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Cat's Paw Cove #15

Charming the Skeptic

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Will love open his heart to magic?

Paranormal investigator Wade Preston is so sure that anything supernatural is fake, he even hosts a TV series that debunks so-called haunted places. But when the show is in danger of being cancelled, he must wow his producers by exposing the most convincing occult phenomenon he can find—Tales bookstore in Cat’s Paw Cove.

Bookworm Astor Carmichael knows magic is real, because she has the power to step into the world of any novel, and her mischievous cat often joins her. Ever since her mom abandoned the family, Astor’s frequent jaunts into fiction is a lot more interesting than caring for her siblings and father.

When Wade sets his sights on the supposedly-haunted bookstore, he gets way more than he ever could have imagined. He’d never counted on the possibility that ghosts might actually be real—or that he’d fall for Astor—the beautiful woman who manages the bookstore.

139 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 24, 2020

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About the author

Wynter Daniels

81 books159 followers
Wynter Daniels has penned more than two dozen books in various romance genres including paranormal, romantic suspense and contemporary for several publishers including Entangled Publishing and Kristen Painter's Nocturne Falls Universe. In 2019, she launched a brand new world with author Catherine Kean. Wynter lives in sunny Florida with her family and a spoiled cat. Find her at www.WynterDaniels.com, wwwCatsPawCoveRomance.com, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wynter...
or on Twitter at https://twitter.com/WynterDaniels

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5 stars
28 (66%)
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10 (23%)
3 stars
3 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer.
784 reviews15 followers
September 27, 2020
I loved this one! It is book 18 in the Cat's Paw Cove series a wonderful cozy set to read. This one is about a sceptic of the paranormal that tries to debunk all things on a tv show but this time Paranormal Investigator Wade Preston bit off more than he could chew when he tries to debunk tales Bookstore! Astor is the owner of the store and has abilities and with her cat along for the fun you will get quite a few laughs. Very well written with great characters hope there will be more.
Profile Image for Gwessie Tee.
452 reviews14 followers
October 25, 2020
Absolutely amazing read, I thoroughly adore every part of this magical book, I most definitely highly recommend the book and the series. Astor and Wade's story is beautifully done I look forward to reading more from Cats Paw Cove.
8,514 reviews112 followers
October 20, 2020
Another fun book to the Cat's Paw Cove series. The author once again brings strong characters in this entertaining paranormal story. The author does a great job building the story and moving it quickly and smoothly with vividly painted scenes. It's well written and is a great addition to the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,555 reviews107 followers
October 16, 2020
Fun book. In magical Cat's Paw Cove, you never know if you're talking to a witch, a fairy, or, in this case, a bookworm. Astor's magical talent is the ability to step into the world of any book. As the oldest of her siblings, Astor has had the responsibility of caring for her family ever since her mother left them. It's no wonder that escaping into the worlds of Little Women or The Great Gatsby is more interesting. It's the perfect magical talent for the manager of a haunted bookstore.

Wade is the host of a television show called Haunted Hoaxes, where he exposes fake supernatural events. He believes that there is no such thing as paranormal activity. When his show is about to be canceled, Wade plans to win renewal by exposing Tales bookstore as a fraud. Things don't go quite the way he expected.

I loved following Wade's conversion. The book opened with a prologue from Wade's childhood detailing a traumatic event that goes a long way toward explaining his obsession. When he arrived in Cat's Paw Cove, he simply observed the bookstore and noticed Astor right away. When they met, there was no doubt about the sparks that flew between them. Neither planned to act on them because Wade is only there for a short time, and Astor can't imagine getting involved with someone like Wade. However, they can't resist spending time with each other, and because of that, Wade is around as ghostly activity in the bookstore begins to escalate. It was funny to see him try so hard to explain away the things that happened. There was also a terrific scene involving Astor's cat, Pickles, and a compost bin that also chipped away at his disbelief.

The real kicker came when Pickles disappeared into a damaged journal, and Astor followed, vanishing right before Wade's eyes. The intensity was fantastic as Astor dealt with obstacles to her return, including an unexpected quarantine. On the other side, Wade and her family were desperate to find a way to get her back home. Help came from an unexpected source that made it possible for Astor to get back and answered questions about Wade's past. The ending was terrific.
Profile Image for Betty.
506 reviews2 followers
October 20, 2020
Paranormal Investigator Wade Preston hosts a tv show called Haunted Hoaxes, which disproves the stories of haunted houses being real. The show has come on hard times, so to stop the cancellation of the show, he's going to Cat's Paw Cove to do an expose story of a haunted bookstore called Tales.
Astor Carmichael is half owner of Tales and knows the store is haunted and has been for quite a while. She also has a very unusual gift herself. She meets Wade in the store talking to Ruby the other owner who has agreed to let him have a book signing in the store for his book, Occult Imposters. Wade is quite taken with Astor but she's not happy about what he does. She will she be able to convince Wade about the store and her magical town? Wade is in for quite a surprise and also comes to terms with something he witnessed as a child.
I so love the Cat's Paw Cove books and wish I lived there!! It takes you into a magical world with magical characters and very special cats. They are funny, romantic, suspenseful and just such happy reads that leaves you in such a good mood. Highly recommend.
3,695 reviews8 followers
October 23, 2020
This very well-written story is book 18 in the Cat's Paw Cove series and a wonderful, interesting read. This story is about a sceptic of the paranormal who tries to debunk all things on a tv show but this time Paranormal Investigator Wade Preston will not be able to do that so easily. He tries to debunk tales Bookstore, she is the owner of the store and has abilities to enter any story in a book and with her cat along for the fun, it is quite humorous. It is very well developed story with great characters hope. I need to read the few books I have not yet to catch up on the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
230 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2020
Wade, is a paranormal investigator who is on his way to Cat's Paw Cove to prove that the paranormal activities are fake, in hopes of saving his TV show. As soon as he arrives in town he runs over Astor, future owner of the Tales bookstore and he is smitten. While helping Astor he finds out things are not always as they seem and can not always be explained by science. A visit from his mother sheds some light on why he has always thought anything paranormal was fake. Very good story, I love every book I have read about Cat's Paw Cove and if I was rich I would buy everyone that I have not read. I hope the series never ends.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Penny.
2,459 reviews69 followers
October 20, 2020
I had never read any book in this series nor the authors. The blurb sounded interesting, and I was ready to read. This was a fun, paranormal romance with a little bit of mystery thrown in. I thought it would have a bit more mystery in it, but it leans more heavily to the romance side. No matter, this was a well-written tale of Astor, who can jump into books, and a TV host who wants to debunk her haunted shop. Mayhem ensues because the ghosts are acting up, and they need to find out what’s making them act out more than usual. This was a cute tale, and if you like paranormal romance, give this a try. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Donna.
3,862 reviews49 followers
October 20, 2020
Charming the Skeptic is an adorable tale of opposites attracting. Wade Preston spends his time debunking hauntings while Astor Carmichael knows magic is real. Astor is a young woman with too many responsibilities who escapes into a good book to relax. Literally. Wade had a brush with the paranormal as a child and has spent his life trying to make it untrue. He is not ready for Cat's Paw Cove or Astor but boy is it fun watching him awaken to the possibilities.
Profile Image for Helena Mendes.
1,370 reviews15 followers
October 20, 2020
Loved it! Loved it! Loved it!...Awesome story! It has everything that I love in a story...paranormal, romance, comic situations and steamy ones. One of the best stories I have ever read, made it to my top 50 of favorite books ;))

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
82 reviews55 followers
October 21, 2020
I really liked Charming the Skeptic by Wynter Daniels. This story was a lot of fun to read and it did not disappoint! It was well written and I really loved the characters! I enjoyed every second of it and I definitely recommend this book!
Profile Image for fred jones.
1,354 reviews8 followers
October 18, 2020
An enjoyable romance paranormal mystery with many inventive touches like being able to disappear into a book becoming part of the story.. A quick read well written with nice quirky characters and lots of cats. Mostly light until the final section which gets darker.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marianne.
5,807 reviews70 followers
October 18, 2020
This paranormal romance is so much fun to read! I loved it! I think that I would love to have this magical power!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sharon Buchbinder.
Author 32 books2,371 followers
November 12, 2020
Wade Preston is the down on his luck TV star of the reality series, Haunted Hoaxes. In a last ditch effort to convince his boss to allow him to continue his series, he offers to underwrite one last show at a haunted bookstore in Cats Paw Cove.

Astor Carmichael is a book jumper and the soon-to-be proprietor of said haunted bookstore, Tales. Much of the store’s reputation and business comes from the very fact that the store is haunted. Tourists hope that when they go there they’ll see some ghostly behavior.

Wade runs into Astor when he arrives at Cat’s Paw Cove, literally. Fortunately, Astor is not hurt, but her bike is totaled. Wade buys her a new bike, and the spark between them begins to smolder.

Will Wade, the skeptic, be able to prove the store isn’t haunted? Will Astor make him a believer?
You must read this charming book to find out. Along the way, you will find some interesting twists and historical turns. I loved this book and give it five shiny bicycle headlights and an enthusiastic recommendation.

Profile Image for Dorothy  Scott.
913 reviews3 followers
November 15, 2020
Wade has a debunking show that’s in trouble, and he hopes to breathe life into it by traveling to Cat’s Paw Cove and exposing the bookstore. Astor has a special ability which makes her a perfect prospective owner for the bookstore. Wade had a confusing experience with his Grandmother when he was a child and now is convinced that the unexplained is either a con or has just not been scientifically proven yet. Astor has her hands full when the unexplained attacks. Cat’s Paw Cove is an enjoyable series and Charming The Skeptic is a sweet romance. I love the honest communication between Astor and Wade. Even though they disagree when they meet, they grow closer with their honesty.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,475 reviews12 followers
October 15, 2020
The author gives us a very good look at what a TV show host might do to keep his reality show on the air. However, there is only so much that a skeptical man can do when he meets that special woman who forces him to open his mind and eyes despite his best efforts. I enjoyed their sparring and their teamwork as depicted by the author. In this contest, the score is: Witch 1, Debunker 0.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara.
17.7k reviews8 followers
October 30, 2020
Book eighteen in the Cat's Paw Cove series another well written story in this series. I enjoyed reading Paranormal investigator Wade Preston and Bookworm Astor Carmichael's story of suspense, drama, danger,ghosts, and romance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda.
66 reviews3 followers
November 21, 2020
Love it. This series is one of my favorites. Wade is so determined to not believe in magic of any kind that he would even hurt the store of the girl he slowly falling for. That is until he sees it right in front of his face. Wynter is such an amazing story teller. It drew me in right away and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
190 reviews
November 5, 2020
This was a really cute story. The title was very appropriate for the theme of the story. I also liked the uniqueness of a 'book charmer' - someone who can disappear into the books that she reads. I would have liked a little more depth to Wade's character initially. This story was so lighthearted - I am looking forward to reading her other Cat's Paw Cove stories.
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 30 books88 followers
October 20, 2020
Book Review: Charming the Skeptic (Cat's Paw Cove #18)
Author: Wynter Daniels
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewer - Tammy Book Nook Nuts

REVIEW
A very well written story. It kept me entertained from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Wade and Astor however he is going to be a hard nut to crack. He doesn't believe in the occult, even though as a child something happened that should make him believe.
Astor has too much on her plate with the bookstore and its shenanigans to deal with his issues too.
Can Astor save everyone including Pickles? And who will save her?
Well grab your copy and find out.

Wynter Daniels
1,342 reviews14 followers
December 30, 2023
I have not read any of the Cat's Paw Cove books but reading the reviews, I wish I had because they sound so much fun. This, my first, certainly does not disappoint. A handsome non-believer in magic meets the lovely magical bookstore manager and the attraction is palpable. But Wade is determined that magic can be explained away by hoaxes, clever illusions or simply science and it is not until Astor is in danger that he can bring himself to open his eyes and admit that magic does exist.

A sweet fun read, with lots of ahhh moments as well as bits that make you smile. I enjoyed this relaxing read and will certainly be looking out for more.
Profile Image for Annarella.
13k reviews143 followers
January 2, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Cat's Paw Cove stories and I was never disappointed as they are all highly enjoyable and entertaining.
This one was no exception and loved every moment of it.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for Teresa.
83 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2022
Charming the Skeptic is a delightful installment in the Cat’s Paw Cove mystery series by Wynter Daniels and narrated by Rebecca Winder. This series follows the inhabitants of the small sea side town of Cat’s Paw Cove, which is known for its’ unusual population of witches, ghosts, psychics and more. Several authors contribute books to the series but Rebecca Winder’s are my favorites.

In this book, Wade Preston is a paranormal investigator who arrives at Cat’s Paw Cove to investigate the paranormal activity reported in the town as a means of saving his television series which has been cancelled. In due course, he meets Astor Carmichael, who works at the local bookshop which is known to be haunted. Wade struggles with his skepticism even as he is faced with a series of paranormal events and as his feelings for Astor grow.

This is a cute, clean, paranormal mystery, romance. It is light listening but the story is well developed and the characters are enjoyable and likeable. A number of other inhabitants of the town make an appearance from previous books which is always fun to see that cross-over. A mischievous cat causes trouble. Overall, a very enjoyable listen. I recommend this series, and this book, to those who like a bit of clean paranormal fun with a bit of romance and mystery thrown in.

Rebecca Winder narrates most of the Cat’s Paw Cove books and does a lovely job. She is easy to listen to and distinguishes characters easily. She has a delightful voice.

***I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my own, unbiased, review.***
Profile Image for Book.
447 reviews
September 25, 2020
Warning: Please read the promotional blurbs carefully.

There is very little mystery here. Charming the Skeptic revolves around a paranormal investigator who debunks fakes falling for a “bookworm” in a community filled with folks who practice real magic. Bookworm Astor literally steps into the pages of any book to become part of the story. This novel is number 18 in the Cat’s Paw Cove series. Astor’s cat, Pickles, also astro-projects into books and serves as an adventuresome sidekick for her mistress.
Profile Image for Jodi Sweet.
1,472 reviews6 followers
December 30, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I had no problem jumping right in. The books are definitely written as standalones. I had so much fun reading about Aster and her incredible talent of entering books. I would LOVE to be able to do that!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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