Cozy Mysteries, Shifters, and Genetic Secrets: A Review of No Crones About It
I’ve long had a soft spot for stories that mix magic with cozy mystery, and Amanda M. Lee’s No Crones About It swept me off my feet right from the start. As the second installment in the Spell’s Angels Cozy Mystery series, this book brought back beloved characters while diving deep into some riveting new twists. If you love a dash of the supernatural with your sleuthing, this one is a must-read.
At the heart of the story is Scout Randall, a bold and slightly flirty witch who’s trying to find her place in the northern Lower Michigan branch of Spell’s Angels. Her relationship with Gunner Stratton—a shifter with police ties—adds a delightful layer of tension and warmth to the narrative. It’s refreshing to see a character explore both her magical abilities and her romantic interests, and Scout’s journey feels both relatable and thrilling.
The themes of this book struck a chord with me. Lee expertly weaves elements of identity, belonging, and family secrets into Scout’s quest for answers. As Scout discovers her ties to a murdered homeless man—whose death is chillingly traced back to her—it’s hard not to feel her heartache and confusion. The stakes are high, and you can’t help but root for her as she navigates the tangled web of magical politics, rival gangs, and “warring wolves.”
What I particularly enjoyed about Lee’s writing style is how effortlessly she combines humor with suspense. The pacing keeps you engaged without feeling rushed. There’s a natural flow to the dialogue that made me chuckle on more than one occasion. One standout scene involves Scout’s flirty banter with Gunner that feels genuine and lighthearted, even in the face of supernatural danger.
The community of Hawthorne Hollow feels vibrant and lived-in, a character in its own right. Lee paints a picturesque landscape that complements the unfolding drama beautifully. There’s a comforting familiarity in cozy mysteries, and No Crones About It encapsulates that while still pushing the narrative forward. The evolving dynamic between species—shifters and witches alike—adds an intriguing depth that makes the plot even more compelling.
As I turned the pages, I found quotable moments that resonated deeply. And while I won’t spoil them, they tug at the heartstrings while imparting wisdom that feels especially relevant in our world today.
If you’re in the mood for a light, yet thrilling read, or if you thrive on magical adventures with a touch of romance, this book is perfect for you. Furthermore, it’s an excellent entry point into the broader Spell’s Angels universe; you don’t necessarily need to have read the first book to dive into this one, although it certainly enriches the experience.
After finishing No Crones About It, I felt a mix of excitement and satisfaction—like I had just completed a cozy evening with friends, peppered with laughter, tension, and just the right amount of magic. I can’t wait to see where Lee takes Scout and her friends next in the series, and I hope you join me on this enchanting journey too!
You can find No Crones About It (A Spell’s Angels Cozy Mystery Book 2) here >>