Devon only scratched the surface of the town’s uniqueness. Overall, I think Blackbird in the Reeds is a great introduction to the series. I do wish Devon had learned a little more about himself and his mysterious abilities, but I have hopes for his next book. There was always something new and interesting for Devon to do and discover. The various mysteries, both personal and town-related added a lot to the book. And Devon’s Gran, Siobhan, deserves a shout out for her easy acceptance of Devon’s sexuality. There were all kinds of great side characters, including people of color. Only one quick sex scene in the entire book! Despite that, the little hints that were dropped about Jesse, who’s the main character of the next book, make me excited to read his story. They’re only starting to date, which is why I was a little disappointed that I’ll have to wait until book 4 to get more of their story. Their romance was sweet, but is far from over at the end of the book.

But Wade quickly showed that he had a good heart. Even Devin came away with a bad impression of him the first time they met. Wade took a little more time to warm up to, but that was intentional. His decision to make sure Maria was included in his friend group was incredibly nice. I especially liked that, while Devon was welcomed back by the townsfolk with open arms, he sympathized with ‘outsiders’ like Maria because he knows what that’s likes. He’s got his demons, but was searching for a place to belong. I tend to gravitate towards family-oriented characters, and a guy who drops everything to visit his grandmother when she calls definitely goes on my good-guy list. Blackbird in the Reeds had a great blend of mystery, cute fluff, and low angst romance that was exactly what I needed. The single best compliment I can give a book is to say that it was hard to put down. Wish Devon had learned more about his abilities.Have to wait until book 4 to get more about Devon and Wade.Devon sees how hard it is for outsiders in Rowan Harbor.Siobhan’s easy acceptance of Devon’s sexuality.

Cute and fluffy, but with some mystery and tension.

This novel is intended for adult audiences, and contains swearing and sex scenes. Devon has to get to the bottom of it all before the accidents turn deadly. From his childhood best friend to the too-attractive Deputy Wade Hunter, everyone in Rowan Harbor seems to have something to hide.

When his grandmother asks him to look into a string of suspicious accidents, he finds a much bigger mystery to unravel. Devon Murphy has never believed that there were fairies at the bottom of the garden, but when he’s in an accident on his way to his grandmother’s house and comes face to face with the biggest, baddest wolf he’s ever seen, he’s forced to reconsider.

Blackbird in the Reeds by Sam Burns