This is one of the most enjoyable Charmed books I’ve read so far, despite it being slightly atypical in that there is no real adversary to battle — other than a hurricane. In that way it is both a vacation for the Charmed Ones and the reader. Though there is no Darryl in this entry, or Cole at this point, both of whom are always a plus, Leo regularly pops over to Florida from San Francisco where he is watching Wyatt while Piper and her sisters take a much needed vacation. Phoebe is attending a seminar about advice columns and it gives her an opportunity to mix work and pleasure by bringing along Piper and Paige.

We get some poolside fun right off the bat, easing us into Paige’s desire to see her old friend Sharon Grant before heading back home. Sharon’s husband Ben has written to Paige stating he’s worried about her, but isn’t specific in regard to the why. What no one knew until arriving in Orlando is that Hurricane George is slated to hit Florida, and though Sharon and Ben would seem out of harm’s way where they live, an old highway near there has a tragic history of attracting hurricanes. Paige quickly discovers that Sharon and Margaret are secretly into magic, and casting spells. Sharon has always been super competitive with Paige, which makes it difficult for Paige because she can’t really tell her about her new role in the Power of Three.

After Phoebe has a vision of Agnes lost in the approaching hurricane, the Charmed Ones’ vacation takes another unexpected turn when Sharon and Margaret, leery of Paige’s interest in their activities, cast a spell to keep Paige minding her own business. Unexpectedly, however, it affects not only Paige but also her sisters. Add to that Leo’s warning that severe storms can play very real and sometimes dangerous havoc with magic, and you have all the ingredients for a very nice entry in the book series based on the show.

This one has a lot of atmosphere and moves at a nice pace. The interactions feel like those in the show, and despite there being no particular evil to battle, it was extremely enjoyable as a light read, accomplishing exactly what it intended, which is to entertain. Fans of the show should really enjoy this one — just know going in there are no big battles or heavies, just a nice story. Great fun. ( )