By Familiar Means (Witch's Cat Mystery #2) by Delia James

You may recall in February I told you about an awesome new series by Delia James. I know if you read the first part you will be excited to know that on September 27th part two will be available! By Familiar Means (Witch's Cat Mystery #2) by Delia James is humming with all the para-cozy fun I enjoyed in the first part.

From the back of the book:

In the latest from the author of A Familiar Tail, a witch and her familiar find trouble brewing at a coffee house.

After discovering her mystical heritage—and being adopted by furry feline familiar Alistair—artist Annabelle Britton has decided to make picturesque Portsmouth, New Hampshire, her new home. Now, she can take the time to figure out her new abilities and welcome her grandmother, who is visiting Portsmouth, and her old coven, for the first time in thirty years.

But being a witch doesn’t magically put money in the bank. When she’s hired to paint the murals for a new coffee house, it seems like a wish come true. But then a series of spooky sounds and strange happenings convince the owners that their new shop is haunted. They want Anna and her coven to evict the restless spirit before the grand opening.

Annabelle is certain the haunted happenings at the shop are just hocus pocus. But when her search reveals hidden smugglers’ tunnels beneath the shop—and a dead body—Annabelle, Alastair, and the coven suddenly find themselves in a cat and mouse game with a killer.

My thoughts:

The characters in this series are so charming, literally. All of the guardians have my heart. I also really enjoyed getting to see more of Grandma BB, Frank, and Sean. The relationships are developing into rich, real interactions that add to the world and make it easy to sink into. It feels so genuine, even thought they are larger than life. They each have something that makes them unique and valuable to the story. The setting also grew more visible this time.

The magic played a bigger role in this as Anna starts to get more comfortable with what she is, it is fun to see what her skills will allow for. Alastair remains a fabulous cat in all ways. The mystery was great, steeped in family secrets and even went a ways in developing underlying stories that showed more about Grandma BB. I had it half figured and love the little twists along the way. I love all things witchy and am totally in love this series. I hope you will preorder and if you need, take the time to read part one while you wait.

Take some time to browse the other great mysteries available from Berkley Prime Crime. While you are there, you can sign up for the newsletter so you never miss a new release. I must warn you though, after browsing my wish list is longer than I could probably read. You can also connect with them on Twitter where you can happen across a fun giveaway as well. 

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.