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Urban Magic #1
Reaper Witch: Wolves and Zombies
She spent years avoiding the dead. Now they’re coming after her.
Three years ago, Max Norton left home to open a tea leaves and tarot shop. It seemed like a good trade: escape the King of Hell and live a low-key life free from scrutiny and death threats. For a Scythe, a half-human paranormal entity who can open literal portals to Heaven and Hell, and who’s hounded by creatures both light and dark, it’s a dream come true. Until an annoyingly handsome ghost shows up and demands that Max help him solve his murder.
She wants nothing to do with it, but when zombies start attacking children and demons are sent to kill her, she knows this is one fight she can no longer avoid. Her ex-boyfriend, a charismatic wolf shifter, tells her about a dead zone in the forest where a necromancer is practicing black magic.
The only way to stop him is with the forbidden powers she ran away from; powers that will put a target on her back, because they mark her for a destined role in Hell she has no intention of fulfilling.
Saving the world from the zombie apocalypse may literally mean challenging the armies of Hell and facing the past she ran away from. With time running out, Max and Luke have to figure out who’s raising the dead and turning them into bloodthirsty monsters before they kill the few people left that she actually cares about. Hiding in the shadows, a mysterious enemy holds a secret that could change Max’s life forever...
Assuming she lives long enough to hear it.
Three years ago, Max Norton left home to open a tea leaves and tarot shop. It seemed like a good trade: escape the King of Hell and live a low-key life free from scrutiny and death threats. For a Scythe, a half-human paranormal entity who can open literal portals to Heaven and Hell, and who’s hounded by creatures both light and dark, it’s a dream come true. Until an annoyingly handsome ghost shows up and demands that Max help him solve his murder.
She wants nothing to do with it, but when zombies start attacking children and demons are sent to kill her, she knows this is one fight she can no longer avoid. Her ex-boyfriend, a charismatic wolf shifter, tells her about a dead zone in the forest where a necromancer is practicing black magic.
The only way to stop him is with the forbidden powers she ran away from; powers that will put a target on her back, because they mark her for a destined role in Hell she has no intention of fulfilling.
Saving the world from the zombie apocalypse may literally mean challenging the armies of Hell and facing the past she ran away from. With time running out, Max and Luke have to figure out who’s raising the dead and turning them into bloodthirsty monsters before they kill the few people left that she actually cares about. Hiding in the shadows, a mysterious enemy holds a secret that could change Max’s life forever...
Assuming she lives long enough to hear it.
- GenresUrban Fantasy
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2019
49 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Chanda Stafford
11 books48 followersChanda Stafford teaches middle and high school English. She loves traveling and currently lives in Michigan with her husband and a menagerie of rescued dogs and cats.
When she’s not reading or writing, Chanda enjoys old zombie movies, authentic Italian food, and comic books.
When she’s not reading or writing, Chanda enjoys old zombie movies, authentic Italian food, and comic books.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 14, 2019
Max has a lot of power, but she must hide most of her talents to live among the humans she impersonates.
Reaper Witch is entertaining. The writing style is engaging and the plot takes off right from the start.
I have a confession, I generally hate zombie stuff, but I thought the way the author handled the zombies, with the other supernatural elements was good. I think there is a lot more to discover about Max and I wonder if they’re will be more books to come.
I imagine there are more, but if I had to liken Chandra Stafford to another writer, I’d say Patricia Briggs.
Reaper Witch is entertaining. The writing style is engaging and the plot takes off right from the start.
I have a confession, I generally hate zombie stuff, but I thought the way the author handled the zombies, with the other supernatural elements was good. I think there is a lot more to discover about Max and I wonder if they’re will be more books to come.
I imagine there are more, but if I had to liken Chandra Stafford to another writer, I’d say Patricia Briggs.
August 15, 2021
Max is a scythe, a reaper witch, who keeps a low profile and hides what she really is. However a ghost turns up in her flat, Luke is a cop, newly killed by a demon to keep him from solving a case he was working on. He worked at the supernatural branch and what he was working on was scary as hell. Max happened to know Barty, the demon who had killed him, and once she became interested in Luke's case she could not in all conscience let go before getting to the bottom of what the hell was going on. A mystery person was gathering an army of zombies and attacking normal people and turning them too. Max had the power to work with the dead but did not know of anyone able to do what was being done other than herself. She could have taken Luke's hidden cache of money which he gave her and fled the scene, but when a school was attacked she became too involved to do this. Dave, Luke's partner cop, harnessed her to aid them in their search and no matter how hard she tried to keep her abilities hidden it became impossible to do so. She in turn asked Remi, her ex who was a werewolf shifter and alpha of his clan for help, which they willingly gave but all were in danger of the psychopath and his zombie army. I love this badass heroine, who faces danger head on and who worked so long with the dead that she had acquired a gallows sense of humour which no one else appreciated. When her father's life is threatened she flies to the rescue and what she discovers is a real shock to her, one she never expected to find. I love that she accepts to partner with Luke to get to the bottom of the mystery and that she adopts albeit unwillingly the lovely Al, her father's deathhound puppy who I hope to see more of in the next book which I just have to continue reading asap as Max, Luke and Al venture into hell! This is a thrilling urban paranormal magical series and quite different to the usual zombie apocalypse books.
December 21, 2019
3.7 for me.
I really liked this. It's my first time reading Stafford, but I was thoroughly entertained, creeped out and hooked until the end. Max is a true loner who wants nothing to do with her past life and the people that seem determined to make her life a living Hell, so her sourly attitude and her reluctance to help was refreshing. A little endearing. It made the story better because of how much we got to see her grow. I liked the people she worked with and the way the story was set up. You got the necessary backstories and explanations for why she's here in the first place, but you're still not allowed a lot of things, so you're left in mystery until Max deems it necessary to know more.
I don't get why wolves are in the title, as it seems the cops were more relevant than them in this installment, and a few things occurred that made me go "huh?" Like the ending (cute, but did it really make sense? I'd love to know how) or the way the group that came out of nowhere also kind of... disappeared. But for reasons, so it makes a bit of sense. Otherwise it did its job. Raw, intense, and relatable. Dark themes, when you think about it, but they're unintentionally glossed over with the fast pace and Max is pretty fun to laugh at when she's not really in trouble. I enjoyed myself a lot and I was sad when the second installment wasn't ready for immediate purchase, so I'll be looking forward to the next book in this series. You should check it out as a standard reader of the urban paranormal drama.
I really liked this. It's my first time reading Stafford, but I was thoroughly entertained, creeped out and hooked until the end. Max is a true loner who wants nothing to do with her past life and the people that seem determined to make her life a living Hell, so her sourly attitude and her reluctance to help was refreshing. A little endearing. It made the story better because of how much we got to see her grow. I liked the people she worked with and the way the story was set up. You got the necessary backstories and explanations for why she's here in the first place, but you're still not allowed a lot of things, so you're left in mystery until Max deems it necessary to know more.
I don't get why wolves are in the title, as it seems the cops were more relevant than them in this installment, and a few things occurred that made me go "huh?" Like the ending (cute, but did it really make sense? I'd love to know how) or the way the group that came out of nowhere also kind of... disappeared. But for reasons, so it makes a bit of sense. Otherwise it did its job. Raw, intense, and relatable. Dark themes, when you think about it, but they're unintentionally glossed over with the fast pace and Max is pretty fun to laugh at when she's not really in trouble. I enjoyed myself a lot and I was sad when the second installment wasn't ready for immediate purchase, so I'll be looking forward to the next book in this series. You should check it out as a standard reader of the urban paranormal drama.
June 6, 2019
A witch, an angel, a ghost and a necromancer walk into a bar....
All kinds of supernatural craziness happens in this exciting first book in a new series. Max is doing her typical day of tarot card readings etc when a biker comes to try and kill her. Luckily for him he decides not to. You see Max isn't a typical witch....but that's not my story to tell 😉. As if that wasn't crazy enough the ghost of a recently deceased supernatural cop comes to beg her help. Within one day she encounters crazed zombies, a half Angel, a werewolf, one ticked off ex partner of the ghost cop and that's just the start! Who is out to kill her? Who killed this ghost cop, and who in the blazes created all these zombies! I loved every minute of this book, and can't wait for the follow up. Max is a snarky, tough, kinds hearted and complicated female. Whoever is out to get her had better watch out!!!
All kinds of supernatural craziness happens in this exciting first book in a new series. Max is doing her typical day of tarot card readings etc when a biker comes to try and kill her. Luckily for him he decides not to. You see Max isn't a typical witch....but that's not my story to tell 😉. As if that wasn't crazy enough the ghost of a recently deceased supernatural cop comes to beg her help. Within one day she encounters crazed zombies, a half Angel, a werewolf, one ticked off ex partner of the ghost cop and that's just the start! Who is out to kill her? Who killed this ghost cop, and who in the blazes created all these zombies! I loved every minute of this book, and can't wait for the follow up. Max is a snarky, tough, kinds hearted and complicated female. Whoever is out to get her had better watch out!!!
October 19, 2021
Wow! This was a fantastic story. It is my first book by Chanda Stanford and the writing just pulled me in. I couldn’t put it down. I had to know what secrets Max is keeping and who is going after who. It has me on the edge of my seat as I navigated through this journey with Max and Luke. The characters are stunningly developed. Max at times has you thinking she is not really strong no matter if emotionally or magically, but, then she will do something that just has you blown away. The personalities are felt throughout the story and it adds such an amazing element to it. I loved the writing and descriptions. While some may have been grotesque they still fit perfectly in the story. I absolutely can not wait to see what happens next. While the story itself didn’t end in a cliffhanger per say it ends in a way that leaves room for another book. It is an absolute must read!!!!!!
May 21, 2019
Reaper Witch held my interest. There were supernatural roles I haven't encountered before, e.g., Max and how she uses a scythe. I would have liked to learn more about her family, and look forward to more being revealed in the next installment.
I found Max's character somewhat flawed. For instance, her stubborn reluctance to tell Mark about Luke. And she consistently played the grudging participant. Altogether too much grumbling. Seize the day, woman!
I sense that this is an early novel for Ms Stafford. I do see potential here. I will continue to follow Max's and Luke's adventures (I see the beginning of a beautiful relationship - the ghost and the witch, working together to solve supernatural crimes)
I found Max's character somewhat flawed. For instance, her stubborn reluctance to tell Mark about Luke. And she consistently played the grudging participant. Altogether too much grumbling. Seize the day, woman!
I sense that this is an early novel for Ms Stafford. I do see potential here. I will continue to follow Max's and Luke's adventures (I see the beginning of a beautiful relationship - the ghost and the witch, working together to solve supernatural crimes)
October 17, 2019
Cautiously optimistic
This has an interesting spin on witch adjacent abilities, and having a strong female protagonist is a plus. However the men surrounding her are just tedious and annoying. From Luke to Dave, Remi, Bas, Bud and even her father, Max is surrounded by men who tend to exhibit a$$hole qualities.
Yet, the idea behind this, and the gorgeous Al, made up for the shortcomings of most of the men in the story. Will check out the next book before I make up my mind about this series.
If you love zombies, then this will definitely be right up your alley.
3 stars ⭐️
This has an interesting spin on witch adjacent abilities, and having a strong female protagonist is a plus. However the men surrounding her are just tedious and annoying. From Luke to Dave, Remi, Bas, Bud and even her father, Max is surrounded by men who tend to exhibit a$$hole qualities.
Yet, the idea behind this, and the gorgeous Al, made up for the shortcomings of most of the men in the story. Will check out the next book before I make up my mind about this series.
If you love zombies, then this will definitely be right up your alley.
3 stars ⭐️
May 8, 2019
I loved this book so much. It had all I want in a story. An amazing heroine taking no sh*** from anyone. A ghost (who doesn’t love ghosts?) never gving up on the living. Zombies trying to destroy a town. A little bit of heaven and hell (half-angels and demons). And a little cute puppy hell hound, I really want to have for myself. All in all a great start to a new series I am certain I’m going to love.
May 11, 2019
Witches, ghosts and hell hounds, oh my
A fun start to a series. Max is an interesting heroine. She's one of those characters that draws you in even if you don't know if you like her. She's a messed up person in a messed up situation that she really wants nothing to do with but can't escape.
I do feel like she had so much back story that it almost seemed like this was not the beginning of the series. I'll look forward to learning more about her.
A fun start to a series. Max is an interesting heroine. She's one of those characters that draws you in even if you don't know if you like her. She's a messed up person in a messed up situation that she really wants nothing to do with but can't escape.
I do feel like she had so much back story that it almost seemed like this was not the beginning of the series. I'll look forward to learning more about her.
May 11, 2019
Looking forward to more!
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected! I wouldn't normally go for a zombie book, but I was lucky to get a rwview copy so I gave it a try. I found the characters really interesting - complex, with lots of depth to explore and a good mix of human amd supernatural problems. The world is interesting and well developed. I'd love to read more so I hope there's a long series to come.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected! I wouldn't normally go for a zombie book, but I was lucky to get a rwview copy so I gave it a try. I found the characters really interesting - complex, with lots of depth to explore and a good mix of human amd supernatural problems. The world is interesting and well developed. I'd love to read more so I hope there's a long series to come.
May 14, 2019
I liked the book. Max is the kind of strong female character I enjoy reading about in paranormal stories. She definitely has a lot of secrets that are getting revealed as she takes on a case from a ghost who wants his last case solved.
I would have enjoyed seeing more of her early life before she settled into this town. The hints you get sound really interesting. I hope there is more to come about those years.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I would have enjoyed seeing more of her early life before she settled into this town. The hints you get sound really interesting. I hope there is more to come about those years.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
July 24, 2019
Nicely done
This is pure urban fantasy - all action and adventure, dusted with death and spun through the gates of hell. It’s fun, fast and just mysterious to keep you guessing.
Pros:
- Great concept!
- Episodic ending, but the metaplot is far from over.
- Maybe a hint of romance, but not really. This is urban fantasy at its most basic.
Cons:
- So many questions at the end.
This is pure urban fantasy - all action and adventure, dusted with death and spun through the gates of hell. It’s fun, fast and just mysterious to keep you guessing.
Pros:
- Great concept!
- Episodic ending, but the metaplot is far from over.
- Maybe a hint of romance, but not really. This is urban fantasy at its most basic.
Cons:
- So many questions at the end.
May 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book. We have Max who is hiding who she really is. Luke who is killed and now his ghost is pestering her to help solve his murder. Now Luke's partner is bothering her about the Zombies that have shown up. To many secrets are coming out now. Can Luke talk her into helping him? Can she help with the Zombies? Who is controlling them? What will happen?
May 19, 2019
A Good Paranormal Tale
This is a nice book full of all things paranormal. If you like stories with demons, angels, werewolves, witches, zombies, and the like, then you will like this action filled story. It seems that someone wants to kill a witch and set loose a mob of zombies...........
This is a nice book full of all things paranormal. If you like stories with demons, angels, werewolves, witches, zombies, and the like, then you will like this action filled story. It seems that someone wants to kill a witch and set loose a mob of zombies...........
July 11, 2019
Reaper witch
I received a complimentary copy of this book and volunteered to review it.
Love the interactions between Max and Luke, hilarious and entertaining. Despite Luke’s circumstances, his purpose to catch the culprits, keeps sane and on track. His presence though distracting to Max ground her and sometimes he acts as her second conscience.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and volunteered to review it.
Love the interactions between Max and Luke, hilarious and entertaining. Despite Luke’s circumstances, his purpose to catch the culprits, keeps sane and on track. His presence though distracting to Max ground her and sometimes he acts as her second conscience.
June 2, 2019
Awesome read!!!!
This is the first book by Chanda Clifford and it will not be last. The characters really bring the story line to life, and the story line keeps you on the edge of your seat welding smart idea going to happen next. I'm excited for the next book in this series.
This is the first book by Chanda Clifford and it will not be last. The characters really bring the story line to life, and the story line keeps you on the edge of your seat welding smart idea going to happen next. I'm excited for the next book in this series.
June 22, 2019
Fantastic
Wow this book was brilliant. The action and sarcastic comments were fantastic. Max is great and the secrets she hides are intriguing. This story had me captivated. I can't wait to read the next book.
Wow this book was brilliant. The action and sarcastic comments were fantastic. Max is great and the secrets she hides are intriguing. This story had me captivated. I can't wait to read the next book.
December 10, 2019
Enjoyable story
I took a chance with this book as I wasn't sure about it from the sample chapters I read. However I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had fast paced action scenes, great sense of humour and was well written with the storyline flowing at a good pace. Recommend it
I took a chance with this book as I wasn't sure about it from the sample chapters I read. However I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had fast paced action scenes, great sense of humour and was well written with the storyline flowing at a good pace. Recommend it
August 22, 2023
DNF@4%
8 pages with this "heroine" and I already hate her. I already watch R.I.P.D with Ryan Reynolds, seems like this is just going to be a knock off of that movie wich was pretty terrible anyways.
I really gotta stop buying YA books just because they are on discount.
8 pages with this "heroine" and I already hate her. I already watch R.I.P.D with Ryan Reynolds, seems like this is just going to be a knock off of that movie wich was pretty terrible anyways.
I really gotta stop buying YA books just because they are on discount.
May 19, 2019
Max gets a haunting
And we get a great start to a new series. Plenty of bad guys and we’re not sure anyone is good until the end
And we get a great start to a new series. Plenty of bad guys and we’re not sure anyone is good until the end
May 20, 2019
What a story from a first time author. Max is the main character but isn’t always so strong. A bit whiny. Intriguing read.
June 7, 2019
Delightfully different
I like my paranormal funny but with good story lines. .I enjoyed this ,I like when loners make powerful allies.
I like my paranormal funny but with good story lines. .I enjoyed this ,I like when loners make powerful allies.
March 26, 2020
I loved this book, fast paced and very understandable, some books go overboard trying to give a background. I need to know when the next one in the Urban Magic Series.
May 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Could not put it down. Be interesting to see what happens in book two.
July 11, 2024
Fun read
May 28, 2019
Promising start to a new series as we meet Mat, a Sythe & Luke, a murdered detective & now a ghost!; as they team up to battle demons, hell hounds & zombies in this exciting, paranormal, kick-ass read! Look forward to book 2 & more of Al, hell hound puppy extraordinaire!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews