A Witch Awakens

Book 1 in Ellis Elliott's Fire Circle Mystery Series: In the debut novel of the Fire Circle Mystery series, author Ellis Elliott blends elements of the supernatural into the cozy mystery genre resulting in an exciting reading experience. Readers meet Tennessee "Cece" Chagall, who returns to her hometown of Eureka Grove, Tennessee, after leaving New York. She resumes life as a dance instructor at her grandmother's studio and reconnects with her old friend Bess. But her peaceful routine is shattered when a beloved local figure is murdered. Cece's synesthesia-referred to as her "peculiars" by Aunt Granny Hazel-begins revealing clues that seem to guide her toward the truth. As she grapples with the strange sensory experiences that point her to the murder weapon, she leans on her eccentric aunt and the supportive women of the "fire circle" for insight. Blending small-town charm, quirky characters, and a classic whodunit feel, this mystery pays homage to traditional detective tales, steering clear of graphic content and gritty crime tropes. "...a throwback to a time before graphic violence and hardcore police procedurals became the norm...Elliott crafts a pleasantly twisty mystery populated by rich characters... an intriguing tale that is sure to delight old-fashioned mystery lovers. A satisfying cozy mystery with just a hint of the supernatural." KIRKUS "A Witch Awakens is a 'Fire Circle Mystery' steeped in an Appalachian backdrop and traditions. It delivers a punch with the hard-hitting story of Cece Chagall, who moves back to her hometown of Ureka Grove in search of peace, only to herself involved in a murder...Readers seeking vivid, engrossing stories that weave supernatural overtones into issues of murder, discovery, and transformation will relish the combination of realistic characterization and community awakening that make A Witch Awakens a vibrant, thoroughly immersive experience." MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW