Dime Store Magic (Otherworld)

Paige is a 23-year-old witch and the only daughter of the murdered coven leader who has been taking care of recently orphaned 13-year-old witch Savannah. When Savannah is pursued by a dangerous Cabal leader (the wizard equivalent of a coven) and a telekinetic half-demon, Paige does everything she can to protect the strong-willed teen. But it is not only dangerous enemies that Paige must protect her from, it is also Savannah's darker side (learned from her mother, who liked to practice the dark arts).

With the help of a Cabal leader's son, Lucas Cortez, Paige fights for Savannah's life and magic (she must hold a specific ceremony at a specific time to ensure the full growth of her abilities), for her coven (which is being lead by old-fashioned women who were too spooked by the witch trials to be strong and bold), for love (not surprising that she a Cortez fall for each other), for her mother's vision of the future (where the coven comes into their own full powers), and for the secrecy of magic from the rest of the world.

Armstrong does a strange, if bizarre, job of integrating the magical and real worlds. The magic-users fight in the legal world in an attempt to gain Savannah's guardianship, and then resort to magical intimidation when that does not work. As a repercussion for the magic and deaths, the small town where Paige lives protests against her (because the think she is a devil-worshipper). The coven turns their backs on her in fear of being exposed and hunted. Paige acts much older than her 23 years and I almost wonder if it is worth making her so young. It doesn't matter much, but it feels like we're reading about a thirty year old and you forget she's so young until it gets mentioned by someone. It is almost more distracting than anything else. Despite this minor flaw, Paige is a strong, determined heroine who is easy to root for.

Though this isn't strictly the first book in the series (Women of Otherworld), you can easily pick it up and understand everything that is going on.

The weakest point of the book for me was the opening, which is a little slow and hard to get into. Once we actually meet Paige and start dealing with her problems, the book really comes to life.

Slick as a "Angel" episode, Kelley Armstrong delves into the paranormal with a sure and steady hand. Dime Store Magic is strongly reminiscent of Cate Tiernan's "Sweep" novels utilizing verbiage and background into the elusive Wiccan culture mixed with the modern-day visage of "Buffy" and "Angel".

Here, in Armstrong's alternate-verse, Witches and Sorcerers are foes and are organized into corporate like entities called Cabals. For those witches who do not belong to the waning and outdated American Coven of Witches, they either are rogues or belong to the sorcerer run Cabals. Of course, this universe would not be complete without your requisite demons and vampires thrown in as well, with a pedigree and hierarchial structure to rival even the most organized mob.

This is the world Paige Winterbourne lives in, and one she must cut her teeth in. Swimming with sharks is an understatement as Paige finds herself ousted from the coven that has sheltered her.

Relying on a basic majick skill-set (albeit sanctioned by the ACOW)this heroine finds she must tap her powers with the help of a few stolen grimoires, (and a sexy sorcerer) in order to protect her gifted charge, Savannah whose penchant for black majick has come under the scrutiny of the Cabals. Ruthless Cabals who will stop at nothing to acquire her.

A sure-fire read that is not only believable, but highly enjoyable and written by an extremely capable author; whose delicate hand balances all the facets of good storytelling that leaves your readers wanting more.Copyright(c)Nicola Mattos Kudos!

Any time that one is facing a trial is not a good time, but when one is a witch, the trouble factor is cubed, as Paige Winterbourne soon learns. Facing a custody challenge for the neophyte witch, Savannah, whom she has cared for during the last year, she turns to her coven for support; however, the old biddies are less than helpful. Gambling on using a human lawyer to fight magical opponents should have been a good risk, but it turned out to be a deadly one for the human after he wins the first round. That is when Cortez appears, a very young sorcerer/ lawyer, looking to make a name for himself away from his Cabal. At first, Paige is reluctant to accept his help, but as her coven deserts her completely, the town makes her a pariah, and her enemies seem to hold all the good cards, she has no choice. When Savannah becomes a woman, officially, things go from bad to abysmal rapidly. As the dark side beckons, will Paige's love be strong enough to save Savannah from herself?

***** Without any doubt in my mind, I can say that Dime Store Magic is the best book in this series that has been excellent since Book I. Light humor makes the dramatic ending stand out in sharp contrast. Most laudable is the fact that each book in this series stands alone and complete, so that you can enter it at any point; and though are eager for the next book, readers are not left dangling in mid air. *****

Reviewed by Amanda Killgore for Huntress Reviews.

A great great book. I didn't know if I would like the character change of focus especially since I wasn't very fond of Paige. But Ms. Armstrong peoved me wrong. Loved Paige and Samantha and Lucas! Great book great series!

The first time I read this book, I had a hard time getting into it. I loved Elena as the narrator of the first two books in the Otherworld series, and now, Paige is the narrator. I didn't really like Paige in Stolen, but I have to admit I gained an appreciation for her throughout the course of this book.

The story picks up about nine months after Stolen left off. Young Savannah is living with Paige and they're developing a relationship, despite wariness from the Coven. But now half-demon Leah is back, helping Savannah's biological father pursue custody. Savannah's dad is Kristof Nash, a member of the sorcerer family that leads the Nast Cabal. This book really lays out the rich history of animosity between witches and sorcerers. And it lays the groundwork for the serious world-building surrounding the cabals and their families.

One of the ways Armstrong does this, is with the introduction of Lucas. He's the rebellious son of the Cortez cabal, who wants to right the wrongs of his sorcerer brethren. Here, he volunteers as a lawyer for Paige and Savannah. Of course, the custody battle gets ugly, as Leah works diligently to cast Paige in an unfavorable light. She's painted as a black witch, and people around her either end up dead or rising from the grave. We get to see an unlikely relationship form between Paige and Lucas that took me a little by surprise... but I liked it.

What I liked a little less, was Savannah. Yes, I know she's been through a lot. But she is impetuous, thoughtless, and sometimes bordering on sociopathic. I keep trying to find sympathy for her. And her character does improve in later books. In this one however, I thought she was pretty awful.

All in all, though, I did enjoy this book --and even more so on the second read. We see plenty more of Paige, Lucas, and Savannah in future installments. I like that all the characters of this series move in and out of each other's orbits in such a way that there is still cohesion, even when we change narrators. And this is even more true, the more the series progresses. 4 stars.

This book focuses on a Paige, a coven witch, and her struggle to retain custody over her thirteen-year-old ward, Savannah. Savannah was the daughter of a witch who practiced dark magic and fraternized with many supernaturals whom the coven considers highly undesirable. One such undesirable, a sorcerer named Kristoff Nast, shows up claiming to be Savannah's father. Paige struggles with nasty rumors, her coven's prejudices, and outright attacks from various parties, as well as winning over the trust and affection of her ward.

Dime Store Magic was kind of slow going for me. Partly because I've been insanely busy, and partly because it has a pretty slow moving plot. I don't at all mean to imply that it was boring, because I found it quite entertaining, just that is isn't as lightening fast as your typical fantasy novel. I really enjoyed the details about witches and sorcerers and they're history, the process of spell work, and Paiges quest for lost magic in ancient grimoires.

The part of this book that I liked the most, however, was the character building and the relationships. Paige is pretty young (23?) and untried, and not physically tough at all. She certainly wants to be a stronger witch with more offensive magic, but that's something she has to work very hard at. Furthermore, offensive magic is against the rules of the coven. Added to this, she's trying to figure out how to raise a teenage girl. Paige and I are of a similar age group, so I found myself imagining what I would do if asked to care for someone like Savannah. The conclusion I came to was that the task would be herculean. But Paige does her best, and she does start to make some genuine emotional connections with Savannah.

The romantic interest of the book is Lucas Cortez, a lawyer working on Paige's case. His strengths, like Paige's, are more intellectual than physical. He's smart, articulate, and a bit of a nerd. I thought they were a good match. Although it isn't a romance novel with a happily-ever-after ending, I was satisfied that something meaningful was happening there.

So in sum, while it took me a little longer than anticipated to finish this book, I really enjoyed it. It has a different tone from Bitten or Stolen, and in my opinion that was a positive thing. 4.5 stars.

Originally Reviewed for Reading to Penguins.

From author of `Bitten' and `Stolen' is another spellbinding tale that embodies all one truly loves with Young Adult fantasy/ paranormal fiction. Full of deadly demons, supernatural sorcerers and wicked Witches this captivating tale is one that will have you reading into the early hours of the morning with feverish excitement. `Dime Store Magic' is the forth book in the series of Otherworld books, which began with Bitten and ends with Broken. The enchanting storyline captures your attention almost instantly, whisking you away into a world that is no different from our own, and yet which harbors many things - Beneath the surface lies sinister secrets and mystery, shrouded in a cloak of concealment and which only can be discovered if you dare to open the pages...

The main protagonist is likeable and someone whom I instantly connected to, for her age is nearer my own (compared to other Young Adult stories that contain teenagers). I loved the Witch element which gave it an almost `Sabrina' feel to it, although directed towards the older reader I feel. Paige and her adopted teenage daughter, Savannah's connection is poignant and heartwarming and I really felt for the young child as she sought help in pursuit of her mother. That family blood-bond is so strong and something that all readers will be able to empathize with, for regardless of any magical power the power of love is strongest and resolute. With a telekinetic half-demon stalking them and a bunch of evil sorcerers, Paige has a challenge ahead of her that is heightened by her fragile situation. As `normal humans' (aka. Her neighbors) uncover the truth about her; the tension rises as they endeavor to use magic for good.

This otherworldly creation is a work of pure genius for I found myself truly believing everything about this convincing story that is akin to `Harry Potter' for you do believe in the magic. Containing everything I love within this genre; from Witches to casting spells, powerful creatures that are dark and deadly, to love and those special moments which tug on the heartstrings. Utterly fascinating, I was most intrigued by the sinister forces and mixture of myth, fable and fantastical vision that captures your imagination.

I would highly recommend this gripping, absorbing tale to all those who enjoy mystical masterpieces of sheer creative vision and something a bit "Twilight esque"!!

Dime Store Magic is the third installment in author Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series. This novel switches course a little and follows the adventures of Paige Winterbourne, a young-adult witch, and her 13 year-old ward Savannah Levine. The two previous novels in the series dealt primarily with the world of werewolves which the author portrayed as revelling in the physical, yet possessing sensitive and passionate tendencies as well. The world of witches and sorcerers presented in this novel is far more subtle and cerebral.
Teenager Savannah Levine is on the cusp of puberty, a special and vulnerable time among witches. A cabal, roughly a combination of a corporation and a Mafia family run by sorcerers, covets young Savannah in order to harness her budding power for their own benefit. As her guardian, Paige Winterbourne tries to protect Savannah despite challenges from supernaturals of different talents, and betrayal from her fellow witches. Along the way, they are assisted by the young sorcerer lawyer, Lucas Cortez who develops a warm love-interest with Paige.
The author crafts her characters so skillfully that the reader will easily flow into the world she has created. As in her previous novels, the reader will enjoy how plausible the characters are despite their supernatural abilities. The only downside is that readers of her series will quickly become addicted to her well-crafted work, counting the days until the next book is published. Top ratings are well-deserved.

Dime Store Magic, the third book in Kelley Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld series was a real page turner. The story focuses on Paige and her ward Savannah, a teen witch with extraordinary powers.

When a half-demon (Leah), tries to get custody of Savannah on behalf of her father, Paige must rely on her witch powers, and those of a sorcerous lawyer named Lucas Cortez. Will Paige succeed in retaining custody of Paige and leadership of the coven?

I'm a big fan of Armstrong's writing. I particularly like the way she writes male characters. I loved Lucas and his interaction with Paige, (my kind of guy).

On the negative side, I don't care all that much for Savannah. She seems way too powerful and preternaturally old. Savannah is constantly showing up Paige, and never seems to pay the price for her excess. (I.E. She summons demons with impunity, injures people without remorse etc.). I did like the character of Paige. But she reminds me a bit of a female version of Jeremy (see Bitten and Stolen), which is not a bad thing... Its just I like Jer better LOL, and the whole 23 yr old raising a teenager reminds me a lot of Jer/Clay relationship.

Also on the negative side... what is with the cover? Its a cheap Laurell hamilton body parts cover. Yuck. When I first saw it, I thought it was an advert for a new disposable razor! LOL Overall, a great read.

When you wait so long to take a look at a new author's work that they are no longer a new author you are getting what you deserve when you can't figure out where to begin. After a bit of puzzling, I grabbed Dime Store Magic and it's sequel, Industrial Magic, not quite sure what to expect. I was hardly prepared for a story about the head of the American Coven of Witches and her custody battle for the thirteen-year-old daughter of a good friend. I have to admit that, in the first 50 or so pages I thought "Oh no! I'm not going to like this" about a dozen times. But perseverance paid off and Kelley Armstrong's story got better and better. By the end I understood her popularity.

Paige Winterbourne came to her position young, and she is barely tolerated by the elders of her coven, her young ward Savannah is a constant trial, and one of the sorcerous cabals that dominate both the magical and criminal worlds want do get control of Savannah before she comes of age. The better to dominate her will. Paige finds herself in confrontation with Leah, the half-demon telekinetic who, among other things, killed her mother. Leah pulls no punches and Paige quickly finds herself in a legal mess, suspected of being a Satanist, and a murderer. Not a good position for a foster parent, to say the least.

In the middle of this Lucas Cortez, a handsome young lawyer comes to her rescue, or would have come to her rescue if he hadn't also been a sorcerer (all the best attorneys are sorcerers these days). Her distrust only increases when she discovers that he is also the son of the CEO of an important cabal. Well, he's really the 'rebel' son, but trust comes hard - to a witch any sorcerer is bad news. Of course, this kind of story would go nowhere is there wasn't a difficult love relationship and soon Lucas and Paige are on the run with Savannah trying to stay one step ahead of the coven elders, a cabal of criminal sorcerers, and the police.

While not strictly a comedy, Kelley Armstrong keeps the story flowing with a light touch. Paige (and Savannah for that matter) has a knack for disaster and spells that turn out unexpectedly. The effect is often comical even when the dead show up for their own funerals and lawyers start getting thrown through windows. After a slow start the pace picks up until it goes full tilt. I found myself rushing at the end so that I could go on to the next volume. So while the plot wasn't what I expected (no vampires) it turned out to be well worth reading.

I had some initial trepidation about this third installment in Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld series after reading the synopsis on the back cover. The focus shifted from Elena and the werewolves to a new storyline, and a new main character here, Paige, a witch. Werewolves appeal more to me than witches, but I liked Armstrong's clear, and exciting style, so I hoped that this, too, would be an entertaining novel. And, for the most part, it was fun to read - but not as much fun as the first two books in the series. One thing that really started to bother me was how many times the title phrase appeared in the text. It was so distracting! I plan on seeing where the series goes, but I hope that the direction shifts back to the werewolves!

I actually didn't realize this was the third book in a series when I picked it up at the bookstore. In my opinion, this is a strong recommendation. One of my pet peeves about this genre is the 'to be continued' after slogging through 400 plus pages.

In Armstrong's world, the supernatural is real. Witches and sorcerers are old races with hereditary magical powers. They're also adversaries.

Paige Winterbourne and her ward, Savannah are well-realized characters. While still suffering grief from losing her Mother, 22 year old Paige is foster Mom to Savannah Levine, a very talented and probably dangerous young witch.

Paige discovers her ward is possibly the product of a witch-sorcerer cross when the sorcerer father lays claim to her. The resultant custody battle is a pitched magical fight which keeps you turning pages until the story actually reaches a conclusion.

Overall, a very good read.

Paige Winterbourne was introduced in Stolen, Armstrong's second werewolf book. Paige is a witch and she took on the responsibility of raising Savannah Levine. Savannah is just coming into her teens and is already more powerful than many of the Coven that Paige leads. But does Paige really run the Coven? The Coven Elders make decisions and try to get Paige to toe their line - don't make waves and don't get noticed.

Then Paige gets noticed when Savannah's father tries to get custody of her using Leah, the half-demon, who tried to manipulate Savannah while she was a captive in the last book. Paige needs a lawyer. The human lawyer she hires turns out to be more trouble and now she has a Cabal lawyer, Cortez, who seems to show up whenever she's accused of a crime saying he is her lawyer.

It's a page-turner. Savannah at 13 often seems far older than Paige who can't or won't accept that she can never meet the expectations of the Coven Elders. Finally, Paige must learn to trust herself and her abilities. This realization takes us through many crisis situations as Paige and Savannah learn to trust each other. I believe that there is a lot of material that Armstrong can work with over many more books.

After finally buying Bitten (Women of the Otherworld, Book 1) and Stolen (Women of the Otherworld, Book 2), I decided to re-read "Dime Store Magic" (as well as Industrial Magic (Women of the Otherworld, Book 4) and Haunted (Women of the Otherworld, Book 5)) before going on to read Broken (Women of the Otherworld, Book 6), so I could finally read them all in order. I am glad that I did, because I can finally see where Kelley Armstrong is building this story.

"Dime Store Magic" is the story of Paige Winterbourne's growth into herself, basically. She has taken charge of Savannah Levine after the events of "Stolen" and is feeling overwhelmed, especially since the Coven is pressuring her to pass Savannah off onto someone else. When she receives a court summons, indicating that Leah O'Donnell - the half-demon woman that first befriended then betrayed Savannah by killing Paige's mother and blaming it on Savannah - was suing for custody of Savannah, Paige is taken by surprise. She is even more so when she arrives at the meeting to find out the suit is not being taken on behalf of Leah at all, but on behalf of Kristof Nast, a powerful man - heir to the richest Cabal. Paige resolves to fight. Leah and Gabriel Sandford (the lawyer working on behalf of Kristof Nast) do not make this easy for her. First they set about setting her up as a witch and a Satanist, then they frame her for the murder of her own lawyer. Finally they set up a scene in the funeral parlor with a necromancer that whips the town up to a frenzy. During all of this, a young sorcerer by the name of Lucas Cortez is trying to get Paige to hire him to represent her. Since witches and sorcerers have bad blood between them dating back to the Inquisition, Paige doesn't trust him. Is he working for the Nasts? Is Kristof Nast truly Savannah's father, or does the Nast Cabal want Savannah for darker purposes? With Savannah coming into her power - and having a stronger power than Paige has ever before seen - Paige is concerned about this also.

With a compelling plot, interesting characters and a fresh take on the supernatural world, Kelley Armstrong is one to watch with her Women of the Otherworld series. She is creating strong heroines and good role-models for women - young and old. This whole series so far - including this book - receives a strong recommend from me.

Hey, I finished an actual book in its entirety without skimming! For this fact alone I give this my hightest rating. Because I still haven't got around to reading Bitten (which I bought when it was first released in hardcover) or its sequel Stolen I had to pay very close attention to the first few chapters to get acquainted with Armstrong's world. It also took me a few chapters to figure out who was who and what they had to do with the current story but once I got caught up the pages began to fly. There were a few conversations between Paige and Elena that I thought added nothing to this story but I may change mind when I go back and read the first two books.

I liked Paige early on. She's tough and gutsy and vulnerable as well but a little too trusting of certain people (though I'm betting this aspect of her personality changes in the sequel). Savannah was also a very believable teen dealing quite well with all of the gore and upheaval in her life. I particularly enjoyed the wise-a*s humor and the non-stop tension (sexual and otherwise). It reminded, in a way, of the earliest Laurell K. Hamilton books.

Armstrong's world where witches and cabals work behind the scenes while modern day life ticks on was interesting. The fact that the "supernaturals" have to hide their abilities from normal folks was a nice touch but the jabs at Wiccans who are all portrayed as stereotypical loonies who live to rip off their clothing and romp in the woods got old quickly.

Dime Store Magic was a page-turner despite my little quibbles. Now I'll have to dig out Bitten . . .

This is the third book in Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld series. It's also the first book in the series told from a different woman's point of view. This book is told from Paige Winterbourne's point of view and has very little to do with the first two books. So, you don't have to have read the first two books to know what's going on in this story. The whole book circles almost completely around witches and sorcerers and there's only a brief mention of the main characters from "Bitten" and "Stolen" in the book. It's mainly about Paige trying to keep Savannah out of danger while dealing with her coven, lawyers, sorcerers, and accusations of being a murderer and witch.

This, like the first two books in the series, was a great read. There's a lot of action and Armstrong keeps you on your toes, just when you think things are beginning to calm down for Paige she gets hit with another problem. Definitely pick this book up.

Not being a lover of witches (or of Paige, from what I'd seen in Stolen), I was not excited about this book. I thought it would be weak, a swift departure from the beauty of Bitten.

I was wrong.

Kelley writes Paige from first person, and if I hadn't read Bitten and Stolen under the first-person perspective of Elena, I wouldn't realize how remarkable the difference was between them. Even her writing style is different when writing Paige, little phrases she uses. I've never seen an author do this as flawlessly as Kelley does.

The story itself is good enough to make me want to continue reading, despite my aforementioned aversion to witches. She fluidly opens us up to a world we were barely introduced to in Stolen, and makes it interesting enough that when DSM was over, I was eager to read the sequel, Industrial Magic (due out in late October).

As earlier reviews have mentioned, I wasn't as impressed with Kelley's later works as I was with Bitten, but DSM is a definate second! My only real complaint was the lack of perceived chemistry between Paige and Lucas (in my opinion). I didn't feel it there with them like I do with Clay and Elena.

A definate must-read for magic lovers, or anyone interested in Kelley's works. She's a definate keeper.

Paige Winterbourne is a 23-year old witch and is the leader of the American Coven of Witches, a very conservative group of witches whose main concern is keeping their existence a secret from the rest of the world. In the process, they have let their powers diminish and have become a rather ineffective part of the supernatural society. Ironically, Paige is not the perfect person for the job as this covens' leader: she is very conservative, she won't let the Elders tell her what to do, and, more importantly, she wants to explore her full potential in magic. This was a hereditary position that she received when her mother died. Also, at her mother's dying request, Paige also acquired the care of a very rambunctious and rebellious 13-year old orphan, Savannah, who reminds Paige of a lot of herself when she was younger. Savannah's mother had also been a witch, but followed a much darker path of magic; the predisposition to practice such magic was found in her daughter as well. Paige wondered why her mother had put Savannah into her care, especially since Savannah had the potential of being a very powerful witch. It was this potential, however, that also attracted very powerful evil to claim her and manipulate her power. Included in this group is her supposed long-lost father, a very powerful and very evil sorcerer, who now wants custody of his daughter to use for his own deeds.
The author had been recommended to me since I was a fan of Laurell K. Hamilton. I did enjoyed how Armstrong was able to tie in this world of magic, hidden in our world. I also enjoyed the cast of characters and the little twists through the book. However, I wouldn't put this book in the same category as Hamilton. The characters are not nearly as well written and the plot was not nearly as gripping. Even still, I would recommend this book for an easy summer reading list.

Dime Store Magic is the third book in the Women of the Otherworld series. At the conclusion of Stolen, Elena, Paige, and the rest of the supernatural interracial council rescued Savannah and destroyed the facility that was kidnapping supernaturals. Savannah had been kidnapped with her mother, Eve. She was murdered shortly after the kidnapping, leaving Savannah alone and at the mercy of Isaac, an evil sorcerer and Leah, a half-demon Volo.
Dime Store Magic begins a year after Stolen. Paige, a coven witch, has custody of Savannah, a 13-year-old angry witch. Paige has her hands full trying to guide and protect Savannah, who is experiencing teen-angst with an unhealthy dose of rage.

Leah, the half-demon Volo has decided to join forces with a Cabal, a high ranking sorcerer who is also CEO of a large corporation. This particular Cabal, Nast, is very powerful and also Savannah's father. The fight for custody is more then a legal matter. Nast wants Savannah for her power and will do anything to acquire her.
Paige finds herself fighting not only Nast, but also everyone else in her life to protect Savannah. Paige's once uncomplicated life becomes a living hell that seems to have no end in sight. To make matters worse, Savannah, at 13, is very immature and full of rage. She is angry about everything and is prone to using her powers in a reckless manner. Consequences are something Savannah does not understand.
Dime Store Magic is a wonderful, fun book to read. The Paige who was introduced in Stolen gains a great deal more depth and is a great heroine. She deals with these betrayals and attacks with a strong moral outrage and strength of character. She is not about to back down and shows her true feisty nature. What makes this book work is Paige's voice. It is unique and interesting. Kelley Armstrong did a wonderful job creating the Women of the Otherworld.
Kelley Armstrong is the author of Bitten and Stolen, the first two books in the Women of the Otherworld series. Industrial Magic, the fourth in the series will be released late in 2004. Be sure to visit Kelley Armstrong's website at [...]

This novel picks up where Stolen left off. If you are hoping to continue the werewolf saga, don't bother picking up this novel. Elena plays only a cameo role in this one. In DSM, Armstrong devils deeper into the witch's role on society by showing us how Paige and Savannah are getting along. Not too well, I might add.

I prefer this novel to Stolen. I found Stolen lacking and boring in parts, but this one had a little more action and several conflicts going on at one time. Paige and Savannah's relationship. Paige versus the Coven's reclusive ways. Paige trying to discover the missing piece of working higher magic. Paige with a possible love interest. Paige against crazy half demons.

I found it enjoyable and well worth my time.

I started this series by reading Bitten and had gotten use to Elena's character so when I picked up Dime Store Magic, the change in characters threw me off. Not so much because Paige is a horrible character, rahter, she is just entirely different than Elena. (Witch versus werewolf, of course they are not going to be the same!) After the first few chapter I came to appreciate Paige's character, as well as Savannah and Lucas (Lucas's character is much more developed in Industrial Magic.) The plot provides plenty of action, drama, and romance . . . enough so that I could not be bothered to put it down for the last 100 pages. My advice to readers: Keep an open mind about the characters . . . also, if you want more information about the characters or other books go to Armstrong's website [...] She offers short stories online so you can catch up on all the "behind the scene's" action!

Anne Rice and Stephen King could learn some lessons from Kelley Armstrong.

1) Lighten up. Humor is a good tool to help move a book along. Armstrong writes great dialogue in which different characters have distinctly different voices, and sarcasm and attitude roll off the paper.

2) Keep the plot moving! Readers don't need to have our plots bogged down by long internal debates raging inside character's head. Armstrong has a knack for giving us the information we need without putting us to sleep.

3) Entertain us. This book's twists and turns and sex are all well-done, and manage to keep the pages turning long after the clock strikes midnight.

This book was lots of fun, and will be passed on to many of my friends.

In the third book of The Women of the Otherworld series, "Dime Store Magic," Paige Winterbourne, witch/website designer is faced with a child custody battle that leads to mayhem and murder. Helped along the way by sorcerer, Lucas Cortez, Paige must protect her young charge while trying to discover the secret of the lost witch magic.

I really enjoyed this book. Paige is a likeable character, and seeing a young woman trying to suddenly deal with the problems of parenting a teenage girl in addition to all the supernatural baddies to be dealt with made this book an entertaining read. Not to mention the dash of romance Armstrong added, which is always nice. I've read it maybe four times already and still love it.

I picked up this book from the library based on the strong reviews but frankly I don't understand them- the women in this book seemed clueless, constantly baffled and just because they like silk clothing does NOT make them sexy. The women of the Coven were just AWFUL- not one likeable character among them so it was really difficult to fathom why Paige would be so upset at conflicts with them. She would far better on her own! It was extremely obvious why her ward, Savannah, had no use for the Coven- she had her act together far more than Paige. Even so, Savannah was pretty unlikable (then again, this isn't unusual for a 13 y/o) but she was extremely one-dimensional since her main solution to everything was to throw a destructive spell at it. In fact, the most likable and involving character in this story was a man, Lucas Cortez, who was an interesting and well written character. As for the rest, I kept wanting to shake both Paige and Savannah and tell them to GET A GRIP! Will not be reading her other books and quite disappointed after such glowing reviews.

Book 3 in the Women of the Otherworld series
This book can be read independently of the first 2 books as it stars the witches rather than the werewolves.
Paige is the star character and the book explores her use of magic in our world and her struggles to raise Savannah, a teenage girl featured in Book 2.
I was very nervous of this book after being so keen and excited by the first two books starring Elena and Clay. However I was delighted to find it written so well with fascinating characters and situations.
Kelley Armstong has written a series here that features independent books, each can be read completely independently but fans can get more out of the series if they read them in order. Every time a new Kelley Armstrong comes out, I am distressed that it does not feature the characters from the previous book but I am always overwhelmed by how amazing her new characters are. A fantastic writer - please keep writing!

Paige returns from Stolen and is now head witch of her coven b/c of her mother's death and guardian of Savannah. But Leah comes into town suing for custody, but the battle doesn't stop there. Leah is working for Kristof, Savannah's dad. And then there's the murders that make Paige look gulity and then her lawyer happens to be a Cabal sorcerer as well, her sworn enemy. Witches and sorcerers do not get along. But this lawyer is tempting in other ways as well. Paige must do what she can to protect Savannah from the dangers of Leah and Kristof and battle for custody of a preteen girl who's a bit of handful. Oh yeah, and she still has to fend off reporters from the murders and resist the Cabal sorcerer lawyer. Well we all can't be perfect.

I have read novels and short stories featuring witches as characters for over 50 years, and had to put in a review to note the biggest idiot witch I have ever read about. With the renewed interest in this series due to the SyFy show based on the first book, I would advise anyone to skip this book. Paige is the protagonist, 23 years old and spent her entire life learning her craft, but it turns out that is not too much, since she can't perform any type of magic to save herself or anyone else from anything and her dialogue consists mostly of remonstrating herself for her helplessness - not a character I even want to bother to see how she develops in successive books as she was too dumb for words. Savannah is Paige's 13 year old "ward" who knows more powerful magic than Paige, all of which is bad since she loses control and kills, not interested in watching her grow up. Lucas Cortez is sorcerer lawyer scion of a powerful "Cabal" of sorcerers (men) who manages to rescue Paige from just about everything. And in this world, the witches (women) are entirely complicit with sorcerers (men) in limiting their power, the deal breaker for me as to any other books in this series with these characters.

Having been recently introduced to the genre's two hottest new writers, Kim Harrison and Kelley Armstrong, Dime Store Magic is a stroke of brillance wrapped up complete with big red bow in a nice little package. The story is well-written, the plot is enthralling, and the characters are the types that become instant favorites. Paige Winterbourne is a young woman who is faced with the same thing we all go through, the stage where we're no longer a child but still not fully secure in our adulthood. But her journey is more complicated than most, not only is her mother murdered but she is a supernatural being forced to take on the responsibility of being a leader for her Coven and a role-model/protector for the young Savannah Levine. Full of surprises and well-thought out plot, this book is a must read for anyone who's a fan of Laurell K. Hamilton or Anne Rice.

This was the book that got me hooked on Kelley Armstrong and her otherworld books. Kelley Armstrong is a fantastic writer!!! This book features Paige Winterbourne, the witch who befriended Elena Micheals in Stolen. It picks a couple of months after the events in Stolen. Paige is back home, working at her job, trying to run the Coven and raise Savannah Levine, her new young ward. Everything is going fine, until a man claiming to be Savannah's father shows and wants custody of her. Of course, Paige hires a lawyer and is prepared to go, to court. But, when her lawyer turns up dead and Paige is framed for his murder. Paige has a problem and things get worse for her, when her coven is refusing to help. Everything looks hopeless, that is until a young mysterous man shows up and offers to help her. But,can Paige trust him? Dime Store Magic is a wonderful book and I enjoyed it a whole lot!!!

This book could have been summarized in about 50 pages. Wow. NOTHING HAPPENED. i kept waiting and waiting. I skimmed practically the whole book. I was very, very dissapointed. To go from one of the best books I've read in a long time (the previous book) to this was such a let down. I miss Elena. I miss Clay and Jeremy. I miss the humor, action, the people from the last books. It's as if the last book was written by a totally different author. The author of this book is someone I would never read again. I will try the next book only because I loved the first two. I miss the creativity. I really felt Kelley was trying something new. Good for her for trying. BUT, it flopped big time. On top of it, the plot was terrible and Paige was weak and soooo annoying. I tried, but I could not ever like her. Also, Cortez? What? Uh. Ok. Not a believable character at all. Enough said. It sucked big time.

I really like this series and I look forward to all new releases by Ms Armstrong. I am a fan of science fiction, supernatural and some fantasy.
This series presents a fleshed out universe that actually makes me want to research more on the supernatural.
This story focused on Paige, a young witch. In an earlier story focused on a different character("Stolen") I really disliked the way Paige came across but this story really made me appreciate her. She is both computer programmer and witch. Correlating the magic spells to that of computer programs was a first. This is not my favorite in the "Women of the Otherworld" Series as I enjoy the werewolf storyline more.

This is the first Ive read of Kelley Armstrong's "OtherWorld" series and I just found out this is actually the 3rd in the Otherworld series. But this is the start of new characters and completely had me hooked. If you get mixed up as i did worry not because although they do mention the characters from the first two novels the storyline does not depend on you completely knowing about them. I love the heroin Paige, shes a strong witch but not without self doubt as everyone is about themselves. Although it was a tad bit annoying at times to hear her described as a witch who leader of her coven being slightly weaker than other witches it also made her more personable to identify with. Kelley Armstrong is an amazing writer and as a gift for having her readers fall completely in to her worlds. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a supernatural book but wants to break away from the whole vampire genre.

I picked up this book based on the 4-5 star reviews it got. I have to say that it was really difficult for me to get into the story line. I like Paige (and the other characters) well enough but I had a hard time "getting into the book". I felt sometimes that the story dragged and had to make a real effort to finish it, because I don't like not finishing a book.
For me, it was just OK.

At the end of Stolen, I decided I didn't like the character of Paige (the witch). I thought Cass (the vampire) was much more interesting. So when I found out that the 3rd book was about Paige...I was dreading the next book. Paige struck me as whiney and weak in Stolen. But Dime Store Magic really brought Paige into her own. She came out strong, smart, and independent. I think I liked this book more than the previous two. And since the 4th book is about Paige as well....I'm counting down the days....

I was initially cautious to read this book as it is the third in a series, but the narrator is different. Instead of Elena giving us a werewolf's perspective, this story is told by Paige, who is a witch and leader of the American Coven. I must admit I didn't like Paige very much in Stolen (the previous book) so I was expecting this book to just be filler until another book with Elena as the narrator came along. Boy was I wrong! I actually liked this book better than the previous! I loved seeing more of Savannah and Paige as they struggled to overcome obstacles together. There was a lot of growth in their semi mother-daughter relationship. I also enjoyed getting more background into the Cabals, as I was slightly confused as to what those really are. Overall a great read and I highly recommend it!

Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong is the third book in the Women of the Otherworld series. At the conclusion of Stolen, Elena, Paige, and the rest of the supernatural interracial council rescued Savannah and destroyed the facility that was kidnapping supernaturals. Savannah had been kidnapped with her mother, Eve. Eve was murdered shortly after the kidnapping, leaving Savannah alone and at the mercy of Isaac, an evil sorcerer and Leah, a half-demon Volo.
Dime Store Magic begins a year after Stolen. Paige, a coven witch, has custody of Savannah, a 13-year-old angry witch. Paige has her hands full trying to guide and protect Savannah, who is experiencing teen-angst with an unhealthy dose of rage.
Leah, the half-demon Volo has decided to join forces with a Cabal, a high ranking sorcerer who is also CEO of a large corporation. This particular Cabal, Nast is very powerful and also Savannah's father. The fight for custody is more then a legal matter. Nast wants Savannah for her power - and will do anything to acquire her.
Paige finds herself fighting not only Nast, but also everyone else in her life to protect Savannah. Paige's once uncomplicated life becomes a living hell that seems to have no end in sight. To make matters worse, Savannah at 13 is very immature and full of rage. She is angry about everything and is prone to using her powers in a reckless manner. Consequences are something Savannah does not understand.
Dime Store Magic is a wonderful, fun book to read. The Paige introduced in Stolen gains a great deal more depth and is a great heroine. She deals with these betrayals and attacks with a strong moral outrage and strength of character. She is not about to back down and shows her true feisty nature. What makes this book work is Paige's voice. It is unique and interesting. Kelley Armstrong did a wonderful job creating the Women of the Otherworld.
Kelley Armstrong is the author of Bitten and Stolen, the first two books in the Women of the Otherworld series. Dime Store Magic will be available in the US April 27, 2004. Industrial Magic, the fourth in the series will be released on November 2, 2004. Be sure to visit Kelley Armstrong's website, [...] for more information on the series.

I am new to this author and this series. However, I have blown through five books in about a month (which is AMAZING as I have a 1-year-old at home) which means I gave valuable SLEEP TIME up to read them. The book was a great easy read with characters that you can't help but root for and villians you can't wait to see fail. Although I have a few more to read, I am already missing all the characters when I am done...

Dime store Magic is the third installment of the Women of the Otherworld series. This one is narrated by Paige. When I first started this series, I got really attached to Elena writing her stories and thought I could skip around to read her novels. Wrong move, must read from the beginning...the end of book 2 sets up for Paiges story which makes this book more interesting, while keeping Elena in the background. Story opens up with Paige acknowledging she is the coven leader now but no one wants her in that position. This book was excellent with the action sequences...it was one thing after another for this poor girl. The author really draws you in on an emotional level. If you want a book that has a little bit of everything, this would be it! A little romantic tension with loads of paranormal happenings!

I am new to this author and this series. However, I have blown through five books in about a month (which is AMAZING as I have a 1-year-old at home) which means I gave valuable SLEEP TIME up to read them. The book was a great easy read with characters that you can't help but root for and villians you can't wait to see fail. Although I have a few more to read, I am already missing all the characters when I am done...

Dime store Magic is the third installment of the Women of the Otherworld series. This one is narrated by Paige. When I first started this series, I got really attached to Elena writing her stories and thought I could skip around to read her novels. Wrong move, must read from the beginning...the end of book 2 sets up for Paiges story which makes this book more interesting, while keeping Elena in the background. Story opens up with Paige acknowledging she is the coven leader now but no one wants her in that position. This book was excellent with the action sequences...it was one thing after another for this poor girl. The author really draws you in on an emotional level. If you want a book that has a little bit of everything, this would be it! A little romantic tension with loads of paranormal happenings!

The story easily spellbinds the reader, bringing them into the story to follow along with Paige and Savannah. This book is a lovely sequel to Bitten and Stolen, following a different subset of characters in the series. Elena only makes a cameo appearance in this book, but the story stands alone and works well, continuing and following the storyline after the escape of Elena and Savannah from the facility they were held in for the previous book.

Rather than giving another description of the book itself, I would rather like to say that this book is fabulous. It's definately a page turner, with such creative incites into the world of witches and magic. It's not a stereotypical 'supernatural' novel. I claim that it is original, humurous, witty, and fast paced. I did my best to slow my reading down with this one so I could have something to look forward to longer-but I just couldn't! I think this is the best book yet from Armstrong, although all three (Bitten, Stolen, and Dime Store Magic) are amazing. Buy them now!

I found this read to be very entertaining. Kelly Armstrong never fails to grab me to stay in my seat for a great read. I read all types of books and her stories are a guarantee of a fun read. Layers of characters but not so many that you get lost in the count. Heroine, Hero, Villian....all capture the imagination. Kelly Armstrong is a wonderful Storyteller. Please keep those tales coming....no matter who they are about. Always a read to enjoy. Thank you so much.

Kelley Armstrong has done a fine job in writing a book so entertaining that it keeps your interest from start to finish. I was moved by the realistic difficulties the heroine had in dealing with narrowminded Covenmates who should have been supportive but who instead rejected and ultimately betrayed her in her time of need. The difficulties one faces in raising a teenager are challenging enough without the added stress of a custody battle. The book is fantasy however I found the parallels to "real life" poignant.

Despite this being the 3rd book in the Women of the Otherworld series, this is a great place to start reading the series. Paige is one of them most likeable women in the series, though I've been reading them all and liking the people in them.

I must admit I was a little disapointed to be moved away from the pack which the first two books were based on. however once I started reading I discovered it had the same quick tempo and gripping, can't put it down intrigument that the other books possessed. I thouraly enjoyed this book as well as Industrial Magic the next in the series and cant wait for book 5 to be released, Haunted! Go Kelley.

In Dime Store Magic, Paige is the heroine, and it is taken from her Point of View, she has recently taken on the care of a young witch by the name of savannah and together with a scorcerer they battle many damning and dangerous enimies to keep savannah safe and not get put away, you meet a necromancer who brings a funeral palour to life, a demon you may remember from stolen if you have read all the books, leigh who has telekanetic powers and the first intro to the cabals. in this book paige is no longer the bratty witch she was in stolen and becomes more grown up with her responasabilities and is witty and in places quite funny, i really ienjoyed this book, a few good lil twists, my review does not d it justace i am no writer, but read it and if you have enjoyed kelleys work before you will not be disapointed with this book.

This book was action packed, full of magic, and had lots of strong female lead characters. I also love the character depth and development. Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld series gets better and better throughout each new installment of this series. I wasn't the hugest fan of "Bitten" but having fresh characters in this book and an awesome plot really drew me into the series

This is a book, so I know there's not much to review in way of content because you can look that up yourself in book reviews but the book was in good condition when I got it. The biggest grievance I have is that that yellow circle on the cover with a price. I gave this book as a gift and because it had a yellow price ON the cover I had to cover it with Sharpie. Just know that before you buy the book.

This is my first Kelley Armstrong book and I enjoyed it. It's sassy, sarcastic, laugh out loud in some spots. Light on romance, it does have one explicit love scene that fits the storyline rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. I'm not a big fan of stories with heavy emphasis on younger characters, teens and down, but this one was fine.

I just can't put it more strongly than that: I love this book. LOVE. It's got everything -- fascinating characters, a rich plot, great worldbuilding ... I'm flat-out blown away.

Paige is an absolutely wonderful character -- warm, real, smart, sexy, grounded in reality but rich in fantasy terms as well. The world-within-a-world of the supernaturals is enticing and wonderfully drawn. And Lucas Cortez -- he's such a wonderful character -- defying both the conventions within the book, and in the genre itself at every turn.

Thank you, Ms. Armstrong, for this wonderful book. Now pardon me while I run and buy EVERYTHING Kelley's ever written ...

I actually didnt like the character Page in the book Stolen. I thought she was full of her self and didnt understand how painfull the world can be. In this book my opinion changed! Page proved to be loyal, romantic, suductive, strong, and her eyes were opened wide to the world. The ending was great. I went out and got the next one within hours of being done with this one.

After loving the first 2 books with Elena as the narrator, I was a little worried about adjusting to Paige. After a few pages, I knew I would have no problems. This book was just as fast paced and clever as the first 2. It had twists and turns that were highly enjoyable. I loved this book and it really made me love Paige (I didn't feel that way while reading Stolen.)

I too am a fan of the first two books in this series, this (the third installment) is, however very different.
If you approach it expecting something similar to Bitten and Stolen you will be VERY disappointed.
The narrator of this story is Paige, a witch, who is VERY irritating. Constantly throughout the book you are told that she is sassy, brave, smart, independent, headstrong etc etc blah blah.
However, all I saw was a spineless wimp, who, when confronted with injustice, cries and refuses to defend herself. She crumples under any kind of pressure and has to keep getting rescued by a sorcerer, Lucas. Who she randomly sleeps with 3/4's of the way through the book!
Ok, you can probably tell I'm a little confused by their 'relationship'. It starts off your classic tale of smart, slightly geeky guy who secretly rides a motorbike, he cruises into the situation very handily with one hell of a lot of legal knowledge and advice... and is, shock horror, REJECTED by our "brave and headstrong" heroine!
She then spends the first half of the book being horrible to him, she never once says he's slightly attractive, he never once says she's slightly attractive (apart from one instance when he appears slightly jealous while Paige phones Adam)
then they go to the basement to practice spells and have sex! Then, all of a sudden, they're made for each other, love each other etc etc blah blah.
Hmph! I'm not impressed!

That said, Lucas is my favorite character in this, Savannah is a total brat, needs a good whack round the head with a heavy object.
Paige is a gutless wimp who answers "you're banished (unjustly)" with much sobbing and refusal to do anything to defend herself!
Elena is inserted, very randomly at strange moments for no reason whatsoever. Ditto Adam.
Leah is an All Powerful Terror Machine, who doesn't seem to want to kill the people she's supposed to be killing when she has an opportunity.

All in all, you can read it is you want it's very random, you will hate a couple of character but it's not going to kill you. If anything, read it so you can enjoy throwing it away. Or burning it. Or, if you're like Paige, terrified of fire and ghosts and EVERYTHING IN THE WORLD, just start sobbing!

This novel with its claim on the front to be "smart, sexy and supernatural: meet the women of the underworld" and "it's not just about vampires anymore" is completely misleading to the would- be reader. Having read Laurell K. Hamilton's series (both Meredith Gentry and Anita Blake), and countless other books about witches , warlocks and "otherworld" characters out there, I expected a new series from Kelley Armstrong to be about strong women who are witches and to be exciting and sensual and groundbreaking, because look what the author has for reference! I love books about witchcraft, the struggle between good and evil, the "coming of age" story, but I was about 3 chapters into this book and I was forcing myself to read further. The characters of Paige (not to smart, whiney, a "leader" of a coven((of polyester spineless whiners)), clueless, and not interesting at all) and Savannah (Paige's ward, another whiner, needs a good smack), Lucas Cortez (Mr. Plain, lawyer, sorcerer, snore fest) and various other witches, necromancers, covens, sorcerers, and pages and pages of boring banter between the characters. I waited for it to get exciting and new and "smart and sexy" I was waiting to meet the "women of the underworld" because they obviously weren't the people I was reading about! It was more like a really bad episode of Matlock, where two sewing circle groups were in a tussle and someone got murdered...who done it? That's how bland and uneventful it all was. I get that she was setting us up for something at the end of the book, and a sequel, but c'mon at least make us want to get to the end! I finished and the only though in my head was "eh" , Skip this book , its claims are totally false, save yourself the time and energy.

Luckily, I read "Industrial Magic" before I read "Dime Store Magic", so I know that Paige Winterbourne doesn't remain the immature, brain-dead dweeb she is in "Dime Store."

The Coven didn't think Paige was mature enough to be Savannah's guardian and I have to agree with them. Savannah outshines Paige in both survival skills and decision-making abilities. Maybe she should be Paige's guardian.

This review based on only the first half of the book - when I finally became so frustrated with Paige's childish behavior, I tore up the book and threw it in the garbage - only the second book in over 40 years that I've deliberately thrown away.

While I didn't enjoy this series as much as the werewolf series, if is very well crafted. The story pulls you in, and the author delivers on the plot. Recommended.

Visit her website, kelleyarmstrong.com, to read some of her free novellas and short stories set in the same world.

Enjoyed the story, looking forward to the next. I'm glad to see there's another story with this set of characters coming out in November. (I'm not terribly interested in a tale about some female werewolf [not that I've tried Bitten or Stolen...], and I was worried she'd write about that rather than about Paige, et al. in her next book...)

Keep up the good work.

I'm not going to write another synopsis of the book, as there are already plenty posted below. I have been reading Kelley Armstrong's books when I first stumbled upon her first book, Bitten, and have been eagerly waiting for her books to come out ever since. I honestly buy her books the day they come out, and I can assure you, this one is amazing. She is such a talented writer! Her characters are always intriguing, realistic and exciting. Her stories are creative and imaginative and have me flipping through every single page in one sitting. This is the kind of book that you will enjoy and never forget.

I love Kelley Armstrong's werewolf books. Bitten and Stolen really captured me to the point where I read them both in one sitting. Dimestore Magic was not one of those reads. The heroine, Paige, was REALLY annoying. She doesn't have a backbone or any commen sense. She really lacks the edge and strength that Elena (heroine from Bitten and Stolen) has in abundance. The other characters didn't really impress me that much either. That being said, the book is not terrible. It is just not up to par with Kelley Armstrong's other books. If you haven't read her other books I recommend starting with them.

This is the third installment in the "Women of the Otherworld" series, and Armstrong's writing keeps getting better and better. This novel highlights the characters of Paige and Savannah, first introduced in "Stolen". The pacing is right on target, and the descriptions of the powers and abilities of the different 'supernaturals' lets you know the author spent quite a while developing her mythos. A great book for Armstrong's fans, and for anyone wanting to get into a great fantasy novel.

Paige Winterbourne stumbles her way through this book, assailed on all sides by people who hate her for no good reason. (Most of them, the reader suspects, hate her because she's rude to them. Paige claims repeatedly that she wants to help people, but she Does Have Her Pride, and she Does Not Hesitate To Tell People Off.) The sole exception is Lucas, who remains polite and helpful despite Paige's insults and abuse, until about two-thirds of the way through the book, when she relents and they have sex.

Is this how a heroine is supposed to see the world?

Kelley Armstrong continues to out do herself with this addition of the 'Women of the Otherworld' series. The plot centers around Paige Winterbourne who is striving to help the witches of the world and bring them pack to their former glory. Again her writting brings here characters to life and you can actually empathize with them through the story!

This book didn't even come close to holding my attention like the first two in the series. Bitten and Stolen were great. I'm going to try Industrial Magic because I liked the first two so much, but if it doesn't grab me by a third of the way through, I won't torture myself to stay with it like I did this one.

The story line wasn't so bad, but the way it's written could be 10x better. It's a well thought out plot, and a few suprises but the writer doesn't completely draw you into the story. If you're looking for a decent book this would probably do for you, but for those that want a a good story line AND a well written book don't buy this item.

Ok, if you like strong women characters - DON'T read this book.
The main character is written so ridiculously week, so easily fooled and manipulated, that I actually screamed out loud and threw the book across the room in frustration. Not only does she start out naive and rigid - she stays that way. After the third time she is tricked into a dangerous situation by trusting some stranger on the phone who identifies themselves as a legitimate authority figure, I gave up...
Moving on from this series and Ms. Armstrong - forever.

It was a good book. My only complaints is that it kept referring to events which had happened earlier, apparently in one of her earlier books. The way it was done felt a bit clunky although it was to give background to readers, like me, who had not read the earlier books.

I just finished reading this book, and I think it is fantastic! Right away, I ordered the first, second (I didn't know this was the third book in the series), fourth, and fifth books in the series. I am super excited to read them all.
The plot line was great, and the main character was very realistic, as were the minor characters. I would definitely recommend this book to all my friends.

This is my first time read from this author. I kept waiting for the adult version to come through. I think this is more on the scale of a teen witch novel. I am use to reading books by Kim Harrison, Carrie Vaughn, Patricia Briggs, Kim Harrison. Sorry guys, but this is the first and last of her for me! Dime Store Magic, exactly.

Third in the Women of the Otherworld urban fantasy series that began with Elena Michaels and Clayton and Jeremy Danvers and incorporated Paige Winterbourne and Savannah Levine in the second installment. This particular story revolves around Paige and Savannah in East Falls, Massachusetts.

My Take
Bigotry, pride, and fear are the name of the game, as Paige's coven is terrified of dark magic and witches who are not in a coven. Attract attention, bring a sorcerer into the game, and they are gone. Behind the door, under the table, fleeing through the woods. Gone. Paige is slightly better than them, but still has that fear that will take an extremely patient lawyer to overcome.

It's through first person protagonist point-of-view that we learn how much Paige hates that the covens have lost sight of their mission, to regulate and help witches. Their self-serving fears and the depths to which the coven will betray anyone to protect their selves. What Victoria did? Omigod. It was unbelievable. I sure hope that witch gets her karmic payback by the end of the series!! As for Savannah's aunt...I can't believe that she's doing nothing to help her...of course, that may be for the best considering her aunt. I despise the majority of the witches in that coven. What namby-pambly cowards they are! This follows with what Paige learns about those grimoires and yet another coven betrayal.

It's not only the coven that betrays but Kristof's own people as well. A huge betrayal, and it's his own fault for being such an arrogant jerk. Lucas is betrayed as well, but hey, nothing he didn't expect.

It's a potful of conflicts and lessons, from Paige's frustration with the timidity of the witches and their so-so spells, their refusal to stand up for fellow witches, and we can only hope we all remember to never make a big change in our lives when we're suffering from grief.

A bit of back history explains why there is such enmity between sorcerers and witches. Talk about scumbags!

There's plenty of action and mayhem, although there are some frustrating scenes as well. For one, I do NOT see why Paige should feel guilty about that first death. The guy was a pig, and as for having to hop to Ms Shaw's demands? Pshaw. Tell her to mail it or drop it off on Paige's doorstep! Although it did make for an exciting action sequence, lol. Then Paige whining on and on about not wanting to hire Lucas, although he's clearly the best man for the job! Oy.

All I can say is that Paige is gonna hafta learn how to cast a spell and hold a shield.

The Story
Leah has a proposition for Kristof Nast. One he's all too willing to take her up on. And so Leah sues for custody of Savannah, setting off a string of events that would please any demon who adores chaos.

Unfortunately for Leah, Paige already knows her qualities, and there is no way Paige will relinquish custody of the young teen. No matter how threatening her coven becomes. Savannah is a witch and deserves the protection of the coven.

Unfortunately for Paige, her selflessness and determination only angers the coven, strengthening their beliefs that Paige is too young to know what's right for them. And now Savannah is being pursued by a dark faction of the supernatural underworld. A vicious group who will do anything to woo the young, malleable, and extremely powerful neophyte, including commit murder — and frame Paige for the crime.

It’s an initiation into adulthood, womanhood, and the brutal side of magic that Paige will have to do everything within her power to make sure they both survive.

The Characters
Paige Winterbourne is the new leader of the Coven in East Falls, now that her aunt/mother is no more. For her day job, she designs websites for women tired of male web designers who all believe that women want flowery wallpaper. Savannah Levine, the notorious Eve Levine's daughter, is an orphan consigned to Paige's care by Ruth. Eve had practiced the darkest of the dark magics. Paige has her grimoires.

Web clients include Julie who is with Bay Insurance and Brock Summers from Boston who is with the new England Perception Group.

Lucas Cortez, a sorcerer and the son of Benicio Cortez, is a lawyer who prefers the pro bono cases.

The Interracial Council is...
...an organization for supernaturals, excluding sorcerers, dedicated to preventing the misuse of power. Paige's mother, Ruth, had been the head of the council.

East Falls, Massachusetts, is...
...where Paige's coven is headquartered. Grantham Cary Sr and Jr have a law office in town. Lacey is Grantham Jr's wife and the office receptionist. Roberta Shaw is a lawyer with Williams and Shaw. Melinda's is a great bakery where Nellie is a cashier. Mabel Higgins, who has never stepped foot out of Massachusetts, runs a Chinese restaurant, the Golden Dragon. You do NOT want to read her idea of chow mein! Miss Harris is Paige's very nosy neighbor. Peggy Dare is with the Massachusetts Department of Social Services. Councillors Bennett and Phillips have an offer for Paige.

Ted Fowler is the local sheriff. Travis Willard is one of the deputies. His wife, Janey, is friendly with Paige. Detective Flynn is just doing her job.

The Coven of East Falls
...consists of fourteen witches and five neophytes, girls ranging from 10 to 15 years old. The Elders include Victoria Alden, Margaret Levine (aunt to Savannah) who is the keeper of the coven's books and a volunteer head librarian in East Falls (she'd been the high school librarian until she retired), and Therese Moss. Abigail "Abby" Alden is one of the few on Paige's side. Grace, Abby's older sister, has a daughter, Brittany, who may be friendly with Savannah. Tina Moss is pregnant. Megan Moss is the youngest neophyte. Sophie Moss is 93 and succumbing to Alzheimer's.

The Danvers Pack
Jeremy Danvers is the alpha and an artist. Elena Michaels, the only female werewolf and an investigative journalist, and the terrifying Prof. Clayton Danvers, her partner, are part of the pack. All three are friends of Paige's.

Robert Vasic is a Tempestras half-demon and professor, married to Talia, who has a son, Adam Vasic, an Exustio half-demon.

The Cabals
The cabals are sorcerous organizations which run as a business with a CEO, then a board of directors composed of sons, brothers, uncles, nephews, and cousins with employees any supernatural who won't eat them for lunch, but only one witch per cabal. Their primary mission is money, making lots and lots of it.

The Nast Cabal is...
...the biggest. Kristoff Nast is the son of the CEO, Thomas Nast. Todd, an Igneus, has succeeded Russ, a Ferratus, as Kristof's bodyguard. Olivia (retired) and her daughter, Greta Enwright, were/are Kristof's witches.

Leah O'Donnell, a telekinetic half-demon, is one nasty piece of work (we first met her in Stolen , 2) who happens to be a deputy sheriff in Wisconsin. Gabriel Sandford is a lawyer with Jacobs, Sandford, and Schwab in L.A. Friesen and Anton are half-demon guards and part of Leah's team.

The Cortez Cabal is...
...based in Miami and the most powerful. They are also the ones who precipitated the Break between witches and sorcerers. Benicio Cortez is the CEO and Lucas' father. His wife, Delores, and his brothers have put a bounty on Lucas' head.

Salem, Massachusetts, 1692
Tituba was an old slave who belonged to the Reverend Samuel Parris. Betty was his young spoiled daughter. Armstrong has an interesting interpretation as to what caused the Salem witch trials.

Demons
There are two types of demons: eudemons, a.k.a., nonchaotic, are the good ones, and the bad are cacodemons, a.k.a., chaotic demons, the only ones who can procreate with a human female, producing half-demons who inherit qualities from the father and are always human in appearance. There are different hierarchies with the level of any one demon depending on how powerful they are, with archdukes the most powerful. An Exustio burns, ignites, and incinerates; an Arduro induces burns and ignites flammable objects; and, an Igneus induces first-degree burns. Ferratus can harden their bodies. Tempestras control the weather.

Witches are always females with only defensive spells; sorcerers are always male with plenty of offensive spells. The Hand of Glory is dark magic and a thief's tool. Jorge, okay, okay, his real name is Bill, sells Satanic Rights. Isaac Katzen was a sorcerer, who had tried to build his own cabal ( Stolen , 2). Ted Morton, a paranormal investigator, tried to break-and-enter. Wiccans show up. Katrina Mott was shot to death. Bob, Joe, and Sylvia are treasure hunters who like to use ghosts. Koyut feed off energy. Jaime Vegas is a necromancer.

The Cover and Title
The cover is a range of blues in a collage of events from the arched window at the top of the staircase, and near stone wall with a woman's leg bent, ending in a high-heeled, strappy sandal. One hand is resting on her bent knee, encased in a black evening glove, the fingers holding a necklace with a pentagram pendant dangling. The title is at the top in a simplified gothic font in white while the author's name uses the same color and font and is located at the bottom left of the cover. An info blurb is just above the author's name in white.

The title is about the use of Dime Store Magic, cheap, simple conjuring tricks.