a tow truck, Lilly goes to look around & comes across a drifter camped out in the old jail. She finds out her name is Mari. She invites her to come eat some of their picnic, she sees so much of herself in her. She knows what it's like with no home & hungry. She gives her something to eat & tells her to come stay at her place, she can help them build. Nolan & Aunt Polly don't care much for her, something seems off. When they get back, she tells Mari to pick a room. She comes running out screeching about a dead guy tied up in the attic. They run up & find out it's Daunte. He looks dead or close to it, Lily tries to get to him to get him loose. Aunt Polly has him under a spell to try to bring forth his powers. With Lily trying to get the ropes off him some of the powers hit her as well as him. It wakes his powers well enough, it doesn't seem to do so well for her. It knocked Nolan into a strip of nails into the wall, he ends up in the hospital. He wants out. He kisses her & gets her to teleport them out of the hospital to a valley. They end up walking back to her house. The barn collapses while she is sitting there. There are so many things happening. Nolan & Lily go into the diner in town to try to let people know about her wantint to build a B&B that will need workers, and maybe help people in town. She gets a call from Daunte but gets cut off. They head back to the house to find it burning badly, she is afraid someone might still be inside. She finds out they aren't. She discovers her powers with water and puts out the fire. Nolan can't stay with her because it is a full moon. The deputy takes him to be locked up at his place, still dazed she doesn't really understand what he told her. She is takes everyone to the hotel, she calls the lawyer to tell her, they are leaving. The lawyer tells her the town had put Nolan into running her out. Not only is she hurt but angry. She decides they are going to stay, after she goes & tells him he is fired. She teleports to his house. Finds a werewolf not fully contained in the basement & the deputy unconscious on the floor. She has a gash on her collar bone. Lily tries to get her up & in the kitchen. The deputy tries to get back down to try to finish chaining him up. Lily stops her. She tells her that he is very powerful & when his father got loose as a wolf he had to be put down for terrorizing a bus full of kids. Lily tells her she will watch him. She pulls a couch into the kitchen & shoves it into the staircase to block it. When he finally gets loose, it takes a little while for him to get passed the couch. When he gets into the kitchen she manages to stall him a little until sunrise & he is Nolan again. Then she tells him she knows that he had been working for the town & responsible for the things happening lately. He tries to explain & she tells him he is fired. She goes home, to see Aunt Polly & Daunte there. She sees her mother's ghost as well. Nolan catches a ride with deputy to Lily's house. She needs to ask if they can help her about an echidna bite. Lily & Aunt Polly find themselves surrounded by the barn by all the miner ghosts & Mari. They then find out she is their half-sister, who was suppose to have died. Their mother hid her from them because she was a half blood. Mari has been causing all the trouble trying to get them to leave so she & the ghosts can have the land. Nolan & the deputy think she should be run in. Lily knows how sick their mother was & can't even imagine what her life was like. She tells Daunte who she is & they both are happy to meet their new little sister. She tells her to again pick a room. The deputy turns green & collapses, Nolan tells them what the problem is. Mari tells them they need blankets & a dark place until it is cured. Lily & Nolan get things sorted out & they are back to where they are happy again. Now all she has to do is get her other sister Jesse out here. I love it!
January 6, 2021
When Lily find out what her inheritance includes a huge Victorian manor in Lucky Valley . She and her brother aren't really impressed. The house is falling apart and it will cost more to fix it . Life my be getting back on track then along comes Aunt Polly and Nolan Dawson . Who help Lily and her brother figure out what they are . When things start to go wrong accidents and rebellious gnomes just might put her over the edge . \
This is a fun book to read ,the characters are fun . Lily is a sweet girl who has been through a lot in her life . She is fun read to watch her grow as woman and a character. Nolan is one sexy contractor who is more then he seems . Then there are the gnomes that reek havoc on the couple . You don't really know who or what is causing all the problems that are befalling Lily.
This is a story such a fun read and this is the first story I have read from this author . The story has it all a little bit of romance , ghosts, witches and werewolves and oh did I say gnomes yes gnomes . I read this book in an evening. I laughed so hard and I felt so sorry for Lily for most of the bad crap that happens to her. There were a few parts in the book I felt that I kind of got lost in , Lily was coming off an a whiny person and I think the author was trying to make her eccentric but it kind of fell flat . Over all I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to see the way this turns out . So if you want a fun filled story check it out .
This is a fun book to read ,the characters are fun . Lily is a sweet girl who has been through a lot in her life . She is fun read to watch her grow as woman and a character. Nolan is one sexy contractor who is more then he seems . Then there are the gnomes that reek havoc on the couple . You don't really know who or what is causing all the problems that are befalling Lily.
This is a story such a fun read and this is the first story I have read from this author . The story has it all a little bit of romance , ghosts, witches and werewolves and oh did I say gnomes yes gnomes . I read this book in an evening. I laughed so hard and I felt so sorry for Lily for most of the bad crap that happens to her. There were a few parts in the book I felt that I kind of got lost in , Lily was coming off an a whiny person and I think the author was trying to make her eccentric but it kind of fell flat . Over all I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to see the way this turns out . So if you want a fun filled story check it out .
June 24, 2018
Beware Lucky Valley, Colorado! Aunt Polley and of course, Herman her lobster, are moving in with her newly found relatives Lily and her brother. Yep, she's inherited the Good Family mansion. A crumbling Victorian. Then there is the hunky inspector delivering a list of have-to-do repairs. He happens to be a werewolf, but who's counting. No one in this town of PNR beings. Oh yeah, and don't forget the ever-increasing gnomes in and around the house.
The welcome isn't exactly friendly. In fact, vandals, keep adding to the repair list. What's a girl to do? Who can she fall back on for help? Polly (AKA weird Aunt Polly), the hot inspector, or the....well, you need to read to see who else can help or hinder. The force behind the bad luck, the secrets in town, so much to discover and so little time. Another fun cozy from the author. If you think having a pet lobster is a bit strange, moving one from Maine to Colorado is one for the books.
The welcome isn't exactly friendly. In fact, vandals, keep adding to the repair list. What's a girl to do? Who can she fall back on for help? Polly (AKA weird Aunt Polly), the hot inspector, or the....well, you need to read to see who else can help or hinder. The force behind the bad luck, the secrets in town, so much to discover and so little time. Another fun cozy from the author. If you think having a pet lobster is a bit strange, moving one from Maine to Colorado is one for the books.
February 24, 2020
BETTER HAUNTS AND GARDEN GNOMES is the first book in the (Un)Lucky Valley series. I believe you’ll need to read them in the order of release.
Perfectly quirky, paranormal, cozy mystery romance. This is fun and entertaining with a cast of characters with an amazing array of powers. I thought it was a great start to this new series, and there were tons of belly laughs.
Narration: B.J. Harrison does a beautiful job of providing the voices for the different characters – I especially loved Aunt Polly.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy via Audio BookCrave, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BETTER HAUNTS AND GARDEN GNOMES
Series: (Un)Lucky Valley #1
A Happily Everlasting World
Category /Genre: Mysteries & Thrillers, Cozy Mysteries
Recommended for: 16+ due to mature matters
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Michelle M. Pillow (as an Audible gifted copy)
Perfectly quirky, paranormal, cozy mystery romance. This is fun and entertaining with a cast of characters with an amazing array of powers. I thought it was a great start to this new series, and there were tons of belly laughs.
Narration: B.J. Harrison does a beautiful job of providing the voices for the different characters – I especially loved Aunt Polly.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy via Audio BookCrave, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BETTER HAUNTS AND GARDEN GNOMES
Series: (Un)Lucky Valley #1
A Happily Everlasting World
Category /Genre: Mysteries & Thrillers, Cozy Mysteries
Recommended for: 16+ due to mature matters
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Michelle M. Pillow (as an Audible gifted copy)
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