Grimoires and Gingerbread

A Sugar Shack Witch Mystery Christmas Novella (Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries Novellas Series, Book 1)

By: Danielle Garrett

Narrated by: Amanda Ronconi

Length: 1 hr and 39 mins

Publisher's Summary

Christmas in Winterspell means ice skating, hot cocoa by the barrel, and frosted gingerbread houses. I was almost looking forward to it.

The merriment screeches to a halt when two elves show up, claiming to have been sent by Santa himself, on a mission to track down an ancient grimoire.

A grimoire with the power of Christmas itself woven through the pages. Without it, Christmas isn't happening, and Santa himself is in grave danger.

Could Winterspell hold the key to saving Christmas?

©2020 Danielle Garrett (P)2021 Tantor

Better than Book 1

I liked this volume better than the first. The short length really helped to tighten the circle minimizing how many characters you have so they feel more full than a large cast of underdeveloped characters and beginner threads that peter out. There is a nice tidy recap at the top of the story so if you missed volume 1 or have not listened for a while you can drop right in without any confusion. I also enjoyed how much more magic was interwoven throughout the story since there is such a fast pace it feels more consistent and natural. The flirty banter between Rosella and the main male interest felt more playful and organic though I will say Rosella is no where near as sassy as Danielle's other characters she feels more subdued. The Christmas story line was fun and hinting at some interesting magic. Though this series is early days lots of questions started that seem super important to Rosella but then she just forgets to follow up on--so you realize the author is just wanting to plant this out to the audience with no intention to answer until later as it will likely be a major story arc of this world. I will definitely be continuing with this series though the overall feel is somewhat...softer than the other protagonists Danielle has written--I don't think this is bad just realized I had gotten accustomed to a much louder leading lady (in sarcasm and action) and I am adjusting to this style of story and enjoying the change of pace. Looking forward to book 2. Oh and Amanda is fabulous as always in bringing these characters to life, I really feel like she tries to create new voices that have variation from former tales which I appreciate.

My new Addition

I love the imagination that goes into each Danielle Garrett book. Amanda Ronconi is a skilled performer.