Step into the enchanting world of the Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries, where magic, murder, and family mayhem collide in the charming town of Hemlock Cove! Written by Amanda M. Lee, this cozy paranormal mystery series follows Bay Winchester, a witty witch and newspaper editor, as she solves supernatural crimes with her quirky family. With its blend of humor, heart, and otherworldly intrigue, this series is a spellbinding escape for fans of lighthearted mysteries.
From ghostly encounters to snarky banter, the series captures the magic of small-town life with a supernatural twist. Whether you’re drawn to the Winchester witches’ loyalty or Aunt Tillie’s outrageous antics, there’s something irresistibly fun about this mystical world.
How Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries Began
Amanda M. Lee, a longtime newspaper reporter and self-professed science fiction fanatic, launched the Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries in 2012 with Any Witch Way You Can. Inspired by her own family dynamics, Lee crafted the series around the Winchester witches, infusing them with sarcasm and charm. She drew from her great-aunt’s appearance and her great-grandmother’s personality to create the unforgettable Aunt Tillie, a filter-free firecracker who steals the show.
Lee’s goal was to blend cozy mysteries with paranormal elements, setting the series in a rebranded tourist town that hides real magic. Her storytelling, rooted in humor and heartfelt relationships, quickly resonated with readers, turning the series into a beloved staple of the cozy mystery genre.
The Heart of Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries
The series kicks off with Any Witch Way You Can, where Bay Winchester investigates a murder tied to Hemlock Cove’s murder mystery weekend, only to uncover occult suspicions that hit close to home. In Every Witch Way But Wicked, the town drunk’s death sparks chaos, with Bay juggling family drama and a new FBI agent, Landon Michaels. Witch Me Luck sees Bay tackling a bank robbery and a ghost, while fending off her high school nemesis. My Big Fat Witch Wedding celebrates Bay and Landon’s nuptials amid magical mishaps and, of course, a murder.
Set in Hemlock Cove, Michigan, a town rebranded as a witch-themed tourist destination, the series weaves themes of family loyalty, love, and resilience. Bay, her cousins Thistle and Clove, and their eccentric Aunt Tillie navigate murders, ghosts, and curses with sharp wit and unbreakable bonds. Lee’s snarky dialogue and lighthearted tone make each book a delightful mix of mystery, romance, and magic, perfect for readers who crave cozy yet supernatural adventures.
The series’ first-person narrative, told through Bay’s perspective, immerses readers in her world of sleuthing and spell-casting. With over 25 books, plus shorts and fantasy spin-offs, the series offers a rich tapestry of stories that keep fans coming back for more.
Why Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries Resonates
The Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, enchanting readers with its blend of humor, heart, and supernatural intrigue. Fans praise Lee’s ability to craft laugh-out-loud moments, especially through Aunt Tillie’s outrageous schemes, while weaving compelling mysteries that don’t take themselves too seriously. The series’ focus on family dynamics and small-town charm makes it a comforting yet thrilling escape.
Its lasting appeal lies in its relatable characters and addictive storytelling. With high ratings on Goodreads (averaging 4.5 for many books) and enthusiastic Amazon reviews calling it “hysterical” and “addictive,” the series has built a loyal fanbase eager for each new release. Its influence extends to inspiring readers to embrace their own quirks and cherish family ties, all while enjoying a magical mystery.
- First Book Published: 2012 (Any Witch Way You Can)
- Total Books: 25+ mysteries, plus shorts and fantasy spin-offs
- Setting: Hemlock Cove, Michigan
- Genre: Cozy Paranormal Mystery
Grab Any Witch Way You Can and dive into the Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mysteries’ spellbinding world of magic, mischief, and murder!