Title: Witchy Sour
Author: Gina LaManna
First published June 10, 2016
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.2
Overview
Gina LaManna’s Witchy Sour, the second book in the Magic & Mixology Mystery Series, takes readers on another wild ride with Lily Locke, The Isle’s newest Mixologist. As Lily tries to find the key ingredient for her vampire cousin’s antidote, she must also navigate the struggles of her friend Zin as he tries to break into the male-dominated Ranger security force.
Adding to the chaos is Ranger X, who breaks all the rules and leaves Lily’s heart in a tailspin. A stolen spellbook and dangerous potions only make matters worse.
When a body is found on the beach, Lily must solve the murder before a true battle begins. This cozy mystery is filled with humor, witches, and a dash of romance, making it a perfect read for anyone looking for a bit of magic and mystery.
About the Author
Gina LaManna hails from St. Paul, Minnesota, but has lived in Italy and Los Angeles as well. While in college, she studied math but soon discovered her dislike for multiple choice tests.
Instead, she turned to her passion for writing books. Her favorite treats include cappuccino foam, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
Gina currently resides in St. Paul with her loving family and husband.
Editoral Review
Witchy Sour Review: A Delicious and Poignant Blend of Fantasy and Mystery
Gina LaManna’s Witchy Sour is a delightful novel that combines elements of mystery, fantasy, and romance to create a thoroughly captivating reading experience. First published in June 2016, Witchy Sour is part of the Magic and Mixology series, and it showcases LaManna’s skillful storytelling and flair for creating memorable characters and settings.
Set in the charming town of Brimstone Bay, the novel revolves around Lily Locke, a struggling witch who runs a magic potion shop called Potions and Projects. Lily is a lovable and relatable protagonist, who faces a myriad of challenges as she tries to solve the mystery of a missing girl in town.
Along the way, she encounters a host of colorful characters, including her eccentric grandmother, her loyal best friend, and a charming detective who awakens her romantic instincts. One of the strengths of Witchy Sour is LaManna’s ability to create a vivid and immersive setting, filled with magical creatures and spellbinding events.
From the cozy potion shop to the eerie forest, the town of Brimstone Bay comes alive with rich detail and atmosphere, making it easy for readers to imagine themselves there. LaManna’s prose is also polished and engaging, combining humor and heart in just the right proportions.
Moreover, Witchy Sour offers a refreshing perspective on witchcraft and magic, presenting it as a powerful tool for growth and self-discovery rather than a mere source of entertainment. The novel deals with themes such as identity, family, and community, as Lily and her friends grapple with their own fears and desires while trying to protect their town from harm.
LaManna’s handling of these themes is subtle and nuanced, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions about the characters’ motivations and choices. However, Witchy Sour is not without its flaws.
The pacing of the novel can be uneven at times, especially in the middle section, where the plot becomes convoluted and repetitive. Some of the characterizations also feel stereotypical, particularly the portrayal of the detective as a smooth-talking playboy who only has eyes for Lily.
Additionally, the mystery itself is not particularly groundbreaking or surprising, and readers who are familiar with the genre may find it predictable. Despite these minor criticisms, Witchy Sour is a charming and enjoyable read that is sure to appeal to fans of fantasy, mystery, and romance.
It is a perfect book for cozy nights in or lazy afternoons on the beach, offering a delightful blend of magic, humor, and suspense. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light and entertaining read with a heartwarming message.
On a scale of 1 to 5, I would rate it a solid 4, based on its engaging characters, immersive setting, and thoughtful themes.
