Tag Archives: Witches

Enduring Magic by T.M. Cromer

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Enduring Magic
Author: T.M. Cromer
Series: Thorne Witches: Happily Ever Afters #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2023

Thoughts

I honestly wish that I’d read Summer Magic before reading this, but sadly, it’s on Kindle Unlimited, and I don’t currently have access to it. Which is seriously disappointing, so I’ll just have to wait and hope. Summer and Coop are a great couple, and I really want to learn more about how they got together, and all of the challenges that are alluded to within Enduring Magic.

I really enjoyed Summer and Coop as a couple, but I mostly loved how this short story talks about the monumental shift that you go through when you become parents. I mean, I’ve recently been through that myself. And, although I had a little longer to get settled into my relationship, there are still days that feel… unreal and unsettled. I’ve gone from being a single person to being someone’s mum. Cromer really did this unsettled feeling of displacement and love complete and total justice.

Although I loved all of the relationship dynamic and adjustment within this, I was completely and stupidly in love with Summer’s familiar – he is a total and utter thug. He was freaking hilarious, and I just want more and more of him! Absolutely adorable. Plus, Summer’s father, Alistair, is incredibly dodgy and manipulative. But I kind of liked his version of dodgy…

<- More T.M. CromerBoundless Magic ->

Image source: Goodreads

Witches and Stitches by Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Witches and Stitches
Author: Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape
Series: Amethyst’s Wand Shop Mysteries #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

The idea of the whole Frankenbody thing in this is kind of gross – I mean, someone chopping up bits of women and sewing them together? It scares me that this is actually a thing, albeit stupidly rare. But, it worked out well as a bit of a whodunnit mystery – and trying to put together all of the pieces to figure out who the culprit was. In fact, although they catch him. And get a confession as to why he did the horrible stuff… I kind of wish that I had more background as to the evil why.

Throughout this story, Amethyst is getting closer and closer to admitting her feelings for Ambrose… yay! I mean, she finally admits them to herself, which is the first step. I can’t wait to see how that unfolds later on in the series. Or even, you know, in the next book. I love the awkward dance when one person finally realises that they’ve caught the feelings and is trying to compartmentalise them! It’s going to be exciting to see how this actually unfolds.

Not only does Amy realise that she’s caught the feelings for Ambrose, but I also love how she is building strong female friendships. They’re also healthy and noncompetitive – something we don’t see nearly enough of in literature in my not so humble opinion. I really want to get to know more about the women that Amy has become friends with. Plus, it’s just refreshing to not have conflict occurring because of female relationships. Yay for positivity!

I love that with every story in this series, you get to find out more about the paranormal world that Greenwood and Tape have created. There are new little titbits with every story, and it just makes me want to know more and more about the world with every page turned. Plus, although there are some serious goings on happening in the background, overall, this is a really light-hearted story. One that is pleasant and leaves me smiling after I turn the final page. I don’t always want to have an existential crisis when I read.

<- Hexes and VexesRites and Knights ->

Image source: Goodreads

Hexes and Vexes by Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Hexes and Vexes
Author: Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape
Series: Amethyst’s Wand Shop Mysteries #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2020

Thoughts

I knew that I was going to enjoy this novel, since I enjoyed Glass and Sass so damn much. Hexes and Vexes didn’t disappoint. Amy finally gets her chance to consult with the PPD, and I can see her relationship with Ambrose being one that I can really get behind. He seems to be mildly entertained by Amy’s insanity. I love when there is a character who is certifiably insane and entertaining, who is partnered with someone a little bit more straightlaced and incredibly bemused by their behaviour.

Greenwood and Tape are able to create a really cool world in this urban fantasy. Some of the ideas of the CWC and wand creating were introduced in Glass and Sass. But, there is far more world building and construction in Hexes and Vexes. I really enjoyed how you find out more about witches and wand making alongside Ambrose as both Amy and Ambrose hunt to find the killer. And with each reveal, it feels like there is a whole lot more complex thoughts and world building going on behind the scenes. Just how I like my urban fantasies.

Although what strikes me most, and I love most about this are the world building and the sassiness of Amy. I also loved trying to figure out the why and the how of the murder. I mean, this is supposed to be a mystery series, and it does fit the build there. It was definitely difficult to figure out the why and the how of the murder if I’m being honest. But, that may be due to the fact that it really didn’t take centre stage of the story – it was used as a plot device, but I found the characterization and world building were more the central aspect of the story.

Hexes and Vexes is a fun and simple urban fantasy. There is the aspect of danger and mayhem in the murder, but it doesn’t take a major centre point. I love that although there are some challenges to the relationship building between Amy and Ambrose, it isn’t overly contentious. Not the most fast-paced of urban fantasies and stories that I’ve read, but sometimes it’s nice to slow down and just enjoy.

<- Glass and SassWitches and Stitches ->

Image source: Mighty Ape

Glass and Sass by Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Glass and Sass
Author: Laura Greenwood & Arizona Tape
Series: Amethyst’s Wand Shop Mysteries #0.5
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2021

Thoughts

As a prequel novella / introduction to an urban fantasy series, this is great. It was also a fantastic way for me to get to know two new authors. Who I’ve now flooded my TBR with… Glass and Sass introduces a new world and some new characters. Ones that I can’t wait to get to know better!

I like the idea of a centre for wand control. Alright, I don’t necessarily love the bureaucracy, who does? But I did love how it creates this wonderful urban fantasy world. Where witches and the paranormal exist. But, they must practice their craft under strict regulations. It might not be a romanticised version of a fantasy world, but the bureaucracy makes a much more relatable one.

One thing I don’t love about this novella is the title. It’s obvious that Glass and Sass is supposed to rhyme. But, since I’m Australian, my accent means that it doesn’t. And it bothers me quite a bit. But, honestly, I loved this novella. I’m just a bit of a weirdo when it comes to titles that would otherwise be kind of brilliant. Now I can’t wait to get into this series for real and enjoy getting to know Amethyst a whole lot better.

<- More Laura GreenwoodHexes and Vexes ->

Image source: eBay

Witchy Vol. 2 by Ariel Slamet Ries

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Witchy Volume 2
Author: Ariel Slamet Ries
Series: Witchy #2
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Graphic novels, LGBTQI, Magic, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: Graphic novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

I freaking loved this graphic novel. I mean, I loved the first volume, so it makes total sense that I loved the second one. But I actually think that I loved this a little more. Maybe because now that most of the world building and backstory has been solidified, Ries was able to dig a bit deeper into the particulars of Nyeve.

Everything about this tale is beautiful and complex. It is a great journey all on its own, but there’s also this great sense of social commentary as well. Every moment of this made me reflect on the world that I live in, the biases and restrictions that we place on the “other”. It’s amazing how provocative and emotive the imagery throughout this is.

I do love how Nyeve marches to the beat of her own drum. Throughout all of this people are trying to twist and shape her to their own idea of rebellion and future. Trying to show her how to go against the grain, but to do so by fitting THEIR preconceived idea of how that looks. And it’s when she decides to truly be herself and ignore all the ideas of other people that she truly comes into her own.

There are lots of bits of Bananas past that are slowly coming to light throughout this graphic novel. I want to believe that he is good and going to be a great guide for Nyeve. But there’s that lingering feeling that he might be the source of some serious betrayal in the future. I just can’t wait to find out if I’m right or wrong!!!

<- Witchy Vol. 1More Ariel Slamet Ries ->

Image source: Simon & Schuster

Moon Dance by Angela Knight

Book Review, , , , , ,
Overview

Title: Moon Dance
Author: Angela Knight
Series: Mageverse #3.5
In: Over the Moon (Angela Knight, MaryJanice Davidson, Virginia Kantra & Sunny)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Camelot, Paranormal romance,  Vampires, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2007

Thoughts

Although this is a story that takes place in the Mageverse series and gives a bit more context to the storyline. At its core, this is a great story about someone breaking the patterns of abuse. Not just finding her true love and a happily ever after but figuring out a way to escape the abuse of not only a stalker man, but her own damn father. I loved the romance in this, but I also loved how Elena is able to break a truly horrible cycle that doesn’t often get broken.

The use of werewolves and vampires in the Mageverse series is completely unique and awesome. I haven’t actually read any of the full-length novels as of yet, but every time I pick up a novella, I can’t quite figure out why I haven’t done that yet. The fact that werewolves were “created” as a check and balance for the vampires was incredibly fun. So not only do I want more of Elena and Lucas, but I just want more of the Mageverse werewolves in general.

I loved Elena for her strength of character in a ridiculous situation, but I also just loved Lucas. He is ridiculously yummy, and although I don’t necessarily subscribe to the whole idea of a man coming to my rescue… I can’t imagine not wanting Lucas to come my way… I mean, good man, yummy chest, set God… who wouldn’t want that?

The ending of this is completely predictable in so many ways. Particularly the Spirit Link. Although, I was surprised at a few of the conclusions to the other relationships in this. A wonderful novella, one that I seriously enjoyed.

<- Over the MoonBetween the Mountain and the Moon ->

Image source: Penguin Random House

Witchy by Ariel Slamet Ries

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Witchy
Author: Ariel Slamet Ries
Series: Witchy #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Graphic novels, LGBTQI, Magic, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: Graphic novel
Year: 2019

Thoughts

Graphic novels are still a fairly new genre for me. Admittedly, I was a bit of a snob about reading graphic novels, I didn’t necessarily consider them “books”. Luckily, I grew out of that when I started to find some authors that I absolutely adore. And, yet again, I’ve found one that completely fits this bill. I loved the story line, the graphics and just the general experience of reading this graphic novel.

I really enjoyed the idea that hair dictates the power of a being. For me, it was a great commentary on how we judge people by their looks. And if they don’t fit into our expectations, based on how they look, then we tend to discount them. In the case of this tale, the lead is constantly trying to hide her power. That, and there’s the horrors of her own experiences with bureaucracy – powerful is good, too powerful is bad.

I can’t wait to try and sink my teeth into the next Witchy collection – I’m sure I could read it online through Ries’ website, but I love the feel of having a book in my hands. Reading by lamplight, late at night. The mood making is just beautiful. Plus, there is something far more magical about having the printed version of the images – I have a tendency to run my fingers across the beauty of the graphics that Ries has created.

I absolutely loved this graphic novel. Witchy was an entirely unexpected world that left me smiling and wanting more. But, as with all the graphic novels that I’ve been enjoying lately – there is an extra message about the state of our world. The idea that we need to stop judging others by our preconceived notions. And the reminder that sometimes power threatens others, and we need to be wary of this too.

<- More Ariel Slamet RiesWitchy Vol. 2 ->

Image source: Mel To The Any

Witch You Well by Colleen Cross

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Witch You Well
Author: Colleen Cross
Series: Westwick Witches #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Cozy mystery, Paranormal fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2016

Thoughts

When I saw that there was a paranormal cozy mystery series available through kobo plus… my sleep deprived brain went straight to its happy place. And I really wasn’t disappointed. This was fun and light. With just enough mystery and drama to make it incredibly difficult to put down.

Any mystery that has a culprit I didn’t see coming is going to make me happy. There were a few aspects of this story that I DID anticipate. But so much that took me completely by surprise. I loved this balance. And for that alone, not only do I plan to read the rest of this series, but I’ll probably reread this again. Find the clues that I missed before.

I love that this is an incredibly female driven story. Not just in the lead, her mother and aunt, but also the way she lives her life. There’s a fair amount of commentary about the fact that we shouldn’t settle. Her relationship is this perfect example of taking a step back and letting someone just take you for granted. And that is actually not okay.

Aside from all the joys if a fabulous, female driven, cozy mystery; I loved all the magic and mayhem throughout. Mostly the fact that there’s a crazy, witchy aunty making everything incredibly difficult. It had me laughing and cackling all the way through.

<- More Colleen CrossRags to Witches ->

Image source: Goodreads

Sky of Ash by Rachel Madbury

Book Review, , , ,
Overview
Sky Of Ash - By Rachel Madbury (paperback) : Target

Title: Sky of Ash
Author: Rachel Madbury
Series: The Sevens #2
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance, Witches
Dates read: 27th July – 8th August 2021
Pace: Medium
Format: ARC, eBook, Novel
Publisher: Rachel Madbury
Year: 2021
5th sentence, 74th page: I’m not going to make you uncomfortable.

Synopsis

Time heals nothing.

Rose Bishop has been dead for forty years, but her blood has never left Colin Finch’s hands. As a warrior of the Seven he’s charged with protecting the most powerful witches on earth, but he failed the one that mattered most to him.

Or so he thought.

When the case of a missing witch brings Finch back to Savannah, where his mistakes cost him everything, he comes face-to-face with his most painful regret – but she’s not dead at all. In a world where lies run thicker than blood, can Finch find the information he came for and keep Rose safe at the same time?

Rose never thought she’d see Finch again, but when she learns the reason for his return, she’s drawn into the darkness of his world and offered a chance at her own redemption; save this missing witch, and free herself from the ghosts that have haunted her for forty years.

The more Rose becomes entangled in Finch’s case, the more old sparks threaten to reignite, and Finch will be torn between his duty to his brothers and the woman he never meant to leave behind.

Thoughts

After the first book in this series, I was wondering how the search for Penny and have a whole new couple as lead. I have expected Penny to be the female interest, but then the big story line wouldn’t really continue all that well… Madbury managed to have an entirely new focus for the lead couple, but still managed to keep the hunt for Penny alive.

I love how Finch’s past builds on the hunt for Penny and pulls in Rose. In fact, unlike many of the romances I’ve read, there is no Meet Cute or a bit of an understanding. The past between Finch and Rose is incredibly painful and tragic. Meaning that most of this story involves both of them trying to move on from past hurts and scars to a new future.

It turns out that the villain (for me) in this story was one who you could completely sympathise with. Even though his actions were abhorrent, you could kind of understand the decision making when all of the cards were laid out on the table. I still got that horrified feeling in my stomach, but it was tempered with a little understanding.

Sky as Ash helped to build more of a conspiracy within this world. It strengthened the mystery and horror of the world of the Sevens. I loved the set up for Wolfe in the next book. But, more than anything. I love that there are betrayals and mysteries still to come in this series.

<- Splintered StarsMore Rachel Madbury ->

Image source: Target

Spark of Shadows by Rachel Madbury

Book Review, , , ,
Overview
Spark of Shadows by Rachel Madbury

Title: Spark of Shadows
Author: Rachel Madbury
Series: The Sevens #0.5
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance, Witches
Dates read: 6th – 13th April 2021
Pace: Fast
Format: ARC, eBook, Novella
Publisher: Rachel Madbury
Year: 2020
5th sentence, 74th page: I have to meet with the man on watch.

Synopsis

True love never forgets.

Demons are coming for Cora Gardner. A witch like her sisters, and all the women of her line before her, her existence is threatened not only by mortals who fear what they don’t understand, but by those who live in the shadows and thrive on the darkness.

But when a warrior is summoned to be her guard she’d almost prefer to meet her fate.

Liam Wolfe is not just any warrior, he’s a Seven, created by the covens to protect the most powerful among them. He and his team are the hard edge that keep the violence at bay, so the witches of the world can hold the earth in her balance.

But demons aren’t the only ones drawn to Cora. Despite an animosity from her he cannot comprehend, Liam finds his oath as a Seven tested in the face of temptation. And as evil approaches, secrets are revealed – a truth which threatens everything he’s ever known.

Their past holds the power to reshape his world, but only if he can protect the woman who holds the key.

Thoughts

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest and fair review.

It took me a little bit more to get into this than Splintered Stars. Probably because I had this horrible feeling all throughout the novella that Liam and Cora’s story was going to end in tragedy. After all, their love isn’t mentioned in Splintered Stars, so I felt it was an apt assumption. And whilst I like suspense, I don’t love that constant feeling of tragedy.

Yet, without any spoilers, I did actually love this romance. Its definitely about long lost lovers being reunited. Finding your way back to the one you love and want and just… being with one another. I can’t imagine spending eleven years without the one that I love, but I like the idea that we’d find our way back to one another eventually.

Although I didn’t like this novella prequel quite as much as the first novel in this series, I still seriously enjoyed it. And it just makes me itch all that much more for the second book, which I believe is due to come out soon… now I just have to exercise patience and maturity… two things which aren’t quite my strengths.

<- More Rachel MadburySplintered Stars ->

Image source: Goodreads