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Witches of Befana Bay #1

The Witch's Silver Lining

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Sage Easton is a driven witch. At just thirty years old, she’s an accomplished blown glass artist. Her glass creations are magical. Literally. But when a spell takes away her magic, suddenly Sage is unable to work and the only way to get it back is to learn to love life without her gift. Now she has to seek help from her old high school nemesis, the handsome and fun-loving man who has always gotten under her skin.

August West has one goal: enjoy life at all costs. He embraces the motto work to live, don’t live to work. He spends his nights bartending and his days talking to orcas, photographing wildlife, and helping out whoever needs a hand. So when Sage Easton asks him to help her out, he takes it as his personal challenge to show the workaholic how to embrace the beauty of Befana Bay. He’s determined to teach her a little something about slowing down and enjoying every part of her life. What he doesn’t expect is just how much he enjoys her.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 17, 2023

1602 people are currently reading
680 people want to read

About the author

Deanna Chase

135 books1,701 followers
Deanna is a native Californian, transplanted to the slower paced lifestyle of southeastern Louisiana. When she isn't writing, she is often goofing off with her husband in New Orleans, playing with her two shih tzu dogs, making glass beads, or out hocking her wares at various bead shows across the country. For more information and updates on newest releases visit her blog at www.deannachase.com.

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5 stars
930 (57%)
4 stars
445 (27%)
3 stars
189 (11%)
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49 (3%)
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16 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Penny.
3,158 reviews88 followers
October 14, 2023
I know when I read a book by this author, I’m quite sure what I will get, and this one didn’t disappoint. Since this was a series-starter, I was excited to enter a new “world” and meet the characters. I was so enthralled by August and Sage; I loved their journey to each other. It was nice seeing a few characters from other series, and I’m excited to meet and learn about the other characters we’ve met. This is a romance-filled mystery that is sure to please fans of all genres. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Kristine .
1,804 reviews12 followers
October 21, 2023
This is an enchanting start to a new series. Magic and a little mayhem find Sage and August as they forge a friendship that turns into more. The author has done a wonderful job of creating a world with small-town vibes, intruiging characters, and so much more. I’m looking forward to reading to reading what happens next.,
Profile Image for Dee Smith.
624 reviews9 followers
January 1, 2025
What a great book! I loved it. The story kept me engrossed the whole time. I didn’t want to stop!!! A great start to a new series. I can’t wait for more.
Profile Image for Cat.
272 reviews
September 16, 2025
DNF. I tried to finish this and I love this author but I could not do it.
Profile Image for Momma Monkey .
1 review
March 8, 2024
I've never read this author so didn't know what to expect. Not the best read, but not the worst. Reminded me of the tv series "Charmed". Pretty cheesy, not a lot of background ...supposedly there is a world where witchcraft and magic are a normal everyday thing. Read like a young adult book with a lot of cat and mouse between teenage type characters. Not a series I will finish.
If you enjoy young adult fantasy, this is for you. Try it and see if it's a fit for you. But for me, I'll try something else.
Profile Image for Courtney.
44 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2023
Deanna Chase’s The Witch’s Silver Lining provides a strong start to her Witches of Befana Bay series. Sage Easton, a member of the most powerful family in Befana Bay, finds herself trying to live without her powerful magic after her grandmother stripped her of her powers. Bethany Befana fears that Sage has forgotten how to have fun because she works all the time. In an attempt to show her grandmother that she can enjoy life, Sage agrees to attend her grandmother’s ball, but her plans go awry when car trouble delays her arrival. August West, local witch and an annoyance in Sage’s life, happens upon her and makes sure she arrives at the ball on time and dressed appropriately. He also steps in as her date and “fun coach.” Bethany loves seeing Sage having a good time with August, so Sage agrees to a fake relationship with August in hopes that will convince her grandmother to return her powers. Surprisingly to them, it doesn’t take long for Sage and August to realize that they’re genuinely enjoying their fake dating. But life in Befana Bay is getting complicated. August’s estranged father has returned to town, and he suspects his dad may be the reason for some unusual magical events. As Sage and August explore their budding relationship, a face from the past returns that shocks Sage to her core, and her reaction puts her in grave danger. Suddenly, getting her powers back isn’t just important to Sage…her ability to save herself could mean the difference between life and death for August as well.

The Witch’s Silver Lining introduces a new and intriguing group of witches. The relationship between Sage and August develops quickly, but it feels very natural because Ms. Chase does an excellent job establishing that they’ve known each other for a long time. When a novel includes romance, I tend to enjoy it more when the characters have some sort of history with each other. I particularly like August as a character. To Sage and some other Befana Bay residents, August appears to be a happy-go-lucky guy who doesn’t take life too seriously and seems to lack ambition. But August is much more complicated than he seems on the surface. I love the way that Ms. Chase explores his character and allows readers to see who August really is. I also enjoy the family dynamics at play in this novel. As an only child, Sage’s relationship with her sisters fascinates me. I look forward to getting to know her sisters better in future books. Ms. Chase does an excellent job contrasting the closeness and overall stability of Sage’s family with the more contentious dynamics in August’s family. I thought the way she utilized their families added interesting depth to this book.

Of course, Ms. Chase’s books involve more than romance and families. The central plot line of this book involves an external threat to the witches of Befana Bay. I expected Ms. Chase to take this book in a certain direction, but the villain wasn’t who I expected. And I think this book is stronger because it didn’t follow the predictable route I expected. I have sometimes criticized two of Ms. Chase’s more recent series (the Premonition Pointe series and its sequel) for having overly convoluted plots and relying too heavily on an all-powerful criminal mastermind to be the villain. I have to admit that I expected The Witch’s Silver Lining to follow that pattern, so I was pleased to be wrong and enjoyed how Ms. Chase concluded this book.

I enjoyed The Witch’s Silver Lining and recommend it to other readers. I’m looking forward to reading the next book and seeing where Ms. Chase takes this series. I received an ARC of this novel from the author, but that did not influence my review.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.8k reviews365 followers
November 4, 2023
Sage and August's New Beginning . . .

Sage Easton puts all her time into her work, leaving no time for herself to relax and enjoy life. She focuses solely on her magical blown glass creations to the exclusion of everything else. So her powerful magic is taken away from her by her grandmother until she can learn the value of living outside of the sole focus of her work. Until she learns to have fun, she will be powerless to do anything else.

Hoping to convince her grandmother that she is willing to have fun without her magic, she plans to attend the ball. Unfortunately, her car let her down. Her former high school nemesis August West showed up and got her to the ball on time. To her dismay, he also sticks with her to help her have fun. However, this gives her an idea that faking a relationship with August might convince her grandmother to restore her powers. What she didn’t intend was to fall for the man for real! But when something goes wrong with the magic of Befana Bay, August needs Sage’s help in tracking down the culprit. Is his father Phillip up to something? Can Sage get her magic working correctly again so she can at least protect herself and August?

This author writes the most amazing stories with characters that become important to the reader! This one was exciting, the kind that keeps a reader on the edge of the seat waiting for what will happen next. And it’s only just the beginning as this story introduced the new series! Don’t miss this one!
Profile Image for Kristine.
3,469 reviews52 followers
February 28, 2025
3.5 Stars 🌟

This was a very quick and easy listen that didn't require too much brain power while I was listening to the story. This is the first book in a series, but I got the feeling that this world has already been established and there may be other books in this world. I'm not sure about that, I need to go and look.

Regardless, the story was enjoyable but not too complicated. We meet Sage Easton, a creative artist who uses her magic in her glass blowing business. Yes, she is a witch. Apparently her grandmother thinks she isn't taking time out of her life to smell the roses and does something to take her magic away.

At the same time, her car breaks down and she is rescued by August West. August is also a witch, but definitely not as powerful as an Easton witch. They already knew each other (they live in a small town) but for whatever reason, things are different this time.

Yes, this is a total case of insta-love. Yes, the actual storyline regarding the town's unstable magic is a bit "out there". But, again, this was an easy listen and I didn't have to concentrate too hard while listening. You NEED books like this every once in a while.

Will I continue on with the series? Possibly. Maybe on a day when I just want a couple of mindless hours that leave me feeling content.

We all need that every once in a while.
3,424 reviews20 followers
October 20, 2023
The Witch's Silver Lining by Deanna Chase (Witches of Befana Baym #1) due 10/22/23 5 stars
Sage & August

She doesn't have time for men or relationships. Her work is her life. Too bad her powerful witch grandmother doesn't agree. She's removed her power until she learns more than work. Of course, since she uses her power to make her exquisite glass-blown objects, she won't be working until she accomplishes her grandmother's wishes.

He's someone who knows about having a good time while working but only when necessary and he wants to work. With feelings she is fighting about August, he just might be the tutor she needs.

Magic isn't all that smooth in Befana. Thieves, historical feuds, and so much more. The problems keep growing while Sage and August's feelings for each other grow as well.

A new series with new characters along with a few old friends. I sure enjoyed it, hope you do as well.
Profile Image for Fraxinus.
259 reviews8 followers
October 26, 2023
Cursing her granddaughter to lose her powers, so that she will have better work-life balance, seems a bit extreme. However, as the main catalyst for this excellent book... It was effective. When Sage's grandmother curses her, she has no idea how much of an impact that one decision makes on Sage's life. Now, she has hired August West as her life coach and he is teaching her all sorts of new lessons.

I really enjoyed this book, it had so many of my favorite things in it... Orcas, Drag Queens, Silas and Levi... And, I enjoyed August's power of talking to animals, which is, hands down, the one power that I wish I had.

I was also thrilled to see the author deal with the issues of consent that the Grandmother's actions ignore. Especially, since everything, for the most part, resolved itself.

Even though it is a new series, we still got to meet new friends and get updates on our older ones. I can't wait to see where the author takes us next.
Profile Image for SusieQ_Reviews.
441 reviews7 followers
November 12, 2023
Are you in the mood for an uplifting witchy romance? Of course, you are because it’s fall reading season. I highly recommend “The Witch’s Silver Lining”, by Deanna Chase. This is the first book in her new Witches of Befana Bay series and I am officially hooked. A spin off from Chase’s Keating Hollow series, that has now been added to my need to read list.

Sage Easton and August West, having known each other for years, begin to see each other in a different light as they work together to solve a magical mystery. He’s fun loving and she has a serious work ethic. Throw in a meddling magical matriarch, well-meaning family and friends and just about anything can happen.

I look forward to reading more about the interesting characters introduced in this stellar series starter.
Profile Image for Karen.
526 reviews21 followers
June 14, 2025
This was such a sweet and cute story. I think it might have given me a cavity.

Profile Image for Heather Huth.
195 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2023
Orcas, Witches and Passion - Perfect Trio

Sage and August have quickly become some of my favorite characters written by Deanna Chase. Their tension and snarky humor were what I first were attracted to. Then their quirkiness, self-doubt, passion, and steamy scenes sucked me in more. Finally, not knowing the plot twist until the end was the final hook in me. I loved not knowing who the bad person was until the end and it being a complete surprise. The Bafana Bay book 1 was not a cozy and not an erotica - it was somewhere in between and I am all in for it! I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
622 reviews1 follower
October 24, 2023
Absolutely Love This New Series

Deanna Chase’s books are always so interesting from beginning to end. Her characters are ones that feel so real and always well developed. Sage and August have incredible chemistry right from the start. Their story was very well written and the world that she has created for this witch series makes me wish this place actually existed. If you have not read a book by Deanna Chase, do yourself a favor and pick one up now. Start with the Keating Hollow series since this is a spin off of that series. This brand new series is absolutely worthy of more than 5 stars!
Profile Image for Laura.
2,536 reviews83 followers
February 11, 2024
This is a captivating new series in the Witches of Befana Bay series. The return of familiar characters adds a delightful touch to the narrative. Sage Easton, a talented glass artist, faces a spell-induced loss of magic, leading her to seek help from the charismatic August West. Their dynamic and the enchanting Pacific Northwest setting create a perfect blend of mystery and romance.
The addition of orcas to the narrative added a heartwarming touch. I really enjoyed the mystery elements and it added depth to the storyline.
Gabra Zackman's skillful narration brings the characters to life, enhancing the magical elements. I was so lost in this enchanting town till the very end.
Profile Image for Toula.
2,504 reviews
February 13, 2024
Audio book review

Love this book 1 in the new series. Witches of Bafana Bay.
Heroine is Sage. Hero is August
Both Sage and August for a while but August. August finds Sage in a bind with her car and stops to help her. Both Sage and August are attracted to each other but they are afraid to admitted it to each other.
Sage grandmother decides to take away her magic Sage found a way to use her gift . There is a major issue within the town and they find out that August father is behind it. August finds out something else about his magic , he thought was non existent. Grab it and find out what is going on
Profile Image for April Mollenkopf.
531 reviews7 followers
October 18, 2023
The author does an amazing job with creating home towns that feel like they could be real (minus the magic). I would love to live in one of her towns.

I loved the characters in this book and the journey they took to come together. While reading this book I was so sure I knew who the bad guy was but I was wrong. There was a bit of a twist and I loved getting drawn in the wrong direction. The author certainly introduced a new cast of characters but it was great to see a few crossovers from previous series. I can’t wait to read the next book!

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for JoAn.
2,469 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2023
Ms. Chase has written a lovely new series set in Befana Bay that is a spin-off from her Keating Hollow series. August and Sage were an adorable couple that were opposites but matched perfectly. Sage is a workaholic with her glass blowing studio and shop and August works only when he wants and if it's something that he loves to do. Bewitching characters, some humorous moments, a story filled with strong family and friends' relationships and a dramatic magical confrontation made for an engaging read.
Profile Image for Laura.
118 reviews
February 9, 2024
A new town and series to explore! Sage is a workaholic who has forgotten how to enjoy life. August works long enough to pay the bills, but knows that living one's life is the most important thing. I found Sage to be a character I could relate to, needing to learn to prioritize, trying to please others, and wondering what life is going to throw at her next. August is a dream come true, respected in his trade, living life to the fullest and there for his friends. I loved their story and look forward to the next book in Befana Bay!
Profile Image for Curly's  Ramblings.
2,038 reviews6 followers
February 10, 2024
Audiobook: I enjoyed Sage and August’s story! The characters are likable, believable, entertaining, and had great chemistry. The spin off series takes place in Befana Bay, a place I wish I could visit (love being next to water). The story has some unexpected twists and turns that held my attention from beginning to end. The narrator did a great job with providing unique voices for each character and appropriate tone inflections for each scene. I received a free copy of this story at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Kim.
1,134 reviews9 followers
March 28, 2024
for the audio...
The Witch’s Silver Lining was a pleasure to listen to. It is a great start for a new series. I really liked that both the main characters had family issues and other complexities to work out together. All of the characters were in depth and enjoyable. There was good banter with Sage and August without being too much. They did a great job of complimenting each other and the magic. The over all flow of the story with the mystery was just right. Gabra Zackman did a perfect job in bringing the story and magic to life. Her voice gives all of the characters more depth and range.
Profile Image for Janet Smith.
Author 36 books3 followers
October 23, 2023
I loved this book and meeting the residents of Befana Bay. Having Levi and Silas in the book was an added bonus, especially since they are one of my (many) favorite couples in Deanna's many worlds. I fell in love with Sage and August and their romance. I can't wait to read Lily and Braxton's story!! I'm hoping that we'll get to see each of the sisters meet their soulmates. As well as Bethany! A little older aged romance would be awesome!!
Profile Image for Kris.
69 reviews
February 19, 2024
Bafana Bay is the home of the Easton witches. Sage Easton is a workaholic that never takes time for fun.

August West is the local handyman and hottie. He’s had his eye on Sage Easton but never thought she was his type.

In order to get her powers back, her grandmother wants Sage to learn to have fun and not work so hard. She asks August to help her. Will the two make it as a real couple, or just pretend?

Great new stories! Can’t wait to hear about Lily.
Profile Image for Angie.
2,467 reviews3 followers
December 9, 2024
This was such a good book! August helps Sage when she is caught in an embarrassing situation. These two decide to fake date to make Sage's grandmother happy. Sage and August start spending time together and realize they have a lot in common. When August's dad comes back to town and things start getting strange and Sage is pulled into the strangeness. Sage fights to help August. Loved this book! Deanna Chase is one of my favorite authors! Looking forward to reading more of her book!
Profile Image for Kelly.
214 reviews
February 28, 2025
This was a cute, quick read. More like YA. It was fun, but there were too many editing errors for me to give it more stars. Is he running his fingers through his dark hair or his sAndy brown hair? Why use your finger for a toothbrush when she told you there was an extra in the cabinet? Why be so nervous about the island witches when you had no idea they wanted you in the first place - errors like that bug me. It was a fun read but I doubt I’ll read the next ones
Profile Image for Olivia.
47 reviews
December 12, 2025
Other than magic, I’m not quite sure that the book lives up to how it is advertised.

There isn’t much depth to the characters or to their relationships. There isn’t writing falls flat and is most uninteresting.

If you’re looking for a quick read with a cozy story; this has it. But if you’re looking for it to blow your mind and be the 4 Star read that it’s listed as, this probably won’t do that for you.
Profile Image for Brandy Barber.
970 reviews23 followers
October 17, 2023
I was so excited about getting a whole new world from Deanna. This book was great. It had a lot more magic in it then some of the other ones. Still has the small town family vibes going on. We got to see some of our old friends visit from of the other series. It was a very fast read. I read it this weekend. Could not put down.I look forward in seeing Sage and her family in this series grow.
Profile Image for Elisa.
3,232 reviews45 followers
October 18, 2023
Oh I was so excited for my first visit to Befana Bay and as always Deana Chase came through for me with another outstanding story full of wonderful characters and descriptive writing that left me feeling as though I’d really been there.
Sage and August are adorable together they complement each other well and me smile a lot.
Profile Image for Michelle.
41 reviews1 follower
Read
October 22, 2023
The first in a new series! I can’t wait for more.

It’s a light read that draws you into Sage and August’s lives that have now come to intersect even though they’ve live in the same town all their lives. We meet their friends, family and get introduced to some of the town places they enjoy.

Can’t wait for the next one in the series to re-visit Befana Bay and the residents.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews

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