After a narrow escape from death, Arista retreats from Boulder Creek to the desert lands of Sedona, seeking sanctuary with her great-aunt Berthie and the Coven. Together, they build a quiet life away from the shadows of her past. Yet, even after a year, the threat of her ruthless Uncle Fergus looms large. His relentless ambition drives him to hunt Arista down, forcing her to prepare for an inevitable confrontation. Determined not to be a victim again, Arista dives into mastering spells, decoding auras, and honing the powers she is destined to wield. When visions, eerie signs, and an unexpected reunion trigger a carefully laid trap, it becomes alarmingly clear that Fergus is closer than ever. His greed knows no bounds, and with danger closing in, Arista must summon every ounce of strength for the battle of her life. The stakes couldn’t be higher—will she vanquish Fergus once and for all, or will his insatiable ambition dismantle everything she holds dear?

Sherri L. Dodd’s Moonset on Desert Sands grips readers with its relentless suspense, intricate plot twists, and dazzling display of magical mayhem. Each chapter brims with chaos and surprises, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The characters are compellingly drawn, with Fergus stealing the show as the villain. Unlike the first installment, in which he remains in the shadows, Fergus dominates this book, his schemes driving the narrative forward. His villainy is so vivid and theatrical that he’s almost charming—an antagonist you can’t help but admire, even as you root for his downfall.

Meanwhile, Arista’s characterization is more complex. At times, her decisions feel justified and strategic; at others, they seem erratic, which adds an intriguing, if occasionally frustrating, layer to her journey. Stevie, on the other hand, is a delightful wildcard. His humor and recklessness provide levity, making him a standout. This sequel amplifies the magic. Every page bursts with spells, aura readings, and mystical rituals, immersing readers in a world of non-stop witchcraft. While the book is lengthy, its rich plot, dynamic characters, and constant action ensure the pacing rarely falters.

Fans of magic, witchcraft, and light thrillers will find Moonset on Desert Sands an enchanting escape. Though it’s the second book in the Murder, Tea, and Crystals series, it stands alone beautifully, offering newcomers an unforgettable journey into its spellbinding world.

Pages: 371 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DF33L1YW