One Potion in the Grave

Magic Potion Mystery #2  

By Heather Blake

ISBN# 9780451416315

Author’s Website: http://www.heatherblakebooks.com

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra  

Synopsis:

Carly Bell Hartwell’s love potions are always in demand in Hitching Post, Alabama, the wedding capital of the South.…

When Katie Sue Perrywinkle walks into the Little Shop of Potions, Carly is surprised and delighted to see her old childhood friend. Katie Sue fled her hometown and a troubled family over a decade ago. But she’s not back for a social visit. She’s come to settle a score with Senator Warren Calhoun, who is in town for his son’s high-profile wedding.

But before Katie Sue has a chance to voice any objections, she’s forced to forever hold her peace. After finding her friend dead, Carly vows to find her murderer. Were the corrupt Calhouns willing to go to any lengths to avoid a scandal? Did Katie Sue’s family take the term “bad blood” to a whole new level? And why did the bride-to-be come to Carly for a love potion? As Carly gets closer to the truth, a killer is planning a very chilly reception.…  

Review:

One Potion in the Grave is the second book in the Magic Potions Mystery series by Heather Blake and another fine read.  Now the challenge, to write a fitting review without adding any spoilers!

As a bit of history…here is an introduction of all the main characters:  Carly Bell Hartwell, a healing witch and owner of a local shop – The Little Shop of Potions. She has a quirky family including cousin Delia (a black witch and owner of a boutique called Till Hex Do Us Part) who dabbles in hexes and is continually trying to find out what and where Carly’s secret ingredient to her potions is hidden, and three spinster aunts known around town as the Odd Ducks (each one owns a local Inn), Jessamine Yadkin – proprietor of Déjà Brew – the local coffee shop, Sergeant Dylan Jackson (past fiancé “times two” to Carly) and more colorful characters you will discover as you read!

The story begins with  Katie Sue Perrywinkle returning to town for nuptials taking place between Landry and his girlfriend Gabi.  Landry is the son of Senator Warren Calhoun. While Carly is surprised to see Katie…she is happy to visit with her long-time friend.  Katie achieved her goal of becoming a doctor, but has what appear to be, unresolved issues with her family and Senator Calhoun.  Hmmm…now that cannot be good!  Unfortunately, before the details of the why and wherefore of Katie being in town, she turns up dead…murdered….before the wedding.

With her friend murdered, Carly puts on her amateur sleuthing hat and works her way through potential suspects in an attempt to solve the mystery of Katie’s death.  Was it a guest from out of town for the wedding?  Maybe one of Katie’s relatives? Or another suspect?

Of course, Dylan plays a role in Carly’s escapades.  He is certainly there to rescue her when needed.   Sparks continue to fly, and get hotter!  Will they give it a try again (for a third time)?  Time will tell….

I enjoyed that there was actually more than one mysterious happening to solve.  All the mysteries tied in well together and definitely kept my interest piqued.  And certainly humor abounded…especially with respect to Carly’s aunts 🙂 .

A fast paced, enjoyable cozy mystery.  If you like Heather Blake novels, you will love the continuation of her Magic Potion Mystery series.  I look forward to reading book #3 soon !!!