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Eastwind Witches #0.5
The Missing Motive
Nora Ashcroft is just getting settled into her new town of Eastwind. After solving her first case using her powers as a Fifth Wind witch, she thinks she might have this sleuthing thing down. After all, it’s just a matter of means, motive, and opportunity, right?
Not according to Ruby True, Nora’s mentor and the only other psychic in town. She’s been doing this job since before Nora was born and knows that sometimes getting to the bottom of a murder can be incredibly complicated business. Especially when everyone in town has a motive…
The Missing Motive tells the tale of a murder that takes place two years before Nora arrives in Eastwind. With Sheriff Bloom by her side, Ruby True attempts to figure out who killed the insufferable druid who has taken up residence in her home.
Enjoy the divine duo of True and Bloom, and revisit some of your favorite Eastwind townsfolk in this humorous paranormal novella!
**Note: This novella is only available to members of the Cozy Coven. To join, go to www. cozycoven .com
Not according to Ruby True, Nora’s mentor and the only other psychic in town. She’s been doing this job since before Nora was born and knows that sometimes getting to the bottom of a murder can be incredibly complicated business. Especially when everyone in town has a motive…
The Missing Motive tells the tale of a murder that takes place two years before Nora arrives in Eastwind. With Sheriff Bloom by her side, Ruby True attempts to figure out who killed the insufferable druid who has taken up residence in her home.
Enjoy the divine duo of True and Bloom, and revisit some of your favorite Eastwind townsfolk in this humorous paranormal novella!
**Note: This novella is only available to members of the Cozy Coven. To join, go to www. cozycoven .com
170 pages, ebook
Published January 15, 2019
2 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Nova Nelson
68 books273 followersNova Nelson grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie novels. She loves the mind candy of cozy mysteries and has been weaving paranormal tales since she first learned handwriting. Those two loves meet in her Eastwind Witches series, and it's about time, if she does say so herself.
When she's not busy writing, she enjoys long walks with her strong-willed dogs and eating breakfast for dinner.
Be sure to follow her on Goodreads!
Join the Cozy Coven for Eastwind updates, contests, and more! Go to: www.cozycoven.com
When she's not busy writing, she enjoys long walks with her strong-willed dogs and eating breakfast for dinner.
Be sure to follow her on Goodreads!
Join the Cozy Coven for Eastwind updates, contests, and more! Go to: www.cozycoven.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 22, 2019
A simple story about a witch who sees ghosts. The story is about solving a murder in which everyone has a motive to kill the victim. It is well written. The mystery is good but solved through witch skills rather than following the clues. I prefer following the clues.
January 24, 2019
Warning do not read this review if new to series and reading in order. This is based on having read numerous books in this wonderful series.
Having read other books in this series and then reading this. I found it to be hilarious. If you are new to series then I recommend re-reading this after getting further in the series so you understand what is so funny.
Well it is nice to see what Ruby was like before she "retired". Also loving Clifford; he is always so quiet after retirement. Who knew that the witch and familiar could get so very close. Nora and Grim like that? HMMMMM?
Love the insight into Bloom too. Will be looking at her with different eyes now.
I love being a member of the Coven!!!!! Become one NOW!!!
Having read other books in this series and then reading this. I found it to be hilarious. If you are new to series then I recommend re-reading this after getting further in the series so you understand what is so funny.
Well it is nice to see what Ruby was like before she "retired". Also loving Clifford; he is always so quiet after retirement. Who knew that the witch and familiar could get so very close. Nora and Grim like that? HMMMMM?
Love the insight into Bloom too. Will be looking at her with different eyes now.
I love being a member of the Coven!!!!! Become one NOW!!!
January 24, 2019
This was a delightful journey back in time, when Nora was new to Eastwind. And then, we got to go even further back in time, and experienced life through the eyes of our beloved Ruby True, who teamed up with the Avenging Angel herself, Sheriff Gabby Bloom. There's wit, there's humor, clever banter, and a very clever witch with a very annoying ghost hanging around her house. Magic and whimsy abound in Eastwind, so pull up a comfy chair and enjoy a nice cup of tea. And watch out for unicorn swirls....
January 23, 2019
Ruby and Bloom together solving a crime are fantastic! They have a relationship that we never could have imagined,but maybe should have guessed at. The sarcasm is of course flowing in this book and is so funny you will want to make sure you have gone to the restroom before you start reading! Once again Nova Nelson had hit it out of the park.
January 24, 2019
This story helps the readers get to know some of the characters a bit more. This story tells how Ruby and Sheriff Bloom solve a murder that happens long before Nora Ashcroft comes into the scene. It's almost like Ruby is reminiscing her old times and yet it is also trying to teach Nora a lesson. I enjoy every one of these stories in the series!!
January 23, 2019
The Missing Motive #1.5 - This humor filled novella has Ruby and Gabby as the main characters with a murder investigation. These are two characters that I always wanted to see more in play. This well written, quickly paced story keeps the reader immersed in the interesting investigation while enjoying the journey with three interesting, humorous characters. Gives a little background information on both Ruby and Gabby. 4*
Eastwind Witches:
Eastwind Witches - I love these kinds of witches; nothing mean or nasty but tough when needed. My friend had these three books and we spent a day reading and laughing about the characters and the happenings. Funny, entertaining and well written, the stories are strong enough to keep the reader immersed in the pages, but with a simple storytelling style. The characters grow as the pages fly by and there's no Stupid Formula, just plain entertainment. Surprise, no vulgar language or cussing. Plus, you'll love Ted; sorry no spoilers. Little editing needed but not much.
Crossing Over Easy #1 - I love these kinds of witch stories. This is our first book by this author; my friend and I read her copies during one of our get-together weekends. We both had fun with them. Easily and quickly read, COE was funny and interesting. The characters are funny and entertaining; the story line was entertaining; and the dialog and actions weren't of the stupid variety. Even without a friend's comments, this book is good for relaxation or something simple but entertaining. Did I mention the book was entertaining. OK, I'm not funny, but Nova is a lot. 5*
Death Metal #2 - This book starts three months after Crossing Over Easy ended. We loved the dialog; it was almost as if we were doing the talking. Well written, funny and entertaining, the pages flew by as we laughed our way to the end. The characters are filling out more, including Eastwind, and their dialog is extremely entertaining. Nora is discovering more about herself and the perks and dangers of being a Fifth Wind witch. 5*
Third Knock The Charm #3 - This book begins two weeks after Death Metal ends. This time no one is killed, but many other things are happening instead. Funny, entertaining and this time filled with lots of sexual tension. My favorite character is the Library, which I wish all readers had access to one of their own. Ms. Nelson writes well, describes vividly and add humor in abundance. My friend and I just laughed ourselves silly about the message of sexual harassment is wrong, but physical assault is OK. Nope, we didn't disagree on half of that message, but we come from a time of real sexual harassment where slapping hands or faces was a must; now it's a crime to defend yourself. 5*
Queso de los Muertos #4 - Another well written, intriguing but quickly read Eastwind tale. Fast paced, entertaining and a touch of sexual tension, this is a good addition to the series. It's nice the author doesn't use vulgar language or explicit sex, but uses humor and well thought out storylines. The characters remain interesting and their dialog believable. There's no stupid formula in this series. I could use a bowl of queso and handmade chips. I contacted the author to review her books since I enjoyed the first three. 5*
Psych Out #5 - Wow, we've a few twists to the plot! This book isn't a cliffhanger, but it will fun to find out what's happening with Nora in the next book. Well written, intriguing and with a few kinks added to mix, along with more development of the characters. The plot is really intense near the end of the story and there's a few laughs along the way. Plus, the sexual tension is still running amok. 5*
Gone Witch #6 - Imagine the sexual tensions with three guys available, poor Nora. Another well written, fast paced plot filled with intrigue and suspense. Along with humor, there's a build up for a bad future ahead for Eastwind. Changes are already taking place, especially with several characters. Once started, this story was hard to put down. 5*
Love Spells Trouble #7 - What a neat spell, but what terrible residuals. Another fun and magical book. There's all kinds of characters from the past, along with trouble for the future. The storyline was pretty good and there's plenty of sexual tension and then some. There's plenty of intrigue and suspense to go with the tension and the humor. One of the characters leaves and I hated to see him go, but the ending still works just fine. 5*
Storm A-Brewin' #8 - Storm picks up a week later from when Love Spells Trouble ended. This is a very good story! All our favorite and not so favorite characters are dealing with a lot of hatred with certain businesses being targeted. The story mirrors the reverse discrimination that's so prominent in the news, but at least the book is interesting and with humor. 5*
Hallow's Faire in Love and War #9 - I completely love this series and Hallow's is full of twists and surprises. Nora gets a rude awakening and a visit from the past that has her head spinning, not literally, and she pays dearly. The storylines are intriguing and the continuous ones from previous books mesh well with this book's plot.
The same likable, and some not so likable, crew makes their contributions to keeping the reader's interest, while the new characters add to the mix. There's nothing like having his parents float in while you're in bed undressed. Complete with humor, along with the sad parts, this well rounded story is a good addition to the series. Start with book one, else you're missing the continuously growing foundation that this series is built upon and you will not get the full value of this series. I contacted the author to read her books. 4*
Eastwind Witches End.
Eastwind Witches:
Eastwind Witches - I love these kinds of witches; nothing mean or nasty but tough when needed. My friend had these three books and we spent a day reading and laughing about the characters and the happenings. Funny, entertaining and well written, the stories are strong enough to keep the reader immersed in the pages, but with a simple storytelling style. The characters grow as the pages fly by and there's no Stupid Formula, just plain entertainment. Surprise, no vulgar language or cussing. Plus, you'll love Ted; sorry no spoilers. Little editing needed but not much.
Crossing Over Easy #1 - I love these kinds of witch stories. This is our first book by this author; my friend and I read her copies during one of our get-together weekends. We both had fun with them. Easily and quickly read, COE was funny and interesting. The characters are funny and entertaining; the story line was entertaining; and the dialog and actions weren't of the stupid variety. Even without a friend's comments, this book is good for relaxation or something simple but entertaining. Did I mention the book was entertaining. OK, I'm not funny, but Nova is a lot. 5*
Death Metal #2 - This book starts three months after Crossing Over Easy ended. We loved the dialog; it was almost as if we were doing the talking. Well written, funny and entertaining, the pages flew by as we laughed our way to the end. The characters are filling out more, including Eastwind, and their dialog is extremely entertaining. Nora is discovering more about herself and the perks and dangers of being a Fifth Wind witch. 5*
Third Knock The Charm #3 - This book begins two weeks after Death Metal ends. This time no one is killed, but many other things are happening instead. Funny, entertaining and this time filled with lots of sexual tension. My favorite character is the Library, which I wish all readers had access to one of their own. Ms. Nelson writes well, describes vividly and add humor in abundance. My friend and I just laughed ourselves silly about the message of sexual harassment is wrong, but physical assault is OK. Nope, we didn't disagree on half of that message, but we come from a time of real sexual harassment where slapping hands or faces was a must; now it's a crime to defend yourself. 5*
Queso de los Muertos #4 - Another well written, intriguing but quickly read Eastwind tale. Fast paced, entertaining and a touch of sexual tension, this is a good addition to the series. It's nice the author doesn't use vulgar language or explicit sex, but uses humor and well thought out storylines. The characters remain interesting and their dialog believable. There's no stupid formula in this series. I could use a bowl of queso and handmade chips. I contacted the author to review her books since I enjoyed the first three. 5*
Psych Out #5 - Wow, we've a few twists to the plot! This book isn't a cliffhanger, but it will fun to find out what's happening with Nora in the next book. Well written, intriguing and with a few kinks added to mix, along with more development of the characters. The plot is really intense near the end of the story and there's a few laughs along the way. Plus, the sexual tension is still running amok. 5*
Gone Witch #6 - Imagine the sexual tensions with three guys available, poor Nora. Another well written, fast paced plot filled with intrigue and suspense. Along with humor, there's a build up for a bad future ahead for Eastwind. Changes are already taking place, especially with several characters. Once started, this story was hard to put down. 5*
Love Spells Trouble #7 - What a neat spell, but what terrible residuals. Another fun and magical book. There's all kinds of characters from the past, along with trouble for the future. The storyline was pretty good and there's plenty of sexual tension and then some. There's plenty of intrigue and suspense to go with the tension and the humor. One of the characters leaves and I hated to see him go, but the ending still works just fine. 5*
Storm A-Brewin' #8 - Storm picks up a week later from when Love Spells Trouble ended. This is a very good story! All our favorite and not so favorite characters are dealing with a lot of hatred with certain businesses being targeted. The story mirrors the reverse discrimination that's so prominent in the news, but at least the book is interesting and with humor. 5*
Hallow's Faire in Love and War #9 - I completely love this series and Hallow's is full of twists and surprises. Nora gets a rude awakening and a visit from the past that has her head spinning, not literally, and she pays dearly. The storylines are intriguing and the continuous ones from previous books mesh well with this book's plot.
The same likable, and some not so likable, crew makes their contributions to keeping the reader's interest, while the new characters add to the mix. There's nothing like having his parents float in while you're in bed undressed. Complete with humor, along with the sad parts, this well rounded story is a good addition to the series. Start with book one, else you're missing the continuously growing foundation that this series is built upon and you will not get the full value of this series. I contacted the author to read her books. 4*
Eastwind Witches End.
January 25, 2019
“Of course. Usually it’s sound investigative practice to look for a motive. It’s only where there seems to be no clear one—or too many clear ones—where you must learn to broaden your mind and think outside of your logical constraints.”
In a rare change, the usual taciturn Ruby teaches her protégée Nora about a past situation where the motive for a murder wasn’t very obvious. With it, we get a bit of background on characters that, if you are a reader of the series, might help explain how they are in the current present in Eastwind.
And we learn the Ruby’s familiar is as “talkative” as Nora’s Grimm is, and a “scenthound” to boot.
Nova Nelson gives us a brief historical snippet of life in Eastwind prior to Nora, and, without coming right out and saying it, Ruby is glad she’s there now, and we readers are too. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
In a rare change, the usual taciturn Ruby teaches her protégée Nora about a past situation where the motive for a murder wasn’t very obvious. With it, we get a bit of background on characters that, if you are a reader of the series, might help explain how they are in the current present in Eastwind.
And we learn the Ruby’s familiar is as “talkative” as Nora’s Grimm is, and a “scenthound” to boot.
Nova Nelson gives us a brief historical snippet of life in Eastwind prior to Nora, and, without coming right out and saying it, Ruby is glad she’s there now, and we readers are too. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
January 25, 2019
I absolutely love this series but it needs to be read in order. This book is another amazing book in this series. I love all of Nova Nelson's books and Nora and her crew are amazing characters. Nora had been a restaurant owner and having a life of nothing but control and working nonstop until she has car wreck and her whole life spins completely out of control.. The most amazing thing that shocks her is finding out she is a Fifth Wind witch and her car accident lands her in a town full of creatures that she never knew existed along with a smarty mouth familiar hellhound named Grim. Follow along with this wonderful series and see all the adventures she gets herself into as she turns herself into an amateur sleuth along with all of her other new changes. Love this series and you will too.
January 26, 2019
More fun from Nova Nelson! We gain some appreciation for Ruby and her desire for retirement, and her penchant for mischief. You have to love how she works around the "letter of the law" to get effective and fair results. We also get a lot more interaction from Clifford, her Hellhound familiar, and find he is insightful, loyal, and has a delightfully acerbic wit. We also see a younger Tanner, still a bit naive and bumbling, but we also see signs of the powerful witch that he is developing into. Sheriff Bloom is cynical and sarcastic, but rarely imposes her angelic powers. And yes, she is a full-blown angel! Her cynicism has underlying humor that makes her absolutely delightful. Though I am current with the entire series, this novella, set early in the series, is a great stand-alone story. I am genuinely thankful for the many hours of enjoyment this series has provided.
January 27, 2019
This story is an amazing back story about Ruby True (who in the other books in this series is the 5th wind mentor to Nora) and Sheriff Bloom. It tells the story of how Ruby and Sheriff Gabby Bloom work together to solve a murder which occurred two years before Nora ever came to Eastwind. The sarcasm and humor throughout this story has you laughing out loud as Ruby and the Sheriffwork together to try and figure out who killed the obnoxious Druid that lived in Ruby's home. While Ruby is reminiscing about her past with Nora, it is supposed to act as a lesson to Nora that investigating and solving murders is not a piece of cake as Nora seems to think after helping solve one already. Once again Nova hit a homerun with this book! Can't wait for more. I love this series and really love being a part of the Cozy Coven!
January 23, 2019
Ruby tells Nora a story of a murder her and Sheriff Bloom worked on together a few years before Nora's arrival to Eastwind. She was trying to explain to Nora the investigative process by example. The story is short but well worth the read. Normally you don't hear much about Ruby's past cases, she just wants to retire and let Nora to take over her duties. Ruby would rather relax and read her books. It was also nice to see Clifford, Ruby's familiar, involved, he helped solve the case with his keen sense of smell. I received an ARC and am leaving a review because I want to. If you love the afterlife and paranormal, you will like this series. Heck, grab them all, you won't be sorry, I hope it continues for a long time.
January 23, 2019
Nova Nelsons books,,well what can I say? I’d say you’d be totally crazy NOT to read The Eastwind series. I absolutely adore Norah Ashcroft and co, i won’t give anything away about the plots but the storyline is AMAZING. It’s the type of book you NEVER want to end. Norah n Tanner are just two of the characters and you’ll love the relationship build up . Funny witty exceptionally well written. The books can be read by all ages, one liners twists and turns you’ll be as enthralled as I was. Wow. An amazing writer with amazing stories. I’m actually sad when I come to the end of a book. I want to collect the complete set as it would be the ONLY series I would read more than once. Love it.
January 29, 2019
The town of magical creatures is such a wonderful amazing place. When a man who the entire town hates is murdered, the search is on for who did it and why. They have a man who confesses in jail but they know he isn't the one who did it. Trying to figure out the motive is a big job. I love that the Sheriff is an Angel and her helper is a Witch. There are trolls, werewolves, fairies, a vampire and any magical creature you can think of. I couldn't put this book down and read it straight through. I am already hooked on this series and can't wait to see what happens to others in this town. I loved this wonderful book.
January 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this Eastwind witches book! Nora is new to town and has solved her first case! Ruby decides to share a story with Nora about her past. Not every case is solved by motive. Ruby investigated when Finn Whirligig is murdered and the motive was unclear. I like that as Ruby tells Nora the story we learn more about Ruby and Blooms friendship. I really enjoyed when we finally hear from Clifford, Ruby’s familiar! This novella really helps us know and understand the main characters more! I highly recommend this book and this series! Nova Nelson never disappoints!
January 25, 2019
This takes place when Nora is still relatively new to Eastwind and Tanner is her manager at Medium Rare, the restaurant where they both work. She is also under the tutelage of Ruby, the fifth wind witch that she's supposed to be replacing. Ruby explains that motive alone isn't suspicious enough to convict. In some cases everyone has a motive, whether they admit it or not. So, Ruby tells Nora about a case she had to solve as a teaching aid. It's a really great book, as are ALL the Eastwind books. Want to know more? Then you need to get reading!!!
January 25, 2019
This book fitures some of Eastwinds beloved and not so beloved characters especially in the cass of one dead druid Finn Whirligig but this isnt a Nora case its a Ruby True mystery. Ruby has decided to tell Nora about one of her former cases in hope Nora will learn from her and understand not every cass is easily solved like any of Nora's cases are easy lol. With true wise cracking humor from Ruby we see her as more then just some lady drinking tea and reading she and Sheriff Gabby Bloom used to get up to all kinds of stuff. I wouldn't read this if you haven't read others in the series.
January 17, 2019
I love the Eastwind Witches Series! This novella is great fun, we get to hear about a past case from Ruby's point of view. While I love Nora, I really enjoyed being able to see how Ruby did things on the the case of the not so popular druid, Finn's, murder. You get to see quite a few of your favorite characters, Bloom and Tanner to name a few, and you get one of Ruby's ever eccentric stories that always have a lesson. Who could ask for more?
Great read!
Great read!
January 24, 2019
I love the Eastwind Witches! This was a delightful glimpse into Ruby's history, her relationship with Bloom, and Clifford, her familiar.
It was great seeing how Ruby and Clifford interacted, and gave an understanding of why Ruby just wants to read books and drink tea now.
Wonderful, quirky characters, well-written storylines, and interesting tales make a delightful series to immerse yourself in.
It was great seeing how Ruby and Clifford interacted, and gave an understanding of why Ruby just wants to read books and drink tea now.
Wonderful, quirky characters, well-written storylines, and interesting tales make a delightful series to immerse yourself in.
February 2, 2019
Another fun and fabulous adventure in Eastwind! I really enjoyed this book! I have enjoyed every book in this series. The characters of this story have become like old friends. The only thing that makes me sad, is when a book comes to an end. These books are like a much needed mini vacation. I highly recommend this book, as well as each one in this series! I got this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 18, 2021
A friend introduced me to Nora Nelsons book - but she warned me you must read them in order - but of course I didn't listen . The Missing Motive takes place between books 1 and 2 of the Eastwind Witches series. I highly recommend you read book one first as I was a little confused - even though I found the book a delight and I wondered how would I fit into this magical family if I were to end up in Eastwind!
January 23, 2019
This book was great and very interesting. It tells how Ruby solved a murder a couple of years before Nora arrived. It also showed how Ruby was feeling old and tired and ready for retirement. She was ready for a new Fifth Wind Witch to show up and take over her load. In the book, she is telling Nora the story of the murder and how she solved it. Presumably it was yet another lesson for Nora.
January 24, 2019
This series is so interesting and enjoyable that you get hooked and it doesn't let you go.
The characters are great and you never know what they will do next. The people who live there are so varied and different that you are guessing what they are and what they can and will do. Grimm will made you laugh and cry because the way he handles thing.
The characters are great and you never know what they will do next. The people who live there are so varied and different that you are guessing what they are and what they can and will do. Grimm will made you laugh and cry because the way he handles thing.
January 24, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book from the prospective of Ruby and her solving a crime. It was also nice to hear more on Sheriff Bloom. It's always enjoyable learning more about the other characters, especially those involved in many of the capers. Though this should be read as the 2nd book in the series.
January 24, 2019
I loved this story! A mystery involving Ruby True and Sheriff Bloom! What a hoot! This one is full of surprises and laughs! It also gives some insight into Ruby and Sheriff Bloom's relationship. I laughed out loud at some of things these two got up to. A must read for anyone who has been reading the series!
January 26, 2019
I loved this book. I loved all the Eastwick books that I have read. This was a very easy, fast read. ( read it while waiting for a show to come on) Nora is such a sweet witch- although she wasn't the main story n this one. It was fun getting a bigger glimpse of Lucy. I recommend this book. Great job Ms. Nelson
January 23, 2019
Love learning the history of this town,and it’s people .You need to read the first book to know and understand the 1.5 book .Trust me it is worth your time I love this series..and the town and it’s people.
January 23, 2019
Great story. It explains a lot about how Ruby was prior to Nora’s arrival and why she just wants to read books and drink tea all day now. Really enjoyed the story Ruby told Nora about. The past was just a hectic as the present. Fun and entertaining. This series is the best.
February 7, 2019
Nova Nelson is a amazing author. And I love this series.
Each one is so wonderful and this one is no different. It is so wonderful too. I love Nora and Tanner but loved that this one focused on Ruby. Wonderful book...Loved it...
Each one is so wonderful and this one is no different. It is so wonderful too. I love Nora and Tanner but loved that this one focused on Ruby. Wonderful book...Loved it...
January 24, 2019
a fine Fifth Wind adventure!
Makes Ruby come alive - and more sympathetic, rather than flat and grumpy.
great pre-quel.
Nice to meet many of the min characters in a bit different setting.
Looking forward to the next encounter - with most of them!
Makes Ruby come alive - and more sympathetic, rather than flat and grumpy.
great pre-quel.
Nice to meet many of the min characters in a bit different setting.
Looking forward to the next encounter - with most of them!
January 25, 2019
This book was so much fun to read. Ruby is probably my favorite character in this series, so I really enjoyed this novella. As always, the characters are quirky and the story is well written. I can't wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews