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I received this book for free from a book tour. This review is voluntary. My opinion is not influenced in any way.
Black Arts, Tarts and Gypsy Carts by Erin Johnson Series: Spells & Caramels #2
Published by Self-Published on October 29, 2017
Genres: Cozy Mystery
Pages: 302
Format: eARC
Source: a book tour
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Also by this author: Seashells, Spells & CaramelsA dark carnival and a dire prophecy lead to murder and mayhem.
With the Summer Sea Carnival visiting the enchanted island of Bijou Mer, Imogen jumps at the chance to help run the royal bakery booth. It’ll get her out of the palace and allow her to continue avoiding her feelings for a certain engaged prince.
Imogen’s plans to lay low are shattered when the world-famous necromancer, Madame Zerna, is found dead, sawed in half on the dark magician’s table and Imogen’s friend Rhonda is caught red-handed. With incriminating evidence piling up against Rhonda, Zerna’s rival, Imogen promises to help clear her name by finding the real murderer.
But between running the booth, encouraging Maple as she struggles to lead as head baker, and taking spell lessons from the friendly strong man, Imogen’s got her hands full. And it’s no easier getting information from the evasive dark magician or Madame Zerna’s secretive assistant. Even Rhonda’s hiding something.
With the Night of the Dead fast approaching, and Rhonda headed for a maximum security witch prison, Imogen races to unearth the real killer in time to save her friend. But in a mysterious carnival where nothing’s as it seems, will Imogen have the magical powers to keep from being on the chopping block herself?
Character Interview with Imogen
1. What’s it like working in the royal bakery?
It’s amazing! Everyday is whirlwind, baking for the royal family’s meals, special events and parties. I have to wash the flour out of my hair every night and my legs ache from standing all day, but it’s my favorite place in the world. I get to make special treats that make people happy and everyday’s a new adventure.
2. What is your favorite part of having magic?
I think I’d enjoy having magic a lot more if I was any good at it! It seems like every spell I try is a disaster. But I must say, practicing with Hank is a big plus.
3. How are you liking life on Bijou Mer?
It’s amazing! I have actual friends now, my dream job and am surrounded by the sea and magic. It couldn’t get much better.
4. What is your favorite treat to make in the royal bakery?
I’m really digging the hand pies, right now. They’re little half-circle pies, with the filling completely sealed in by the crust, so you can carry them in your hand. I love decorating them with extra bits of dough and they’re just delicious – cherry’s my favorite.
5. If you could ask your author, Erin Johnson, one question, what would you ask her?
What’s this mysterious clue from Horace all about?
My Thoughts
Black Arts, Tarts and Gypsy Carts by Erin Johnson is the second book in the magical cozy mystery series Spells & Caramels. I enjoyed the first book so much, I couldn’t wait to dive into book two. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. This fast-paced, magical cozy mystery had me riveted! Imogen is one of my favorite cozy characters, and I love seeing her grow while she’s solving mysteries. I enjoyed my Thanksgiving reading this wonderful cozy. I’m already looking forward to book three (and be sure to keep an eye out for my review on that one soon).
About Erin Johnson
A native of Tempe, Arizona, Erin spends her time crafting mysterious, magical, romance-filled stories that’ll hopefully make you laugh.
In between, she’s traveling, napping with her dogs, eating with her friends and family, and teaching Pilates (to allow her to eat more).
5,961 total views, 2 views today
Johnna Edwards Smith
def a new-to-me author and sounds right up my alley!! Great review
Dianne Nickel Casey
Really enjoyed the excerpt from the book. Want to read more Imogen, sounds like a fascinating read.
Erin Johnson
Thanks so much for your review and for featuring my book on your blog! 🙂 So glad you enjoyed it and that you had a great Thanksgiving.