Step into the enchanting world of Cindy Eller, where magic, romance, and cupcakes collide in a delightful paranormal fantasy! Crafted by USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth A. Reeves, the Cindy Eller series follows a Tucson-based baker with a knack for supernatural sweets and a pesky curse that turns her romantic suitors into toads. This whimsical nine-novel, one-novella saga blends humor, heart, and a dash of fairy-tale charm, making it a must-read for fans of cozy paranormal romance.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Tucson, Arizona, Cindy’s adventures are as spicy as the chilies she infuses into her magical desserts. With a cast of quirky characters, from meddling witch sisters to a mysterious ice cream man, the series serves up a recipe for love and laughter that’s impossible to resist.
How Cindy Eller Began
Elizabeth A. Reeves, a Tucson resident with a passion for books and horses, drew inspiration from her desert surroundings and love for fairy tales to create Cindy Eller. A self-proclaimed introvert, Reeves channeled her vivid imagination into crafting a modern Cinderella story with a magical twist. Launched in 2012 with How (Not) to Kiss a Toad, the series grew from a quirky idea about a cursed witch into a beloved saga, fueled by Reeves’ knack for blending humor and heart.
Reeves’ background as a foodie and her Arizona roots shine through in the series’ vivid culinary details and Southwestern flair. Her goal? To write the kind of fun, fantastical stories she’d love to read, complete with relatable heroines and a sprinkle of mischief.
The Heart of Cindy Eller
The series kicks off with How (Not) to Kiss a Toad, where Cindy Eller, a baker with limited magical prowess, grapples with her curse: every man she kisses turns into a toad. When she meets Nathan, a charming foodie, she hopes he’s her true love—until he becomes a particularly slimy amphibian. In How (Not) to Kiss a Prince, Cindy juggles two weddings and a mysterious suitor claiming to be her betrothed, all while keeping her bakery afloat. How (Not) to Kiss a Ghost takes a darker turn as Cindy investigates her sisters’ disappearances, blending suspense with her signature humor. How (Not) to Love a Hero, the final novel, sees Cindy balancing her role as Faerie’s Seraphine while facing cosmic challenges.
Themes of self-discovery, family, and resilience weave through the series, grounded by Tucson’s desert charm and a fairy-tale aesthetic. Reeves’ light, conversational style pairs cozy baking scenes with magical mayhem, creating a world where witches, toads, and talking dragons feel right at home. The series’ blend of paranormal romance and fantasy appeals to readers craving escapist fun with a side of mystery.
Why Cindy Eller Resonates
Cindy Eller has carved a niche in paranormal romance for its relatable heroine and whimsical storytelling. Fans praise its humor and heart, with Goodreads reviews calling it “magically fantastic” for its vivid characters and steady pacing. The series’ focus on Cindy’s growth—from a self-doubting baker to a confident Seraphine—strikes a chord with readers seeking empowering narratives. Its Tucson setting adds a unique flavor, grounding the fantastical in a relatable, sun-soaked reality.
Though not a cultural juggernaut, Cindy Eller’s charm lies in its cozy, niche appeal. It’s a hidden gem for fans of light fantasy, offering a sweet escape that’s as satisfying as one of Cindy’s cupcakes. The series’ clean romance and all-ages suitability make it a versatile pick for readers craving magic without heavy drama.
- Publication Years: 2012–2016
- Number of Books: 9 novels, 1 novella
- Setting: Tucson, Arizona
- Genres: Paranormal romance, fantasy
Grab How (Not) to Kiss a Toad and dive into Cindy Eller’s magical world of toads, treats, and true love!