Morgan Spellman Morgan Spellman

Magical Sapphic Books

Looking for heartwarming sapphic reads with a magical twist? Dive into a list of cozy fantasy and paranormal books featuring witches, magic, and enchanting adventures. From spellbinding romances to supernatural mysteries, these stories are perfect for fans of queer fantasy. Discover titles like Can't Spell Treason Without Tea, Pumpkin Spice and Poltergeist, The Bone Spindle, and more!

Looking for some sapphic reads with a magical twist? Whether you're in the mood for cozy mysteries, witchy romances, or a touch of ghostly intrigue, these books have you covered. Here are a few sapphic reads with a sprinkle (or more) of magic:

1. Can't Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne

Genre: Cozy Fantasy
A heartwarming tale of a warrior and a mage who leave their dangerous lives behind to open a cozy tea shop together, this love story is perfect for fans of gentle, low-stakes fantasy who love stories about found family and sweet romance.

Good for: Anyone looking for a feel-good sapphic romance with magical tea shop vibes.

2. The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder

Genre: YA Fantasy
A gender-flipped Sleeping Beauty retelling with two adventurers—one a treasure hunter and the other a warrior—who must navigate curses, traps, and growing feelings towards the sleeping prince and a witch affiliated with the curse.

Good for: Readers who enjoy adventurous fairytale retellings with sapphic romance and plenty of action. This follows two main female characters and their love stories—one is a straight relationship, the other is sapphic.

3. Pumpkin Spice and Poltergeist by Ali K. Mulford and K Elle Morrison

Genre: Paranormal Rom-Com

Apothecary witch Jordyn accidentally conjures her snarky ex-girlfriend’s ghost and crosses paths with a new girl in town who’s just discovered magic exists. As sparks fly between them, they need to outwit the ghostly interference to find love.

Good for: Those craving cozy, fall vibes with a side of humor and ghostly fun.

4. These Witches Don’t Burn by Isabel Sterling

Genre: YA Paranormal
This paranormal adventure follows a teen witch, as she tries to balance high school life, a toxic ex, and a potential magical threat to her coven.

Good for: YA readers who love urban fantasy with thrills, drama, and a touch of mystery.

5. The Lost Coast by Amy Rose Capetta

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
A mysterious story about Danny, a queer girl who joins a group of witches known as The Grays. Looking for a missing witch, she soon discovered a dead boy and becomes entangled in magic, friendship, and self-discovery.

Good for: Fans of lyrical, coming of age stories with witchcraft and queer relationships.

6. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman

Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery
This cozy paranormal mystery features a part-time magician learning to communicate with spirits in a haunted estate to solve a ghostly mystery. Perfect for fall and Halloween vibes!

Good for: Readers who enjoy lighthearted ghost stories with queer protagonists and charming, spooky settings. There’s a sapphic romance, but it is stronger in the second book in the series.

7. Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow

Genre: Historical Fantasy
In an alternate 1893, three sisters find themselves drawn together in the fight for women’s rights, with magic as their secret weapon. As they reclaim their heritage and confront dark forces, their bond as sisters is tested in profound ways.

Good for: Fans of historical fiction with feminist themes, magic, and sisterhood. One of the three sisters is sapphic.

8. Between Magic and Mischief by Marissa Serrao

Genre: Fantasy
Rei, a chaotic half-succubus, half-satyr, teams up with Amora, a runaway princess searching for her lost magic. Together, they embark on a journey filled with fae encounters, cozy taverns, and a blossoming romance.

Good for: Fans of cottage core magic and slow-burn grumpy x sunshine sapphic relationships.

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Cozy Supernatural Mysteries to Curl Up With This Halloween

When Halloween season rolls around, some readers love to dive into the spookiest, most chilling tales they can find while others (myself included) prefer something a bit cozier. If you’re looking for supernatural mysteries with just the right amount of ghostly fun without the nightmares, this list is for you. Grab your favorite blanket, pumpkin spice latte, and let’s explore some delightful cozy mysteries perfect for Halloween!

1. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman

The Abby Spector Ghost Mysteries, Book 1

If you love a good mystery but want your ghost stories served with a side of warmth and humor, Say I Boo is the perfect read. Abby Spector, a lesbian sleuth with a talent for connecting with spirits, finds herself solving ghostly mysteries alongside an eclectic cast of friends. It’s heartwarming, funny, and filled with just the right amount of supernatural sleuthing to keep you hooked without getting too spooky.

Why you’ll love it: The cozy setting, queer representation, and charming mystery make this the ultimate feel-good ghost story.

2. Secondhand Spirits by Juliet Blackwell

The Witchcraft Mystery Series, Book 1

In this enchanting mystery, Lily Ivory is a vintage clothing shop owner—and a witch. She’s moved to San Francisco hoping to lead a quieter life, but soon finds herself involved in a murder mystery that only magic can solve. With a dash of romance, plenty of supernatural intrigue, and a lovable cast of characters, this series is perfect for Halloween when you want a mystery with charm and a bit of witchy magic.

Why you’ll love it: Witchy vibes, vintage fashion, and a cozy San Francisco setting make it an irresistible October read.

3. Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder by Wren Jones

Sella might have a cozy shop and a snarky feline familiar, but life as a kitchen witch isn't easy when your magical abilities are known more for causing trouble than solving problems. When a murder strikes her town and her best friend is the prime suspect, Sella must rely on her magical potions, her friends, and an unexpected ghostly ally to clear her friend's name. With a bit of help from the ghost of the murdered woman herself, Sella’s quest for justice—and her own redemption—begins.

Why you’ll love it: Charming small-town setting, grumpy talking cat, and a delightful ghostly sidekick—what more could you ask for? This cozy mystery blends witchcraft and sleuthing in a way that’s perfect for readers who love magic and charm in their spooky reads.

4. Murder in G Major by Alexia Gordon

The Gethsemane Brown Mysteries, Book 1

If you’re in the mood for a supernatural mystery with a musical twist, look no further. Gethsemane Brown, a classical musician, finds herself in Ireland, where she’s haunted by the ghost of a famous composer. Together, they set out to solve his murder, which is the only way to clear his name. With its atmospheric Irish setting and witty heroine, this series offers the perfect mix of mystery, music, and ghosts.

Why you’ll love it: Cozy Irish vibes, a strong heroine, and a ghostly partner make this a Halloween treat without the tricks.

5. The Ghost of Granny Apples by Sue Ann Jaffarian

The Ghost of Granny Apples Mysteries, Book 1

Emma Whitecastle never imagined her life would take a supernatural turn, but when the ghost of her great-great-great-grandmother, Ish Reynolds—affectionately known as Granny Apples—appears, things get spooky in a lighthearted way. Granny Apples has unfinished business and enlists Emma’s help to solve a century-old murder. Together, this quirky duo investigates the past while navigating present-day mysteries, mixing humor with heart as they tackle ghosts, family secrets, and long-buried crimes.

Why you’ll love it: The mix of family bonds, humor, and a ghostly sidekick with a lot of personality makes this a perfect read for fans of cozy supernatural mysteries with a dash of historical intrigue.

6. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

In Cemetery Boys, Yadriel is a young trans brujo determined to prove his true identity to his traditional Latinx family. When he accidentally summons the wrong ghost—a mischievous spirit named Julian—Yadriel finds himself caught up in a thrilling mystery with a supernatural twist. As they work together to uncover the truth behind Julian’s death, their unlikely partnership grows into something more, offering a blend of magic, mystery, and heartwarming moments.

Why you’ll love it: Cemetery Boys weaves together themes of identity, family, and love with a beautifully written, ghostly mystery, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt supernatural stories with queer representation.

Whether you’re in the mood for witches, ghosts, or talking cats, these cozy supernatural mysteries offer the perfect blend of eerie and heartwarming. So, as the nights grow longer and the air grows crisper, grab one of these books, settle in, and let yourself be whisked away into the supernatural—without losing any sleep!

For more cozy supernatural recommendations, be sure to check out my books and follow along on my newsletter.

Happy Halloween!

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Top LGBTQ+ Halloween Reads 2024

As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to dive into books that capture the spirit of the season. For readers who love a mix of chills, heartwarming moments, and LGBTQ+ representation, I've curated a list of some of my favorite Halloween reads that I hope you’ll enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a spooky ghost story, a magical mystery, or a cozy paranormal romance, these books will make your Halloween reading unforgettable.

1. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

A standout in LGBTQ+ paranormal fiction, Cemetery Boys follows Yadriel, a transgender brujo who accidentally summons the ghost of a recently deceased bad boy, Julian Diaz. As Yadriel helps Julian uncover the truth about his death, they form a deep connection that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking. With its blend of magic, mystery, and romance, this book is a must-read for Halloween.

2. Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia

This quirky and heartwarming mystery centers on Tuesday Mooney, a woman who loves puzzles and secrets. After an eccentric billionaire dies and leaves behind a treasure hunt, Tuesday, along with the ghost of her best friend, dives into a mystery full of twists, turns, and supernatural elements. The book’s diverse cast of characters and its balance of spookiness and charm make it a delightful read for Halloween.

3. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman

This cozy paranormal mystery introduces us to a sapphic part-time magician and her bookish best friend as they get snowed in a haunted estate. Alongside a stressed-out wedding party, our newfound sleuths must determine which ghosts are friendly and which are out for vengeance. With Scooby-Doo meets Dead Boy Detective vibes, this is a fun cozy read packed with queer characters and a sweet sapphic romance.

4. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

For those who prefer their Halloween reads on the cozier side, Legends & Lattes offers a low-stakes, high-comfort story set in a world where an orc barbarian retires from adventuring to open a coffee shop. While not spooky, this fantasy sapphic romance is a heartwarming escape that’s perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.

5. Spell Bound by F.T. Lukens

If you’re looking for a fun refreshing blend of magic, rivalry, and romance, look no further than this young adult adventure. The story follows Rook, a magicless apprentice who lands a job with a powerful sorceress and finds himself entangled in a web of magical politics. When his Spell Binder device attracts the attention of the Magical Consortium, Rook must team up with Sun, the grumpy but endearing apprentice of a rival sorcerer, to save their mentors and protect their world. With its lively pace, charming characters, and rivals-to-friends-to-lovers romance, Spell Bound is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that’s perfect for readers looking for a cozy, magical escape this season.

6. The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder

If fairy tale retellings are your thing, The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder is a spellbinding adventure that combines fairy tale elements with a thrilling, gender-swapped twist on Sleeping Beauty. The story follows Fi, a treasure hunter who accidentally pricks her finger on a cursed spindle, binding her to the spirit of Prince Briar Rose. Alongside Shane, a fierce warrior with her own secrets, Fi must navigate a world of ancient curses, dark magic, and sinister forces to break the spell. With a central sapphic romance and an enchanting world-building The Bone Spindle is a great read for those who love a mix of fantasy, mystery, and heartwarming adventure.

7. Ghost Wood Song by Erica Waters

In this Southern Gothic tale, Shady Grove can call ghosts with her fiddle. When her brother is accused of murder, she must use her inherited ability to summon spirits and uncover the truth. The book blends mystery, magic, and music, creating a hauntingly beautiful story that’s perfect for a Halloween night.

These LGBTQ+ Halloween reads offer a perfect blend of spookiness, heart, and representation, making them the ideal picks for this season. Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling ghost story, a cozy mystery, or a magical adventure, these books will ensure your Halloween is full of memorable reads. Happy haunting!

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Books to Read with a Fun Fresh Take on the Cozy Mystery Genre

Are you a fan of cozy mysteries but looking for something with a bit more flair and originality? Cozy mysteries are known for their charming settings and intriguing plots, but sometimes you crave a fresh twist on the classic genre. Here are some fantastic books that offer a fun, innovative spin on cozy mysteries:

1. A Murder Most Actual by Alexis Hall

When newlyweds Liz and Hanna find themselves in a Scottish castle for their honeymoon, they quickly become embroiled in a real-life murder mystery. Liz, a true-crime podcaster, can't resist investigating the murder, leading to a thrilling adventure full of humor and suspense. Alexis Hall delivers a delightful mix of romance, mystery, and wit in this engaging mystery featuring a pair of sapphic sleuths.

2. A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

Set in a quaint English village, this mystery follows the charming and resourceful amateur sleuth as she navigates societal expectations while solving a murder. With its sharp wit and delightful characters, Julia Seales offers a refreshing take on the traditional cozy mystery, blending period drama with a modern sensibility.

3. Hollywood Homicide by Kellye Garrett

Dayna Anderson, a semi-famous actress, turns amateur sleuth after witnessing a hit-and-run. With her acting career stalled, Dayna decides to solve the case for the reward money, leading her through the glamorous yet dangerous world of Hollywood. Kellye Garrett's debut novel is a fun, fast-paced mystery with a unique Hollywood twist.

4. Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder by Wren Jones

In a small magical town, a ghost shows up on a witch’s doorstep and asks for her help in solving her murder. The witch can not refuse—especially since her best friend is being wrongfully accused as the prime suspect. Wren Jones combines elements of fantasy with classic cozy mystery tropes, creating a whimsical and captivating story complete with a talking cat!

5. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman

In Say I Boo, Abby Spector, a proud lesbian stage magician turned paranormal investigator, teams up with her bookish best friend to solve a ghostly mystery in an elegant mountain estate. Blending supernatural intrigue with heartwarming moments of friendship and community, this cozy mystery is perfect for fans of Dead Boy Detectives, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Lockwood & Co.

6. Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

When Meddelin Chan accidentally kills her blind date, her meddlesome but loving family of aunties come to the rescue to help hide the body. Things get even more complicated when the body is accidentally shipped to the wedding they are all working at. Jesse Q. Sutanto delivers a hilarious and heartwarming story with plenty of twists and turns in this must-read laugh-out-loud mystery.

7. Finlay Donovan Series by Elle Cosimano

Finlay Donovan is a struggling writer and single mom who accidentally gets involved in real-life crimes. Each book in this series features Finlay using her wit and creativity to navigate increasingly outrageous situations. Elle Cosimano's series is a fresh, humorous take on the cozy mystery genre.

These books offer a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and originality, breathing new life into the cozy mystery genre. Whether you're looking for a supernatural twist, a touch of Hollywood glam, or a blend of magic and mayhem, these novels are sure to keep you entertained. Happy reading!

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Cozy Mystery Books with Sapphic Protagonists

Hey there, mystery lovers and LGBTQ+ bookworms! Are you ready to cozy up with a good book and dive into the world of sleuthing and romance? Look no further, because I've curated a list of cozy mystery novels featuring sapphic LGBTQ+ protagonists. From thrilling whodunits to heartwarming tales of love and intrigue, these books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

  1. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman: Join Abby Spector as she navigates the twists and turns of a haunted estate in this charming ghost mystery. With a blend of heart, humor, and a touch of sapphic romance, Say I Boo is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with a paranormal twist (and yes, I’m biased—I wrote it).

  2. Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder by Wren Jones: Follow witchy sleuth Stella as she investigates the death of a ghost that shows up in her small town. With plenty of magic, cozy settings, and a talking cat, this enchanting mystery will keep you guessing until the very end.

  3. Murder Most Actual by Alexis Hall: When up-and-coming true crime podcaster Liza and her corporate financier wife Hanna head to a luxurious hotel in the Scottish Highlands expecting a romantic getaway, they end up with a series of corpses instead. With its witty dialogue and clever ‘Clue-like’ plot, Murder Most Actual is a delightfully humorous mystery.

  4. The Verifiers by Jane Pek: Join Claudia as she dives into the world of verifying online identities—and crime. With its clever plot twists and incisive examination of technology and romance, The Verifiers is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with a modern twist.

    So there you have it—4 cozy mystery novels featuring LGBTQ+ sapphic protagonists that are sure to delight and entertain. Whether you're in the mood for a paranormal adventure, a cozy fantasy, or a classic whodunit, there's something for everyone on this list. Happy reading!

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