Bat Out of Spell (An Elemental Witches of Eternal Springs Cozy Mystery Book 1)

I have read every Wicked Witches Of The Midwest publication from Amanda M. Lee. I have also read all of her Covenant books, her Charlie Rhodes books, and her Moon Stone Bay books. I have enjoyed them all. I am not, however, enjoying this book. She seems to be recycling entirely too much from her other series for my liking. The main character, Skye, is quite obnoxious. I like the right touch of snark that the characters from Amanda's other books have. Skye is just all snark and immaturity. Who licks someone else's straw? Whereas, I am a fan of Amanda M. Lee in other capacities, I cannot claim to be a fan of this book.

This is the first book in the Elemental Witches of Eternal Springs series. This one is written by Amanda Lee. Skye Thornton, an air witch, is one of the four witches that has been left at Eternal Springs, an island off the New Jersey shore, following a fire that destroyed the St. Joan of Arc's school they attended. The school was built over a passage to the "other side" that if left open could let any kind of creature or problem onto the island. In doing so, the cover for the witches would be blown. Skye is the owner and reporter for The Town Croaker. She is headed to Eternal Springs Spa and Resort for an announcement she is covering for the paper. She suddenly trips over the body of Blair Whitney, one of the resort's frequent guests for plastic surgery touch ups. Skye is the nosy, trouble making witch. She feels it is her duty to find out who murdered this woman. The suspects are many including Blair's daughter, Sheridan Whitney; Sheridan's best friend Rebecca Preston, who is also her father's mistress; Rebecca's mother, Lena Preston and Blair's assistant, Jane Smith. While investigating Blair's death, Skye has to deal with her witch sisters, her mentor Jadis Beasley, her feelings for August Taylor, her familiar Swoops and a stinky creature that has escaped from the other side. This is a humorous cozy mystery and a quick read. I recommend it to the cozy mystery readers.

To start: I hope some of the reviewers who say they're writing off this series reconsider. Two of my favorite authors are writing books three & four and while I've only read a handful of books by author # two, I've enjoyed them tremendously. This book is the first in a four part series. Each book is a standalone but ideas, character growth, story arcs, etc. will crossover between the four books and wanting the complete experience with the series, I bought it even though I'm not a fan of this particular author. It was difficult to get into the flow of the book [there wasn't any] and in the end I skimmed through 2/3 of the book just to know what happened. The main character, as others have noted, seemed incapable of having an adult conversation and was basically unlikable. Yet she had her moments, when she displayed empathy, kindness and intelligence but those were too infrequent to allow the reader care about her. In truth, the way the author wrote all four witches had me worried and wondering why I was reading this series but I trust the rest of the authors will write things differently. In addition to the unlikable main character, the book was choppy [didn't flow as I mentioned earlier] and filled with nasty characters and familiars, unlikable cats [ how does one even do that??] and little information to help make the larger story arc understandable. I get that the author can't give us everything in book one but we need more than what was in here. I would actually have given this 2.5 stars if possible. Partially for when the author allowed Skye's better qualities to show through, as evidenced in the scenes with Skye and Augie later in the book, starting perhaps midway through? I was skimming by then but I would read those scenes and the interactions were nice. In addition, she is kind to animals and a very competent witch capable of handling herself - love that. There just wasn't enough of this to save the book. Finally the whole thing with Dylan - his fascination with these four women "from the convent school" and his willingness to do things he shouldn't do for them in order to extort dates, dances, etc. is beyond creepy and weird. It's wrong on both sides of the aisles and the ick factor is huge. There's a funny way of writing a situation like this but we're not getting it and since this is a plot point that crosses over to the other books, this author is not alone responsible.

Love this new series. Can’t wait to read the next instalment featuring a new witch and a new writer. I have already preordered them all.

Great new book. I know this is supposed to be a one-off book for Amanda M Lee but I can't help but hope there will be more. I loved all of the characters and the story was a hoot. All of the snark and fun you expect. Keep them coming.

It's hard for me to rate this a 3, as I really enjoy all of Amanda M. Lee's series (have read all but the Avery Shaw series), but this one just seemed beneath her writing abilities. The main character seemed more like a teenager, who only cares about herself and to me, that doesn't seem to even resemble any of Amanda's characters. I am not sure I could continue with the series (being unfamiliar with the other 3 authors). I will place them in my wish list and when I finish all of the books I have pending, I might pick this series up again.

I confess to being less than impressed by this story. Skye is a thirty year old woman with the maturity and impulse control of a three year old. Augie seems a bit half-witted; he can't seem to comprehend that Skye is not a nun (don't ask), and their interactions are sophomoric at best. The most worthwhile characters are a bat and a cat! The mystery yields plenty of well-written surprises; however, this is not the author's best work.

As a 32 year old snarky/sarcastic female with a brood of sassy animals, I absolutely loved this story! Skye was relatable, the menagerie was funny, and the plot line was great. I'm currently on book 2 and I'm excited to how the series progresses with the different authors additions! Upon completion, I look forward to reading more of Amanda Lee's stories.

I love the author of this book and couldn't wait to read this. I was not disappointed. The book is snarky and occasionally long winded but it's what I love about this Author any how. Her main characters are always snarky and I enjoy reading 📚 that. It is a nice set up for the series and I can not wait for the rest of the book's. If I had to say a negative and this would only be nit picking us that the book was slow in some areas and to fast in others. I find my self wishing there was a little more of the book. Maybe a little more of the behind story or a little more of the island story. I'm would have loved a little more of Skye family story

It was not well written and the insults were a bit too much. It fell quite short on being amusing and didn't keep my attention at all. Based on this first book of four by different authors, I threw away all four without even bothering with the next 3.

I have read every Wicked Witches Of The Midwest publication from Amanda M. Lee. I have also read all of her Covenant books, her Charlie Rhodes books, and her Moon Stone Bay books. I have enjoyed them all. I am not, however, enjoying this book. She seems to be recycling entirely too much from her other series for my liking. The main character, Skye, is quite obnoxious. I like the right touch of snark that the characters from Amanda's other books have. Skye is just all snark and immaturity. Who licks someone else's straw? Whereas, I am a fan of Amanda M. Lee in other capacities, I cannot claim to be a fan of this book.

This is the first book in the Elemental Witches of Eternal Springs series. This one is written by Amanda Lee. Skye Thornton, an air witch, is one of the four witches that has been left at Eternal Springs, an island off the New Jersey shore, following a fire that destroyed the St. Joan of Arc's school they attended. The school was built over a passage to the "other side" that if left open could let any kind of creature or problem onto the island. In doing so, the cover for the witches would be blown. Skye is the owner and reporter for The Town Croaker. She is headed to Eternal Springs Spa and Resort for an announcement she is covering for the paper. She suddenly trips over the body of Blair Whitney, one of the resort's frequent guests for plastic surgery touch ups. Skye is the nosy, trouble making witch. She feels it is her duty to find out who murdered this woman. The suspects are many including Blair's daughter, Sheridan Whitney; Sheridan's best friend Rebecca Preston, who is also her father's mistress; Rebecca's mother, Lena Preston and Blair's assistant, Jane Smith. While investigating Blair's death, Skye has to deal with her witch sisters, her mentor Jadis Beasley, her feelings for August Taylor, her familiar Swoops and a stinky creature that has escaped from the other side. This is a humorous cozy mystery and a quick read. I recommend it to the cozy mystery readers.

To start: I hope some of the reviewers who say they're writing off this series reconsider. Two of my favorite authors are writing books three & four and while I've only read a handful of books by author # two, I've enjoyed them tremendously. This book is the first in a four part series. Each book is a standalone but ideas, character growth, story arcs, etc. will crossover between the four books and wanting the complete experience with the series, I bought it even though I'm not a fan of this particular author. It was difficult to get into the flow of the book [there wasn't any] and in the end I skimmed through 2/3 of the book just to know what happened. The main character, as others have noted, seemed incapable of having an adult conversation and was basically unlikable. Yet she had her moments, when she displayed empathy, kindness and intelligence but those were too infrequent to allow the reader care about her. In truth, the way the author wrote all four witches had me worried and wondering why I was reading this series but I trust the rest of the authors will write things differently. In addition to the unlikable main character, the book was choppy [didn't flow as I mentioned earlier] and filled with nasty characters and familiars, unlikable cats [ how does one even do that??] and little information to help make the larger story arc understandable. I get that the author can't give us everything in book one but we need more than what was in here. I would actually have given this 2.5 stars if possible. Partially for when the author allowed Skye's better qualities to show through, as evidenced in the scenes with Skye and Augie later in the book, starting perhaps midway through? I was skimming by then but I would read those scenes and the interactions were nice. In addition, she is kind to animals and a very competent witch capable of handling herself - love that. There just wasn't enough of this to save the book. Finally the whole thing with Dylan - his fascination with these four women "from the convent school" and his willingness to do things he shouldn't do for them in order to extort dates, dances, etc. is beyond creepy and weird. It's wrong on both sides of the aisles and the ick factor is huge. There's a funny way of writing a situation like this but we're not getting it and since this is a plot point that crosses over to the other books, this author is not alone responsible.

Love this new series. Can’t wait to read the next instalment featuring a new witch and a new writer. I have already preordered them all.

Great new book. I know this is supposed to be a one-off book for Amanda M Lee but I can't help but hope there will be more. I loved all of the characters and the story was a hoot. All of the snark and fun you expect. Keep them coming.

It's hard for me to rate this a 3, as I really enjoy all of Amanda M. Lee's series (have read all but the Avery Shaw series), but this one just seemed beneath her writing abilities. The main character seemed more like a teenager, who only cares about herself and to me, that doesn't seem to even resemble any of Amanda's characters. I am not sure I could continue with the series (being unfamiliar with the other 3 authors). I will place them in my wish list and when I finish all of the books I have pending, I might pick this series up again.

I confess to being less than impressed by this story. Skye is a thirty year old woman with the maturity and impulse control of a three year old. Augie seems a bit half-witted; he can't seem to comprehend that Skye is not a nun (don't ask), and their interactions are sophomoric at best. The most worthwhile characters are a bat and a cat! The mystery yields plenty of well-written surprises; however, this is not the author's best work.

As a 32 year old snarky/sarcastic female with a brood of sassy animals, I absolutely loved this story! Skye was relatable, the menagerie was funny, and the plot line was great. I'm currently on book 2 and I'm excited to how the series progresses with the different authors additions! Upon completion, I look forward to reading more of Amanda Lee's stories.

I love the author of this book and couldn't wait to read this. I was not disappointed. The book is snarky and occasionally long winded but it's what I love about this Author any how. Her main characters are always snarky and I enjoy reading 📚 that. It is a nice set up for the series and I can not wait for the rest of the book's. If I had to say a negative and this would only be nit picking us that the book was slow in some areas and to fast in others. I find my self wishing there was a little more of the book. Maybe a little more of the behind story or a little more of the island story. I'm would have loved a little more of Skye family story

It was not well written and the insults were a bit too much. It fell quite short on being amusing and didn't keep my attention at all. Based on this first book of four by different authors, I threw away all four without even bothering with the next 3.

When they introduced the Mayor, I started laughing so hard. He reminded me of the governor of my state. I shared that part of the book with other people and they thought the same thing. Thank you Amanda for the laughs. Wish you would do more in this series. It was so fun to read.

Loved the storyline and characters. Was an interesting plot, and really enjoyed the ride as Skye tries to find the murderer. The snarky cat and the self centered bat are funny characters who in the end helped. Looking forward to seeing what happens next with Skye and Augie.

4 witches left on an island to clean up a mess they made is a wonderful premise for a series. Having four truly wonderful writers, write each book is genius. Amanda M. Lee makes great inroads into introducing the four women while concentrating on the wind witch as her main character. Murder, demons, witch craft, an ugly cat and of course a romance.

I really enjoyed reading this tale. A little bit of humor and a LOT of sarcasm have Skye solving a murder with the help of an unlikely partner. First story I have read by the author. Likely will not be the last.

A good murder mystery and had me guessing the wrong murder. I was so sure she confessed and it was misunderstood. Love Swoops and Tut.

This was an entertaining book with lots of twist plots, quirky characters, and loads of snark and humor. I highly reccomend this book and this author.

I have enjoyed everything I have read from this author and the first installment in this shared world is no exception. This was a fun read with quirky characters, murder, snark, and a bit of romance! I can't wait to read the others in this shared world.

I wasn't sure about this book at first. I think it was because the heroine was so sarcastic. I don't mind some sarcasm, but she seemed to overdo it. As the story progressed, I liked her more, and enjoyed her growing relationship with her fella. She solved the crime, and tied up some ends too. Overall, I enjoyed the ebook.

Each character is written by a different author, which works very well - each author has their own voice, yet the series holds together and the characters blend very well.

Happy I finally bought this series. Sad I didn't do it sooner. Good mystery, fun characters. I love how Amanda has developed the beginning of the series. Looking forward to book 2.

This author draws out the characters and breathtaking descriptions,weaving a superb written story!😍BUY THIS BOOK NOW!😍 I VERY MUCH RECOMMEND THIS BOOK! BUY THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW!😍

I enjoyed the plot to this and I love Skye's attitude. Hopefully we'll get more of Skye and Augie at some point

I really loved reading this is . It keeps you on your toes and it makes you think. Amanda you are great.

This book was a little difficult to get into but once I got use to the characters it was enjoyable. Now I am going to start the next book in the st.

She stumbles over a dead body and the story escalates. She has a pet bat and a monster in her wishing well. She has a murder to solve and life to live a a witch among humans. Mystery is solved and romance begins. What fun.

Good book

The elemental witches are hysterical! I read all four books by the four authors and loved it.

In my opinion not up to Amanda’s usual writing skills. I really like her other stories, snark included. Still clean cut murder mystery Witchy style.

Amanda M Lee is one of my favorite authors---especially for the not too serious , witchy, cozy, snarky, slightly romantic type book. Which this is. The main character is one of four witches left in a small town on an island to guard some type of paranormal gate. For the first half of the book, she seems all too full of herself and almost hatefully snarky and full of regret, anger and fight. From a writer's standpoint , I know that leaves grow room and even before the novel ends, she begins to do so. Her name is Skye and her sparring partner/love interest is a guy named Augie.It is interesting that he is not a cop but security chief for a the island's money making resort. A nasty monster --Tim-- makes an appearance just long enough to let the reader know that bad things do cross over from another dimension. We also briefly meet the other three witches who will have their stories told by other authors in this series. I love author Danielle Garrett also, and she is up next. looking forward to the rest of the series.

Cute series

Love this series - awaiting next book with impatience now

Enjoyed reading the first book in this sweet, the characters were fun to get to know as were the familiars.

Thank you Amanda for another great read!! I can't wait to read the next in this !!! I just loved the bat!!

Really well written and I look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series. I also loved the Moonstone Bay books.

I enjoyed this book and its wacky characters.

Fun,entertaining fast light read. Makes me wAnt to read another witchy adventure. Especially loved the pet bat and hairless cat.

Fabulous. Okay this might not be for everyone but I loved it. She is one of the 4 witches left to guard the gate against invasion after they burnt down the school where they were learning magic. She is air, has a foul mouth, thinks a lot of herself and has a bat familiar that is just too keen on corned beef hash. When she literally falls over a dead body her sense of wanting answers kick in. After all as a reporter (the only one) she feels it's her duty to investigate especially when no-one else does. Her magic often goes awry and she has a strange fixation with the security manager. Can the two of them find out how the murder happened? Who was responsible? Why? And perhaps add a new dimension to their fixation? A great plot filled with nice red herrings and lots of humour. Loved the characters - a really diverse mix so that every reader will have someone they like.

Bat Out of Spell is Book 1 in the Elemental Witches of Eternal Springs Series , a series written by four different wonderful authors. In this first book we are introduced to Eternal Springs, home to four very different witches. In this book we meet Skye Thornton who is an air witch with a snarky sarcastic attitude who also happens to be a reporter, which seem to go hand and hand. She also has a bat , snoops as a familiar. I really enjoy the aspect of a non traditional familiar. Skye trips over a dead body in the towns resort, and is determined to find out who the murderer is. Not to mention a little romance with Augie, the security guard. We are introduced to the other three witches which will be explored more in the next three books in the Elemental Witches of Eternal Springs Series. This is such a great fun read. Amanda M. Lee really does a great job setting the scene for this series.

I'm a huge fan of Amanda Lee and I've read most of her series, Mystic Caravans, The Witches of the Midwest and Grimlock series being my fav. I've also read Covenant College & Avery Shaw where I didn't think she shined as bright but were still readable offerings. In general , I think Lee shines brightest when her writing focuses on the supernatural; it's where her creativity really comes out. I believe in the other series, her creativity combined with these elements, a gift for creating likeable characters and filing the dialogue with witty repartee, snark and humor has made many of her books such favorites of mine I actually reread them, something I reserve for a very few novels. It seems from the start of this series that's it being used mainly as vehicle to explore some plots that wouldn't work into the Midwest Witches world bc from the start the similiarites are evident. The setting is a touristy small town where 4 young witches have been "condemned" to reside bc of some school accident that causes a vague, nebulous result we never get any real details about. This first book features Skye, an air witch. I think one of the reasons this book doesn't gel for me is the four witches aren't really even friends and the book when showing them interact it's always very antagonist; each witch is almost a walking stereotype and part of the charm of the other series I realized is the sense of family they all share which is lacking in this one. Skye's behavior echoes Aisling Grimlock but we don't really know why she acts so immature and antagonistic at this time. My hope is future books in the series will better flesh out the characters bc the plot, storyline while it's familiar to anyone who reads Lee's work is one we're used to her doing well when she creates protagonists / heroines that happen to be reporters.

I can't believe this was written by Amanda Lee. I love her work and usually can't wait for her next book, however I couldn't even finish this one. Normally the main character's sarcastic humor is hilarious, but she was just annoying and describing the romantic interest as a guy who wears black socks with sandals is just wrong! I am used to her male characters as being the strong attractive type. Might have gotten better if I could have gotten past the first few chapters. I really hope this is not the direction Amanda Lee is taking her writing. There is enough of these types of "cozy" mysterys out there, I really hope that the author stays with writing more like her Grim series as well as all her other series that I absolutely love and give five stars for.

If you love an intriguing, snarky, sarcastic Cozy Paranormal Mystery — then you’ll have a blast with the beginning story in the multi-author series Elemental Witches of Eternal Falls. Amanda M. Lee starts us off with Bat Out of Spell, one funny, snarky story that kept me in giggles throughout the entire story. I will mention that Amanda M. Lee’s sense of humor isn’t for everyone, she even says that plain as day within this book. But if you have one of those quirky funny bones that lives for well placed sarcasm and just the right touch of snark, then you’ll feel right at home here. After an “incident” at a witchy school more than a decade ago, four elemental witches have been left behind in Eternal Springs to make certain that absolutely nothing escapes through that portal… nothing. These ladies cannot leave the island, and no one can know that they are actually witches set in place as guardians. So their lives are restricted in some ways, but full in others – and really, being stuck on an island is all that you make it. And, besides, if you have a bat familiar who loves corned beef hash, then you’re already ahead of the “unusual” grid. Skye is probably the most sarcastic person on the island, and she’s quite proud of that fact. Her relationship with the other witches left behind is, at times, uneasy – and she certainly knows how to get the townsfolk up in arms with her nosiness and constant questions. It should be no real surprise that Skye actually tripped over a dead body – and of course, she had to figure out whodunit. I had fun with this one, and I actually wasn’t even trying to solve the mystery – I was having too much fun giggling at Skye and Swoops, Hut and Augie. If you love Cozy Paranormal Mysteries, then I’d definitely recommend Bat Out of Spell. It’s a great start and now I’m off to pick up the next story, Spell on Earth. I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited.

I pondered over how to rate this. I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and it came at a perfect time in my life when I needed something "cozy and fun" to take my mind off reality. As a fellow writer, I cringed to see so many words and phrases misused though (spell check typos likely, but should have been caught by any editor). But also as a writer, I believe that good story lines, good characters and good dialogue should be applauded in today's world where everyone not only believes they have a story to tell but that it takes no real talent to tell it. Ms. Lee definitely DOES have talent. I hope she continues to hone it. I'll be back for more. (If you want editing suggestions, leave a note here and I'll contact you. No fee. We have to help each other!)

Skye is one of the four witches who are stuck living on this island to protect the locals from anything that accidentally comes through a portal that she and the other three mistakenly opened when they also messed up and burned down the witch school. Her familiar is a bat called Swoops that she can talk to telepathically. The banter between them is great and adds to the humor in the story. Plus, the fact they're all stuck together on this island where they can barely stand each other adds to the wit. I love all these books. Each one is well written and told from the point of view of one the four witches. Super entertaining.

Always glad to find a new series from Amanda M. Lee, and this one's a bit different. It is a four book series and only book one (this one) is by Amanda. The books are about four witches who have been incarcerated at Eternal Springs Cove to guard against incursions from other realms. They got this duty, because they have been blamed for the portal even existing. This book is the usual snarky, fun tale Amanda spins, although since she isn't setting up a character to continue for the duration of the series it didn't have the usual depth for me. Still good fun, and since it is KU I will be checking out the other books by the other authors.

First off, I am an Amanda M. Lee fan. If you're not a fan of snarky, breezy dialogue, protagonists with attitude, and a light-hearted approach to magic and murder, then this book may not be for you. Ms. Lee skillfully sets the stage for the four-book series with her usual dexterity. I have read the first two books now, and my impression is that readers may simply continue to like those authors whose previous novels they enjoyed. I completely disagree with the reviewer who disliked this one but promises better to come in the second volume. It's great that these four authors are trying to flesh out Elemental Springs in concert with one another, despite their stylistic differences. I think it's an island well worth exploring!

I agree with others. Although I usually enjoy ms. Lee's stories, I just couldn't do this.. Didn't like the writing, the main character or the story. Gave up about halfway thru.

I'd be inclined to go 3-1/2 stars if possible, but I'll round up. It took me a while to warm up to this main character. Really ... just how many snarky, busybody witches who use being a journalist as a reason to stick their noses in where they don't belong does the literary world actually need? (Evidently, always one more than already exist.) But towards the last quarter of the book, I rather started to enjoy the story, and the ending was most satisfactory. Extremely glad the series is on KU so I don't have to decide if it is worth the price of the ebook.

I am a big fan of Amanda Lee, but this one miss the mark completely. At first it was funny and a little snarky except it just got worse.. The main character is ALL snark and sarcasm. She can not speak to anyone in a civil manner. The familiars are just as bad. I didn't like anyone in this book and could not care less what happens to them. After a third of the book I gave up and moved on to other more entertaining reads.

Really thought I’d like this series but way to much snark and belligerent attitudes from main characters take it to far. They do not relate to each other, straining the plot line thin. Also authors choice of familiars does not improve the overall feel of this book. 😟

First a disclaimer of sorts, I really enjoy Amanda Lee’s books and have read 3 of her other series. That being said I may give her more leeway than someone who hasn’t read her other books. It took me a bit longer to “get into” this book than most of her books and I really wanted to know the underlying premise of Eternal Springs earlier in the book. She did have the “hard part” of needing to introduce the 4 key players for the series. I did enjoy the 2nd half of the book more than the beginning. I think the premise of 4 writers getting together to write a series is really fun and I’m looking forward to reading the other 3 books.

What happened? Four great writers get together and...fall flat. I had such hopes for this series and have been left underwhelmed. The characters aren't the least bit sympathetic. They're barely civil to one another, sisters in craft left behind to guard and island from the depths of disaster. The touches of romance were tossed in for goodness knows why, because these women aren't likable. Why 3 stars? Because I love all of these authors. And because it was a good idea. Unfortunately, that good idea didn't live up to its potential.

I just love Amanda’s books. I have read The Wicked Witches of the West series (which is my favorite.) and her Moonstone Bay series which was great. I am hoping she writes more on that one. When I saw this one I had to try it. I just love her snarky heroines. If you like some magic and even snarkiest familiars try this out. You won’t be disappointed.

I really like the snarky parts of this book. I was happy with the reason for the 3 witches to stay on the island and the mystery of the murder of one of the characters in the book. I enjoy the comedy and mysterious ways of the story as told by one of the witches. Anyone who loves to laugh and read an amusing story of mystery and magic should read this book. It is full of questions about what happened and why, there is even a little love interest going on as well.🤗

I adore Amanda M. Lee and will read anything she writes. I really enjoyed this story and thought it felt unique from her other series. I loved the pet/familiar bat concept as well as the spells. I also liked that her higschool nemesis turned out to be the love interest--a fun twist! My only complaint is that I want more+ of Skye! I know she will likely be feature din the other books, but I want more of her and Augie! Hopefully these authors do another round of stories!

I like Amanda Lee's books, especially the wicked Witches series. I just couldn't get into this book. There were too many strange characters and the heroine was just too snarky and unpleasant. I couldn't finish it.

Reading through the reviews, it seems like some readers just didn't warm to the protagonist, Skye. She is definitely full of snark and mocks almost everyone and everything. The author really went all out this time in making Skye purely fun. Becoming flippant and sarcastic would probably be my own reaction to being confined on an island with the same people, so I got a laugh out of her attitude. I hope the other three in the series are as good!

Skye Thornton is an air witch, with a cute little bat for a familiar. Swoops, the bat, loves corn beef hash. I totally dig the bat! Skye is doing her reporter thing when she trips over a dead body. She also has to protect a magical vortex that could let monsters out. So, you know... busy. Skye and Augie keep snipping at each other. It's going to be one of those weeks. Enjoy.

It took me a while to warm up to Skye, once I realized her abrasive behavior was a way of protecting herself, I was able to relate to her. Swipes is funny, I liked him from the beginning! Tut is...interesting. Angie reminds me of someone, I love how he pushes all of Skye's buttons and keeps her on her toes. Overall, it was a light, easy-going read. I've never read anything by the authors of the rest of the series. I hope they are as entertaining as this was.

The story was interesting, the character was well written, ( she was supposed to be irritating and snarky) In fact I kind of wanted to smack her up side the head. lol I thought the idea of having a bat for a familiar was kind of cool. I think the witches need a break so I hope the budding romance eventually blooms. I enjoyed this book and think many others will also. I read this on kindle unlimited.

I’m at about 80% of this book, but I’m wondering if there’s another series that talks about the school that burns down? It’s talked about like I should know this already. I’m not liking this book as much of some of the other series, but I’ll read them all anyhow. (Currently it’s this or a book about intermittent fasting... and really, that’s 16 hours you don’t eat and 8 hours that you do.)

I don't mind a little snark and love most of this author's books. I did have to stop the Avery Shaw series- the main character was just annoying and unlikable. This character is on the edge of that- she definitely seems to have a lot of difficult interactions, but I liked her relationship with Augie and I would like to see where their relationship goes, I would like to read another book on these characters. I will try the others in the series but I would like more too these characters story.

I have enjoyed everything else that I have read by Amanda Lee, but the protagonist of this story just hit me wrong. She wasn't fun and sassy like the leads in other Lee books. Instead she struck me as delusional and having few if any redeeming qualities. I didn't like her and wouldn't care to read anything else with her as a main character.

An interesting concept for a series, this book is the first of a four book series with each book about a different witch, and written by a different author. It is a murder mystery and by gosh, a romance as well. A snarky witchy with a moral compass is an unusual combination. Add to that a bat familiar that seems to always get his way, and some leftover Sphinx cat familiar who comes and goes as they please, and you have the foundation for a lot of funny situations. Can't wait for the next book in the series!

I would have much more interest in continuing this series if any of the four heroines were written as nice people. It's difficult enough to read one book where the main character is an annoying brat, I'm not sure I can be bothered to read any more of them.

Interesting experiment to have a series written by four authors. This being the first, wonder if the other bus will focus on each of the other witches. A complex back story, of how and why these 4 young witches had to stay on an island after their high school burned, to "clean up," never came clear to me.

I tried this series because I am a fan of the other authors in the collective but this was a terrible start. The heroine is genuinely unlikable. She's rude, overly-sarcastic, lazy and arrogant. Not a good combo. I didn't find one redeeming quality and reading about her was painful. If I were you I'd skip over this one to the next in the series. I wish I had.

I like Amanda M. Lee sometimes but I couldn't get past page 15 on this one. It annoyed me. Too sophmoric.

A fantastic start to an awesome new series! I love Skye and Swoops and can't wait to read more about them in the next three books.

Could not like this book. When she used the word Nazi so casually . Offended me and I do like otherbooks by this auther. Only read about 10 pages and stopped . Not wasting my time.

i love books that hold me. these books are so cute, except the murder of course, but i love the whole way it is written and have trouble putting it down and doing what i am supposed to. Truly enjoyed it.

Read this through Kindle Unlimited. Even though I didn't pay attention to the author writing this first book, I knew that it was Amanda M Lee a chapter in. Her writing style is recognizable. I enjoyed the characters and am interested in what the next author does with them. The corner beef hash was a tad on overkill but only marginally so.

Amanda Lee's characters are growing and getting better the more she writes. I would like to see her get over her facination with the guy always has to protect the girl. I would love it if she reversed course and had a character that would try to protect the guy for a change.

Great beginning to a new series. Looks like there will be several authors writing in this series. Neat! Can't wait for the next one.

Well written cozy mystery with a little paranaormal activity. Strong main character who is a witch living in a resort town with her pet bat. Full of humor and cozy mystery style suspense.

This book is funny, entertaining and not very very realistic. But if you';re reading Amanda Lee Iee i'm sure you're not looking for realistic just fun. This book does not disappoint. It's a great new world with wonderful new characters. If you're up for a snarky good time grab this book quickly!

I‘m reading all of the author’s books in this series and it’s hard to stop and take a break. It’s extremely hard to find such an interesting and exciting author who not only writes intelligently but also provides top rated plots, characters and excitement in the stories.

The "main character" was unpleasant and didn't even have something nice to say for the characters that were trying to be supportive of her trauma. Her behavior was immature. I was unable to finish this book. It didn't have any redeeming qualities. Sorry, I really wanted to like it.

Amanda M Lee is FUNNY!!!! I laughed until I peed and then I laughed again!! Several times I have been caught laughing out loud in public because of these stories. I love the attitude the snark and the sarcasm of these independent, wonderful women and I especially love the men who log them. Looking forward to the next one..

Fortunately the constant snarkiness in the first part of the story almost turned me off to this book. I’m glad it didn’t. It definitely did go along way toward getting us started and understanding better the people involved. I’m looking forward to the next box.

I can honestly say that I usually enjoy Amanda M Lee characters, but I didnt enjoy Skye until around the 8th chapter. I enjoy snark and she was definitely snarky but she wasnt very likable. However, in true Lee fashion I began to root for the heroine and hoped that she got a happy ending. Cant wait to see what the other authors do in this series.

I'm easy because I'll read anything Amanda writes. This latest book is a hit and I'm really looking forward to the others in the world and Amanda again, Keep it up!

I like the snark and humor in this book. The mystery kept me guessing until the end, which is unusual and much appreciated. Kind of disappointed to realize the next book doesn’t follow this character but will give it a shot anyway.

Didn't care for this series too much. Maybe I'm just getting tired of reading about her characters running their tongues over their teeth when they think....ugh, horrible mind picture. Yeah, I'm done with this author, time to move on.

Take a murder, a mistress, a daughter and the cheating husband. Add a hairless cat, a corn beef has living bat, and four witches and a prospective boyfriend. Be ready for lots of laughs during this cute book one of the four book series.

This work is a quirky, fun read. The underlying premise is off-beat and the follow-ins are hilarious. Start with a corned beef hash eating pet bat and add in a smelly escaped monster and you have a delightful summer adventure.

I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline. A fun read. I will pick up the next in in this series!

The book was different .I like how you got to know The characters. Made me want to read about The other witches. The bat was funny especially because he want corn beef hash which my kids called dog food when I gave it to them for dinner.

I'm on the fence with this one. I love the Avery Shaw series but find the Charlie Rhodes character pretty flat and one dimensional. This book seems to combine both characters with iffy results. It doesn't help that the supporting characters are a bit of a bore (here's the dash of Covenant College. Amanda Lee is a very talented and prolific writer using name and another (Lily Harper Hart) but the stories for all characters are getting too formulaic and repetitive. I'd like to see a new character and crew that channels all that talent into one off the chart smart-ass with equally fun cast characters instead of spreading her talent too thin.

It was fun. Kinda slow in the mystery area but I liked the author's take in the romance domain. Premise on why the four witches are in residence needs a broader explanation, I opine beause Amazon asked.

Have been looking forward to reading this new series from some of my favorite authors. Amanda M. Lee once again delivers a fun story of magic and witches and snark - and solves a mystery at the same time. Love it and looking forward to the rest of the series.

I love Amanda Lee and her books (maybe not every series, but more than a few to say I'm a fan). I can't wait to see what the other authors bring! Waiting (impatiently) for more!

As usual I have to say you can't go wrong with any of Amanda's series.Her sense of humor is always fun and interesting.Her characters are unique and individual to each series. Great first I always look forward to each new book.

I was a little disappointed in this story by Amanda Lee. Normally I love all her storylines and characters but this one just didn't grab my mind like others. I generally devour her books but this was felt off and took me days to finish.

I have read all of Amanda M. Lee's books and this is the first one I have not just loved. It does get better at the end, but Skye is really hard to like! I am hoping book 2 is better.

I was beginning to wonder about our heroine, how anybody could put up with her, but she did redeem herself nicely. The story is a page-turner. The setting and characters and backstory are intriguing. I look forward to more by this author as well as more in this quadrilogy(?) fourplexity(?) series.

I like her style. She doesn't give you a headache with too many plot twists. She is fun, give her a read.

Kind of a fun story. A little wordier than her usual style but still a good read. Unfortunately the next book in the series was quite a disappointment. Very wordy and repetitive. Also, characters from the first book, when mentioned at all, were not consistent with the first book!! Stopped after 2!

This is the first book I’ve read by Amanda Lee. I LOVED it! The snarkiness of the characters is right up my alley and I can’t wait to read more books by her. Now on to the other Elemental Witch books!

Snarky and sarcastic, fun and cozy mystery? Yaaass witchy, give me more!! Loving the series so far, I'm on to the next one now!

This is a typical Amanda Lee book with her fantastic snark and wit. Skye is the reporter and a guardian witch of a town that she put in jeopardy back in high school. She decides to investigate a murder and also trade witty barbs with the local resort head of security. It was fun and enjoyable!

Great story with a great cast of characters if I knew which he cozy mystery series written by four different offers from the points of view of four different which is in the same timeline. Book number one is awesome I cannot wait to read book number two. Definitely a fun read check it out

The story was cute. I plan to read another one. I did have trouble staying focused on the story in places. The book put me to sleep several nights.

I would expect nothing less than a great new series by Amanda Lee. This was fun and very enjoyable. Looking forward to more!

The characters are ridiculous and any actual character is lost in the never-ending silly dialogue. Truly a book not worth wasting time on. I actually like this author, but not this time.

Amanda M Lee is hard put to write a bad book. Almost everything she does is entertaining with delightful characters. This was not my favorite of her books. But I’m slowly working my way through her inventory. Worth the read though.

I always love to read a book by Ms. Adams because you know it will involve lot of snark, lots of smiling, and a very happy ending. She definitely hit the mark with this book.

I love all of the witch books. The snark is so funny, I have spent the past few weeks reading all your books.

Somwhat slow at the start. Looking forward to read next book. Curious to seeif their relationship works out. More to come

Funny and very entertaining. Easy read and great imagination. Very descriptive and visual. looking forward to reading the next book.

I really enjoyed the start of this new series. I like the characters and storyline. Swoops and Tut are something else 😂. I look forward to the next adventure for Skye and her fellow witches! Great job!

If you enjoy snark and humor with a twist of paranormal, this is a fun and enjoyable read. Yes I would recommend this book no question about it . In fact I also purchased the audible version gotta love Whisper-Sync. This was a solid four star book.

I have read almost everything else that Ms. Lee has written, and while I don't love snark and sarcasm just for the sake of snark and sarcasm, I've enjoyed her other works. But what I found missing in this work, was that it was *all* snark and sarcasm, but no warmth or humor to make the character likeable. I made it about 1/3 of the way through, when I finally gave up. I realized that I did not like the character, I didn't care about her story, and I found her mannerisms too irritating. Hopefully the rest of the series, by the other authors, will be better

Quick little story, left a lot hanging with the characters. No in-depth connection. Almost like they wanted to build a four book series between the other writers but didn’t quite no how. Left you wanting so much more between to potential love interest and the other witches.

Fun, easy read with a real cast of characters. If you need a distraction from the stress of everyday life, this is the place to go.

New series. New couple. New witches. New paranormals. Think this just might be another good series that might get added to my favorites list.

Love this story. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. The characters are great and the animals make you want to run out and get one of your own.

Totally different from many of her stories in that the heroine is almost unlikable she is so caustic. Then the story progresses and you begin to feel her emotions.

Plenty of Ms Lee's humor which is terrific. Lots of suspense, drama and suspects in this whodunit. I like the romance too.

Amanda does a good mystery and I enjoyed reading about this new set of witches. I look forward to the others in this series by other authors I enjoy!

This is a really good book. The storyline kept me on my toes. I can't wait for the next book by my favorite author.

This book if filled with witt and plenty of sarcasm. I loved the bat and cat. Looking forward to reading the next book. I love corned beef hash !!!!

I do love this new series.

I enjoyed this book and its world building. I especially love getting to see how each of the 4 witches interact. Can't wait to see the characters from the viewpoint of the other authors.

Lots of fun ! I enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next 3 books in the series. All being written by great authors.

I love her sarcastic sense of humor. It's so different from her other stories and it caught my full attention right away . My humor runs along these lines as well, so I am definitely going to enjoy the next three books.

Funny, light reading book.

Bat out of a spell was funny, with a lot of good snark and sarcasm! Made me laugh out loud a couple of times. Good characters, interesting plot, and easy to read! Highly recommend this book.

This was a fun and entertaining read. Skye has tons of sass and it’s amusing. Lots of potential to grow and get into more interesting situations.

She solved a murder, saved the world, and started a romance at the same time. Maybe my problem is I don't bumble.

I am a big fan of ms. Lee. I have almost all her books and each one is just fun to read!

Premise of the story is good a little bit slow on the start . First one of Ms. Lee's books that I've had trouble getting started on but ended extremely well . Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series

I read the book. Enjoyable read.

It wasn't up to the same standards as the wickedest witches of the midwest stories. And truthfully was the first book by this author that I didn't devour in 1 sitting. I had to force myself to go back to it

This book is no exception. It's funny and engaging. I liked the characters and the plot. I'm looking forward to the next in the series.

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Good read lots of fun with plenty of humor and action love the storyline and the interaction between the characters and even the crazy bat named swoops

Great book by one of my favorite authors. I highly recommend all her friend's (series'?). Anywa y, great story, looking forward to this new series.

Can’t wait for another!

If you like her style, you will love her stories! Her books are not for everyone but they captured me.