CASUAL HEX – Vicki Lewis Thompson
Onyx
ISBN (13): 978-0-451-41268-3
ISBN (10): 0-451-41268-0
March 2009
Paranormal Romance

Big Knob, Indiana—Present Day

Magical doings are happening once again in Big Knob as Dorcas and Ambrose Lowell, witch and wizard respectively, act as matchmakers for florist Gwen Dubois and French botanist Marc Chevalier. A plant, not indigenous to the area, which was recently discovered nearby brings the two would-be lovers together. After conversing with each other via the phone and in email, Gwen can't wait to finally meet Marc, because there's already that something between them.  Putting aside some recent erotic dreams she's had, a makeover at a local beauty shop is the first order of business.

Despite an impending snowstorm and first missing the exit to Big Knob, Marc arrives safely and is nearly bowled over at finally meeting Gwen. She's beautiful and charming, despite her protestations that she is neither. The citizens of the town seem intent on not only bringing him and Gwen together, but are also curious about Marc and won't leave them alone . Will Marc and Gwen ever get a chance to be alone? Is there a future for them despite their living continents apart and just barely meeting?

But unbeknownst to everyone, there's a reason Gwen has been having erotic dreams. A certain fairy by the name of Prince Leo Atwood has been commanded by his mother, the Queen Fairy, to hook up with Gwen. Leo is a prince with many vices, one of which is having a good time and not caring whom he hurts to get what he wants. Well, Marc can't have Gwen, because he, Leo, is going to take what's his.

A showdown of the magical kind is in store for readers in CASUAL HEX. Readers will find between the covers a mix of witchcraft, wizardry, and an odd assortment of fairies, dragons, talking raccoons, and a cat who steals scenes. Vicki Lewis Thompson has provided a witty, entertaining tale from beginning to end. Although closely related to OVER HEXED and WILD & HEXY, CASUAL HEX can be read as a standalone.

Gwen is excitedly waiting for Marc. Their only exchanges up until now have been via phone calls and emails, but they're already feeling a connection that means more than just friendship. The fact that strange things happen in Big Knob doesn't faze Gwen, but to Marc, there is definitely something odd going on. Dorcas and Ambrose are an interesting and friendly couple, and Marc's suspicions are aroused by their peculiar behavior when they take him to view the plant. Why is this plant thriving in the dead of winter in Indiana ?

Leo proves to be a formidable adversary with his magical powers and ability to get into Gwen's dreams, but he also provides a bit of comic relief with his huge ego and his belief that he's invincible. He's determined to claim Gwen, as he thinks she is the answer to his problems with his mother, who wants him to marry and provide heirs. But Marc stands in his way. Who will win in the end?  Ms. Thompson throws in a few twists that will have readers chuckling and wanting more stories from Big Knob.

Mystical and amusing, CASUAL HEX is just the book to drive the blues away. Make it a part of your must-have reading list.

Patti Fischer