Cassie Scot

Cassie Scot #1

by Christine Amsden

She was born into magic, but she has none of her own…

Cassie Scot is the normal daughter of powerful sorcerers, born between worlds but belonging to neither. She strives to find a place for herself, but living in the shadow of her family’s reputation isn’t easy. All she wants is a nice, normal job, but her dreams of independence from magic are threatened when she stumbles upon the gruesome body of sixteen-year-old Nancy Hastings.

Cassie is plunged into a paranormal investigation which gets her tangled up with the victim’s powerful family, the Blackwoods. Dark, dangerous, and handsome Evan Blackwood tempts Cassie deeper into a world she seeks to escape. Yet Evan – and magic itself – may not be ready to let her go.

Genres: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Mystery, Magic, Romance, Vampires

250 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2013

About the author

Christine Amsden has been writing science fiction and fantasy for as long as she can remember. She loves to write and it is her dream that others will be inspired by this love and by her stories. Speculative fiction is fun, magical, and imaginative but great speculative fiction is about real people defining themselves through extraordinary situations. Christine writes primarily about people and it is in this way that she strives to make science fiction and fantasy meaningful for everyone.

Christine currently lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, Austin, who has been her biggest fan and the key to her success. They have two beautiful children.

Reviews

[Jessica ❁ ➳ Silverbow ➳ ❁ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

I put this book on my wishlist months ago after seeing several back-to-back positive reviews of it by trusted bloggers.

But you know how it is . . . SO many books, SO little time . . . extremely small press . . . weird cover . . .

If the book doesn't go on sale immediately after it's caught your eye, by the time it does, the stellar endorsements have become vague remembrances, and all the reasons you originally tossed it on top of Mt. TBR become overwhelmed with past experiences---BAD experiences---you've had with this type of (practically indie) book.

I'm really glad I decided to give it a shot anyway.

Cassandra Morgan Ursula Margaret Scot is the eldest of seven children. Her parents are powerful sorcerers, living in a magical hot spot, and while her brothers and sisters all have various and sundry magical gifts, Cassie . . . is a dud.

A "throwback."

Normal.

In the beginning, it was hard to have much sympathy for her predicament---her casual references to her parents extreme wealth firmly typecast her as a poor, little rich girl, and that scenario has rarely pulled on my heartstrings---but as the story progressed, and Cassie gained depth . . . I reluctantly decided to give her the benefit of the doubt.

And despite the somewhat rocky start, the further I read, quitting became less and less of an option, and by the time I was 86% in, I took a quick break to one-click the rest of the books in the series.

True story.

I, admittedly, began reading this book with extreme reservations, and I won't lie . . . whether due to my own cynicism, or to legitimate reasons, for the first 20-25%, those reservations seemed justified: a Bad Boy from Cassie's past breezed back into town, causing her to question her long term relationship with Nice Guy, who exists only in theory until his first on-page appearance nearly halfway through the book . . . and that's it, really. Well, that and Cassie as poor, little rich girl.

But after Cassie had a "hunch" to check out the last known location of her prime suspect in the murder she was investigating for Bad Boy (<-----MAJOR peeve of mine to refer to common sense as a "hunch"), I checked out the relatively low page count, and decided to push through for just a bit longer . . . and that's when things finally started to get interesting.

SO. Are we clear on the rough start? I don't want anyone running out to buy this book, reading the first few chapters and thinking, "Ye GODS, what is this?" then boycotting all of my recommendations for eternity.

Back to the interesting, unfortunately, there's not much I can say about it without spoilers, but Cassie makes some decisions that prove she's a worthy heroine, and the concept of magically incurred debt, which is similar (but different) to the Fae system was unusual and impressive.

There were also lots of hints of secrets to be revealed in future books, and most of those hints did their intended job of peaking my interest (as the aforementioned one-click binge can attest), but I was a bit disappointed that the most obvious of the secrets had not been addressed by the end of this installment . . . A magical dud named Cassandra who is consistently shown to be intuitive . . . ? Come now . . . you're not fooling anybody. Why drag it out?

But overall, a surprisingly good start to a promising series. Highly recommended, especially to readers who like their Urban Fantasy with a side of Mystery.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Scot Paranormal Detective is a May 2013 release, published by Twilight Times Books. I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.

Cassie comes from a large magical family. This was by design. Her parents wanted 7 children for a reason. Cassie, however, may have put a kink in the plan by never developing any magical skills. Although it wasn't for a lack of trying. Cassie desperately wanted to be a fully engaged member of the family. But, it wasn't meant to be.
Now, Cassie is working as a deputy, still living at home though. She has a boyfriend and a few close friends, but her home life is till uneasy.
When a young woman is found murdered and another girl goes missing at the same time, Cassie is on the case. But, to her great surprise, her old childhood friend, and a cousin of the murdered girl, shows up out of the blue.
Evan is mysterious and good looking and Cassie had a crush on him when they were in school together. But, she doesn't really trust him. He has a reputation for mixing love potions and using them to his advantage with the ladies. Cassie still finds him very attractive, even without a potion. So, she's on her guard around him. Evan makes it clear he intends to be a part of the investigation, since it was his cousin that was the victim.
Cassie's parents, especially her dad, do not like Evan, and don't even bother trying to hide it.
When another body is found, and it is obvious a vampire is involved, the case takes on another dimension.

Cassie is a young woman that has been plagued with self esteem issues her entire life because she is different from everyone in her family and to many others in this odd little town. She is easy to relate to. Her humanity and obvious care for others makes us root for her when it looks like she doesn't really have a lot of support from her other family members and her boyfriend doesn't really want the magical side of her family to be obvious.
Cassie is in search of her place and looking for her niche. Being a detective is something she is good at and she doesn't need to be "gifted" to do her job.
However, there are things beyond her control that hold her down and hold her back. The family dynamic is a mystery in this first book. We get the feeling there is more going on than we know, but for now, we are left feeling that Cassie is better off being with Evan, no matter what others may think of him.

I don't read a lot of YA novels. I am just way beyond the audience these books are geared toward. But, once in awhile there is a novel that, although it is labeled a certain way, can appeal to a universal audience. This is an Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance that features a young adult, single woman try to find where it is she belongs. That is a feeling we all have at one time or another. The themes are mature, but there is no explicit sex scenes and no harsh language or graphic violence. The writing is above average, as is the story. I was really moved by Cassie. I felt her emotions jumping off the page at me. I was riveted to the story from the first page to the last. This author is one to watch. I recommend this one to readers of YA, New Adult, Urban Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance.
Overall I give this one a A+

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

With a nicely modern—normal and paranormal—take on the noir detective genre, Christine Amsden sets her novel, Cassie Scott, ParaNormal Detective, among the magic-wielders of small-town America, creating a cozily enticing sense of the exotic among the mundane. There’s a mystery to be solved of course, and an enterprising female protagonist who goes about it with logic and determination. But there’s also the question of why this young woman of zero magical talent should have been born to such a powerful family, the mystique of a small town where the magical live almost unnoticed, side by side with mundane neighbors, and the deep dark question of Cassie’s relationship to her parents.

And there’s romance. At 21, it's time for Cassie to step out into her future. Will she marry the normal guy she’s been dating, or the magical one-time friend who’s somehow haunted her since childhood? Will she fulfill a destiny as protector of the unmagical in her home town, or will she flee to a safer normal world? Will she accept her parents’ love, or stray too far beyond the bounds?

The story ends with its central mystery solved, but plenty of questions remain to fuel a continuing series. Imagine the Dresden Files set in a small cozy town, with a love interest that might actually work out—one day, maybe—and a twenty-something female protagonist, then perhaps you’ll have the feel of this fun paranormal tale.

Disclosure: The author kindly gave me a free ecopy of her novel.

[Diana (Offbeat Vagabond) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original review here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2013/05/indie-book-review-kindle-fire-hd.html

This is a story about a young woman named Cassie Scot. She comes from a family full of gifted people. Her parents are very powerful and her other siblings all have a special gift. Everyone has a gift except Cassie. Cassie is the oddball out, but she likes it that way. She wants to be as normal as possible in a very paranormal town. Eagle Rock is known for its magic even though mostly everyone tries to dismiss it or still doesn't believe it exists. But that fact becomes hard to ignore when a death occurs in another powerful family in Eagle Rock, the Blackwoods, things go topsy-turvy. Not only is Cassie being sucked into a paranormal case that she didn't want, but she has to work with Evan Blackwood. Evan is powerful and a rival of her family. Not to mention, her old feelings for him may be creeping up, but maybe not the way she wanted them too.

I really had no idea what I was getting into when I started this book. But boy am I glad I jumped on it. If you are an Urban Fantasy lover, this book will have you foaming at the mouth. I had a lot of fun with this. Amsden has definitely delivered an exciting read that was great from beginning to end.

I really enjoyed our characters. Cassie was a great lead. She is 21 and very much trying to discover herself. I love that Cassie did her best to establish herself. She started off as a deputy and branched off and created her own P.I. Company with an emphasis on normalcy. She makes it clear she doesn't do spells and won't get involved in a paranormal case. That all changes one day when trying to deliver a simple subpoena. I felt so sorry for her given that she felt like the black sheep in the family and she really was. There times when you know her parents question about having their “magic seven” (seven magical children) and didn't really include Cassie in it. You see why she must stand on her own. She kind of figures that out the hard way though. Wow, I didn't see that coming.

I loved this story. This was quite an addictive read. Once you start, you can't stop. Amsden did a great job keeping me on the edge of my seat. I love the balance between mystery and paranormal. It is all in the title. Love the crossed out “para”, it is perfect for this book. I love how something so simple as delivering a subpoena mushrooms into something bigger and we don't even know the half of it. The plot twists were mind boggling.I love that we get normalcy mixed with sorcery, witches, vampires and more. There is even a bit of romance with the bad boy Evan. Everyone is afraid of him because he is powerful. From the get go you do wonder whether he is trustworthy or not. I loved him even though he obviously has some secrets. Some pretty big secrets. And man, that ending. Wow, I better get the sequel like yesterday. I haven't seen anything about it, but this book needs one.

I really loved this book. It was a fast and addictive read. I loved the mystery and th e build up surrounding it. I love trying to figure out whether Cassie will be able to protect those around her from the paranormal when she has no gift of her own. This is a book that will satisfy paranormal and non-paranormal lovers alike. You will love the characters and the people Cassie interacts with especially her family. They are entertaining as hell. I especially loved Adam, the second youngest I believe. He was too freaking cute. There will be no dull moments, let me tell you. Even when we find out who is behind the murders, we still have plenty of questions left. Like I said, this needs a sequel. Truly an amazing read. The only complaint I have is that I wish this book was longer. Highly recommended.

[Ian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book because of the rating. It has a rating of 4.38 Stars after 85 people rated it. 90% of the people who rated it, rated it either 4 or 5 Stars. I look at that, and then I look at Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor which has an average rating of 4.08 and think to myself, 'wow...this book must be pretty amazing'.

Was it good? Yes.
Was it amazing? No, not really.
A look through the average rating of the first 20 reviewers (listed below) tells me where I went wrong. It kind of reminds me that when I rate a book 5 Stars, I'm telling people to spend their hard earned money on it, and I need to be careful that the book really deserves that endorsement.

3.34
3.38
3.68
3.69
3.79
3.80
3.90
4.10
4.14
4.15
4.15
4.18
4.28
4.45
4.46
4.50
4.54
4.55
4.57
4.94

[Kimber Wheaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Cassie Scot ParaNormal Detective is a fun, engaging read. There are so many books out there about the lone witch or shapeshifter or other magical being in a family of clueless people. It's refreshing to read a book about a normal person surrounded by magic. While the mystery is interesting, it's only a part of what makes this book so hard to put down. Truthfully, what kept me turning the pages were the amazing characters.

I love Cassie Scot. She's an endearing character from the beginning. I suppose it's hard not to rally behind the only member of her very gifted magical family without a magic gift of her own. She's trying so hard to follow her dreams as a normal investigator in a paranormal community. When Cassie laughed, I laughed. When her family turned a blind eye to her feelings, I wanted to rip into them. Cassie is the type of character I would love to follow in a series. In fact, I'm dying to know more about her and what happens after this book ends.

There are two potential romantic interests for our heroine Cassie. Her longtime boyfriend, Braden, is easy and comfortable, like those faded blue jeans we all have that have survived wash after wash. Evan is from a family of sorcerer's at odds with Cassie's family. He's exciting and dangerous, not to mention scary powerful when it comes to magic. I really liked Evan's character; he's rather tortured and passionate. One of his magical gifts (want to know - read the book!) is to die for.

The plot is great. Cassie opens a normal P.I. office and flounders for customers. Her first real gig leads her smack into the middle of a paranormal mystery. Karma just isn't on Cassie's side. Vampires come out to play, and not the YA paranormal romance kind of vampire. My favorite part of the whole vampire thing was the holy water in the super shooters; I just about died laughing. What a great idea! The interactions between Cassie and her family are intriguing. The family seemed loving, and acted like they really cared about Cassie, but she always felt like an outcast in a world she just didn't quite fit into. Then they go and do something so monumentally awful, it makes me want to gather an angry mob (pitchforks, torches, the whole works).

I recommend Cassie Scot to everyone high school and up that enjoys a refreshing urban fantasy with a touch of romance. When I reached the end of the story, I was left wanting more so badly. It looks like book #2 Secrets and Lies is slated for a November 15, 2013 release.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been thoroughly charmed and caught in a spell spun by Christine Amsden. I am not sure what I expected of Cassie Scot but what I got was a lovable and charming character that has won me over. Cassie a “Marilyn Munster” in a magical family has to carve her own way. When nothing is done for the simple reason of favor but has repercussions and debts to be paid, it can be a little tricky. Cassie runs her own detective agency and works with her former boss the police chief to solve magical and cases.

When a client comes into the office with hopes of Cassie serving a subpoena to a love potion making witch thing go from easy to puzzling when Cassie finds a dead body. Only the dead body turns out to be cousin to a powerful and childhood friend/crush Evan. A sorcerer that is rumored to place love spells on the women he meets. They begin to work together to find out who is behind the murders and quickly become gossip.

Added to the mayhem is a crazy and magical family that all live together in one house. All of Cassie’s siblings have magical ability. It is a wildly funny and chaotic atmosphere. All is not perfect in this household. Feeling less than and not good enough has plagued Cassie since childhood and continues.

Cassie struggles to figure out who she is and who she can trust. It’s hard with so many secrets and lies swirling around. Cassie is beginning to realize someone wants her dead. Who will help her? Who will cast her aside and who can she trust?

Such a good story that when I finished I immediately searched for book 2. Sadly we will have to wait till November. ((sad face)) I want it now mummy!

5 STARS!
T~

Given via The Autumn Review, ATOMR from the author
www.ktbookreviews.blogspot.com

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creating characters that the reader actually feel connected to is something that not all authors can do, especially in this genre, yet from the very first page I was glued and I ended up reading nearly half the book in one sitting.

The story is fast paced and had me glued from the very first page. Though it is obviously embellished from what the real practicing Pagan does it is my opinion that this story was well researched and well thought out and isn’t just another paranormal novel that was written on a whim.

I definitely recommend anyone who enjoys a little bit of love and a little bit of paranormal read this book. It’s an absolute treasure!

[Laura Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. Book Title 10 of 10
CASSIE SCOT PARANORMAL DETECTIVE
I must say, it's a very ingenious way to present a title. In fact, when I read it the first time...I had to do a double take to make sure I was really seeing the strike-thru on the word PARA. And when I was convinced that I wasn't crazy...that, indeed, it was intended to look like that I thought to myself, 'now what is that about'. Is this Cassie a detective with some sort of ESP that she tries to keep hidden? OR is she somebody everybody assumes has ESP because she just that good of a detective? (I envisioned a humble Sherlock Holmes sort of gal). With questions like those simmering in the back of my head...I had to find out for myself what was up with the strike-thru! And for a book title to catch my attention in such a way that it draws up 2 possible scenarios (both of which I later found out were wrong) well, that's a really good thing!

2. Book Cover 7 of 10
I'll admit, I wasn't blown away by the artwork on the cover. It seems stiff and unreal. The woman sitting by the lake has an almost mannequin appearance to her and honestly, until I read the story and figured out what the thing is at her ear, I thought she had a strange growth. (Now that I do know what it is...it makes sense BUT when I wrote down my initial thoughts on the cover I had to 'keep it real' and envision myself as a reader cruising through the aisles of a book store. I didn't look at it and go 'WOW! Now, that's a cool looking book!')

3. First 500... 10 of 10
I absolutely loved the way Christine Amsden makes it crystal clear that the book I was about to read was not Harry Potter (aside from the fact that there is magic in it) and furthermore that Cassie Scot wasn't going to suddenly realize that she had some weird, latent ability that was going to pop up. Amsden's description of Cassie is what I think any young twenty something trying to make it on her own without mommy and daddy always there to bail her out when things got tough...regardless if it had to do with magical matters or money matters. And it was that 'real' feeling that made me instantly feel for this young woman trying to be a vital part of society because it's something I think we all feel when we're 'at that point in our lives' PLUS while she's introducing Cassie in a matter of fact, first person POV sort of way, we also find out a little bit about the people in her town and how they interact among one another. All in all, she does a great job of creating an ambiance for the reader that follows Cassie all the way through the story.

4. Is the age recommendation right? 9 of 10
I had to go looking around for the book online to see how it was classified at various sites. It's listed as all sorts of things from simple 'mystery' to 'magical world' to 'witches, vampires, et al.' to 'young adult'. And it's that last one the 'young adult' classification that sort of makes me stumble because while there were oodles of young adults who read and fell in love with old HP and the gang at Hogwarts or went gaga over Edward, Jacob, and Bella in Twilight...they were written with characters who were young adults themselves. Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective is not a 'youth' focused story at all. Cassie is in her 20s and there's no cutesy-wootsy glittery vampires to fall in love with. The vampire(s) in this story are wretched and pretty darn nasty. So, while I don't think Amsden set out to write a 'Young Adult' novel...it's wound up classified that way and that's a shame. To me, it's sort of like saying Cujo is a story about a little puppy who gets sick so it's fine to read it to 8 year olds!

5. Presentation & Format 10 of 10
It's clear that Amsden and her editors took great care to make sure this book had 'the look' of a book that needed to be read! The POV is expanded beautifully throughout the story and, for the most part, keeps the 'forward momentum' of the story going.

6. Theme and Originality 10 of 10
As I said before with the title of the book...I was expecting one of two things...and I got something I wasn't expecting and for that reason it deserves a solid 10!

7. Description and Enhancement 9 of 10
There were a couple of times where I felt like Amsden felt compelled to 'explain' something to death...case in point...the reiteration about how certain flowers, like snap dragon, can hold off curses. This was mentioned something like 5 times in a short period of time so I KNEW even before the scene where a similar item was used that something was going to happen that dealt with it.) There were a couple of other occasions (the crosses that were worn by her friends, the turtle neck...if you read the story, you'll see what I mean!) I chose to put this particular point in this section because it's not really an issue of mechanics.

But other than that...the actual descriptions are terrific! I love especially how she describes her family's house and the rather unique way her parents chose to decorate it. Talk about compromise! And then there's the scene where she gets a rather unwelcomed advance from a vampire...but I don't want to give too much away because it's really good!

8. Intrigue 10 of 10
I read it in 2 days sitting by the pool. It's the PERFECT sort of spot for reading a book like this. I only took a break because I started to bake and after 4 coats of spray on suntan, I have to call it a day! Perhaps if it was spring and I was sitting on my front porch swing I could have read it all in a day...so yes, it's very intriguing!

9. Mechanics 10 of 10
No real issues. As I've said before, sometimes I find my 'editors' eyes turn on when I'm reading a book (that's typically not a good thing for a finished product!) but with this one the only thing I saw that I can remember as being 'wrong' was the fact that in the 1st or maybe the 2nd chapter, Amsden refers to reading something on her 'kindle' which should properly be spelled with a capital 'K' as it is the proper name of a product/brand.

10. Overall Impression 10 of 10
I TRULY enjoyed this book and am waiting to read the next book or books that she's got planned...because the way this one ended I KNOW there has to be at least one more! I think Cassie Scot has the potential to be a long running series if Amsden 'chooses her words wisely'!

And thus, it appears that Christine Amsden's CASSIE SCOT PARANORMAL DETECTIVE has earned 95 points and 5 magnolia blossoms. WAY TO GO!!

To read the INTERVIEW that goes along with this review please visit http://magnoliablossomreview.blogspot...

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a big urban fantasy fan, and a big indie fiction fan, but it's very seldom that the two meet. There's plenty of paranormal romance in the indie world (too much, I think), but not so much UF for some reason. So I was delighted to find this well-written piece of urban fantasy with a strong and appealing main character published by an indie author.

The cover looks a little YA to me, but (one of the advantages of indie publication: the author gets to decide these things) the female protagonist illustrated on it isn't showing large amounts of tattooed skin. On the YA issue, this book is what is now sometimes called "new adult", meaning that the protagonist is out of high school but still young. Personally, I think the age (and gender) of the protagonist is a silly basis for genre classification, or audience segmentation, for that matter, and as a 45-year-old man I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Further on genre, just to get it out of the way: yes, there is a strong romance subplot. It is a subplot, though, placing this on the urban fantasy side of the UF/PNR line. The main plot is the mystery of the vampire attacks which the protagonist, a self-described "normal detective" working her first independent case, must solve in order to protect her town.

She's "normal" because, unlike the rest of her family and a number of other people in town, she has no sorcerous powers. This is a major plot thread, as you'd imagine. It's tricky to place a non-powered normal human in a setting where just about everyone else is more powerful than she is and have her remain a viable and believable protagonist, but this author pulls it off.

She also pulls off the tricky combination of a confident, capable and independent-minded young woman who is also self-doubting, worried, inexperienced and used to being dependent on her powerful and wealthy family. I felt she kept that balance well, and it didn't break my suspension of disbelief at any point. The character is also courageous and wants to help others, even at risk to herself, which is how I like my heroes of either gender.

At one moment halfway through, I was very much afraid that we were going to get the trope of "young woman protagonist makes stupid, headstrong decision that puts her in harm's way in order to ramp up the plot tension, and has to be rescued by a man to ramp up the romantic tension". It's a trope that occurs again and again in UF/PNR, and, my wife tells me, also in the non-paranormal female forensic investigator genre. I hate that trope with a burning hatred, and was deeply relieved when the author turned out to just be messing with me. I felt that the trope was successfully avoided, or at least softened enough that it fitted with the character's generally sensible and practical demeanour.

I found the minor characters believable as real people and not just cardboard cutouts, too. The plot was sufficiently intricate, and the mystery progressed at a good pace. The setting was a fairly standard UF one, with magic-users and vampires (I think werewolves were alluded to as well, and contact with the dead), but with some nice variation in terms of the "talents" that people exhibited. It put me in mind of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files or C.E. Murphy's Walker Papers, and I can't really offer higher praise than that.

There were a couple of dozen mostly minor editing issues. I've connected with the author on Google+ (after I bought the book) and have let her know about them, so they will probably be fixed before too long and I won't detail them here. Otherwise, great stuff, and I'll be getting the next one.

[Malinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEW:
I was recently given the opportunity to review Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective by Christine Amdsen. Being the booknerd that I am, I readily accepted. Now, anyone who has read a review of mine knows that I do not give spoiler alerts...often. When I do, it's because it cannot be avoided, or is a small teaser that doesn't give away the bigger picture. So here it is, my 100% honest opinion of the book.

Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective is about a young woman who was born into a family of super powerful sorcerers. Cool, right? Usually, yes. In this case, not so cool, because she was the only one born without any magical powers of any kind at all. In order to bring some normalcy to her otherwise not normal existence, she starts up her own P.I. agency, for which the book is titled (Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective.. with the "Para" crossed out). Under the assumption that her first job is nothing more than an everyday subpoena delivery for a client, she soon finds herself thrust even further into the magical world she was trying so hard to avoid. Aided by an unlikely ally, she stumbles through plot twist after plot twist, including finding out one of her friends (a die-hard Christian who doesn't even believe in the supernatural, paranormal world) is actually dating and under the influence of a vampire. Yep, you read that right. Not only does this book have magic, it has vampires. And a bit of romance.

Now that you have my very minor spoiler alerts and short but sweet description of the book, here is the fun part (for me). I am VERY technical when I read something, especially if it's for a review. When I say technical, I mean, I may as well be an editor for the book because I nit-pick horribly. I love finding mistakes in other people's works and pointing them out. In that one single aspect, I have to say I was very disappointed. Other than a few very minor errors not even worth mentioning, this book was just about perfect for me. The author clearly knows what she is doing, as do her editors. The flow was good, the plot twists weren't choppy or awkward, and thankfully the dialogue wasn't juvenile, which can and has happened in a lot of young adult books.

All in all, on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being so horrible the author needs to stop writing now, and 5 being awesome), author Christine Amdsen deserves 5 with Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective. It is very well written, and as a parent and older sibling, I would have no problems allowing my child or 13 year old sister to read this book. I, as well as other reviewers and readers I'm sure, am anxiously awaiting book 2.

*I was given a copy of Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective by the author to read and give my honest review. No compensation was given for said review.*

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those don’t judge a book by its cover type of books. The cover screams low budget and usually low budget covers mean low budget editing, and possibly even writing. But this book was very well written, the plot was exciting, and the characters were intriguing. I’m very happy I was given the opportunity to review book 1 in the Cassie Scot series.
The magical world that Cassie lives in is full of secrets and lies, and it doesn’t help matters that Cassie seems to not have been born with any magical gifts. In order to try to prove her worth, she opens up a “normal” detective agency and is asked to assist with a murder investigation. The plot escalates from there when it is obvious the victim was killed by a vampire. The mystery continues to get more complicated as more people get attacked and turned and Cassie tries to figure out the identity of the master vampire. I liked the way the plot was written – it was suspenseful and twisted and I certainly did not predict how it would end.
Cassie is working with a very powerful sorcerer, Evan, and he used to be her best friend before they had a falling out in grades school. She can’t deny her attraction to him, but she also knows he is dangerous and her family and his do not get along. Cassie is also dating Braden, not quite exclusively, and doesn’t know how she really feels about him. In fact, she doesn’t seem to think about him very much in the earlier parts of this book until more about them is revealed to us. She has plenty of thoughts about Evan though, so I’m just gonna go ahead and say it – I’m #TeamEvan on this one. Sure, he’s dangerous and mysterious and powerful, but he’s saved her life several times and he really seems to care about her. Maybe he isn’t going about showing his feelings the right way with the whole magical debt thing, but he is going to fight for her and I hope he gets through to her.
Now let’s talk about Cassie herself. She’s really struggling with being un-magical and she feels like everyone treats her differently. She doesn’t want to be poor helpless girl who can’t protect herself. She wants to be strong and tough and prove to everyone that she can be just as strong and brave as her magical siblings. So when her parents betray her – seriously who does that to their own child! – she becomes even more determined to take care of herself rather than be taken care of by someone who will always be more powerful than her. I like her, she’s a really cool character. I do think there’s more to her than we know and perhaps we’ll find out in future books that she has a gift after all. Here’s hoping anyway.

[Diayll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed At: Mother/Gamer/Writer
Rating: 5 Controllers
Review Source: Author
Reviewer:AimeeKay


I really enjoyed Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective. This was a surprise considering the story is told in first person, but Cassie is an awesome character. She’s kind and funny. She doesn’t let her lack of magic stop her from trying to create her own place in her parent’s world. I really got attached to her, to the point that at times I almost cried because of things that happened to her. (Not going to tell what things though, don’t want to spoil it.) I did like the other characters as well. Just didn’t get to know them as well as Cassie, but what I found out definitely got me interested and wanting to find out more. I think that some of the human characters were actually more fun than the magical ones. Especially seeing how they dealt, or in some cases didn’t, with the magic around them. One of my favorite scenes is where the sheriff finally lets on to Cassie that he isn’t as blind as he seems to the magic around him.

I enjoyed the story too. Sometimes I get frustrated with mysteries, too many red herrings and stuff. Don’t get me wrong there were a few thrown in here as well, but it wasn’t crazy every other page jumping around. I will admit I figured out who the villain was before Cassie did. But I was having a much better week than her. :-) I think the author did a great job weaving the mystery into Cassie’s everyday life, so there wasn’t too much of one or too little of the other.

The ending of the book is an obvious set up for the next one. Some questions are left unanswered and some problems unsolved, but the mystery itself was solved so it wasn’t that much of a cliffie. I definitely want to get my hands on the next book in the series.

I think the only thing I didn’t like about the book was the cover. I don’t think it does the story justice and I don’t think it relates to the story as well as it could. I have issues with covers though so maybe it’s just me.

I’m definitely giving this one 5 out of 5 controllers.

[Shasta Mosley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read and review Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective by Christine Amsden. Let me just start off by saying, this is a wonderful book for all ages. I have absolutely fallen in love with the book and the characters. Immediately the book drew me in to the world of Ms. Cassie Scot. Cassie is the eldest daughter of a very powerful, magical family. Unfortunately, Cassie is not magical herself. Cassie was born with no magical powers at all, unlike those of her 6 brothers and sisters and her parents. Living in an area with sorcerers and vampires, Cassie is just really trying to live a normal life.

“I’ve been called a lot of things on my life: normal, ordinary, and even a disappointment. After the Harry Potter books came out, a couple of people called me a squib. Since I haven’t read them I have to assume it’s a compliment.
Personally, I prefer normal, which is why the sign on my office door reads: Cassie Scot, Normal Detective.”

This story has everything, forbidden love, mystery, murder. Cassie begins a case to try to serve a subpoena to a town member, who is of the paranormal kind, and stumbles along a murder of a family member of her former best friend Evan Blackwood. Evan, who is also a powerful sorcerer, enlists Cassie in helping him find his cousin’s killer. Along the way Cassie seems to develop feelings for Evan, but is warned against them by not only her family, but also her friends.
Now before I go and give too much away on this book, my suggestion to everyone is go get and read the book. You will not be disappointed. And trust me, Amsden will leave you wanting more. I can’t wait until the next book in series becomes available. She has a wonderful hit on her hands.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 unicorns - I loved it!!

I loved this story :) It is easy to read, and I got sucked into the story. It was definitely an emotional rollercoaster too which is always a plus because it means I’m fully engaged in the story. First, her name matches mine (Cassandra), YAY! I love Cassie :) as a character because she is strong and independent, but also vulnerable which makes her more real to me as a reader. It is also set near where I live another bonus. This story has magic, murder, mystery, intrigue, and vampires. I totally cried with Cassie when I was reading. I hope and pray this becomes a series because I want more of Cassie and her world and what happens next with Evan. If you love the paranormal genre, you will definitely want to read this :)

**received this book free for an honest review as part of the I.O. Book Tours

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christine pens "Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective" in a plot filled with magickal adventure, suspense and tons of family drama. With very strong, well developed characters, the book just drew me in from the very first page. This is a great start to a new series and one that I intend to follow through to the end...gotta see what happens next! A total must read for all paranormal and non-paranormal fans.

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.

[Maria Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of the best UF I've read, bar none. This is a captivating read from the characters, to the plot to everything in-between. There's enough originality thrown in to keep you guessing. I figured out the whodunit a few pages before the main, but it didn't detract from the story for me. This is good stuff.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found it extremely difficult to relate to Cassie. While it's well-written, the MC was a turn-off.

My Rating: 3 stars

[Nazish Ahmed (Nazish Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rate this book 4.5 stars.

My Book Blog: nazishreads.net

Sorry I didn't post the review here a few months ago, I just forgot. I thought I already posted it here, but apparently I didn't.

To view the full post and other reviews, click here Cassie Scot: Book 1 Cassie Scot Paranormal Detective by Christine Amsden



Gore: Yes (some dead bodies)
Magic: Yes
Romance: Yes

Action: I'm not sure how to rate this for this book.
Pacing: 4 stars
Plot: 4.5 stars
Cover: 4.5 stars

I love urban fantasy, it's one of my most favourite genres. I like it better than paranormal romance because paranormal romance focus too much on romance and not enough on the paranormal, for ex: The Crescent Chronicles, I wanted more paranormal and action. Whereas in urban fantasy, there's more of a story and the romance ends up taking back stage. I've been trying to read more urban fantasy novels this year, I just love them.


I love that the cover doesn't look like other new adult book covers (those are starting to look the same, there's needs to be more creativity like with young adult book covers, plus it's nice to see some other genres besides contemporary and paranormal romance in a new adult book. Finally, authors writing in the NA (those are also my initials) genre are being creative. Here I thought that there were mostly boring college romance novels (yes I'm in college, but I get bored of repetitiveness), then I read about The Apollo Academy and now this, they both proved that there can be other genres for this age group and that to be considered as NA, the main characters don't need to be in college, they just need to be in that age group.

I also like that author's not doing that annoying thing with her name that many NA authors have been doing recently. Names like L.J. Smith. She doesn't count in this rant because her name was like that on books since the 90s and she was the first author I noticed that did that with her name, so that's ok, but I've noticed for some reason (not sure what that reason is), many indie authors have been doing this. I don't know why, but it annoys me. What's wrong with using your full name?

The story starts with a girl named Cassandra Scot (Cassie), she has a long name (which I don't remember) because her parents believe that the longer the name, the more powerful the sorcerer, unfortunately, she has no magical powers (like a squib in Harry Potter). She has her own business as a private detective which isn't going well. She ends up getting involved in a murder case (as an investigator). I love that unlike many other mystery novels, the police officers never told her to back out of it, they let her do what she wants because she's so good at it and she knows things that the police don't, she understands and knows a lot more about magic than they do because of her family.

In this book, magic isn't completely a secret in the small town. Magic isn't just rumours there, some things happened that just can't be explained and many people believe them because nothing can explain what happened, I found that really interesting. Magic isn't a secret, but it's also not 100% publicly known. I also love that vampires aren't a romantic interest for the main character in here, they're the enemies, it's nice to see someone finally make vampires not so mushy but more on the evil and scary side.

Cassie cares a lot about her friends and family and they care a lot about her. Her family is always trying to protect her and reminding them that they're there for her. She has six siblings: 3 girls and 3 boys, they are each 3 years apart because her mom thinks that 7 and 3 are lucky numbers and that they will protect the family. Unfortunately, later on in the story, Cassie parents do something stupid that makes you question their intelligence and if they really do accept her as apart of the family. Of course they try to help her, but she won't take handouts, she's too proud for that, I like that kind of attitude.

I didn't like Angie, she seemed greedy and I'm not exactly sure how to describe her. But I love her other friends, especially Kaitlin, she's such a good friend that even though she's so poor, she's still there for Cassie in her darkest time. Friends like that are hard to come by in real life. Cassie's so lucky and she knows it.

Cassie is confident, brave, stubborn, kind, smart, funny, and independent, but she also doubts herself quite a few times, inexperienced, and has a inferiority complex. She doesn't just rush into serious things (sometimes I like it when they do that, and other times it doesn't work out), she thinks things through, but she definitely has pride. She's also not a spoiled brat even she's rich. She's spoiled but doesn't think of herself as above those less fortunate than her. Cassie's parents literally turn lead into gold for a living, talk about lots of money. Although, she and the sorcerers think that she's in danger since doesn't have magic to protect her, but I disagree. In TVD (the tv show), vampire hunters are normal humans, they're just really smart, in shape, and have special rings that prevent them from dying if a supernatural attacks him/her. So she shouldn't doubt herself so much, although I get it, since she'[s surrounded by crazy sorcerers.

Instead of dealing with human psychos or 'normal' people threatening and killing people for certain reasons, it's really powerful supernatural beings. The whole town is mysterious and most of the citizens are sorcerers.

It was also interesting to learn about the town, the sorcerers that live there, etc. Although I think that some of the families are petty, and the debt thing is kind of silly, but that's just opinion.

The only problem with this book was a few minor editing issues, and I was hoping that at the end we would find out that Cassie does have a power and that it was just buried very deep inside her, but unfortunately, so far it seems like she has no powers, maybe she might in the second books, who knows except the author. Other than that, I can't think of anything else at the moment.

This book kind of reminded mw of my most favourite tv show Charmed. They even use some of the same terms like firestarters and empaths. I think either Charmed was an influence for this or the author did similar research as the writers of Charmed did, either way, I love and enjoyed this book. It also reminds me of most of White Cat by Holly Black, but then he found out he was also a worker, he just didn't know it.

I liked some of the other characters as well, like: Evan but I don't love him like other book boyfriends (the guy she's forbidden date, her dad hates his family, we still don't know much about the guy), her family, and a few other people. Her family and their house are pretty interesting and cool. They were also believable and realistic in some ways. As you guys might now, I love reading about characters that are interesting and talented, but also not perfect, her parents are so confusing.
Again, I love mysteries.

Overall, I enjoyed Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective immensely. It's fun, entertaining, has likeable characters, an interesting murder mystery, the romance isn't the main story, and has an awesome independent protagonist.
I can't wait to see what their next adventures will be.

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story location: Eagle Rock, Missouri

Cassandra Morgan Ursula Margaret Scot is the eldest child of seven in a family of magic wielders. Unfortunately for Cassie, she doesn't have any magical abilities and more-or-less a mundane. She's spent her entire life trying to prove worthy to be called a Scot, never really feeling like she belongs with her brood. Having the last name of one of the most powerful families in Eagle Rock has been a double edged sword; she has protections against other magical families but it's a hindrance when trying to branch out on her own.

After several months of very little work in her Normal Detective Agency, she is hired by a law firm to serve court papers to one of the Scot family's biggest nemesis': Belinda Hewitt. Belinda is a very powerful sorceress known to abuse her potion-making capabilities by using love potions on unsuspecting men - sometimes multiple men at a time.

When Cassie arrives at Belinda's homes, which also contains her potion shop, the shop is closed and no one is home - and it's 30 minutes past opening time. There is a strange vehicle in the driveway and after further inspection, Belinda's car is gone. Suspecting the worst, Cassie waits to see if anyone shows up at the home. She's surprised to see Evan Blackwood, a former classmate and friend, show up also looking for Belinda.

Cassie then learns that the mystery vehicle belongs to Evan's cousin, Nancy Hastings, and that, along with Belinda, Nancy's been missing. After Evan uses magic to break into Belinda's home, both Evan and Cassie are shocked by what they find - and what they don't find. There's evidence of a vampire in Eagle Rock, now they just have to find him/her.

This is no easy task, especially with Cassie, who has no magical abilities. Evan and Cassie join forces to find the vampire before anyone else is hurt or comes up missing. Of course, the reunion between Evan and Cassie is not at all approved of by Cassie's parents due to past history, so they try to make things difficult for Cassie. They her parents have a change of face and do one of the absolute worst things parents can do to a child - one that by the end of the book I still can't forgive them for.

Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective is straight up one of the absolute best mystery books I've read. This novel contains multiple story lines that keep the reader completely engaged from the start. There are twists and turns that keep the reader guessing about the who-dun-it parts. There is a sort-of love triangle that I had a really hard time choosing who the best pairing would be. I can see benefits and advantages of both pairings but there is also the question of love that needs to be considered. If you question whether or not you truly love someone, chances are that you don't.

The author did an excellent job writing the entire novel. The dialogue was fluid and smooth and all of the characters were likable in their own way - even the bad/evil/mean ones. There was back story and history given in the right increments; not too much, not too little. Cassie's character is very likable - she's strong and competent, figuring out how to take care of and protect herself while unable to manifest anything magical. She's conflicted when it comes to her boyfriend of three years and her feelings that float to the surface now that Evan is back in her life. The author has written characters that have deep layers and are emotional.

I absolutely could not put this book down!!!

Review Copy Courtesy Of: The author, via tour company, at no cost in exchange for an honest review.

[Denise Bartram · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I was gifted a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**

Cassie Scot is the eldest in her powerful family. She's the "black sheep" as she differs from her parents and siblings which can leave her vulnerable.

If you've read the book description and other reviews, you'll know that Cassie comes from a large family that has a big Paranormal background. It's because of the Paranormal side of things that Cassie decided to choose a career working in Law Enforcement. She wants to be able to try and use her paranormal knowledge to help. When she realises that even she can't succeed in this particular quest for justice, she quits the Sheriff's department and opens her own ParaNormal Dectective Agency. When her first case, which should have just been quite simple, becomes more complicated, Cassie ends up teaming up with an old school friend, Evan.
From here, this book gets to be so much more than I assumed it would be.

Characters: From Sorcerers to Vampires, from fire starters to healers, there is a great mix of characters with different abilities and gifts. This just adds to Cassie's story as she meets these different characters, some of which she can handle quite easily. The ones she can't, well, that's where Evan and her family comes in ;)

Romance: In most romance and paranormal romance books, the course of true love never is a smooth one. For Cassie and Evan, throw magic in and the course is even rockier because how are they to know what's real and what's not?

Setting: It's not very often you come across a book in which the whole town is aware of magic and the families that possess the ability. Sure, you could read a book where people know that there is something strange about a certain family, but they just get classed as freaks, outcasts, etc. Here in Eagle Rock almost everyone is aware of who has magical abilities. Almost made me wish I lived there just to see some of the fireworks.

At first I didn't actually think I would enjoy Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective. No, I didn't let the cover influence me, as I didn't see it until I uploaded the book to my Kindle.
The first chapter just didn't completely grab my attention, but by the middle of chapter two, I wanted to know more and so I kept reading. The more I read, the more I wanted the story to keep going.
I will admit to not actually being bothered by the Cassie/Evan romance. I was just enjoying learning about their past relationship and watching how they interacted as they worked together, but it was kinda fun to read about the undercurrents between them.

At the age of 21 and having worked in the Sheriff's department, you would assume that Cassie knows at least enough about life to get by. Turns out that okay, yeah, in some things she does but when it's time to stand on her own two feet, ummmm, she has a few things to learn.

The book is definitely a little darker than I anticipated, although from the middle of chapter two, it's plain to see that this is not quite for the younger teens. It's not graphically violent but there is some scenes that younger readers may possibly find distressing.

My rating for Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective will be a 4 star one. I didn't fall in love with the book, but I definitely did like it.

[Spirit of Wonderland Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. You know when you read a book, and it leaves you incapable of thinking anything but "wow" on repeat? Well, this is a "wow" book, for sure.

Growing up, I used to love mystery novels. I've gotten more into paranormal books recently, so the idea of reading a paranormal mystery seemed pretty interesting. Luckily for me, this book is just awesome! It's like a Nancy Drew novel, for adults...with vampires and magic, of course.

The beginning reminded me of the intro to "Father of the Bride." Instead of George Banks explaining why his house is trashed, or why he looks miserable in a tux, we have Cassie Scot, introducing herself, her family, situation, and odd little town. From then on, she continues to tell us about how her world is thrown into danger and chaos...repeatedly. That's one of the things I loved about this book though, is the POV. We follow Cassie, but it's not in the typical way, where we follow her around like a fly on the wall, seeing what's going on from the outside. Instead, Cassie is telling the reader her story- she's leading us, narrating to us, while the story plays out like a movie. I adore books written like that, and this one was done very, very well.

Cassie is an awesome character. Being the outcast in not only a magical family, but an entire town filled with sorcerers, she feels out of place, and unwelcome in her own life. She has a few friends, but no one she can truly open up to, and be herself with. She's lonely, lost, and vulnerable...until Evan waltzes back into her life, that is. In one chaotic day, her life is flipped completely upside-down, and in the days that follow, it's tossed around and stretched til it breaks. Her whole life alters drastically in every way she can imagine, and watching her deal with the changes was fantastic.

Evan is an awesome character as well. He's completely mysterious, and throughout the book, I couldn't figure him out. I didn't know if he was a good guy, or a bad guy, which of course, made me want to keep reading to find out more. Surrounding him are all the mysteries Cassie ends up having to figure out, and he challenges her in ways she probably wouldn't have been before.

All I can say is, I'm really glad there's a sequel, because I'm not ready to be done with this story. There were several things left unanswered, and several questions that popped up toward the end of the book that just have to be answered. Overall, this is a book I'd recommend, to any mystery, paranormal, adventure, or romance fan.

*I was given a complimentary eCopy of this book, from the author via Goddess Fish Promotions, to read in exchange for an honest review.

Check out my blog post for this book! Includes an excerpt, extended book info, and for a limited time, a giveaway!! Check it out here!

[Van (Short & Sweet Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective is the first book in a new series by Christine Amsden, her first foray into the new adult genre. I had the pleasure of reading Mrs. Amsden’s science fiction book The Immortality Virus back in August of last year and when the author offered me an early review copy of Cassie Scot I was happy to accept! Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective is narrated in first person by our heroine, Cassie Scot who is the eldest daughter of the towns most prestigious and power Scot family. Her parents are both exceptionally powerful sorcerers, and all six of her siblings also have powers of their own…except Cassie. Cassie is 21-years-old and is still figuring out what she wants to do with her life, having a foot each in the real and paranormal world. Cassie is well known amongst the towns’ people because of who her family is but all she wants is to create a name for herself independently from her parents/siblings so she opened up her own detective agency. The agency been opened for 6 months so far and she doesn’t have a single client, so when Lawyer Frank Lloyd asks Cassie about a job offer she jumps on it immediately. All she has to do is serve a subpoena to Belinda Heweitt, a local witch…a simple task that surely takes no more than 10 minutes. Nope. It not only took more than 10 minutes but Cassie found herself deeply involved in a murder /missing person case, a case along the line of paranormal. It is up to Cassie to figure who the killer is, not just to prove to herself but her family as well that you don’t always need magic to get things done.

I really enjoyed Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective, the story and Cassie’s voice drew me in on the first page! There are three main powerful families in Eagle Rock, Cassie’s family among the three. The regular town folks have an idea that something more is going on in town, something paranormal but for the most part they try to ignore it/or pretend it doesn’t exist. Cassie is a likable heroine; she’s independent, smart and has normal problems like everyone else which makes her real/relatable. Cassie may not have any special abilities but she never lets that stop her from finding the killer and solving the problem herself I also love Cassie’s family, you can tell how close everyone is and how much they love one another. The siblings all have different ability or they’d take after either parent, for example you have a healer, pyromancer, seer, and someone who can talk to the dead…all very unique, and I hope we get to see/read more of the Scots family in the next book.

This is an awesome start to a new series, and I can’t wait to find out what will happen next with Cassie and the gang. The ending didn’t necessary leave on a cliff-hanger but it left readers with a lot of questions about Cassie, her family bold choice regarding her part in the family’s power of 9, Evan’s intention and lastly is Cassie really ungifted, the black sheep of the family like she thinks she is? I highly recommend checking this book out! Cassie Scot: Paranormal Detective is a light, fun, paranormal-mystery with a dash of romance that will have you eagerly waiting for the next book once you reach the last page!

[Kriss · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely Paranormal fantasy whose leading lady has nothing paranormal about her!

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You may remember a while back when I reviewed Christine Amsden’s Immortality Virus. I loved the book not just for the unique story, but because the author was able to give me a wonderful experience of a paranormal nature served up in such a nonchalant and casual way! Welp, she didn’t let me down with her New Adult Paranormal Fantasy, Cassie Scot Paranormal Investigator. To be able to deliver all this magic, vampires and mayhem without blinking an eye like it was unusual? Nope, not here just another day in the neighborhood!

I generally steer away from books labeled New Adult, but I think if it was popular when Immortality Virus came out we would have the same label. It is beyond a coming of age story, but at the same time I almost want to argue it is sort of one… gosh I am not making sense huh?> What happens when you graduate from college? You already have had your first love, your first lost and suffered many other things but now it is time to make your final step in becoming an adult.

Cassie Scot is in just this situation, and to top it off she is in a pickle that is not of her own creating. She comes from a powerful family, not just because of their status in town but because of their status as magical users. Her parents had seven children, a powerful magical number, and each child has a gift… at least all but Cassie. (I would seriously argue this but I will have to wait till book 2). Cassie dropped out of college and decided to become a police officer, but even that doesn’t pan out because she always has to keep the magical side of community hidden and it is to stressful.

So she starts her own private investigator business. Suffice it to say she spends a lot of time surfing the net. Until a job falls in her lap which ends up causing her to question it all — her current boyfriend of three years; a normal guy with no magic or the old passionate love of the bad boy in town from a family whose at odds with her own family and has been for years. Even her family loyalty after all she has been through .. love or loyalty? Hmm

Her faith in herself combined with her logic will get her out of this illogical situation. The magic and mystical aspects of this story are delightful and fun! I read it in one sitting, just like with her previous books. Love potions, vampires and fire balls… OH MY! The romance is light, it is totally safe for a teen as far as I am concerned. No swearing, no gratuitous sex scenes and though there is a bit of violence, it is no more than the YA series by Bisi Leyton I adore!

The mystery is solved in the end but there are still questions that make me excited to read the next installment! If there is not one? I can live with it, but I will pout.. a lot! But will she choose to marry the boyfriend, if he will have her back, or will she end up with the bad boy who is pretty steamy as far as I am concerned!? Will her family problems be solved? Will her parents decide that love is more important? Just what is the secret that needs seven children? Heck… confused? ha ha ha haha read the book because as you know….

[Fly To The Sky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review first appeared on my blog, Read Books and Live Green


Received as part of a blog tour which in no way effected my review

In the interest of full disclosure, I ADORED this book. From the first page I knew I was going to LOVE the main character Cassie.


MY THOUGHTS
I have a lot to say about this book. All good things of course.
To begin this is probably one of my top books for the whole year...Not even kidding. (So far I've read around 90 books...)
First off Cassie was fantastic. She was a character who could fend for herself in a world full of dangerous magic people. She wasn't a damsel in distress, she was just plain old AWESOME!!!!
I loved Cassie's family, sure they were messed up and by the end I was pretty mad at them, but they were a bunch of great characters!
The idea for this book was just awesome. I haven't read anything like this and going into it, I wasn't sure it was going to be a book for me....but I ended up loving it!!!!!
There was a Harry Potter reference....just saying.....It fit so well with the part in the book that I was definitely impressed..... :)
I also loved the author's writing style! I was so real and something that I could easily connect to.
Okay I have to say that the end was just kind of killer. I NEED to know what's going to happen next, but the next book isn't out yet......I needed it like yesterday...... :'( And the Epilogue was kind of torturous! HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME, CHRISTINE AMSDEN!!!!! WHY!!!!!!!!!
I also loved the love interest....I thought it was great how the romance took a backseat and Cassie was always able to focus on the job at hand instead of daydreaming about a guy....even when they were working together!
And the villain was a surprise!!! I was sooo not expecting that person, but looking back I could definitely understand it!!!!!
And Cassie was a reader!!! She also posted on blogs!! That made me happy! :)
This was an amazing paranormal detective novel!!!! IT WAS PERFECT IN EVERY WAY!!!!!
Last comment I have to make is that I loved EVERYTHING about this book, (I kid you not) EXCEPT for the cover, which I'm glad I was able to look past...(I am so that person who judges a book by it's cover...sorry..)
OVERALL
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK.....NOW!!!! That is all I have to say.
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN!!!!!!!!!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: To mystery lovers and paranormal lovers alike!
WILL I REaD MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: YES! Especially because I love her writing style!!!
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: HAVE YOU READ THIS REVIEW??? IF YOU CAN'T FIGURE OUT THE ANSWER THEN THAT'S JUST SAD....

SO WHAT ARE YOU DOING? GO READ THIS BOOK!!!!

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Cassie Scot is a young woman who has six brothers and sisters. She lives with her mom and dad along with her brothers and sisters in a castle with a draw bridge that opens like doors. Cassie also has her own business as detective, a normal detective that is. Before she started working on her own she worked for the police department. The sheriff stops by her office almost every day if not every day or every time he speaks to her and ask her when is coming back to work. But of course Cassie tells him "not today" and he leaves it until the next time. Cassie has been working for herself for about six months now and has just gotten her first job delivering a subpoena to a woman, Belinda who is a witch. But when she gets to her place no one is home and Cassie knows something is wrong right away.

While she is there waiting in her car another car pulls up into Belinda's driveway. When he gets out Cassie recognizes him as her childhood best friend, Evan. Evan and Cassie became best friends when they first met in school and stayed best friends until they were around fourteen years old. Cassie's family and Evan's family never got along so Cassie and Evan were told a long time ago by both of their parents that they could not be friends.

Evan is at Belinda's because his cousin is missing and he is looking for her. His cousin's truck is sitting in Belinda's front yard. So he is there to try and find out where or what has happen to his cousin. When they find her dead in Belinda's house and Belinda missing, Evan hires Cassie to help him find his cousin.

Most people in the town they live in do not like Cassie and her family because they know or believe that her family is witches. Cassie has six brothers and sisters because her parents believe that with seven children that they are protected against bad magic.

While Cassie is investigating Belinda's murder she realizes that someone is trying to kill her and she is only staying about one step ahead of them. Cassie must now try to figure out who is attacking her. Is the person who wants Cassie dead the same person who killed Belinda? Who is after Cassie? Is it her childhood friend, Evan? Is it her "boyfriend"? Want to know who is after Cassie? Yes. Well pick up a copy of Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective today to find out. When I was about half way through or a little more I thought I know who did it. I know who killed Belinda and who is after Cassie. Boy was I wrong (slaps forehead, dang).

[Zili · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and I think this was in no small part down to Christine Amsden's rather unique take on magic, vampires and the paranormal.

Although not magical herself, Cassie Scot has grown up surrounded by magic and has quite frankly, had enough of it. In this type of YA/NA story we usually see an ordinary girl who desperately wants to be involved with this fantasy world. The beauty here, is how Cassie just wants a normal life away from magic and mythological creatures.

I loved Cassie's stubbornness and spirit and it must be hard coming from a family like hers. In regards to her parents, all I'm going to say is WHO DOES THAT?! Cassie comes from a huge family of powerful magicals and has very little say in anything she does. I respected her decision to want to live her own life and I felt she really needed to get away from her family to (without sounding too cheesy) fulfil her potential.

I really enjoyed Cassie's friendship (or whatever it is/was) with Evan. Cassie's complete denial or missing the signs made me smile. More of him in the next book please Christine?! But seriously how unobservant can one girl be?! I like Evan because he was pretty much a mystery to her, and as a reader it's interesting to watch her begin to understand him. The Epilogue was a great addition, but I think Cassie is gonna be one stubborn lady when it comes to the whole normal/paranormal issue. The excerpt above is actually from one of my fav scenes and it sums the pair of them up nicely!

After trying to avoid paranormal cases, Cassie ends up involved in the hunt for a psychotic vampire and finds herself very much immersed in the paranormal world. I'm waiting (somewhat impatiently) for the next book. Cassie Scot Paranormal Detective is a mixture of YA and NA, featuring a charming heroine who has some brilliant one-liners.

4 Stars in my Sky!

My fav non-spoilery quotes:

• "Yeah, well you know who Evan is in that fairy tale, right?" Kaitlin asked. I shook my head. "The evil sorcerer."

• "You could have been nicer," I said, watching the doors swing shut. "Me? I just walked in to discover my role in a dastardly plot to take over the town."

• After the Harry Potter books came out, a couple of people called me a squib. Since I haven't read them, I have to assume it's a compliment."

Also reviewed on my Blog Zili in the Sky!

[Lissette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Scot's life has never been normal. From the moment she was born, people thought her to be different, her own parents included. You see, she comes from a long line of sorcerers, witches, healers, and hunters. A family full of magic and secrets, one able to do the imaginable in all sorts of ways. One, she realizes she barely fits into.

Her life takes on a different turn when an unexpected offer for work lands smack-dab in the middle of her lap. Wanting to become independent, Cassie accepts the offer, never once giving thought to how much her life would change. Granted, she's lived with the paranormal/supernatural world surrounding her from the moment she was born. Yet she's taken into account as to how much that world dictates her every step.

Evan's sudden appearance in her life throws her small world into a loop. She hasn't seen him since high school, and he's a persona-non-grata in her parents eyes. Despite her reluctance to renew her acquaintance with him, Cassie knows he's her only link to making sense of the goings-on in their little town.

There's a killer in their midst, and people are dying right and left. Deep inside, she knows she'll need to figure things out before anything else goes awry. Never-the-less, she's going to do her best in getting to the bottom of things. Even if she has to die in order to set things right in the long run.

Cassie Scot: ParaNormal Detective is a wonderful start to a good series. I enjoyed the story immensely. So much so, that I'm a little late in posting up this review because I was so caught up in reading the book itself. Real life got caught along the way so I didn't have a chance to read it till 4:00 a.m. today.

Despite that fact, I must say that this book is a must-read. The twists and turns are numerous. Christine winds them about in such a way that it leaves the reader wondering as to who's causing such mischief in Cassie's life. The tension between her family and Evan made me wonder as to why they don't like him much. While that aspect wasn't quite revealed in this first book, I have a feeling that deliberate loose end will be answered soon enough. I can't wait to read what Christine has in store for these characters soon enough. I'm hooked into this series already!

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassandra Morgan Ursula Margaret Scot prefers to be called Cassie (and no wonder). She is the eldest child of two powerful magic users but is the only one of the magical seven who has no powers. Her decision to become a detective after her short-lived career as a sheriff’s deputy results in a less than lucrative business but at least it gets her out of the magic-filled household that reminds her of her lack. Her friendship with Evan Blackwood, scion of a family that has a traditional antipathy for her own, is complicated by the fact that he is one of the most powerful sorcerers in town but she no longer feels quite comfortable in his presence. A case that she accepts ensnares her in the magical and vampiric machinations in town and somehow Evan becomes more important in her life, despite her relationship with her intermittent boyfriend, Braden. A serious upheaval in the Scot family coincides with an increase in danger to Cassie with the unforeseen result that she becomes indebted to Evan more than she ever dreamed she would be or wants.


This entertaining and imaginative story provides an intriguing twist on some of the traditional views of magic even as it addresses the concepts of inferiority and sibling competition. Cassie is a delightfully down-to-earth heroine even though she has traditionally existed in a bubble of privilege that she wasn’t aware of. Her complex relationships with her parents, her friend Evan and her siblings highlight the difficulties of being unable to be completely truthful with one another as everyone has an agenda that can be at cross-purposes and even detrimental to one another. I am not too thrilled by the actions of those who supposedly care for Cassie even though she will undoubtedly become a stronger person (if she survives long enough) in response to the wrongs perpetrated on her. There are intriguing and unexpected developments that hopefully will be explained in subsequent stories and I look forward to reading more of Cassie’s adventures.

offered to Night Owl Reviews

I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.

[Beverly McClure · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if you were born into a family of practitioners with knowledge of the paranormal, but you were only normal, an outsider, with no magical skills of your own? What if one day your parents do the unthinkable, proving you’re right and you don’t belong in their world or any world it seems? What would you do?

In Author Christine Amsden’s latest novel, CASSIE SCOT: PARANORMAL DETECTIVE, Cassie Scot, at 21, faces a turning point in her life. The detective agency that she’s opened brings in few customers until one day she’s hired to serve a subpoena to a sorceress. Simple enough job, right? Or perhaps not, for in Cassie’s world, where magic exists, nothing is what it seems and people are seldom what/who you think they are. Cassie is soon on the trail of a murderer. She faces vampires intent on stopping her, fires that almost roast her, and questions about who to trust, when everyone around her seems to be hiding a secret.

In addition to her attempts to avoid vampires that would like to taste Cassie’s blood, there’s Braden, her boyfriend, who wants to marry her. She also finds herself attracted to Evan, the boy she went to school with, who has special powers of his own and whose family her parents despise. Even Cassie’s love life is not normal. Vivid action scenes (with great vampires as well as brothers and sisters that really care for Cassie, by the way), romance, and family relationships make for an exciting read. I recommend CASSIE SCOT: PARANORMAL DETECTIVE for mystery and fantasy lovers, and also for everyone that enjoys a good read with characters you’ll find yourself liking and hoping life turns out the way they want it, or hoping that the villains get what they deserve. I only wish the next book in the series was out because I’m ready to see what choices Cassie makes. And she has a few. Will she marry Braden? Will she decide Evan is the man for her? Will her relationship with her parents improve?

I hope we don’t have to wait too long for the answers. Very nice novel, Christine Amsden.

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