Book Review: Hexes and Honey Buns (Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries, #3) by Amanda Garrett
As someone who finds joy in cozy mysteries, diving into Hexes and Honey Buns felt like slipping into a favorite oversized sweater. Amanda Garrett’s enchanting writing continues to draw me into the whimsical world of Winterspell, and this latest installment had my heart racing—not just from the mysteries at hand, but also from the personal growth of our heroine, Rosella (Ella). After all, who doesn’t love a story where the protagonist evolves while wrestling with love, family, and a dash of witchery?
Set a few weeks post the last mystery, Ella is now working for the Winterspell Gazette, seeking her next big story. When an email arrives from Marigold Prince, a woman imprisoned for allegedly murdering her husband, the intrigue is palpable. Marigold insists on her innocence, and though I was initially skeptical, Ella’s investigative instincts and persistence compelled me to root for both her and Marigold. It’s a brilliant twist that not only serves as a central plot but also offers Ella a means to divert her worries about her own complicated relationship with Orion, who is entangled in his own secretive endeavors for the Order.
One of the greatest joys of this series is watching Ella grow; she isn’t merely making decisions—she’s actively leaning into her network of family and friends for advice. It’s refreshing to see a character grapple with choices and not remain stagnant. Amanda Garrett excels at creating fully-fledged characters that resonate well beyond their fictional pages, giving readers someone to cheer for (and sometimes cringe with—cough, Chloe!).
Speaking of Chloe, I found myself a bit exasperated with her character. The cruelty she showcases towards Ella and her sisters feels a tad overdone without much follow-through, leading to moments where I wished for her to either evolve or disappear. Still, there’s something compelling about how this strained familial dynamic reflects broader themes of personal acceptance and resilience.
Garrett’s writing style continues to shine brightly; her attention to sensory detail enhances the cozy atmosphere of the story. It’s easy to lose oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Winterspell, which made the audiobook format truly delightful. The narration by Ms. Ronconi further elevated this experience with her upbeat cadence and ability to bring diverse characters to life. I loved how she navigated the dialogue, giving each character a distinct voice that added depth to their interactions.
However, I’d be remiss not to mention a couple of minor bumps in the tale. A subplot raised but left dangling felt a bit frustrating, as did the somewhat excessive presence of Chloe. Every time she popped up, I cringed, eagerly awaiting a resolution that never quite came. But, Garrett’s signature blend of mystery and relationship dynamics more than made up for these hiccups.
Overall, Hexes and Honey Buns is a cozy mystery that delivers a charming narrative complete with a well-crafted whodunit. Fans of the genre will undoubtedly appreciate the balance of delightful quirks, the picturesque setting, and the relatable characters grappling with their personal journeys. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy tales brimming with magic, mystery, and heartfelt relationships. It’s a book that not only entertained me but also left me pondering the strength found in community and the importance of staying true to oneself amid chaos.
So, if you’re up for a cozy read that warms the heart and tickles the mind, grab Hexes and Honey Buns. I promise you won’t be disappointed—and you might just find yourself looking forward to Ella’s next adventure in Winterspell.
Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B+
Review copy provided by the publisher. Originally posted at That’s What I’m Talking About.
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