Review of Moonset on Desert Sands
- Priya Murugesan
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Review of Moonset on Desert Sands
Arista Kelly, the protagonist, is a young witch who enjoys a life filled with enchanting herbs, magical crystals, mystical auras, and connections to the supernatural world. After enduring a dangerous encounter with a serial killer, she has shifted to Sedona, Arizona, where she lives comfortably with her auntie Bethie and her adorable pet cats, Royal and Wally. Arista works at Cosmic Prisms, a metaphysical shop that she truly loves. Her recent breakup with her boyfriend Shane is still fresh in her mind and torments her. She is now focusing on trying to move on with her life and finds herself attracted to a hot security guard named Dakota. While she enjoys her new home and life, she misses her old home in Boulder Creek. When Arista's mysterious fainting spells start, she is forced to return to Boulder Creek, where the solution lies. However, her homecoming is bittersweet, as she has to deal with her ex-boyfriend, whom she couldn't forget. But the bigger and more dangerous problem is the looming threat from her uncle Fergus, who is searching for Arista with a dangerous plan in mind. Boulder Creek had been a safe haven for her previously, protecting her from her uncle's pursuit. But will it continue to safeguard her? With a backdrop of murder, a stalker, paranormal activity, and the ever-present fear of her uncle, will Arista be able to escape her perilous circumstances? To discover the answers, grab a copy of Moonset on Desert Sands by Sherri L. Dodd.
This is the second book in the Murder, Tea & Crystals trilogy. The story picks up where the first book left off and includes numerous references to it. As I hadn't read the first book, I felt confused initially. However, as I continued reading, the story became clearer. But I recommend starting with the first book, as I believe readers would enjoy the story more if they read the books in order.
My strong interest in supernatural and spiritual elements made me enjoy reading about auras, stones with healing and magic powers, enchanting spells, and various metaphysical items in the magical shop. I also appreciated the vivid descriptions of the landscape and the flora of Sedona. The mention of ASL (American Sign Language) was a nice touch, and I found the reference section at the back, which includes phrases used in the book, to be helpful. I felt the characterization in the story to be realistic, as the author effectively captured the flaws of the characters too. Although the story began at a slow pace, which might not appeal to readers who prefer fast-paced books, it eventually picked up speed.
The author's writing style was comprehensible, and I appreciated the chapter headings, which clearly outlined the chapters. The book title and the blurb were quite intriguing, but I didn't like the book cover and wished it had been better. The ending was satisfying, and I would love to read the next book in this series. The editing was excellent, as I noticed only one error while reading. Readers who enjoy paranormal mystery thrillers will find this book engaging. Overall, I had a great experience immersing myself in the mystical supernatural world, along with a bit of mystery and action. So, I would love to rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
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Moonset on Desert Sands
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- Anu Anand
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Thanks, Anu!Anu Anand wrote: ↑13 Dec 2024, 21:36 I too love reading books with supernatural and spiritual elements. I'm curious to see how Arista handles all the challenges and dangers she faces, especially with her uncle. I'll definitely remember to start with the first book before diving into this one. Thanks for sharing this wonderful review!

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Hope you love it!Gerry Steen wrote: ↑13 Dec 2024, 23:05 According to this well-written review this story sounds riveting and suspenseful. Witchcraft and the supernatural are not elements that I usually read about. Reading this book would be a novelty for me, and I am looking for something different. I will add this to my bookshelves.

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Thanks for reading my review! Have you read the first book?Leslie coccia wrote: ↑16 Dec 2024, 07:57 Great review! This book seems like an in-depth and interesting sequel to Murder Under Redwood Moon. I’ll be curious to see how the character development and plot goes along with and adds to the first in the series. This book is a nice surprise![]()

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Yes!Priya Murugesan wrote: ↑16 Dec 2024, 21:42Leslie coccia wrote: ↑16 Dec 2024, 07:57 Great review! This book seems like an in-depth and interesting sequel to Murder Under Redwood Moon. I’ll be curious to see how the character development and plot goes along with and adds to the first in the series. This book is a nice surprise![]()
Thanks for reading my review! Have you read the first book?

- Priya Murugesan
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Share your comments after reading this book! Curious to know your thoughts!Leslie coccia wrote: ↑17 Dec 2024, 08:26Yes!Priya Murugesan wrote: ↑16 Dec 2024, 21:42Leslie coccia wrote: ↑16 Dec 2024, 07:57 Great review! This book seems like an in-depth and interesting sequel to Murder Under Redwood Moon. I’ll be curious to see how the character development and plot goes along with and adds to the first in the series. This book is a nice surprise![]()
Thanks for reading my review! Have you read the first book?Curious to read more about secondary characters in Arista’s family in this one. After reading the first I thought there could’ve been more included about her uncle for example, since he was such a force in her childhood.

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Thank you!Deborah Alves wrote: ↑07 Feb 2025, 10:32 Wow! This review has me incredibly excited and curious to dive into this book! As someone who absolutely loves books with supernatural and mystical elements, this sounds like the perfect read for me. The combination of enchanting spells, magical crystals, and a touch of paranormal mystery is exactly what I look for in a story. I’m especially intrigued by Arista’s journey, her connection to the metaphysical world, and the dangers that await her in Boulder Creek. Thank you for such a detailed and insightful review— Adding this to my must-read list right now!

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Thanks for your comments!Louis Donald wrote: ↑17 Feb 2025, 09:13 The mix of supernatural elements, mysticism, and mystery really intrigues me, especially with Arista's unique abilities and the metaphysical shop. I’d like to explore the first book and see how the story builds up, as I’m curious to dive into her world.

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Thanks for reading my review!Pearl Flourish wrote: ↑20 Feb 2025, 12:35 “Moonset on Desert Sands” by Sherri L. Dodd is an engaging sequel that masterfully blends magic, mystery, and personal growth. The protagonist, Arista Kelly, transitions from a harrowing past to a life filled with metaphysical exploration and new relationships in Sedona, Arizona. Dodd’s vivid descriptions of the mystical landscapes and the intricacies of Arista’s supernatural world immerse readers deeply into the narrative. The story’s pacing, starting leisurely and building momentum, mirrors Arista’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. Themes of healing, the supernatural, and the complexities of human relationships are interwoven seamlessly, making it a compelling read for those intrigued by paranormal mysteries.
