Falling Into Magic

Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic, #1

by

Elizabeth Pantley

Fun and fanciful, with just the right amount of menace lurking around the edges of this cozy mystery debut.

Falling Into Magic is the debut novel in author Elizabeth Pantley’s paranormal cozy mystery series, Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic. The story is fun and fanciful, with just the right amount of menace lurking around the edges of the mysterious tale. 

Hayden is the plucky heroine with an amazingly accepting and positive outlook on life and all the magical happenings. It was unique that she and her friend, Luna Caputo, worked together on an online natural living magazine. In a twist from the typical reporter, this highly portable occupation offers the freedom to travel and provides a broad cover story when needed to solve mysteries or disappear into Destiny Falls. And although Hayden had a loving and joy-filled childhood, things really started out rough for her. The “Minis” were so alive and vibrant. Her older brother, Axel, grew up in a different environment with his extended family. 

This author’s writing never fails to capture and hold my attention from start to finish. In fact, the prologue for this book, while short, was one of the most compelling I’ve read in a while. And with that kick-off, the tension steadily builds. That opening is awesome! 

I liked that there were several cats in the story. I liked how Sassy/Princess Latifa’s personality blossomed once she could communicate. She sounded just like what I thought a cat would if it could speak its mind. I enjoyed the comments sprinkled throughout, which offer fun observations and a humorous nod to pop culture. 

Published in late 2020, I am so happy to note that there are already five more books in the series! I certainly look forward to falling into those soon. I recommend FALLING INTO MAGIC to cozy mystery readers who enjoy a touch of the paranormal or magic in their stories and fans of the author’s other series. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.