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Familiar Kitten Mysteries #1
Black Magic Kitten
Welcome to Coventry
Kinsley Skeenbauer never thought she would go home. At seventeen, she’d left Coventry and didn’t look back. But after a messy divorce, she packed up her stuff and drove toward the only place that she knew would accept her.
Life hadn’t been easy for Kinsley since she left town. Despite wanting a family desperately, she was childless. She had a college degree but had just been fired… again…
She’d spent her entire adult life rebelling against what she was, and that meant hiding her true self from the world. Kinsley left Coventry on a mission to be ordinary.
But you know what they say about the best-laid plans…
Coventry isn’t your typical small town. It’s home to the most powerful family of witches in the world. Two ancient witch families united when her parents married, and she was supposed to be their leader.
Nobody ever asked Kinsley if that’s what she wanted, though. Funny how the universe worked because there she was divorced, childless, and jobless… again… rolling into Coventry in her broken-down car with a U-Haul full of everything she owned.
The joyous welcome home party was short-lived, because a dead guy turned up, of all places, behind the diner.
Of course, the town’s hunky sheriff starts to give Kinsley the side-eye. But, a lot of people wanted the victim dead, and that only complicates the investigation.
There’s a murderer on the loose in Coventry, and Kinsley’s got to learn to harness her powers to avoid the killer’s snare.
Oh! And, then there’s Meri, the black cat familiar. Someone decides to grant him one wish for his faithful service to his coven, and it doesn’t go as planned either…
Welcome back to Coventry. The events in this story take place thirteen years after the final scene the Wicked Witches of Coventry series. It can be fully enjoyed on its own and is suitable for all ages. You’ll find no swearing, gore, or adult situations, but you will find magic, mystery, and a hint of lighthearted mayhem.
Kinsley Skeenbauer never thought she would go home. At seventeen, she’d left Coventry and didn’t look back. But after a messy divorce, she packed up her stuff and drove toward the only place that she knew would accept her.
Life hadn’t been easy for Kinsley since she left town. Despite wanting a family desperately, she was childless. She had a college degree but had just been fired… again…
She’d spent her entire adult life rebelling against what she was, and that meant hiding her true self from the world. Kinsley left Coventry on a mission to be ordinary.
But you know what they say about the best-laid plans…
Coventry isn’t your typical small town. It’s home to the most powerful family of witches in the world. Two ancient witch families united when her parents married, and she was supposed to be their leader.
Nobody ever asked Kinsley if that’s what she wanted, though. Funny how the universe worked because there she was divorced, childless, and jobless… again… rolling into Coventry in her broken-down car with a U-Haul full of everything she owned.
The joyous welcome home party was short-lived, because a dead guy turned up, of all places, behind the diner.
Of course, the town’s hunky sheriff starts to give Kinsley the side-eye. But, a lot of people wanted the victim dead, and that only complicates the investigation.
There’s a murderer on the loose in Coventry, and Kinsley’s got to learn to harness her powers to avoid the killer’s snare.
Oh! And, then there’s Meri, the black cat familiar. Someone decides to grant him one wish for his faithful service to his coven, and it doesn’t go as planned either…
Welcome back to Coventry. The events in this story take place thirteen years after the final scene the Wicked Witches of Coventry series. It can be fully enjoyed on its own and is suitable for all ages. You’ll find no swearing, gore, or adult situations, but you will find magic, mystery, and a hint of lighthearted mayhem.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2020
About the author
Sara Bourgeois
201 books311 followersSara Bourgeois is a Midwesterner through and through. She spends her time writing, reading, herding cats, and standing in her driveway during tornado warnings. (You can't see them from the basement.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 370 reviews
August 2, 2020
This book is the first book of a series that caught my eye for a few reasons, chief among them is I love anything involving magic and/or witchy stuff, and throw in a cat, and you've got me hooked.
I did read one review which said she recommended reading the author's first series which introduces the star of this particular series (Kinsley)'s parents, Brighton Tuttlesmith & Remy Skeenbauer; however I did not do that as I had already started this book and was enjoying it. You may want to consider her recommendation; however, I had no problems with this being the first in a new series and found it quite easy to surmise what happened in Kinsley's past.
In this story, Kinsley is returning to the only place she knows she will be accepted (Coventry), having fled 13 years prior. Coventry is anything but an ordinary little town - it positively reeks with magic (which means I would love to be there myself). Kinsley ran away at age 17, away from what she was destined to be, and now she's back, having been fired from yet another job, and still childless and single. Kinsley will soon find out you can run away for a while but destiny always wins in the end.
Right off the bat, Kinsley finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation, having found the body of a much-despised local resident behind a diner. With so many who would have wished this despicable man dead, who finally did the deed? Although there is a murder right off the bat, this book is so much more than that. I don't read murder mysteries much, but this one doesn't become obsessed with any gory details; rather, its focus is on the townspeople, their magical past, an unknown future, and of course Kinsley and her familiar - my dream - a talking cat!
I did read one review which said she recommended reading the author's first series which introduces the star of this particular series (Kinsley)'s parents, Brighton Tuttlesmith & Remy Skeenbauer; however I did not do that as I had already started this book and was enjoying it. You may want to consider her recommendation; however, I had no problems with this being the first in a new series and found it quite easy to surmise what happened in Kinsley's past.
In this story, Kinsley is returning to the only place she knows she will be accepted (Coventry), having fled 13 years prior. Coventry is anything but an ordinary little town - it positively reeks with magic (which means I would love to be there myself). Kinsley ran away at age 17, away from what she was destined to be, and now she's back, having been fired from yet another job, and still childless and single. Kinsley will soon find out you can run away for a while but destiny always wins in the end.
Right off the bat, Kinsley finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation, having found the body of a much-despised local resident behind a diner. With so many who would have wished this despicable man dead, who finally did the deed? Although there is a murder right off the bat, this book is so much more than that. I don't read murder mysteries much, but this one doesn't become obsessed with any gory details; rather, its focus is on the townspeople, their magical past, an unknown future, and of course Kinsley and her familiar - my dream - a talking cat!
October 27, 2020
A decent start to the series.
There were a lot of good things about the book but not enough red herrings or ambivant answers from the suspects. I felt that area could be stronger. Otherwise the writing was easy to read except for a sentence or two, and the characters likable. It feels like it might have had a lot edited out but it' hard to tell.
There were a lot of good things about the book but not enough red herrings or ambivant answers from the suspects. I felt that area could be stronger. Otherwise the writing was easy to read except for a sentence or two, and the characters likable. It feels like it might have had a lot edited out but it' hard to tell.
August 28, 2020
I got this book because A) it was free and B) the kitten on the cover was adorable. In the book, I still liked the kitten even if he was grumpy. I loved the house too, I thought that was brilliant. And I loved the history of all that magic in your family line. However, there’s so much the author doesn’t explain, which is kind of frustrating. Kinsley was hard for me to relate to, you don’t learn a ton about her before she dives on into an investigation that she really had no rights to pursue, considering she isn’t law enforcement. I also didn’t really understand the part with the vampires. Leading up to something in a future book, maybe? All in all, a quick, easy, cozy mystery that is a nice ball of fluff but not really my cuppa tea.
August 20, 2021
8 books in and I felt I should warn people about this series
1. The main female character is weak and pitiful. Pathetic.
2. The main male character(s) are emotionally abusive.
3. For a book about witches, there is very little magic.
4. The main character is supposed to be the most powerful witch in the world, but she never does anything with it. Ever.
5. All relationships in the book, except Kinsley's Mom and Dad, are male dominated and controlled. (Well, other than the gay couple but their relationship isn't healthy either)
Only saving grace: The Kitten is Cute.
1. The main female character is weak and pitiful. Pathetic.
2. The main male character(s) are emotionally abusive.
3. For a book about witches, there is very little magic.
4. The main character is supposed to be the most powerful witch in the world, but she never does anything with it. Ever.
5. All relationships in the book, except Kinsley's Mom and Dad, are male dominated and controlled. (Well, other than the gay couple but their relationship isn't healthy either)
Only saving grace: The Kitten is Cute.
September 2, 2021
Black Magic Kitten is a cute, cosy, murder mystery, semi-romance novel that involves a witch and a snarky feline familiar whose wish doesn't quite turn out the way he wanted. The cat is the best part of this novel. I found the investigative work to be simplistic and implausible () and the conclusion to be rushed and too convenient .
October 21, 2020
A cute cozy mystery. A lady returns home for a fresh start. Only to find a dead body on the first night. Her cat stays by her side to protect her. this clean fun cozy has mystery, magic, romance, witches, ghosts, and vampire bikers. Also Meri the cat turned kitten. I hope to get to read more of this series.
July 12, 2022
This was ok but it didn’t hook me. Insta-love doesn’t do it for me. I’m not living these characters unfortunately and that makes me sad.
August 30, 2020
Black Kitten is cute
Mari reminds me of Salem from Sabrina TV show. Kelsey comes home after a divorce. She finds a dead body. She and Meri solve the muder
Mari reminds me of Salem from Sabrina TV show. Kelsey comes home after a divorce. She finds a dead body. She and Meri solve the muder
August 11, 2021
I liked Meri, the black magic kitten. Other things, not really, sorry
October 31, 2020
Entertaining and fun
I think this book will appeal to anyone that likes paranormal cozy stories. The character development allows the reader to become a part of the story. Not to give anything away...but the kitten is a hoot.
I think this book will appeal to anyone that likes paranormal cozy stories. The character development allows the reader to become a part of the story. Not to give anything away...but the kitten is a hoot.
November 8, 2020
Cute Witch Cozy Mystery
Fun, cute, and humorous mystery set in the small magical town of Coventry. Plus, there is romance. The blossoming relationship between Kinsley and Thorn that weaves its way beautifully into the suspenseful murder investigation is exciting and cheer worthy. A jump straight into the second book is definitely needed.
However, I took two stars away for the following reasons:
1. Poor writing, mostly when it comes to conversations. a. You need tags when there are more than two characters on the scene or no one will know who is saying what. b. You switch from dad to Remy. I am sure Kinsley doesn't refer to her father by name. c. Use movements and expressions when characters speak so they don't come off as cardboard cutouts. d. It is possible to show characters walking or driving as they talk and go about their day so they don't suddenly appear somewhere else.
2. Clear lack of editing and proofreading. I honestly don't think there was any. a. There are a handful of places with no chapter title (there are more than 24 chapters and an epilogue). b. There are missing words that make a few sentences hard to decifer, plus a couple wrong words used.
3. The vampires come out of nowhere. I know this is a witch cozy mystery set in a magical town, but the vampires still catch readers off guard when they have no clue they exist.
4. There is no indication that Meri is cursed to be a familiar until late in the book. There is also no answer as to why or any indication that Meri has always been a cat.
5. Kinsley is a leader of a coven? There is a prophecy? Both those come out of the blue, too, and are never referenced again.
6. Everything comes easy for Kinsley. She is dirt poor due to a messy divorce and yet the moment she moves into her childhood house she discovers enough money hidden away in books to start up a business. To top it off, everything she needs to stock the store is in the basement and free for her to sell.
7. Kinsley's parents disappear for most of the book, and her aunties don't attempt to see her when she is clearly out and about and socializing. Meri makes it sound like the family will be all up in Kinsley's business from the start, which would have been a good addition to the attempts to investigate the murder. In fact, wouldn't Kinsley's family be worried if she is a suspect or doing something illegal?
8. All the suspects sure give up information easily. They are all easy to find, too.
9. Kinsley constantly comments that she should call a plumber, but what can a plumber do when the magic house is upset and the cause of all the issues?
Fun, cute, and humorous mystery set in the small magical town of Coventry. Plus, there is romance. The blossoming relationship between Kinsley and Thorn that weaves its way beautifully into the suspenseful murder investigation is exciting and cheer worthy. A jump straight into the second book is definitely needed.
However, I took two stars away for the following reasons:
1. Poor writing, mostly when it comes to conversations. a. You need tags when there are more than two characters on the scene or no one will know who is saying what. b. You switch from dad to Remy. I am sure Kinsley doesn't refer to her father by name. c. Use movements and expressions when characters speak so they don't come off as cardboard cutouts. d. It is possible to show characters walking or driving as they talk and go about their day so they don't suddenly appear somewhere else.
2. Clear lack of editing and proofreading. I honestly don't think there was any. a. There are a handful of places with no chapter title (there are more than 24 chapters and an epilogue). b. There are missing words that make a few sentences hard to decifer, plus a couple wrong words used.
3. The vampires come out of nowhere. I know this is a witch cozy mystery set in a magical town, but the vampires still catch readers off guard when they have no clue they exist.
4. There is no indication that Meri is cursed to be a familiar until late in the book. There is also no answer as to why or any indication that Meri has always been a cat.
5. Kinsley is a leader of a coven? There is a prophecy? Both those come out of the blue, too, and are never referenced again.
6. Everything comes easy for Kinsley. She is dirt poor due to a messy divorce and yet the moment she moves into her childhood house she discovers enough money hidden away in books to start up a business. To top it off, everything she needs to stock the store is in the basement and free for her to sell.
7. Kinsley's parents disappear for most of the book, and her aunties don't attempt to see her when she is clearly out and about and socializing. Meri makes it sound like the family will be all up in Kinsley's business from the start, which would have been a good addition to the attempts to investigate the murder. In fact, wouldn't Kinsley's family be worried if she is a suspect or doing something illegal?
8. All the suspects sure give up information easily. They are all easy to find, too.
9. Kinsley constantly comments that she should call a plumber, but what can a plumber do when the magic house is upset and the cause of all the issues?
March 24, 2020
A familiar with attitude and a rusty witch
A great start to a new series. A down in the mouth divorcee, returning home after she looses everything in a divorce. A witch who hasn't used her magic for years.
Now however she will have too as she's just found a dead body, made an offer on a shop space and had a resident chew her out. Then there's the handsome sheriff, a couple of ghosts, a nest of vampires, a lot of suspects and a cat that wants a do over. Okay it's proving easier to work out who isn't the killer, then it is to find the culprit. Her spell on her familiar falls short and he does have a change at a do over - he turns into a kitten! Will she work out who before someone else gets hurt?
Nice characters, the humans are still developing but the kitten has got a great attitude and a sharp turn of phrase. The story flows well and keeps up the tension nicely.
A great start to a new series. A down in the mouth divorcee, returning home after she looses everything in a divorce. A witch who hasn't used her magic for years.
Now however she will have too as she's just found a dead body, made an offer on a shop space and had a resident chew her out. Then there's the handsome sheriff, a couple of ghosts, a nest of vampires, a lot of suspects and a cat that wants a do over. Okay it's proving easier to work out who isn't the killer, then it is to find the culprit. Her spell on her familiar falls short and he does have a change at a do over - he turns into a kitten! Will she work out who before someone else gets hurt?
Nice characters, the humans are still developing but the kitten has got a great attitude and a sharp turn of phrase. The story flows well and keeps up the tension nicely.
March 28, 2020
I loved the previous series and hated to see it end, but this is going to be a top notch series as well. You do not need to read the previous series to enjoy this one, but honestly it will help. Lots of past incidents are referenced and it will put everything in context. Besides that, it's just that awesome, so go check it out.
As for this book, it has the same feel and energy of the past books. Well thought out story line with nice plot twists. Easy to become attached to characters. Engaging dialogue and easy to visualize descriptions to details.
Written as a 1st person, single pov with a completed mystery.
All in all, a fantastic read.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As for this book, it has the same feel and energy of the past books. Well thought out story line with nice plot twists. Easy to become attached to characters. Engaging dialogue and easy to visualize descriptions to details.
Written as a 1st person, single pov with a completed mystery.
All in all, a fantastic read.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2020
Nice concept, but extremely rudimentary writing. The solving of the mystery was very anti-climactic. And the romance was rushed and took up too much of the story.
August 19, 2020
This is a cute little book. Kinsley left home at the age of 17 because she did not want to be what she was suppose to be...the leader of her coven and a very powerful witch. Thirteen years later, after a very nasty divorce and pretty much broke, she is back in Coventry, and finds a dead body behind a diner on her very first night home. Since she wants to live there again and own a business, she makes it her job to figure out what happened. She has a very funny familiar to help her, by the name of Meri who, as we are told, makes constant "snarky" comments. Throw a cop boyfriend into the mix and a magic house that sometimes gets mad and turns the shower water ice cold and settle down to enjoy.
October 16, 2020
Like mother like daughter
Many years after she ran away Kinsley returns home. And just like her mother she finds a body behind the cafe. Can she solve the mystery just like her mother? Meri is there to help and for all his help Kinsley decides to do something nice for him that doesn't turn out so good. Good clean read.
Many years after she ran away Kinsley returns home. And just like her mother she finds a body behind the cafe. Can she solve the mystery just like her mother? Meri is there to help and for all his help Kinsley decides to do something nice for him that doesn't turn out so good. Good clean read.
March 22, 2020
Kinsley is home and putting down some roots...which she thought she would never do...
She left home at 17 because she didn't want to be the witch in charge of her coven...supposedly Kinsley is a very strong witch...her magic is bound by her family at a young age...
But divorce and losing everything makes Kinsley go home...
The Familiar Kitten Mysteries is a spin off of the Wicked Witches of Coventry and for the first book I loved the cozy mystery. Kinsley's mother, Brighton, loses her familiar Meri once Kinsley returns...but her Mom isn't sad...she knows that Meri was always destined to be Kinsley's.
Going back to Coventry Kinsley isn't going to find anything easy, just like her mother she finds a dead body behind the diner. The sheriff is called, Thorn, who seems familiar to Kinsley but she can't remember why...right now Kinsley is the prime suspect for the murder.
Kinsley goes to work trying to figure out who the killer actually is....
Another wonderful and clean cozy mystery for all ages....
Highly recommend
She left home at 17 because she didn't want to be the witch in charge of her coven...supposedly Kinsley is a very strong witch...her magic is bound by her family at a young age...
But divorce and losing everything makes Kinsley go home...
The Familiar Kitten Mysteries is a spin off of the Wicked Witches of Coventry and for the first book I loved the cozy mystery. Kinsley's mother, Brighton, loses her familiar Meri once Kinsley returns...but her Mom isn't sad...she knows that Meri was always destined to be Kinsley's.
Going back to Coventry Kinsley isn't going to find anything easy, just like her mother she finds a dead body behind the diner. The sheriff is called, Thorn, who seems familiar to Kinsley but she can't remember why...right now Kinsley is the prime suspect for the murder.
Kinsley goes to work trying to figure out who the killer actually is....
Another wonderful and clean cozy mystery for all ages....
Highly recommend
March 17, 2023
Paranormal authors - listen up! This plot device is OVERUSED! Same old plot...new witch or witch coming into her powers discovers a body. She then proceeds to investigate the murder on her own, at great risk to herself, and against the strong warning from the local law enforcement officer who just happens to be an old love/crush and/or gorgeous.
Next time I won't bother to read the book, searching for redeeming qualities. And this book was clearly written to be a series because a lot of the smaller plots were totally unfinished. Ugh!
Reread this book In March 2023. Did enjoy it but I still agree with my prior opinion above.
Next time I won't bother to read the book, searching for redeeming qualities. And this book was clearly written to be a series because a lot of the smaller plots were totally unfinished. Ugh!
Reread this book In March 2023. Did enjoy it but I still agree with my prior opinion above.
December 23, 2020
Desperately needs an editor
It’s a cute story with likeable characters but the punctuation issues nearly made me stop reading so many times. Please get someone who knows what they’re doing to look over your writing before you publish!
It’s a cute story with likeable characters but the punctuation issues nearly made me stop reading so many times. Please get someone who knows what they’re doing to look over your writing before you publish!
April 4, 2023
Ok
The book is okay. I didn't find it super interesting. The beginning was relatively cute and funny Definitely intriguing. But as it went on it grew less and less interesting.
The book is okay. I didn't find it super interesting. The beginning was relatively cute and funny Definitely intriguing. But as it went on it grew less and less interesting.
March 23, 2020
In an act of rebellion, Kinsley Skeenbauer had stayed away from Coventry for years, since she was 17, wanting to live the life of a “normal” person -- despite the fact that two ancient and powerful witch families had united when her parents Brighton and Remy married, and she was expected to become the leader. Since being on her own, she has divorced, is still childless, and her ex got her fired from another job. Everything in her life was gone. It seems best – and the only choice left -- to come home to Coventry since her attempt at a “normal” life is obviously not working. She has all that she owns packed in a U-Haul – and then her broken-down 20-year-old Subaru rumbles to a halt only a few miles away. Help never arrived, and her malicious Uncle Brody’s ghost was headed her way. All she could do was send her intentions into the car’s dead engine and draw on the witch power she had shut off for all these years. The engine roared to life and she took off just as Uncle Brody’s ghost caught up but was unable to follow her to Coventry.
She arrived safely at Hangman’s House, and the door opened wide to greet her. But the house was dark, empty, and abandoned! The Sheriff’s car soon arrived – would she be spending the night in jail? Still unsure of her identity, the Sheriff told her Brighton and Remy lived on Hallows Road now. When she acknowledge that was Remy’s old home, the Sheriff relaxed a little more as he called Brighton on the phone. He then introduced himself as Thorn Jr., the son of the previous Sheriff which is why his name was familiar to her. He left to answer another call as a black shadow raced toward her and jumped into her arms – Meri couldn’t stop his loud purring! He told her the house had been cursed, but now that she was home, she could fix that. When they entered it, the lights wouldn’t come on until she promised she would be staying now!
Kinsley’s parents happily talked her into dinner at the diner. But sure enough, when she got home, she realized she left her purse at the diner and drove back to get it. She walked out back to let Reggie know she recovered her purse, but instead she found the body of Merrill Killian along with a blood knife. Reggie walked up to her and thought she had killed the horrible man no one liked. And the Sheriff won’t be too happy either! Just like her mother, Kinsley will have to find the real murderer and solve the mystery – if she isn’t locked up first!
This was a great beginning for the new cozy mystery series that brings back our favorite characters! We know many of the likable characters and the story line flows well and keeps the reader intrigued as Kinsley tries to figure out the mystery as she takes up her new life back in Coventry.
She arrived safely at Hangman’s House, and the door opened wide to greet her. But the house was dark, empty, and abandoned! The Sheriff’s car soon arrived – would she be spending the night in jail? Still unsure of her identity, the Sheriff told her Brighton and Remy lived on Hallows Road now. When she acknowledge that was Remy’s old home, the Sheriff relaxed a little more as he called Brighton on the phone. He then introduced himself as Thorn Jr., the son of the previous Sheriff which is why his name was familiar to her. He left to answer another call as a black shadow raced toward her and jumped into her arms – Meri couldn’t stop his loud purring! He told her the house had been cursed, but now that she was home, she could fix that. When they entered it, the lights wouldn’t come on until she promised she would be staying now!
Kinsley’s parents happily talked her into dinner at the diner. But sure enough, when she got home, she realized she left her purse at the diner and drove back to get it. She walked out back to let Reggie know she recovered her purse, but instead she found the body of Merrill Killian along with a blood knife. Reggie walked up to her and thought she had killed the horrible man no one liked. And the Sheriff won’t be too happy either! Just like her mother, Kinsley will have to find the real murderer and solve the mystery – if she isn’t locked up first!
This was a great beginning for the new cozy mystery series that brings back our favorite characters! We know many of the likable characters and the story line flows well and keeps the reader intrigued as Kinsley tries to figure out the mystery as she takes up her new life back in Coventry.
April 22, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I had such fun with Black Magic Kitten, and even though I had not read the previous series I quickly felt right at home in the quirky town of Coventry. As with any Paranormal Cozy Mystery review I write you’ll not find details of the plot here (aside from what you’d read in the cover description) – no, for that you need to dive into this one on your own, but I can say you will not be disappointed. The basics you may need to know before picking up this first story in the Familiar Kitten Mysteries can be found in the Cover Description.
Kinsley is a strong, somewhat stubborn character even though recently life has tossed her more curves than a mountain road. But she’s home now, rebuilding on what she is – a powerful witch. She left home to be normal, to not have the perceived burden of becoming the head of the coven, holding together two covens who had, in the past, not been on the best of terms into one that welcomed both sides. No, she slipped away leaving everything magical behind – and now she’s back, older, hopefully, wiser, definitely broke and ready to take up the mantle that was always meant for her. She’s starting fresh with some help from old friends and new ones as well. And… a murder to solve almost immediately.
There are twists and turns galore in Black Magic Kitten, red herrings tossed about casually – but when the twists are this entertaining you’ll soon forget to puzzle it out and just sit back and enjoy this world. I fell in love with one snarky cat, Meri. And he is the absolute perfect sidekick ever. If you love a Paranormal Cozy Mystery with interesting, at times, quirky characters and a mystery that is far from easy to solve, then you’ll want to pick up Black Magic Kitten and get started on an adventure you’ll follow through to the end of the series.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I had such fun with Black Magic Kitten, and even though I had not read the previous series I quickly felt right at home in the quirky town of Coventry. As with any Paranormal Cozy Mystery review I write you’ll not find details of the plot here (aside from what you’d read in the cover description) – no, for that you need to dive into this one on your own, but I can say you will not be disappointed. The basics you may need to know before picking up this first story in the Familiar Kitten Mysteries can be found in the Cover Description.
Kinsley is a strong, somewhat stubborn character even though recently life has tossed her more curves than a mountain road. But she’s home now, rebuilding on what she is – a powerful witch. She left home to be normal, to not have the perceived burden of becoming the head of the coven, holding together two covens who had, in the past, not been on the best of terms into one that welcomed both sides. No, she slipped away leaving everything magical behind – and now she’s back, older, hopefully, wiser, definitely broke and ready to take up the mantle that was always meant for her. She’s starting fresh with some help from old friends and new ones as well. And… a murder to solve almost immediately.
There are twists and turns galore in Black Magic Kitten, red herrings tossed about casually – but when the twists are this entertaining you’ll soon forget to puzzle it out and just sit back and enjoy this world. I fell in love with one snarky cat, Meri. And he is the absolute perfect sidekick ever. If you love a Paranormal Cozy Mystery with interesting, at times, quirky characters and a mystery that is far from easy to solve, then you’ll want to pick up Black Magic Kitten and get started on an adventure you’ll follow through to the end of the series.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
June 14, 2020
In the first book if this series Kinsley Skeenbauer returns home to Coventry after her nasty divorce and gets fired because of her ex. I guess it wasn't a great idea to marry a lawyer because he left her penniless except for the money she was hiding.
Returning home wasn't going to be easy after leaving when Kinsley was just 17 years old. Kinsley can only hope that her mother and father can forgive her. When Kinsley arrives at Hangman's House she finds the house empty. Where is her family? Did they really just up and leave Coventry? To top it off the Hangman's house is mad at Kinsley! The local sheriff, Thorn shows up to see who has broken into the house and comes face-to-face with Kinsley Skeenbauer! It's love at first sight for him! When Kinsley's parents show up since they had to move due to the fact the Hangman's House was angry over Kinsley leaving. There is a warm welcome with her parents and her familiar, Meri.
Kinsley finds the dead body of Merrill Killiam behind the diner and she becomes the prime suspect! Who murdered Merrill Killiam and why? Trying to stay out of trouble Kinsley finds a shop to rent in Coventry Square to rent. While in the haunted shop Kinsley comes face-to-face with the ghost of Merrill and he's going haunt her until she finds out who killed him! More trouble for Kinsley! While investigating the murder Kinsley comes in contact with Azriel Malum, the local vampire. More trouble for Kinsley! At least Kinsley has made to good friends Reggie and Viv. Guess you will have to read the series to learn who killed Merrill and if Kinsley can stay out of trouble!
Returning home wasn't going to be easy after leaving when Kinsley was just 17 years old. Kinsley can only hope that her mother and father can forgive her. When Kinsley arrives at Hangman's House she finds the house empty. Where is her family? Did they really just up and leave Coventry? To top it off the Hangman's house is mad at Kinsley! The local sheriff, Thorn shows up to see who has broken into the house and comes face-to-face with Kinsley Skeenbauer! It's love at first sight for him! When Kinsley's parents show up since they had to move due to the fact the Hangman's House was angry over Kinsley leaving. There is a warm welcome with her parents and her familiar, Meri.
Kinsley finds the dead body of Merrill Killiam behind the diner and she becomes the prime suspect! Who murdered Merrill Killiam and why? Trying to stay out of trouble Kinsley finds a shop to rent in Coventry Square to rent. While in the haunted shop Kinsley comes face-to-face with the ghost of Merrill and he's going haunt her until she finds out who killed him! More trouble for Kinsley! While investigating the murder Kinsley comes in contact with Azriel Malum, the local vampire. More trouble for Kinsley! At least Kinsley has made to good friends Reggie and Viv. Guess you will have to read the series to learn who killed Merrill and if Kinsley can stay out of trouble!
April 26, 2023
I got a kick out of the beginning of this book, there are definite similarities to when Kinsley's mom approached and entered the town of Coventry.
Kinsley is making a big choice as she returns as she will be getting her magic back, she's been away for thirteen years and had built a life without it. She's now divorced, and he left her with nothing, fortunately, she had put money away for a rainy day hidden from him. It's that stash that's gotten her here.
The first person we meet here is the sheriff, Thorn. He's the son of the Thorn her mother knew. He verifies she's who she says she is, and then informs her, her parents would be arriving shortly.
After he pulls away, she has a reunion with Meri her familiar.
Needless to say, a lot of tears were shed by me as well, before Kinsley and her parents head to the diner for dinner.
We meet Reggie at the diner, she's a waitress. Then later just to follow in her mother's footsteps Kinsley finds a body when she returns to collect the purse she left behind.
After Kinsley agrees to rent a haunted shop for her new endeavor, we meet another character Viv who owns the Brew Station, the coffee shop on the town square.
Now up until this point Meri is a full grown, gorgeous black cat, then Kinsley decides to reward him for his service to the Tuttlesmith and Skeenbauer witches. This has an unexpected outcome that had me laughing, even as Meri goes a bit crazy.
There is of course the murder, an unexpected favor gets owed, Thorn becomes her romantic interest, and all the Aunties are back in this series.
Lots of fun, escapades, laughter, tears and romance.
Kinsley is making a big choice as she returns as she will be getting her magic back, she's been away for thirteen years and had built a life without it. She's now divorced, and he left her with nothing, fortunately, she had put money away for a rainy day hidden from him. It's that stash that's gotten her here.
The first person we meet here is the sheriff, Thorn. He's the son of the Thorn her mother knew. He verifies she's who she says she is, and then informs her, her parents would be arriving shortly.
After he pulls away, she has a reunion with Meri her familiar.
Needless to say, a lot of tears were shed by me as well, before Kinsley and her parents head to the diner for dinner.
We meet Reggie at the diner, she's a waitress. Then later just to follow in her mother's footsteps Kinsley finds a body when she returns to collect the purse she left behind.
After Kinsley agrees to rent a haunted shop for her new endeavor, we meet another character Viv who owns the Brew Station, the coffee shop on the town square.
Now up until this point Meri is a full grown, gorgeous black cat, then Kinsley decides to reward him for his service to the Tuttlesmith and Skeenbauer witches. This has an unexpected outcome that had me laughing, even as Meri goes a bit crazy.
There is of course the murder, an unexpected favor gets owed, Thorn becomes her romantic interest, and all the Aunties are back in this series.
Lots of fun, escapades, laughter, tears and romance.
October 27, 2020
Mysteries are my hidden love. When I'm done reading romance and non-fiction, I'll pick up a mystery. I try to never pick up anything except indie-written mysteries, and this one fell a bit flat.
First, this needed an edit, but (and I edit, so take me at my word here), it was nothing drastic. In places, it was impossible to tell who was talking. There were misuses of "and" and "but" and they were interchanged in some places. The father's name wasn't consistent. But honestly, that only would have meant a one star deduction. What made me take two away?
The book was written in a simplistic way that was more suited to a YA audience than an adult female audience. I read this on KU, and I read it because I'm a fan of mysteries using cat familiars. Never used to be, but now I'm hooked. In this case, the mystery was written well, but I think it could have used more detail in the story itself. The balance between narration and dialogue appeared to be even, but there needed to be MORE in both. Unlike other reviewers, I don't mind when a person is in their shop, and they head to the coffee shop in the next paragraph. I pretty much can follow along with that, and I really didn't notice too much of that in this book.
I'm willing to read another of this author's books in this series, because of the cat and because there's promise to this mystery. By the way, a three star review means I liked the book. And most people who read my reviews know that I'm perfectly capable of using one-star reviews to rake a book over the coals. In this case, the book and the author don't deserve it.
First, this needed an edit, but (and I edit, so take me at my word here), it was nothing drastic. In places, it was impossible to tell who was talking. There were misuses of "and" and "but" and they were interchanged in some places. The father's name wasn't consistent. But honestly, that only would have meant a one star deduction. What made me take two away?
The book was written in a simplistic way that was more suited to a YA audience than an adult female audience. I read this on KU, and I read it because I'm a fan of mysteries using cat familiars. Never used to be, but now I'm hooked. In this case, the mystery was written well, but I think it could have used more detail in the story itself. The balance between narration and dialogue appeared to be even, but there needed to be MORE in both. Unlike other reviewers, I don't mind when a person is in their shop, and they head to the coffee shop in the next paragraph. I pretty much can follow along with that, and I really didn't notice too much of that in this book.
I'm willing to read another of this author's books in this series, because of the cat and because there's promise to this mystery. By the way, a three star review means I liked the book. And most people who read my reviews know that I'm perfectly capable of using one-star reviews to rake a book over the coals. In this case, the book and the author don't deserve it.
April 20, 2024
This is the first book in a spin-off series. (I have not yet read the original series).
Kinley has to haul herself back to her hometown after her life completely falls apart. Not an unknown story, right? But she had fled the town to escape her destiny, which seemed too large for her. But now she is grown up and has nowhere else to go. And she is not in town for more than a few hours before she finds a dead body.
The town is charming (and charmed). The magic is subtle so far, especially since many people in the town are not magical. Many people and relationships are just set up, presumably for use in later books. The house is an active participant in the plot, which is quite delightful.
There is clearly going to be a lot in the series based on who in the town knows about the supernaturals and who does not.
The cat is delightful, but of course the cat is delightful.
The mystery is rather desultory, actually. Kinley's approach to detecting is honestly rather stupid. And she keeps forgetting that she has magic she can use (Oh, right, I can do a spell!). The solution to the murder did not present itself at all organically. And, in fact, the key identification clue had not been shown earlier in the book (which is REALLY not reasonable).
Basically, a charming cozy. But with some serious problems as a mystery.
Kinley has to haul herself back to her hometown after her life completely falls apart. Not an unknown story, right? But she had fled the town to escape her destiny, which seemed too large for her. But now she is grown up and has nowhere else to go. And she is not in town for more than a few hours before she finds a dead body.
The town is charming (and charmed). The magic is subtle so far, especially since many people in the town are not magical. Many people and relationships are just set up, presumably for use in later books. The house is an active participant in the plot, which is quite delightful.
There is clearly going to be a lot in the series based on who in the town knows about the supernaturals and who does not.
The cat is delightful, but of course the cat is delightful.
The mystery is rather desultory, actually. Kinley's approach to detecting is honestly rather stupid. And she keeps forgetting that she has magic she can use (Oh, right, I can do a spell!). The solution to the murder did not present itself at all organically. And, in fact, the key identification clue had not been shown earlier in the book (which is REALLY not reasonable).
Basically, a charming cozy. But with some serious problems as a mystery.
March 27, 2020
Kinsley Skeenbauer is divorced and broke with no choice but to go back home. But home isn't your ordinary place. Kinsley ran away from Coventry when she was 17, turning her back on witchcraft and magic. She spent years just being "regular" but her messy divorce left her with nothing, not even a job, thanks to her ex-husband. Once back home, the family house accepts her back as did Meri, the black cat familiar. Kinsley discovers the body of a local man behind the diner while looking for a girl who works there. She's technically the main suspect but her biggest problem is the vengeful ghost of the man who wants to know who killed him. Meanwhile, Thorn, the local sheriff, and Kinsley have an immediate connection and she helps him during the investigation.
I really enjoyed this book. It was an engaging start to a series. It was a fast, fun, intriguing read with wonderful characters. However, there were quite a few typos/grammatical errors that detracted from the story for me. These were thing like quarts rather than quartz and buy when it should have been by. I do look forward to the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed this book. It was an engaging start to a series. It was a fast, fun, intriguing read with wonderful characters. However, there were quite a few typos/grammatical errors that detracted from the story for me. These were thing like quarts rather than quartz and buy when it should have been by. I do look forward to the next book in the series.
July 23, 2020
Warning spoiler alert... Read at your own risk.
I wanted to like this series, I really did, but Kinsley was just irritating in that meddling cozy mystery way where she kept messing with evidence and expected her law enforcement bf to clean up the mess.
Also not a fan of how the author kept having her flipping back and forth between the two guys in the same book, Then repeating the pattern in each of the first three books, only to paint one as the villain that manipulates her, proposes and “marries” her, only to disappear the next morning after searching parts of the house and of course dropping a bun in her oven. All in the last part of the book.
The book 4 tries to white wash all the controlling, dismissive, and jealous behavior of the remaining guy so they can get back together. I pretty much skimmed through book 4, just to see if the author redeemed the way book three’s ending went down in flames, but unfortunately it was not to be.
If I bother with anymore of the series, it will probably be just to check out if the relationship fiasco gets corrected. And only if it’s on KU.
I wanted to like this series, I really did, but Kinsley was just irritating in that meddling cozy mystery way where she kept messing with evidence and expected her law enforcement bf to clean up the mess.
Also not a fan of how the author kept having her flipping back and forth between the two guys in the same book, Then repeating the pattern in each of the first three books, only to paint one as the villain that manipulates her, proposes and “marries” her, only to disappear the next morning after searching parts of the house and of course dropping a bun in her oven. All in the last part of the book.
The book 4 tries to white wash all the controlling, dismissive, and jealous behavior of the remaining guy so they can get back together. I pretty much skimmed through book 4, just to see if the author redeemed the way book three’s ending went down in flames, but unfortunately it was not to be.
If I bother with anymore of the series, it will probably be just to check out if the relationship fiasco gets corrected. And only if it’s on KU.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2020
I believe in total transparency, so I must begin this review by confessing that I don’t normally read and review books like Black Magic Kitten. I’m really not into witches, so why did I download this book? I couldn’t resist the cute little black kitten on the cover. Perhaps Meri cast a spell over me. I love cats and stories about them.
I almost tossed the book aside when Sara announces to the reader in the blurb, “Welcome to Coventry!… suitable for all ages. You will find no swearing, gore, or adult situations, but you will find magic, mystery, and a hint of lighthearted mayhem.” Yeah… not my kind of read. I’m an adrenaline junky. I thrive on violence, blood and gore. There have to be adult situations too!, I didn’t give in to the impulse.
Once I started reading Black Magic Kitten, I couldn’t put it down. Even though witches and stories without violence and sex aren’t my thing, I now want to read Sara’s previous series, The Wicked Witches of Coventry. Sara has cast a spell over me, or, perhaps, she slipped me a loved potion because I have fallen in love with her style of writing, or maybe it’s just “Meri.”
I almost tossed the book aside when Sara announces to the reader in the blurb, “Welcome to Coventry!… suitable for all ages. You will find no swearing, gore, or adult situations, but you will find magic, mystery, and a hint of lighthearted mayhem.” Yeah… not my kind of read. I’m an adrenaline junky. I thrive on violence, blood and gore. There have to be adult situations too!, I didn’t give in to the impulse.
Once I started reading Black Magic Kitten, I couldn’t put it down. Even though witches and stories without violence and sex aren’t my thing, I now want to read Sara’s previous series, The Wicked Witches of Coventry. Sara has cast a spell over me, or, perhaps, she slipped me a loved potion because I have fallen in love with her style of writing, or maybe it’s just “Meri.”
August 30, 2021
The black kitten, Meri, was fun, even though he tried to act grumpy. The magic house bit is interesting, could add a lot to future stories. Not sure why the vampires were thrown into the story, it really didn’t add anything. It threw me for a loop way into the story when I found out that Meri was ‘cursed’ to be a familiar. Does that mean he was something other than a cat before or just an ordinary cat? He seems pretty powerful. So, Kinsley runs away at 17 because she’s a powerful witch and doesn’t want the responsibility of leading her coven (seems pretty young to lead a coven, especially if her mother is a powerful witch). Then she doesn’t use any magic for years before her life falls apart and she returns home. But she’s really powerful and everything comes easily to her, at least with Meri reminding her to use her magic.
Everything just falls into Kinsley’s lap, there is no effort, no tension, no buildup. I realize this is a cozy but there should be something, otherwise it just reads as a romance story (oh, yeah, we have to cop boyfriend who immediately falls for her). Overall, the writing seemed a bit simplistic, more for a younger audience than adult readers.
Everything just falls into Kinsley’s lap, there is no effort, no tension, no buildup. I realize this is a cozy but there should be something, otherwise it just reads as a romance story (oh, yeah, we have to cop boyfriend who immediately falls for her). Overall, the writing seemed a bit simplistic, more for a younger audience than adult readers.
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