Cliffhangers and Cocktails

Amy Cissell & Shéa MacLeod

5.0 (2)
Books
Updated Biweekly

Fantasy book discussions, author interviews, cocktail recipes (and drinking!), and witchy content. Hosted by Shéa MacCleod and Amy Cissell, USA Today Bestselling Authors of urban fantasy, cozy mysteries, paranormal women's fiction, and all things magical and wonderful.

2d ago

Minisode 18: Once in a Blue Moon

Today's episode is about the May 31, 2026 Blue Moon. We're talking astrology, fun facts & superstitions, ways to celebrate this every 2.5 year event, and sharing moon words and moon joy. Make yourself a Blue Moon Margarita and join us! Sources: https://www.crystals.com/blogs/news/may-2026-lunar-guide-flower-moon-in-scorpio-blue-moon-crystal-rituals#:~:text=A%20Blue%20Moon%20(the%20second,%2C%20freedom%2C%20and%20higher%20purpose. https://magebymoonlight.com/ways-to-celebrate-full-moon/ https://www.astrowitch.org/blue-moon-energy-explained/ https://www.thepsychictree.co.uk/blogs/psychic-skills-education-and-how-to-guides/a-full-moon-sacred-reset-for-mind-body-spirit-blue-moon-31-may-2026?srsltid=AfmBOopn_wz9sZBw6BAPWfwNQRp4Xa_IOnxRcJQKycyC-k6kWQgyiACT https://originalbotanica.com/blog/blue-moon-spiritual-meaning-rituals-spells?srsltid=AfmBOop7186ib0MXxTE5D_IVU-QjHOkbq-ySw_FejX1lQFCP4Hi5Q0NF The Body is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor: https://www.sonyareneetaylor.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sonyareneetaylor/ Burnout by Amelia & Emily Nagoski: https://www.burnoutbook.net/ https://www.instagram.com/enagoski Blue Moon Margarita: (Energy: Energy, purification, protection) Ingredients (1 servings) 50 mL blue tequila25 mL orange liqueur (I used caracao)20 mL fresh lime juicePea flower salt for rimming (optional)Fancy giant ice sphereDirections Add tequila, liqueur, and lime juice to a shaker with ice.Shake it up, baby!Rim your glass (martini, margarita, or coupe glasses will look the coolest) with the peaflower saltAdd the giant ice sphereStrain into a margarita glass (or whatever suits your fancy!)Garnish with lime wheelBlue tequila Add 5-10 butterfly pea flowers to 1 cup of tequila. Shake, let sit overnight, and strain. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

42 min
May 19

Episode 26: Candle magic limericks, Guyanese folklore, and an interview with JASMAINE PAYNE!

This week's episode features protective amulets and spells - mostly to keep our minds safe from Jasmaine Payne's LEECH! Blend up a piña colada and settle in for a great interview that covers topics such as Guyanese folklore, writing and mentoring in Guyana, and ways to protect your mind and spirit. Find Jasmaine Payne: Buy LEECH on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FBL75992 Website: https://jasmainepayne.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_jasmainepayne/ Samantha Hargrove crystal episodes: Episode 10 - Magic ROCKS!: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/17620807 Episode 16 - (Crystal) Size Matters: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18224890 The Book of Stones: http://www.thebookofstones.com/ Candle Magic! https://digital-coven.com/2025/04/10/candle-magick-for-busy-witches-5-minute-spells-for-protection-abundance-self-love/ Nouveau Goddess Oracle Deck: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4392319596/the-nouveau-goddess-oracle-and-major Protective Symbols: https://www.pagangrimoire.com/ Piña Colada (Energy: abundance, luck, fertility, cleansing, protection) Ingredients: 2 oz white rum4 oz pineapple juice2 oz cream of coconutI cup iceMaraschino cherry/Pineapple wedge to garnish Directions: Add all ingredients to blender and blend well. Pour into glass and garnish. Enjoy while focusing on abundance. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

1h 19m
May 12

The Witch's Liquor Cabinet: Bitters and Balance (minisode 17)

In today's episode, Shéa and Amy talk about how to balance your beverages with bitters - as well as how to make your own! Mix yourself a cocktail (originally defined as spirits, water, sugar, and bitters) and learn about the energy you can find in the various roots and botanicals and how to combine them to make bitters and bring balance to the force ... er cocktails. Remember to craft your bitters with intent, because you’re not just mixing a drink. You’re mixing magic. If you want to listen to the episode where we talk about the magical properties of cherry, head back to Amy's birthday 'sode (it's always a good time celebrate Amy!): https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18739772 If you want to hear us discuss aperol and vermouth, check out Emma Hamm's episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18921646 Cherry vanilla bitters This super simple cherry bitters recipe requires only a few ingredients and 1–2 weeks of maceration to create a rich, aromatic addition to cocktails. Combine 1/2 cup dried tart cherries, 1 split vanilla bean, and 2 crushed cardamom pods in a jar with 1 cup of 100-proof rye or bourbon, shaking daily for 1–2 weeks. Ingredients 1 cup (250ml) 100-proof rye whiskey or bourbon/vodka1/2 cup dried tart cherries½ cup sweet cherries1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)2–3 cardamom pods (crushed)1 star anise 1 ½ tsp wild cherry bark Instructions Combine: Place all ingredients into a clean, sealable glass jar (like a Mason jar).Macerate: Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 1–2 weeks. Shake the jar once a day.Strain: After 1-2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a dropper bottle. Squeeze the cherries to extract all the liquid.Store: Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Optional: If the mixture is too harsh, add a teaspoon of simple syrup to balance it. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

48 min
May 6

Episode 25: Historical nonsense, inane wittering, and whiskey drink(s) with C.N. ROWAN!

This week's episode features an interview with urban fantasy author C.N. Rowan, the magic of whiskey, and a journey with our ancestors. So find yourself a glass of single malt Scotch and come along for the ride! Affirmation: "I carry forward the resilience and strength of my ancestors, while releasing their fear." Sign up for the Chris's newsletter & get free books! https://cnrowan.com/ https://www.patreon.com/u103571045 https://www.instagram.com/cnrowanauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/cnrowansimperfectimps/ More Stuff! Witch's Liquor Cabinet: Base Spirits (including whiskey!) Minisode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18572000 Beltane Minisode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/19103430 Burke & Hare death/life masks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burke_and_Hare_murders Link to post about Ancestor Rites and Whiskey: https://zora.medium.com/heres-why-we-offer-spirits-for-the-spirits-ec1406125fbb Tarot Deck: Murder of Crows Tarot by Corrado Roy: https://www.loscarabeo.com/products/murder-of-crows-tarot Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

1h 28m
May 1

Minisode 16: Blessed Beltane!

In today's minisode, you can learn all about the ancient Celtic trampolines, as well as the history of, superstitions around, and modern practices to celebrate Beltane. Make yourself a strawberry honey mojito, get your thorn bush decorated for the Best Bush contest, and settle in to this week's minisode! Affirmation: The Beltane fires ignite my passion and creativity In the Southern Hemisphere? Check out our Samhain Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429206/episodes/18110509 Amy's Beltane Sources https://naturallymodernlife.com/beltane-celebrations-for-the-modern-green-witch-altar-ideas-tradition/ https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-origins-and-practices-of-holidays-beltane-and-the-last-day-of-ridvan/ https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/factsheets/the-festival-of-beltane/ https://www.history.com/articles/beltane https://www.britannica.com/topic/Celtic-religion/The-Celtic-gods https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beltane https://www.pagangrimoire.com/what-is-beltane-celebrate/ Oracle Deck: Seasons of the Witch Beltane by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz, Illustrated by Giada Rose: https://www.rockpoolpublishing.com/en-us/products/seasons-of-the-witch-beltane-oracle Strawberry Honey Mojito (Energy: Abundance, Love, Creativity, Purification, Joy) Ingredients (serves 1) 2-3 TB honey simple syrup (see recipe below)90 mL (3 oz) white rum1 lime cut into pieces (leave a half-wheel for garnish)2 strawberries (+ 1 more for garnish)4-5 mint leaves (+ more for garnish)Club soda Directions Gently muddle limes, strawberries, and mint leaves in the bottom of a shaker.Add ice honey syrup & rum & shake it up, baby!Pour (do not strain!) into a highball glass.Top with club soda.Garnish with lime, strawberry, and mint leaves Honey simple syrup Heat ½ cup of water & ½ cup of honey together, stirring until honey is completely dissolved. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

48 min
Apr 21

Episode 24: Bad Ass-tronauts, Planetal [sic] Alignments, and an interview with HEATHER G. HARRIS!

Today's episode requires Moon joy and a strawberry daiquiri! Join Shéa and Amy as they talk to Heather G. Harris about her upcoming books. We'll also talk about Artemis II, planetary alignment, and the imminent rise of the matriarchy! Affirmation: I am worthy of all success. Find Heather G. Harris! Website: https://heathergharris.com/ Aria Ashbrook website: https://www.aria-ashbrook.com/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.es/stores/Heather-G.-Harris/author/B097ZP5J8S Free audio books on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherGHarrisAuthor Follow on insta: https://www.instagram.com/heathergharrisauthor/ Tarot Deck: Murder of Crows Tarot by Corrado Roy: https://www.loscarabeo.com/products/murder-of-crows-tarot Last chance to support Shéa's kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sheamacleod/lady-rample-steps-out-special-edition-cozy-mystery-hardback Give the syrups episode a re-listen: https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/episodes/episode/7f33b886/the-witchs-liquor-cabinet-stirring-up-spells-and-syrups-a-minisode Strawberry Daiquiri (Energy: Purification, love, good luck, abundance, community building, matriarchal energy) Ingredients (one large serving): 1 heaping cup strawberries, fresh or frozen90 mL (3 oz) light rum60 mL (2 oz) lime juice, freshly squeezed2 TB agave nectar or simple syrup (Amy used strawberry simple syrup)Optional Garnishes: fresh slices of lime, strawberries, or sprigs of mint Directions: For blended (the Shéa way) Add all ingredients to a heavy-duty blender. If using fresh strawberries, add ice. Blend just until smooth. Use rubber spatula to fully transfer into the glass of your choice. Garnish as desired and serve while very cold. For on the rocks (the Amy way) Muddle strawberries in the bottom of the shaker. Add rum, lime juice, and strawberry simple syrup. Fill shaker with ice and shake until your hand is wicked cold. Fill glass of your choice with ice, and strain drink into the glass. Garnish with lime and strawberry. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

1h 21m
Apr 14

Minisode 15: Writing Inspiration - TV, Movies, and eavesdropping

Pulling from the archives of unpublished awesomeness! This week's minisode covers the way TV and movies inspire our writing. (We also talk about football, fairy tales, and eavesdropping.) Join us for an overview of our favorite witchy media! Let us know what inspires you - or what you think should inspire us! (Head on over to our instagram to see the brackets of Amy's 2023 Vampire Showdown - and let us know if you'd like to see another contest for 2026!) Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

44 min
Apr 7

Episode 23: The search for Shéa's soul and an interview with EMMA HAMM!

Today's episode calls for an alcohol-free Aperol spritz! Join Shéa and Amy as they talk about witchcraft, Emma Hamm's latest release "The Heartless One," and general shenanigans. Affirmation: I stand in my power, honoring the strength of my ancestors while healing generational wounds and reshaping the future. Emma Hamm: Website: emmahamm.com Instagram: instagram.com/emmahammauthor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emmahammauthor Aperol Spritz (Energy: Joy, luck, and community energy) Mocktail Ingredients: 3 oz Lyres Italian Spritz3 oz. orange SeltzerIceGarnish: Orange slice Directions: Add ice to a wine glass. Add Lyres, top with seltzer, garnish with orange. COCKTAIL Ingredients: 3 oz prosecco2 oz Aperol1 oz soda waterIceGarnish: Orange slice Directions: Add ice to a wine glass. Add (in order) prosecco, Aperol, and top with soda water. Add orange slice for garnish Vermouth Spritz 2 oz Italian Sweet Vermouth4 oz Tonic Water (this provides both flavor and bitterness)Splash of orange liqueur (ups orange flavor) Dash orange bitters1 oz simple syrup (optional for those who prefer sweeter drinks)IceGarnish: Orange slice Add ice to a wine glass. Add vermouth, tonic, orange liqueur, bitters, simple syrup (if using) and garnish with orange slice. Watch us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@cliffhangersandcocktails Visit our sponsor, the Paranormal Women's Fiction Bookclub, for a free monthly book at https://pwfbookclub.com/. Follow the pod on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cliffhangersandcocktails/, Check out our website at https://www.cliffhangersandcocktails.com/ and sign up for our newsletter! Don't forget to like, rate, review, subscribe, and share! Thanks - the Caftan Coven

1h 16m

5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Fantasy book discussions, author interviews, cocktail recipes (and drinking!), and witchy content. Hosted by Shéa MacCleod and Amy Cissell, USA Today Bestselling Authors of urban fantasy, cozy mysteries, paranormal women's fiction, and all things magical and wonderful.

Creator

Amy Cissell & Shéa MacLeod
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

44
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© 2026 Cliffhangers and Cocktails
Show Website

Cliffhangers and Cocktails