Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Hearts on Fire #1

Cupcakes & Curses: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery

Rate this book
The guest list for the shifter party Kristina Gates is catering has just turned into a suspect list — for murder.

When Ted McNeil is found dead at a high society event, it looks at first like he choked on one of Kristina’s cupcakes. But it soon becomes evident that foul play was involved. The cupcake was poisoned.

Kristina’s determination to salvage her reputation and learn the truth launches her quest to appease the Witches’ Council and avoid a life sentence in the pokey. With the help of her fae friends and sexy Watcher Ben Hoffman, she untangles a web of lies that threaten her very existence.

Faced with a mysterious foe, a family of tight-lipped shifters and a competitor who would stop at nothing to put her out of business, Kristina realizes nothing is as it seems and the shadows hold secrets that some would kill to keep.

Bookfunnel

First published December 18, 2017

23 people are currently reading
161 people want to read

About the author

Jane Hinchey

96 books921 followers
Jane Hinchey is a best selling author of over twenty paranormal cozy mystery and urban fantasy novels.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2w1Txsu
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2Cb1Klq
Website: http://bit.ly/2OjB1a2

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
115 (54%)
4 stars
73 (34%)
3 stars
15 (7%)
2 stars
8 (3%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
Profile Image for Penny.
3,154 reviews88 followers
October 10, 2019
Paranormal cozies have been a favorite of mine for a while. In fact, they are my second favorite genre after urban fantasy. I’ve read this author before, and I was eager to read this one. This is a re-edited version of a short story, and I didn’t read the first one, but I love this edited version. Kristina is a baker, and one of the guests at a party she catered was poisoned with one of her cupcakes. To save her reputation, her and an investigator from the Council team up to find the real killer all the while fighting their attraction. While this wasn’t a long book, the author packed in a great mystery (great twist at the end!), a fun romance, and some entertaining characters. I thought this was well-written and a fun read for cozy paranormal and paranormal romance readers. I really hope the author makes this a series. Highly recommend! I was provided a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Bec.
793 reviews17 followers
January 18, 2018
Shadow Shifter did not disappoint. Shadow Shifter is a murder mystery with paranormal elements. Kristina owns a cake shop and makes cakes infused with magic. At a party Kristina catered for, Ted ate a cupcake and ended up dead. The cupcake was poisoned. To clear her name and reputation Kristina needs to determine who posioned the cupcake.

The Council sends Watcher Ben to investigate the case. Kristina continues to investigate on her own but things get dangerous and Ben and Kristina team up. Kristina has a little thing for Ben and sparks fly. During the investigation we meet friends and foe of Kristina. Many have lots to hide. Can they get to the bottom of who killed Ted and clear Kristina's name?
Profile Image for Yess.
151 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2023
Although i overall enjoyed the story, i think it rushes towards the end and that part wasn't so enjoyable, i would have prefer it to be 50 or 100 pages longer than rushing that way to sokve the mistery
1,926 reviews7 followers
May 30, 2017
I received an Advance Reader's Copy of Shadow Shifter from Jane Hinchey but this review is my own opinion and is not influenced by the author.
I liked the story which featured a witch initially accused of murder and a Watcher (paranormal policeman). Kristina and Ben investigate the murder in this quick read. It was fast and fun and could have been made into a full length novel as everything happened very quickly but it made a nice change to read a novella that worked well with no padding.
If Jane made this into a series, I would definitely read it.
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews27 followers
October 10, 2019
This story was strong 4 star read almost till The end, and suddenly the twist changed it!
Imaginative, page-turner that will keep you on The edge.
Profile Image for Julie Pederick.
184 reviews1 follower
October 11, 2019
ADELAIDE'S QUEEN OF THE COZY'S DOES IT AGAIN & WITH THE RECIPE FOR ANOTHER MAGICAL SUCCESS!

THE RECIPE FOR A MAGICAL COZY!
Add 5 Litres Of Blood, Sweat, Tears, Heart & Soul.
Add A Dash of Magic.
Throw In A Pinch of Cozy.
Add A Bunch Of Supernatural's.
A Tonne Of Jane's Sassy, Snarkey, Sultry Shenanigans & Sense Of Humor.
1 OZ Of Great Character Development.
A Cup of Cheekiness.
And A Splash of Well Written Balanced Storytelling.
And 1 Intuative Cat.

Mix It All Together & Pour Into the Pages of a Gorgeous New Book Jacket,
Bake For 180°C for 25 Minutes & Wella:
You Get Cupcakes & Curses!!!

BUT DO NOT WAIT FOR IT TOO COOL DOWN! BUY IT WHILE ITS HOT, HOT HOT OFF THE PRESS!!!

Just Love Love Love Jane Hinchey's Cozy's for a quick 'n' easy light read as a palate refresher after a full on pigout on an epic trilogy.
Making it the refreshing change needed, but still giving me all the right amount of Fantasy, Witches, Supernatural's Magic, Murder, Mystery & Mayhem I Require!

I've had 2 other versions of this ebook in my Kindle for quite some time waiting for the perfect moment to whip it out and with the re-release & new cover making this #3, it qualifies as the perfect choice!
I'm more of an Urban / Paranormal Fantasy Chick & prioritize them first when it comes to Ms Hinchey's work.
But I love a tempo change every now & then with a quick light read between binge reading full on Saga's or Series!

Jane has a wonderful ability to write funny strong intelligent women characters with great morals & ethics who can look after themselves (usually) & don't require a big strong man by their side or to come to their rescue, (but hey having great arm candy who can help in a tough spot never hurts)!

She has a knack of writing awesome couples too, the kind you always root for, wanting them together & whom we always fall in love with (usually an obstacle / person in the way, as love is never easy). And not to mention these hunky hot men who end up loving Jane's women.
But Jane can write it all Women & Men Main & Secondary characters, but the one character I have yet to see are kids well young one's.
We've seen the high school type (slightly older) who she also writes well, along with the elderly where she simply excels, yes Gran B I'm thinking of you!

I love that these characters are closer to real life people, the type we all have as Mates, good & honest, but usually flawed just like you & me.
And none of this too good to be true goody goodies or if the are they usually turn into the 'Douchebag' of the story.

All of the books I've read to date are set in our world so there has been no major World Bulilding in creating her own worlds, but does a fabulous job creating a hidden world for the supernatural in plain sight of humans with or without their knowledge.
I love love love the great humor, the one liners, the sassiness, snarkiness & fun banter between couples & at times there's sultriness too (but know, much of this mischef & cheekiness comes from Ms Hinchey herself, is thrown in for good measure.

*One small side note about the story*
I must admit I was shocked as Hell to read a certain line spoken by the Watcher at the end of the story, (you'll see what I mean once you read it), but we know people react weirdly under pressure & in the throws of adrenaline pumping situations! Too soon? You be the judge!

I own 3 different versions of this e-book & recieved the latest as an ARC Copy from the author and this is my fair, honest and impartial reviews always.

I Rate Cupcakes & Curses 4.5⭐ Out of 5⭐& Hope You'll Love It Too.
I Highly Recommend This Author!

Reviewed by Jewelz Pederick.
🙋‍♀️❤From The 🤪 🇦🇺 📖🐛❗
(Bye Love From The Crazy Australian Bookworm)!
Profile Image for Texas.
1,685 reviews394 followers
April 27, 2018
Shadow Shifter #1 - I had to reread this lovely book since my first review was lost when the boxed set was removed from Amazon. Jane never disappoints. Her books are well written, suspenseful and humorous; with well thought out characters that steadily evolve, especially in her series sets; and her plots are intriguing and twisting. You're never let down with a mediocre book. Shadow Shifter is another success with two main characters that keep the pages full of sexual tension. The other characters are interesting in their own right. The intriguing plot keeps the reader glued to the pages; a pretty good mystery. It will be interesting to see the next book in this series.

Secret Fates #2 - A well written, intriguing suspense with a touch of romance, main characters that are well developed and likable with an interesting plot. It was difficult to put the book down. It's a standalone, but it leaves open a possible series. Included is an overview, which I appreciate knowing what the book contains.

Under A Darkened Moon #3 - Good to see Georgia and Zak again, if only briefly. A well written, intriguing story, which keeps the reader immersed in the pages. The characters are interesting with realistic dialog. The Alpha wolf is from The Awakening Series, which is a fun, exciting, riveting series. The well thought out plot is trademark of Ms. Hinchey as she is a good storyteller. If you want to know more about Rhys, read The Awakening trilogy; you'll enjoy the books immensely.

Immortal Ties #4 - What a story, with lots of humor and sass, too! A well written romance and police story set with humans and paranormals. Interesting characters, believable dialog and a plot that mesmerizes the reader until the last page. The suspense is thick with both the possible romance and the crimes. Another fabulous book from a pretty good author; seldom does one of her books disappoint the reader. Has an overview of the story, which I appreciate knowing what the book is about before I read it. I volunteered to read this author's work.
922 reviews31 followers
October 12, 2019
A fun, short read about a magical baker and caterer who finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation. She involves herself in trying to discover the culprit behind Ted McNeil’s death. Was it an accident or murder? If the latter, who did it? Watcher Ben Hoffman is assigned to the investigation by the council. Can she convince him that she isn’t behind Ted’s death? Can she deal with her attraction to him? Can she keep her magic?

This first book in this paranormal series kept me smiling. It’s filled with humor, mystery, and a touch of romance. The writing is professional and well-edited. The characters are a delight.. The story, filled with twists and turns, kept me guessing until the very end.

If you enjoy paranormal cozy mysteries, or baker mysteries, or paranormal mysteries, I recommend this book to you. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a fast, easy, enjoyable read.

I received and ARC of this book from the author. While I appreciate her generosity, it had no effect on my review of this book. All opinions in this review express my true and honest reactions to reading this book.

Profile Image for Merry Chapman.
2,605 reviews24 followers
April 3, 2022
Kristina is a witch who loves to infuse good traits into her cupcakes to help people. When one of her cupcakes is poisoned and involved in a murder, Kristina becomes suspect number one! Kristina has to investigate and clear her name and her bakery. But, the Witch's council sends a Watcher to investigate which creates some awkward moments. The Watcher wants Kristina to stay out of the investigation. Kristina's cat seems to take to him right away and her cat usually likes no one. And the Watcher seems to like Kristina and the feeling seems to be mutual. Will they get together? Will The Watcher and Kristina be able to find a murderer with lots of dead end clues, red-herrings and twists and turns? This is a fast and fun read that keeps you reading until the end! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Jennifer Holzapfel.
1,037 reviews4 followers
August 26, 2017
Half witch half fae Kristina runs a bakery where she uses her magic to infuse goodness and other helpful things into her baking for both paranormals and humans. A man ate one of her magical cupcakes and died, now she is suspect number one and the magical council has sent watcher Ben, a full witch, to work out who and why a wealthy human was killed at a shifter's tea social. Kristina keeps getting in the way, trying to clear her name before she loses her entire business. It doesn't help that she and Ben have a total sexual chemistry. Kristina gets attacked and Ben takes care of her while she has a concussion and shares her bed. Who is the killer, a human or a paranormal, and will they kill Kristina when she gets too close to the truth?
Profile Image for Kanyon.
398 reviews
December 26, 2017
Who doesn’t love a super cute and short mystery? I know I love them, especially when the villain is a toughie to figure out. Shadow Shifter was definitely on point with its mysterious, yet funny plot. I came to really enjoy reading Kristina’s and Ben’s story. They might have a bit of a whirl-wind romance, but it makes for a very engaging and entertaining read. My favorite part of the story would have to be the author’s creativity with Kristina’s magic and infusing her bakery foods with subtle hints of magic. I always like reading of unique ways magic might be found in the modern ‘human’ world.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance suspense with a supernatural twist.

Final Rating: 5 Stars

Shadow Shifter by Jane Hinchey
Profile Image for Denise.
3,756 reviews
October 16, 2019
Kristina is a witch who likes to make special desserts. She infuses them with a little magic that helps people. Like love and acceptance, confidence, good luck, or inspiration. When a man is poisoned after eating one of her cupcakes, she is determined to prove her innocence (and the innocence of her cupcake!). When the Council gets involved and sends a Watcher to investigate, things get a little weird. First, Kristin's cat, Velma, likes Ben. Her cat doesn't like anyone. Second, she likes him and he appears to like her. But, he doesn't like her interfering in his investigation.
Can these two find the murderer before he finds them? And why are people acting so weird?

I was given a copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Profile Image for Penny.
3,154 reviews88 followers
October 10, 2019
Paranormal cozies have been a favorite of mine for a while. In fact, they are my second favorite genre after urban fantasy. I’ve read this author before, and I was eager to read this one. This is a re-edited version of a short story, and I didn’t read the first one, but I love this edited version. Kristina is a baker, and one of the guests at a party she catered was poisoned with one of her cupcakes. To save her reputation, her and an investigator from the Council team up to find the real killer all the while fighting their attraction. While this wasn’t a long book, the author packed in a great mystery (great twist at the end!), a fun romance, and some entertaining characters. I thought this was well-written and a fun read for cozy paranormal and paranormal romance readers. I really hope the author makes this a series. Highly recommend! I was provided a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,414 reviews62 followers
October 11, 2019
Easy to read, engaging, fun, witty
An all-around charming read!
🧁 A Paranormal Cozy Mystery guaranteed to please even the pickiest of pallets

Suspense - in spades✔️
Quirky Fun Heroine - Yep ✔️
Sexy Alpha Hero - Oh Yeah✔️
Misunderstood Antagonist - ✔️ I think she needs her own book
Evil cackling bad guys - ✔️✔️ double check!

This was such a great read the first time around and now it is available as a standalone
Paranormal is my go-to genre and when you blend it with such vivid and engaging characters then pack the pages with humor and mystery
It just makes it all the sweeter
Profile Image for Brenda.
3,514 reviews48 followers
March 25, 2023
"When Ted McNeil is found dead at a high society event, it looks at first like he choked on one of Kristina’s cupcakes. But it soon becomes evident that foul play was involved. The cupcake was poisoned. Kristina’s determination to salvage her reputation and learn the truth launches her quest to appease the Witches’ Council and avoid a life sentence in the pokey. With the help of her fae friends and sexy Watcher Ben Hoffman, she untangles a web of lies that threaten her very existence."
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookfunnel. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
1,926 reviews7 followers
December 23, 2017
I received an Advance Reader's Copy of Shadow Shifter from Jane Hinchey but this review is my own opinion and is not influenced by the author.
I liked the story which featured a witch initially accused of murder and a Watcher (paranormal policeman). Kristina and Ben investigate the murder in this quick read. It was fast and fun and could have been made into a full length novel as everything happened very quickly but it made a nice change to read a novella that worked well with no padding.
If Jane made this into a series, I would definitely read it.
Profile Image for Carole.
824 reviews
December 24, 2017
I am amazed at the way that Jane is able to weave a story.
Her characters are intriguing and complex. You quickley get wrapped up
in the mystery of the story.
In her stories there are always a variety of characters from fae, to witches
to shifters etc.
I strongly recommend you read this story as it is a great introduction to a new series.
In fact this author is a one click buy and you won't be disappointed in your purchase.
I voluntarily read and gave my honest review.
I can hardly wait for book 2 in this series.
Profile Image for Erin Penn.
Author 4 books23 followers
March 1, 2018
Good. Lovely light romantic urban fantasy mystery - goes for all the comfortable cliques and is a soft, warm, fuzzy blanket. Ending a little too fast and pat - highlighting some of the limitations of the Novella form. This manuscript could easily have been expanded to double the size before the final reveal and been a satisfying meal instead of just a fun dessert. (A sex scene - four stars Goodreads scale; five stars Amazon scale)

Read as part of the Midnight Magic: An Urban Fantasy Novella Collection.
89 reviews
October 11, 2019
I enjoyed this book. Kristina uses her magic in a unique way and infuses cupcakes and desserts with things like confidence or acceptance. There are also unique creatures mentioned that you don't typically see in novels. I can't say which ones because that will take away the surprise. The characters The characters are interesting and the pacing is great. It would be interesting to see what would happen if another book was made with the same characters in it. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, gifted to me by the author with no obligation.
Profile Image for Tina Wyatt.
225 reviews3 followers
October 14, 2024
Kristina owns a cupcake shop where she adds just a hint of magic to her baked delights. She caters events and parties and she gets asked to cater a party where she will serve her famous cupcakes . But things don't go as planned when a guy named Ted is poisoned by one of her cupcakes. Ben who is a watcher is sent to investigate the murder . Ben will team up with Kristina to find the real killer.This is a paranormal cozy mystery that happens to feature witches and other different beings. Cute ,quick read.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,455 reviews
December 24, 2017
Shadow Shifter is the first book in the Hearts on Fire Series. This book can be read as a standalone and has an HEA. This is a short read. Perfect for taking a break from crazy life.

The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat all of that info here. While at first glance, this seems like a quick predictable read. But is filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing.
1,173 reviews
December 24, 2017
Shadow Shifter by Jane Hinchey: ****
This is a story where paranormal professional investigator/Ben meets paranormal amateur sleuth/Kristina after a murder occurs and Kristina is implicated. The story line is interesting, and the characters likable. There are secrets, danger, surprises, attraction, love, and an HEA. A good read! Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book.
Profile Image for Leslie.
64 reviews
February 13, 2018
Shadow Shifter by Jane Hinchey: I really enjoyed this book. From murder and mayhem to magic infused cupcakes. Kristina takes it upon herself to do her own investigating after someone choked on her cupcake. She finds mischief and gets herself in some trouble. Then there is Ben the man Kristina falls for that just ties everything together making it an excellent read.

I am voluntarily reviewing Shadow Shifter gifted to me by the Author (Jane Hinchey) with no obligation.
Profile Image for Vivian.
769 reviews13 followers
October 12, 2019
Someone poisons one of Kristina's cupcakes, causing the death of an important man in town. With her business at stake, she can't help but put her amateur sleuth abilities to work, meeting handsome Watcher Ben Hoffman in the process. Mystery, suspense, romance all combine in this story - an entertaining read. The ending was a bit confusing to me, so I had to go back and re-read it when it then made sense.

Note: I did receive an ARC of this book from the author, but my review is voluntary.
Profile Image for Sheila.
48 reviews
October 11, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I'm really not into fantasy books but when I read Jane's books I love them! When a human chokes on one of Kristina's magical cupcakes, she is a suspect in his death. Something doesn't feel right to Kristina so with the help of the detective on the case and her friends, they find that some things aren't what they seem. I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Bea McGhie.
266 reviews12 followers
September 14, 2022
Cupcakes & Curses is a paranormal cozy mystery book that you receive when you sign up to Jane Hinchey's newsletter.
A delightful short story about a baker trying to solve the murder
of a guest who was poisoned with a cupcake of baker and cafe owner Kristina. She also happens to be a witch.
The easy on the eye Watcher Ben, who investigates the case, partners up with her and let the sleuthing begin..
Really enjoyed this book, written in the typical style of Jane's that I love. Quirky characters, great storyline and the right amount of suspense , action and a bit of a live interest going...
Perfect all round...
More, please...
806 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2024
This book was really good. It had some different elements in it than your normal paranormal cozy. Like the different types of shifters and the different rules for witches. It was all really interesting. I like books that are basically the same(paranormal cozy) but have little differences. Makes the book more interesting. I have read quite a few of Jane Hinchey's books and am looking forward to reading more.
Profile Image for C. Erani Kole.
1,710 reviews51 followers
June 4, 2017
Kristina and Ben are great. I loved how fast-paced it was and still managed to satisfy me. I just really clicked with it, you know? I was totally entertained, loving all the characters, the plot, the suspense and 'let's solve a crime!' vibe. Flowing style and consistent, hot and definitely something I wanna see more of.
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,414 reviews62 followers
January 5, 2018
A Paranormal Cozy Mystery?
Suspense - Check
Quirky Fun Heroine - Check
Sexy Alpha Hero - Oh Yeah
Misunderstood Antagonist - Yep, think she needs her own book
Evil cackling bad guys - double check!
I absolutely loved the way Hinchey wrote the characters in this novella - Easy to read, engaging, fun, witty - An all around Charming read!
I wish it had been a standalone but...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.