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Witch of Edgehill #3
Pawsitively Secretive
Not all secrets are meant to be kept.
After two stressful months, Amber Blackwood is determined to have a few weeks of peace before the Here and Meow Festival descends on her small town of Edgehill, Oregon. That peace doesn’t last long; when she and the committee attend a meeting at the mayor’s house, Amber is pulled aside by the mayor’s daughter, Chloe, who Amber babysat for in high school. The mayor has forbidden Chloe from dating, but she recently met an older boy through a chat app and is desperate to meet him. Amber advises Chloe to tell her father about the boy.
Hours later, Mayor Deidrick frantically puts in a call to Amber: Chloe, the always well-behaved teenager, seems to have snuck out her bedroom window—and now she’s not answering his calls. When Amber helps search the town for the girl, she happens upon Chloe’s abandoned car. Her driver’s side door is open, and while her purse is inside, her phone is gone.
Working alongside Chief Brown, Amber uses her magic to figure out what might have happened to Chloe. The more they dig, the more they unearth secrets about the mayor. The charismatic politician has both a hair-trigger temper and a suspicious death linked to his past.
As if the mayor’s increasingly strange behavior isn’t bad enough, Amber and the chief also contend with an out-of-town private investigator, nosy reporter Connor Declan, and an even nosier population of Edgehill residents who start to question why Amber and the chief are spending so much time together. Undaunted by these obstacles, Amber races against the clock to help ensure Chloe doesn’t become another statistic—assuming the mayor doesn’t stop her first.
After two stressful months, Amber Blackwood is determined to have a few weeks of peace before the Here and Meow Festival descends on her small town of Edgehill, Oregon. That peace doesn’t last long; when she and the committee attend a meeting at the mayor’s house, Amber is pulled aside by the mayor’s daughter, Chloe, who Amber babysat for in high school. The mayor has forbidden Chloe from dating, but she recently met an older boy through a chat app and is desperate to meet him. Amber advises Chloe to tell her father about the boy.
Hours later, Mayor Deidrick frantically puts in a call to Amber: Chloe, the always well-behaved teenager, seems to have snuck out her bedroom window—and now she’s not answering his calls. When Amber helps search the town for the girl, she happens upon Chloe’s abandoned car. Her driver’s side door is open, and while her purse is inside, her phone is gone.
Working alongside Chief Brown, Amber uses her magic to figure out what might have happened to Chloe. The more they dig, the more they unearth secrets about the mayor. The charismatic politician has both a hair-trigger temper and a suspicious death linked to his past.
As if the mayor’s increasingly strange behavior isn’t bad enough, Amber and the chief also contend with an out-of-town private investigator, nosy reporter Connor Declan, and an even nosier population of Edgehill residents who start to question why Amber and the chief are spending so much time together. Undaunted by these obstacles, Amber races against the clock to help ensure Chloe doesn’t become another statistic—assuming the mayor doesn’t stop her first.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2019
99 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Erin Jackson
25 books520 followersMelissa is a professional pet sitter and an author of paranormal mysteries. There are two books out in her Riley Thomas mystery series--The Forgotten Child and Shuttered Secrets. Her Witch of Edgehill cozy paranormal mystery series is complete at five books. The first two books in her urban fantasy series, The Charm Collector, are out now. Unholy Magic and A Mythical Case of Arson are up next! She owns too many pets and lives in Northern California with her equally pet-obsessed boyfriend. For information about her books, you can join her newsletter at melissajacksonbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
May 31, 2020
This is a paranormal cozy mystery, and this book is the 3rd book in the Witch of Edgehill series. I have read and review books other books in this series. This is one of my favorite cozy mysteries series. So, far the second book in this series is still my favorite book in the series. This book was good. I love that in this book Amber keeps figuring out her witch powers, and she helps the chef of Police with her witch powers in this book.
January 23, 2020
Amber is a witch, but she's keeping that fact on the down low. A few people do know, including the police chief of the town of Edgehill, so when the mayor's daughter disappears, he asks Amber's magical help in locating the missing teen, who has apparently been kidnapped. Meanwhile, the cat-obsessed town is planning a big social event, aptly called the Hair Ball. I really like this new paranormal series. It's well-plotted--definitely less predictable than some cozy mysteries--and the cat themes add to the fun. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.
January 3, 2020
The E-Arc Pawsitively Secretive was kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This has not altered my opinion of the book.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Spoiler warning: this is book 3 in a series and the review has spoilers for the two previous books.
After reading and loving the first book of the series to death, the odds were stacked in favor of me loving Pawsitively Secretive, and I did!! Like the two previous books, this is a cozy mystery with a witch hiding in plain sight as its main character. She has now befriended the chief of police, and this is the first time she is actually part of an investigation and helping in any and every way she can!
Lovely cast of characters, the side-characters are being fleshed out and are enjoyable to read about. I loved that they got to play a bigger part in this book than in the previous ones, which is not a surprise as Amber is getting more out and making friends now. The mystery was enjoyable too. Even though the culprit ended up being exactly who I thought it would be, I still second-guessed myself a couple of times along the way.
I also loved how magic finally got to play the role I originally wanted from the first book. It is a proper part of Amber's life and she uses it to do so many amazing things! Some plot twists and characters not being who they first seemed also added to my enjoyment. And the ending... dear lord. Give me the next book already!!!
I 100% recommend this series if you are looking for a cute, relaxed mystery mixed with witchcraft and secrets!
Rating: 4.5 stars
Spoiler warning: this is book 3 in a series and the review has spoilers for the two previous books.
After reading and loving the first book of the series to death, the odds were stacked in favor of me loving Pawsitively Secretive, and I did!! Like the two previous books, this is a cozy mystery with a witch hiding in plain sight as its main character. She has now befriended the chief of police, and this is the first time she is actually part of an investigation and helping in any and every way she can!
Lovely cast of characters, the side-characters are being fleshed out and are enjoyable to read about. I loved that they got to play a bigger part in this book than in the previous ones, which is not a surprise as Amber is getting more out and making friends now. The mystery was enjoyable too. Even though the culprit ended up being exactly who I thought it would be, I still second-guessed myself a couple of times along the way.
I also loved how magic finally got to play the role I originally wanted from the first book. It is a proper part of Amber's life and she uses it to do so many amazing things! Some plot twists and characters not being who they first seemed also added to my enjoyment. And the ending... dear lord. Give me the next book already!!!
I 100% recommend this series if you are looking for a cute, relaxed mystery mixed with witchcraft and secrets!
March 21, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I’m obsessed!
I’m obsessed!
August 13, 2023
Amber really grew in Pawsitively Secretive both as a witch and as a sleuth. She had been feeling very isolated and alone after she had taken a chance with Jack and had to face his stinging rejection. Being a witch, Amber always had to play things close to the vest, so to speak, and that always left her keeping her distance with others. I was happy to see some changes in not only Amber’s outlook but in her situation entirely. I wish the situation with the Chief and the rumor mill could be dealt with in short order because it just puts Amber in a bad light. I also was quite surprised about the ending and it left me DYING TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!! Ha ha ha, all I will say was that it was gooood and it was a surprise. Overall, Pawsitively Secretive was a fun read that was not only entertaining but was also quite mysterious, it was a good read!
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from Author, Melissa Erin Jackson. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from Author, Melissa Erin Jackson. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
April 9, 2023
Pawsitively Secret is the third, and in my opinion, the strongest book in this series yet. I was hooked from the beginning and the plot never flagged. Given that I was shipping Amber and the chief, and (very small spoiler) that isn't happening, I was really rooting for Amber's other love interests. Amber's family history is put on hold a bit in this installment and we focus on her community in the adorable town of Edgehill, including the mystery of a missing girl. This series doesn't follow the formula of a grisly murder on page one. The mysteries are more complex, and more personal to our protagonist, Amber. There are strong storylines connected and developed through each book—Amber's magic, her social life, love life, family history—and I'm looking forward to getting deeper into her magical ability, especially her mother's grimoire.
May 1, 2021
In an attempt to distract herself from stressing over events from two months ago, Amber has immersed herself in planning for the upcoming Here and Meow Festival. Amber's search for inner peace doesn't last long. Chloe Deidrick, daughter of the mayor and fellow committee member, has gone missing. It becomes a race against the clock to find out what happened to Chloe.
Pawsitively Secretive is the third in the Witch of Edgehill series by Melissa Erin Jackson. For a cozy mystery I am impressed with the amount of character building in this installment. Many of the side characters are gaining more depth. I wish I had a friend like Kim. It's good that Amber finally has a friend she can trust! The mystery is well plotted and not predictable which made it more enjoyable. The reunion scene at the end was so well done it made me a little misty eyed.
Even with the mystery solved the author managed to end the story on a personal bombshell for Amber. What is it with me choosing books with these kind of endings lately?
Pawsitively Secretive is the third in the Witch of Edgehill series by Melissa Erin Jackson. For a cozy mystery I am impressed with the amount of character building in this installment. Many of the side characters are gaining more depth. I wish I had a friend like Kim. It's good that Amber finally has a friend she can trust! The mystery is well plotted and not predictable which made it more enjoyable. The reunion scene at the end was so well done it made me a little misty eyed.
Even with the mystery solved the author managed to end the story on a personal bombshell for Amber. What is it with me choosing books with these kind of endings lately?
December 16, 2019
I have read the first two books in this series, and the end of the last one nearly did me in because of a sad part. Well, the start of this one made me forget about it because it drew me in right away. Poor Amber is still recovering from the events of the last book when a teen is kidnapped, and she is one of the last to have talked to her. Now, she’s racing time to save her. I just love this series. It is pretty much a cozy series, but it is a little more serious. The characters are all fun and have unique personalities, and the end (not of the kidnapping) I kinda saw coming, but I was still shocked. This the best book so far, and I’m really looking forward to the next. This is a well-written, interesting mystery series, and you have to try it. Highly recommend! I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 4, 2020
PLEASE.WRITE.MORE
Ok.Since the moment I picked up book 1 of this series (as it stands) of this relatively new,and apparently local to me, author, I haven't been able to put it them or the series "down", so to speak. I have now binge read all three books extant an am left hungry and whimpering for more. ESPECIALLY with that very worthy cliffhanger ending! As to why anyone else should read these books? The characters are engaging, well-developed, and human and the plots are fully developed with sufficient plot twistiness and deviousnous to keep you engaged throughout. The main characters are likable but not fault-free persons and the villains are complex with complex and often inobvious motivations. So, please, support this young author AND BUY HER BOOKS! You won't be sorry!
Ok.Since the moment I picked up book 1 of this series (as it stands) of this relatively new,and apparently local to me, author, I haven't been able to put it them or the series "down", so to speak. I have now binge read all three books extant an am left hungry and whimpering for more. ESPECIALLY with that very worthy cliffhanger ending! As to why anyone else should read these books? The characters are engaging, well-developed, and human and the plots are fully developed with sufficient plot twistiness and deviousnous to keep you engaged throughout. The main characters are likable but not fault-free persons and the villains are complex with complex and often inobvious motivations. So, please, support this young author AND BUY HER BOOKS! You won't be sorry!
June 3, 2020
I am pawsitively hooked on this series. This 3rd book is the best so far and I loved the first two books.
Amber, the MC is a witch living in a small town that loves everything cat. This story picks up shortly after the last book. Amber, is trying to get over Jack and is continuing to develop her consultant role with the Police Chief. In this one, a young woman has gone missing. Figuring out the past is crucial to finding her. I enjoyed the sleuthing and how the puzzle is slowly revealed, taking me along in figuring it out. The characters grow and the relationships develop. We get to know more of the townspeople and to know the secondary characters in more depth. I recommend this series and book and I am anxiously waiting for the next one.
Amber, the MC is a witch living in a small town that loves everything cat. This story picks up shortly after the last book. Amber, is trying to get over Jack and is continuing to develop her consultant role with the Police Chief. In this one, a young woman has gone missing. Figuring out the past is crucial to finding her. I enjoyed the sleuthing and how the puzzle is slowly revealed, taking me along in figuring it out. The characters grow and the relationships develop. We get to know more of the townspeople and to know the secondary characters in more depth. I recommend this series and book and I am anxiously waiting for the next one.
May 29, 2020
Honestly Melissa has quickly become one of my go to authors. I enjoy her books a lot because they put a new perspective to the supernatural world. Plus I can't resist a good book about witches. I'm so excited about reading the next installment!
January 7, 2020
Pawsitively Secretive is the third book in the Witch of Edgehill series by Melissa Erin Jackson. I highly suggest reading this mystery series in order, although the author does a good job of summarizing what has happened so far in the beginning of this book.
After two stressful months, Amber Blackwood is determined to have a few weeks of peace before the Here and Meow Festival descends on her small town of Edgehill, Oregon. That peace doesn’t last long; when she and the committee attend a meeting at the mayor’s house, Amber is pulled aside by the mayor’s daughter, Chloe, who Amber babysat for in high school. The mayor has forbidden Chloe from dating, but she recently met an older boy through a chat app and is desperate to meet him. Amber advises Chloe to tell her father about the boy. Hours later, Mayor Deidrick frantically puts in a call to Amber: Chloe, the always well-behaved teenager, seems to have snuck out her bedroom window—and now she’s not answering his calls. When Amber helps search the town for the girl, she happens upon Chloe’s abandoned car. Her driver’s side door is open, and while her purse is inside, her phone is gone. Working alongside Chief Brown, Amber uses her magic to figure out what might have happened to Chloe. The more they dig, the more they unearth secrets from the seemingly affable mayor’s past. The charismatic politician has both a hair-trigger temper and a suspicious death linked to his past. As if the mayor’s increasingly strange behavior isn’t bad enough, Amber and the chief also contend with an out-of-town private investigator, nosy reporter Connor Declan, and an even nosier population of Edgehill residents who start to question why Amber and the chief are spending so much time together. Undaunted by these obstacles, Amber races against the clock to help ensure Chloe doesn’t become another statistic—assuming the mayor doesn’t stop her first.
Pawsitively Secretive is a nicely done mystery. The blend of mystery and personal conflicts for Amber is very well done. I do think that those that have read the previous book will enjoy this book much more than newcomers because they will have a better understanding of the town dynamics, and especially the complications between Amber and a few members of the community. I greatly enjoyed how well woven the mystery of Chloe's disappearance and the secrets that became uncovered in the search for her. It was interesting to watch unfold and there was more than moment that had me trying to guess the details and falling short. I think the best part was how much the characters developed as part of the story, and how much more readers discovered about secondary characters as well as the major players. It was well done and I enjoyed the read. I am very interested to see where the series goes from here.
Pawsitively Secretive is a good continuation of the series, and I am looking forward to continuing on.
After two stressful months, Amber Blackwood is determined to have a few weeks of peace before the Here and Meow Festival descends on her small town of Edgehill, Oregon. That peace doesn’t last long; when she and the committee attend a meeting at the mayor’s house, Amber is pulled aside by the mayor’s daughter, Chloe, who Amber babysat for in high school. The mayor has forbidden Chloe from dating, but she recently met an older boy through a chat app and is desperate to meet him. Amber advises Chloe to tell her father about the boy. Hours later, Mayor Deidrick frantically puts in a call to Amber: Chloe, the always well-behaved teenager, seems to have snuck out her bedroom window—and now she’s not answering his calls. When Amber helps search the town for the girl, she happens upon Chloe’s abandoned car. Her driver’s side door is open, and while her purse is inside, her phone is gone. Working alongside Chief Brown, Amber uses her magic to figure out what might have happened to Chloe. The more they dig, the more they unearth secrets from the seemingly affable mayor’s past. The charismatic politician has both a hair-trigger temper and a suspicious death linked to his past. As if the mayor’s increasingly strange behavior isn’t bad enough, Amber and the chief also contend with an out-of-town private investigator, nosy reporter Connor Declan, and an even nosier population of Edgehill residents who start to question why Amber and the chief are spending so much time together. Undaunted by these obstacles, Amber races against the clock to help ensure Chloe doesn’t become another statistic—assuming the mayor doesn’t stop her first.
Pawsitively Secretive is a nicely done mystery. The blend of mystery and personal conflicts for Amber is very well done. I do think that those that have read the previous book will enjoy this book much more than newcomers because they will have a better understanding of the town dynamics, and especially the complications between Amber and a few members of the community. I greatly enjoyed how well woven the mystery of Chloe's disappearance and the secrets that became uncovered in the search for her. It was interesting to watch unfold and there was more than moment that had me trying to guess the details and falling short. I think the best part was how much the characters developed as part of the story, and how much more readers discovered about secondary characters as well as the major players. It was well done and I enjoyed the read. I am very interested to see where the series goes from here.
Pawsitively Secretive is a good continuation of the series, and I am looking forward to continuing on.
May 18, 2020
Pawsitively Secretive by Melissa Erin Jackson
Book #3: Witch of Edgehill Series
Source: NetGalley and Ringtail Press
Rating: 4/5 stars
After the last few months, Amber Blackwood is ready for life to get back to normal. She’s survived a magical murder attempt, she’s learning to control her expanding magic, and she’s working on getting her reclusive cousin out into the world. Yeah, Amber is absolutely ready for life to get back to normal, but that isn’t going to happen anytime soon. Edgehill is on the precipice of one of their biggest events, the Here and Meow Festival and Amber is actively involved in the events.
In the course of her duties related to the town festival, Amber finds herself at the mayor’s house for a meeting. During a break, Amber is approached by the mayor’s daughter, a long-time friend, about a personal situation. Though Amber wants to protect the young girl and keep her secrets, she encourages her to talk with her dad. As she walks away from the conversation and feels good about her advice, Amber quickly changes her mind when the young girl goes missing.
The mayor’s daughter missing is a big deal in any town, but in a small town like Edgehill, it’s far more personal. Edgehill has a tendency to care for their own which means the whole town comes out to help search for the young girl. Knowing he has an ace up his sleeve, the sheriff asks Amber if there is anything magical she can do to help find the girl. As a matter of fact, Amber can do something and with the help of her aunt and surly cousin, she is able to get glimpses of the young girl and knows she is not only still alive, but being fed, and given information about her case. Though Amber can’t see exactly where she’s being kept, she does get enough clues to keep the investigation moving forward.
With each new clue, both Amber and the sheriff have more questions and the questions lead them down a rabbit hole. The rabbit hole leads to fake identities, fake birthdates, an abusive relationship, and loving father willing to do anything to protect his child. Getting her back isn’t going to be easy, but Amber and the sheriff have a magical advantage and good old-fashioned determination to aid them in their search. Of course, no one can know of Amber’s involvement, but she doesn’t care about the recognition, only finding and bringing home a very scared young lady.
The Bottom Line: I generally liked this story but not quite as much as the second book. There are a great many twists and turns in this book and some of them were a bit of a stretch for me. With that being said, I was still very pleased with the continuing evolution of Amber and her circle. The sheriff is actually one of my favorite characters as he is working so hard to accept Amber and that acceptance is often rather humorous. Finally, the series is clearly still evolving as Amber has a nosy journalist on her trail and her help with the kidnapping case has only lit a fire under said reporter’s butt. More to come, to be sure!
Book #3: Witch of Edgehill Series
Source: NetGalley and Ringtail Press
Rating: 4/5 stars
After the last few months, Amber Blackwood is ready for life to get back to normal. She’s survived a magical murder attempt, she’s learning to control her expanding magic, and she’s working on getting her reclusive cousin out into the world. Yeah, Amber is absolutely ready for life to get back to normal, but that isn’t going to happen anytime soon. Edgehill is on the precipice of one of their biggest events, the Here and Meow Festival and Amber is actively involved in the events.
In the course of her duties related to the town festival, Amber finds herself at the mayor’s house for a meeting. During a break, Amber is approached by the mayor’s daughter, a long-time friend, about a personal situation. Though Amber wants to protect the young girl and keep her secrets, she encourages her to talk with her dad. As she walks away from the conversation and feels good about her advice, Amber quickly changes her mind when the young girl goes missing.
The mayor’s daughter missing is a big deal in any town, but in a small town like Edgehill, it’s far more personal. Edgehill has a tendency to care for their own which means the whole town comes out to help search for the young girl. Knowing he has an ace up his sleeve, the sheriff asks Amber if there is anything magical she can do to help find the girl. As a matter of fact, Amber can do something and with the help of her aunt and surly cousin, she is able to get glimpses of the young girl and knows she is not only still alive, but being fed, and given information about her case. Though Amber can’t see exactly where she’s being kept, she does get enough clues to keep the investigation moving forward.
With each new clue, both Amber and the sheriff have more questions and the questions lead them down a rabbit hole. The rabbit hole leads to fake identities, fake birthdates, an abusive relationship, and loving father willing to do anything to protect his child. Getting her back isn’t going to be easy, but Amber and the sheriff have a magical advantage and good old-fashioned determination to aid them in their search. Of course, no one can know of Amber’s involvement, but she doesn’t care about the recognition, only finding and bringing home a very scared young lady.
The Bottom Line: I generally liked this story but not quite as much as the second book. There are a great many twists and turns in this book and some of them were a bit of a stretch for me. With that being said, I was still very pleased with the continuing evolution of Amber and her circle. The sheriff is actually one of my favorite characters as he is working so hard to accept Amber and that acceptance is often rather humorous. Finally, the series is clearly still evolving as Amber has a nosy journalist on her trail and her help with the kidnapping case has only lit a fire under said reporter’s butt. More to come, to be sure!
January 29, 2023
This whole series is just kinda fun. It's a great feel good witchy mystery. Cat lovers must read these books.
This town is all about celebrating everything feline.
Amber is a witch. She has a little shop where she sells her magical toys and tinctures. But trouble seems to be right around every corner.
Amber has always been quiet, a loner and in this gossipy little town they think she's a little odd.
With everything going bad and her under suspicion for her best friend's death. She will find friends in the most unexpected places.
I flew through this hilarious series and enjoyed every moment of it.
This town is all about celebrating everything feline.
Amber is a witch. She has a little shop where she sells her magical toys and tinctures. But trouble seems to be right around every corner.
Amber has always been quiet, a loner and in this gossipy little town they think she's a little odd.
With everything going bad and her under suspicion for her best friend's death. She will find friends in the most unexpected places.
I flew through this hilarious series and enjoyed every moment of it.
August 14, 2023
Where is Chloe? The rumor mill in Edgehill works overtime. Does the mayor have secrets? Amber does. This fun mystery will have you going in circles. The characters continue to develop. I am hooked on this series and look forward to reading the next book.
January 12, 2025
This series gets better and better
December 27, 2019
Thank you @netgalley @xpressotours for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I discovered @writermsjackson back in June when the first book in this series, Pawsitively Poisonous, was released. Since then, I’ve eagerly read books two and now three the moments they were released. It has quickly jumped the ranks and become one of my favorite paranormal cozy mystery.
I love the setting of this cat obsessed town in Edgehill, Oregon. All of the local businesses have a cat theme and they are currently preparing to compete in the Here and Meow Festival, which will select the best of in each business category. Amber is part of the committee preparing for the exciting event. During a recent meeting, she starts talking with the mayor’s young daughter, giving her relationship advice about a guy she met online who is eager to now meet up in real life. The mystery begins when the girl sneaks out and goes missing for a few weeks. The investigation uncovers big family secrets, a catfishing scheme and points the finger at many believable suspects.
I thought book two was my fav, but this story was so captivating, yet full of great entertainment and humor. The mystery definitely kept me guessing. I like that it involved a kidnapping instead of a typical cozy murder. I absolutely adore Amber. Her whit cracks me up, but I love how she uses her magic to help solve the case this round. She teams up with the Chief and their scenes were pure perfection. Their relationship comes into question which adds to the humor. I love that it’s clearly not romantic, regardless of what the locals believe. My fav was when she would use a spell and the Chief would try to hold it together. Their chemistry and banter is seriously the best. I’d totally watch their show.
I swear Jackson has the best cliffhanger endings too. I would recommend reading these books in order so you fully understand all of the backstory regarding the magic and relationships. I was so bummed with the decision Jack made in book two and it was hard watching Amber keep her distance when he was around during this story. I missed their interactions, but that ending totally redeemed that feeling. Book four can’t get here fast enough!! I’m also excited that another character has discovered Amber’s magical secret and it looks like someone else is mighty suspicious of her peculiar actions. Can’t recommend this series enough.
I discovered @writermsjackson back in June when the first book in this series, Pawsitively Poisonous, was released. Since then, I’ve eagerly read books two and now three the moments they were released. It has quickly jumped the ranks and become one of my favorite paranormal cozy mystery.
I love the setting of this cat obsessed town in Edgehill, Oregon. All of the local businesses have a cat theme and they are currently preparing to compete in the Here and Meow Festival, which will select the best of in each business category. Amber is part of the committee preparing for the exciting event. During a recent meeting, she starts talking with the mayor’s young daughter, giving her relationship advice about a guy she met online who is eager to now meet up in real life. The mystery begins when the girl sneaks out and goes missing for a few weeks. The investigation uncovers big family secrets, a catfishing scheme and points the finger at many believable suspects.
I thought book two was my fav, but this story was so captivating, yet full of great entertainment and humor. The mystery definitely kept me guessing. I like that it involved a kidnapping instead of a typical cozy murder. I absolutely adore Amber. Her whit cracks me up, but I love how she uses her magic to help solve the case this round. She teams up with the Chief and their scenes were pure perfection. Their relationship comes into question which adds to the humor. I love that it’s clearly not romantic, regardless of what the locals believe. My fav was when she would use a spell and the Chief would try to hold it together. Their chemistry and banter is seriously the best. I’d totally watch their show.
I swear Jackson has the best cliffhanger endings too. I would recommend reading these books in order so you fully understand all of the backstory regarding the magic and relationships. I was so bummed with the decision Jack made in book two and it was hard watching Amber keep her distance when he was around during this story. I missed their interactions, but that ending totally redeemed that feeling. Book four can’t get here fast enough!! I’m also excited that another character has discovered Amber’s magical secret and it looks like someone else is mighty suspicious of her peculiar actions. Can’t recommend this series enough.
December 12, 2019
There are not enough stars on the board for me to accurately review this book, I do not want to just type out a synopsis of the book, that is the author's job, I want to make you understand how good this book is, I want to shake you by the collar and demand you read it, and see for yourself how good it is!
The story line pulls you in and you do not want to put it down till you have finished. Then you are sad that the book is finished!
I think that is a good way to rate a book, if you find yourself reading slower so the book will last longer you know it is a good one, as opposed to flicking through pages to get to the end or worse not caring enough to even finish! I can assure you this is one you will want to read slowly and enjoy.
The characters are so good, and so well written, I love the blossoming friendship between Amber and the people of the town, the small hints with Chief Brown, the quirk of a smile, or the stink eye of Dolores the police station receptionist as she clacks away at her typewriter. The frantic energy of Kim, as the pressure of the Hair Ball builds.
The intensity of Mayor Deidrick as he tries to hold it together, whilst using all his resources to find his daughter Chloe who has gone missing
Amber using her gifts to work with Chief Brown but trying to not be seen working together, as to her horror it is causing gossip in the town.
There is a lot going on, but not in a bad way, you are on top of all the little tendrils of the story as they develop.
I had not read the previous books when I read Pawsitively Secretive.and I enjoyed it as a standalone. However I then went and read Pawsitively Poisonous and Pawsitively Cursed, and I am so glad I did,
there are subtleties in the book that having not read the previous books you would miss, a glance here a comment there, it really makes for a better experience!
I can only reiterate how much I enjoyed this and recommend it
The story line pulls you in and you do not want to put it down till you have finished. Then you are sad that the book is finished!
I think that is a good way to rate a book, if you find yourself reading slower so the book will last longer you know it is a good one, as opposed to flicking through pages to get to the end or worse not caring enough to even finish! I can assure you this is one you will want to read slowly and enjoy.
The characters are so good, and so well written, I love the blossoming friendship between Amber and the people of the town, the small hints with Chief Brown, the quirk of a smile, or the stink eye of Dolores the police station receptionist as she clacks away at her typewriter. The frantic energy of Kim, as the pressure of the Hair Ball builds.
The intensity of Mayor Deidrick as he tries to hold it together, whilst using all his resources to find his daughter Chloe who has gone missing
Amber using her gifts to work with Chief Brown but trying to not be seen working together, as to her horror it is causing gossip in the town.
There is a lot going on, but not in a bad way, you are on top of all the little tendrils of the story as they develop.
I had not read the previous books when I read Pawsitively Secretive.and I enjoyed it as a standalone. However I then went and read Pawsitively Poisonous and Pawsitively Cursed, and I am so glad I did,
there are subtleties in the book that having not read the previous books you would miss, a glance here a comment there, it really makes for a better experience!
I can only reiterate how much I enjoyed this and recommend it
January 3, 2020
Once again, Melissa Erin Jackson hit the mark! Pawsitively Secretive was a fun and suspenseful read. The entire atmosphere of Edgehill is charming and totally makes me want to live there! A town obsessed with cats?!? Yes, please!
One of my favourite things about this book was the relationships. First off, Chief Brown and Amber were hilarious and adorable. Part of me wishes that he was single so Amber and him could end up together. I think he is absolutely fabulous! But at the same time, I love their friend relationship and that it isn’t complicated by a romance. I really enjoyed the development of Edgar and Amber’s relationship. He may be grumpy, but he is super duper sweet and I kinda like him (despite his strange pizza toppings). And lastly, Kim really came through in this book. She’s a little crazy and talks a lot, but somehow I love her. Also, I’m so glad Amber has a good friend she can rely on.
One thing I found, though, was that the pacing was a touch slow. There was this push and pull between the mystery and planning for the Hair Ball and sometimes the planning was a little heavy. Plus, there was a ton of description. It was nice to see the world come alive, but at the same time it slowed things down.
This was mostly a clean read. There is some mild language, but nothing terrible.
Lastly, can we talk about the ending!?! Oh my goodness! Like what just happened? Near the end of the book, I started wondering if Alan the PI would end up becoming a love interest, but then that twist at the end and now I have no idea what to think! I thought THAT was over. Anyway, now I cannot wait for book 4! Just three months! Just three months before it comes out. I think I can wait that long….
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC.
One of my favourite things about this book was the relationships. First off, Chief Brown and Amber were hilarious and adorable. Part of me wishes that he was single so Amber and him could end up together. I think he is absolutely fabulous! But at the same time, I love their friend relationship and that it isn’t complicated by a romance. I really enjoyed the development of Edgar and Amber’s relationship. He may be grumpy, but he is super duper sweet and I kinda like him (despite his strange pizza toppings). And lastly, Kim really came through in this book. She’s a little crazy and talks a lot, but somehow I love her. Also, I’m so glad Amber has a good friend she can rely on.
One thing I found, though, was that the pacing was a touch slow. There was this push and pull between the mystery and planning for the Hair Ball and sometimes the planning was a little heavy. Plus, there was a ton of description. It was nice to see the world come alive, but at the same time it slowed things down.
This was mostly a clean read. There is some mild language, but nothing terrible.
Lastly, can we talk about the ending!?! Oh my goodness! Like what just happened? Near the end of the book, I started wondering if Alan the PI would end up becoming a love interest, but then that twist at the end and now I have no idea what to think! I thought THAT was over. Anyway, now I cannot wait for book 4! Just three months! Just three months before it comes out. I think I can wait that long….
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC.
December 30, 2019
Teenager Chloe is missing. Her car is found with the driver’s side door wide open. Her purse is in the car but her phone is missing. Chloe is also the mayor’s daughter. When secrets begin to mar the mayor’s reputation, Police Chief Brown asks witch Amber to use her magic to locate Chloe. That starts a whispering campaign in this small Oregon town that the Chief and Amber are an item. Pawsitively Secretive is the third book in the Witch of Edgehill series.
I don’t know if I just wasn’t in the right mood when reading this book but I didn’t enjoy it much. It has glowing reviews from others. I thought the cat puns were overdone in the “cat town”. I like cats and have two. But why would any town name all their businesses with cat puns? Quirky Whisker, Lollicat, Sippin’ Siamese, Clawsome Coffee, Purrcolate, or Catty Melt, really? These are just a few examples. There are many more in the book.
The mystery in Pawsitively Secretive was good. I really enjoyed the romantic aspect between Amber and Jack. They felt like they had real chemistry with just Amber’s magic was standing in their way. I think part of the reason I was confused by the large cast of characters was because I didn’t read the previous two books in the series. There is also a substantial spoiler in the beginning of this book for the prior books. Therefore, I would recommend reading the prior books before picking this one up. For this book, as a standalone, I rate it 3 stars (or should that be paws—see the book’s puns are contagious). If you liked the previous books, I would recommend you read this one too.
Thanks to Ringtail Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
I don’t know if I just wasn’t in the right mood when reading this book but I didn’t enjoy it much. It has glowing reviews from others. I thought the cat puns were overdone in the “cat town”. I like cats and have two. But why would any town name all their businesses with cat puns? Quirky Whisker, Lollicat, Sippin’ Siamese, Clawsome Coffee, Purrcolate, or Catty Melt, really? These are just a few examples. There are many more in the book.
The mystery in Pawsitively Secretive was good. I really enjoyed the romantic aspect between Amber and Jack. They felt like they had real chemistry with just Amber’s magic was standing in their way. I think part of the reason I was confused by the large cast of characters was because I didn’t read the previous two books in the series. There is also a substantial spoiler in the beginning of this book for the prior books. Therefore, I would recommend reading the prior books before picking this one up. For this book, as a standalone, I rate it 3 stars (or should that be paws—see the book’s puns are contagious). If you liked the previous books, I would recommend you read this one too.
Thanks to Ringtail Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: Amber is a witch who loves to make magical toys and to concoct things to make people healthy and happy. But she wants to keep her true identity a secret to all around her. She’s shared her secret with the chief of police who now looks upon her as both an asset and a friend. But it meant the end of a promising romance when her beau decided he could not deal with her life. She realizes how few regular humans would look kindly upon her if they but knew so she tries very hard to work her magic away from prying eyes.
Now that the chief is including her in his investigations, using her unique talents in ways ordinary law enforcement could not, it is getting harder and harder to stay under the radar. There are suspicions rampant in the village including rumours of a romance with the chief. Not helping out is not an option.
The daughter of the mayor has disappeared. She used to babysit the girl and was with her the day she vanished. Now as more and more information comes to light, it appears there are some deep dark secrets that are not just Amber’s and they could get someone killed.
This is the third book of the series and I admit I am enjoying each one more. The characters are very relatable in spite of the magic and Amber is capable smart heroine with some extra tricks in her arsenal. It is fun reading how she tries so hard to balance her regular persona with her magical one. There are a couple of her spells I wish I could do.
Five purrs and two paws up.
Now that the chief is including her in his investigations, using her unique talents in ways ordinary law enforcement could not, it is getting harder and harder to stay under the radar. There are suspicions rampant in the village including rumours of a romance with the chief. Not helping out is not an option.
The daughter of the mayor has disappeared. She used to babysit the girl and was with her the day she vanished. Now as more and more information comes to light, it appears there are some deep dark secrets that are not just Amber’s and they could get someone killed.
This is the third book of the series and I admit I am enjoying each one more. The characters are very relatable in spite of the magic and Amber is capable smart heroine with some extra tricks in her arsenal. It is fun reading how she tries so hard to balance her regular persona with her magical one. There are a couple of her spells I wish I could do.
Five purrs and two paws up.
January 8, 2020
What a fantastic addition to this series! I fell in love with Melissa Erin Jackson's Witch of Edgehill series while reading book 1, book 2 had much heavier content and although it was still fantastic, it was a tougher read. Book 3 went back to some of the cozier feel of book one, while still maintaining an edginess, making a perfect "cozy mystery" for a more modern reader.
In Pawsitively Secretive Amber is preparing for a big town event when the mayor's daughter goes missing. With the help of her uncle Edgar and Police Chief Brown, Amber tries to hone her developing witch abilities to find the girl before it's too late. Furthermore, she has to do so while trying to keep her witch abilities secret, deal with her complicated romantic life and squash rumors that she and Chief Brown have a secret affair going on. That storyline was one of my favourite and funniest things about this book. They have the best chemistry and their relationship continues to deepen, you almost start to wish they were both single so they could get together. The book ends with a great cliffhanger as more people begin to guess at Amber's secret. Also, I'm I the only one who feels there's more to Amber's cats then mere pets? I can't wait for the fourth installment!
This is a must read series for are cozy mystery, urban fantasy and of course cat fan!
In Pawsitively Secretive Amber is preparing for a big town event when the mayor's daughter goes missing. With the help of her uncle Edgar and Police Chief Brown, Amber tries to hone her developing witch abilities to find the girl before it's too late. Furthermore, she has to do so while trying to keep her witch abilities secret, deal with her complicated romantic life and squash rumors that she and Chief Brown have a secret affair going on. That storyline was one of my favourite and funniest things about this book. They have the best chemistry and their relationship continues to deepen, you almost start to wish they were both single so they could get together. The book ends with a great cliffhanger as more people begin to guess at Amber's secret. Also, I'm I the only one who feels there's more to Amber's cats then mere pets? I can't wait for the fourth installment!
This is a must read series for are cozy mystery, urban fantasy and of course cat fan!
January 24, 2020
What a darling book!! I loved the town of Edgehill. I love cats, so a town also in love with cats was soo fun. With street names like Russian Blue Avenue, Korat Road, Blue Point Lane and businesses like Manx Hotel, Purrcolate, Clawsome Coffee, Purrfectly Scrumptions, Catty Melt, Quirky Whisker, Sippin' Siamese, what's not to love. The characters are fun as well. Amber is a witch, but is careful to keep it a secret. Only the Chief of Police knows.
When the mayor's daughter turns up missing, Amber does everything she can to help find the teenager. She uses memory spells, truth spells, and other skills to help. This is not the first book in the series, but I had no trouble understanding the history and how all the characters fit into the story. I definitely would love to read the previous books.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read a new author and offer my honest opinion.
When the mayor's daughter turns up missing, Amber does everything she can to help find the teenager. She uses memory spells, truth spells, and other skills to help. This is not the first book in the series, but I had no trouble understanding the history and how all the characters fit into the story. I definitely would love to read the previous books.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read a new author and offer my honest opinion.
January 4, 2024
Although the Chief of Police knows that Amber is a witch, her magic still worries and creeps him out but sometimes he knows that he really could use her help because his resources have lead to a dead end. Amber, of course, is only too happy to help when she can, especially when the mayor's daughter runs away and goes missing without any trace. Amber used to babysit Chloe when she was much younger and the young witch has a very soft spot for the teen so when that happens, Amber is prepared to move heaven and earth to find her.
Another great read from Melissa Erin Johnson. I love the relationship between the chief and Amber, moving from suspicious to colleagues and maybe even friends. It really makes me smile and all the zany characters in the cat obsessed town is also brilliant. Can hardly wait for the next book!
Another great read from Melissa Erin Johnson. I love the relationship between the chief and Amber, moving from suspicious to colleagues and maybe even friends. It really makes me smile and all the zany characters in the cat obsessed town is also brilliant. Can hardly wait for the next book!
December 22, 2019
Pawsitively Secretive is the third book in Melissa Erin Jackson’s Witch of Edgehill series and just like the 2 previous ones I absolutely adored this one.
The adventures of Amber Blackwood continues! It’s so exciting to watch as Amber continues to explore her magic while trying to lead a normal life, well normalish.
She uses her magic this time to help the chief of police find the mayor’s daughter. While she does that she finds time to help organise the Here and Meow Festival and tries to avoid Jack Terrence as well. She has her work cut out for her, that’s for sure.
I love Amber and the other characters better each time a new book comes out.
The Witch of Edgehill series became one of my favourite books this year and I will read the next ones surely.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
The adventures of Amber Blackwood continues! It’s so exciting to watch as Amber continues to explore her magic while trying to lead a normal life, well normalish.
She uses her magic this time to help the chief of police find the mayor’s daughter. While she does that she finds time to help organise the Here and Meow Festival and tries to avoid Jack Terrence as well. She has her work cut out for her, that’s for sure.
I love Amber and the other characters better each time a new book comes out.
The Witch of Edgehill series became one of my favourite books this year and I will read the next ones surely.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy.
January 9, 2020
Amber is back and this time her secret is pivotal in the recovery of her young friend and daughter of the mayor, Chloe. Secrets seem to be the central focus of this latest Witch of Edgehill mystery. The Here and Meow Event sounds like a blast and how creative is Ms. Jackson with all of the feline inspired event titles?!?! I think I might have actually chortled when I read the words "Hair Ball." This book had me in complete suspense as Amber flexed her witchy muscles, with the help of cousin Edgar. Without spilling spoilers I will go as far as to say that I much prefer the way this latest book ended in co parison to its predecessor. I will also point out that you do not have read the previous adventure to be able to follow along and understand why or how the characters develope and interact. I am already looking forward to the next one.
December 14, 2019
Edgehill is a small town with a hidden population of witches and Amber is one of them.
The town is a little unusual in their love of cats and has lots of quirky characters.
In the third book we see how the gossip is treating Amber and the sheriff, when they work together, but again, the situation demands that they co-operate, as the mayor's daughter goes missing.
Another cozy mystery from Edgehill with Amber at the centre of the story. Although the story is the third in the series, one can start reading from here, as Ms. Jackson gives adequate information to be able to follow the story.
Fun to read and well-written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The town is a little unusual in their love of cats and has lots of quirky characters.
In the third book we see how the gossip is treating Amber and the sheriff, when they work together, but again, the situation demands that they co-operate, as the mayor's daughter goes missing.
Another cozy mystery from Edgehill with Amber at the centre of the story. Although the story is the third in the series, one can start reading from here, as Ms. Jackson gives adequate information to be able to follow the story.
Fun to read and well-written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2020
This is the first book I have read in this series. It is a stand-alone although there have been obvious things that happened in the past. Amber Blackwood is a witch. She’s not very experienced but has found it is useful in finding things besides her cell phone. A teenager, Chloe, who Amber used to babysit is in danger. Chloe has been talking online with a boy who she wants to meet; however, her dad prohibits dating. When Chloe disappears, Amber becomes involved helping the police find Chloe and discover why she went missing.
Great story. Love the characters. Will definitely read more of this series!
Great story. Love the characters. Will definitely read more of this series!
January 24, 2020
A sweet, whimsical, easy read with just enough suspense to keep you interested. I picked this book up without realizing that it was 3rd in a series and while I think it was easily read as a standalone, I'll be going back and reading the others because I can tell there was some context that I was missing.
That said, the ending of the book is making me impatient for the next installment. Can't wait!
Pick this one up.
Thank you netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
That said, the ending of the book is making me impatient for the next installment. Can't wait!
Pick this one up.
Thank you netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
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