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Briarwood Witches #5
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow
The Slaugh ride tonight.
With my broken warrior witchy men at my side,
I'll make my final stand to protect humanity
from a dark army of the restless dead.
An epic showdown is coming – fae versus witches, hope versus desire, death versus immortality, science versus magic, and me and my men against an impossible foe.
I've made my peace. I've written my will. I'll sacrifice everything for the love of five remarkable men.
But is it enough to stop the fae?
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow is the chilling finale to the Briarwood Witches fantasy romance series by USA Today bestselling author Steffanie Holmes. This full-length book glitters with love, heartache, hope, grief, dark magic, fairy trickery, steamy scenes, British slang, meat pies, second chances, and the healing powers of a good cup of tea.
With my broken warrior witchy men at my side,
I'll make my final stand to protect humanity
from a dark army of the restless dead.
An epic showdown is coming – fae versus witches, hope versus desire, death versus immortality, science versus magic, and me and my men against an impossible foe.
I've made my peace. I've written my will. I'll sacrifice everything for the love of five remarkable men.
But is it enough to stop the fae?
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow is the chilling finale to the Briarwood Witches fantasy romance series by USA Today bestselling author Steffanie Holmes. This full-length book glitters with love, heartache, hope, grief, dark magic, fairy trickery, steamy scenes, British slang, meat pies, second chances, and the healing powers of a good cup of tea.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2024
94 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Steffanie Holmes
93 books1,398 followersSteffanie Holmes is the author of steamy historical and paranormal romance. Her books feature clever, witty heroines, wild shifters, cunning witches and alpha males who get what they want.
Before becoming a writer, Steffanie worked as an archaeologist and museum curator. She loves to explore historical settings and ancient conceptions of love and possession. From Dark Age Europe to crumbling gothic estates, Steffanie is fascinated with how love can blossom between the most unlikely characters.
Steffanie lives in New Zealand with her husband and a horde of cantankerous cats. Learn more about Steffanie at her website: www.steffanieholmes.com. She also writes dark science fiction under the name S C Green.
Want to be informed when the next Steffanie Holmes paranormal romance story goes live? Sign up for the mailing list! http://eepurl.com/ZrowD
Before becoming a writer, Steffanie worked as an archaeologist and museum curator. She loves to explore historical settings and ancient conceptions of love and possession. From Dark Age Europe to crumbling gothic estates, Steffanie is fascinated with how love can blossom between the most unlikely characters.
Steffanie lives in New Zealand with her husband and a horde of cantankerous cats. Learn more about Steffanie at her website: www.steffanieholmes.com. She also writes dark science fiction under the name S C Green.
Want to be informed when the next Steffanie Holmes paranormal romance story goes live? Sign up for the mailing list! http://eepurl.com/ZrowD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 6, 2019
DNF @26%
So.
You know, I got fed up in the last book with the running theme of this series, where the main characters decide to be punching bags and/or doormats for people who treat them horribly. It started in the first book with the housekeeper Dora, who called Maeve a whore within 2 seconds of first laying eyes on her. Maeve never stood up for herself, nor did she even fire this bitch who was the housekeeper in the castle Maeve owns(!!) ... no. She just tolerated it, as did the boys, who said Dora isn't so bad once you get to know her.
Then Jane flips a bitch switch, way out of left field, when Maeve has never done anything but bend over backwards (and risk her life) to help Jane. Kelly also becomes a shrill screaming asshole. But now they're just ... well, forgiven entirely, without even a conversation, because apparently we all need to accept ALL the abusive people in our life, without question or conversation. This applies to the villagers too, who may have been under a compulsion (MAY, because we haven't gotten confirmation, just supposition) but were horrible well before that, and literally came to the castle to kill the coven in the last book - and DID kill one of them - but yet our main characters don't fight back because they don't want to hurt the poor villagers.
Then, in this book, we have Isadora. We find out that and no one insists on any justice whatsoever! What the actual fuck???
Then Daigh. Who has caused so fucking much pain. we get this gem of a quote:
Are. You. Fucking. Kidding. Me. With. This???
Look. Firstly, inserting Jesus into your smutty reverse harem series is fantastically hypocritical, and if I weren't so pissed I'd probably be laughing. Seriously, "Be more like Jesus!" said no one EVER while reading a series about polyamorous witches.
Secondly, no one reads UF because we want to see people get supernatural powers and then never use them to protect themselves. No one cheers for a supernatural punching bag who lets the whole goddamn world - up to and including the villains - abuse them and then turns the other fucking cheek. And above all, I did not come here for Kelly - shrill, hypocritical bitch - to lecture Maeve about being more Christian. Where Christian, in this series, is apparently the superstitious mob wielding torches and burning people on stakes. Oh, and denying baptisms to babies because these so-called Christians are deeply filled with righteous hate.
Up until the polygamous witch sex book went all Jesus, I was really going to finish it because I wanted to see the ending. Despite the fact that I hate Maeve.
Not kidding, I really do. She has become a shrill, judgmental bitch that is in fierce competition with Jane and Kelly for the world-champion title of The Worst. And she still mocks any talk of magic or spells ... STILL, despite her doing magic and spells herself. Which makes her an asshole, and also TSTL. But, I guess, more Christian, at least in this series' version of Christianity.
Fuck this series. Tie it to a stake and burn it all. It's what Jesus would do.
So.
You know, I got fed up in the last book with the running theme of this series, where the main characters decide to be punching bags and/or doormats for people who treat them horribly. It started in the first book with the housekeeper Dora, who called Maeve a whore within 2 seconds of first laying eyes on her. Maeve never stood up for herself, nor did she even fire this bitch who was the housekeeper in the castle Maeve owns(!!) ... no. She just tolerated it, as did the boys, who said Dora isn't so bad once you get to know her.
Then Jane flips a bitch switch, way out of left field, when Maeve has never done anything but bend over backwards (and risk her life) to help Jane. Kelly also becomes a shrill screaming asshole. But now they're just ... well, forgiven entirely, without even a conversation, because apparently we all need to accept ALL the abusive people in our life, without question or conversation. This applies to the villagers too, who may have been under a compulsion (MAY, because we haven't gotten confirmation, just supposition) but were horrible well before that, and literally came to the castle to kill the coven in the last book - and DID kill one of them - but yet our main characters don't fight back because they don't want to hurt the poor villagers.
Then, in this book, we have Isadora. We find out that and no one insists on any justice whatsoever! What the actual fuck???
Then Daigh. Who has caused so fucking much pain. we get this gem of a quote:
As quickly as it came, the rage erased. A different memory flashed in front of my eyes - me as an eight-year-old crying in my room because a bully at school had stuck the fire hose through my locker and destroyed all my science books. Louise Crawford gathered me in her arms and listened to all my revenge plans, and recited from Scripture about how Jesus turned the other cheek.
That was what Kelly wanted me to do, to be like Jesus. And she was right. I felt it in my bones. I had to do the right thing even though the right thing was hard and I was hurting and I wanted Daigh to suffer. (26%)
Are. You. Fucking. Kidding. Me. With. This???
Look. Firstly, inserting Jesus into your smutty reverse harem series is fantastically hypocritical, and if I weren't so pissed I'd probably be laughing. Seriously, "Be more like Jesus!" said no one EVER while reading a series about polyamorous witches.
Secondly, no one reads UF because we want to see people get supernatural powers and then never use them to protect themselves. No one cheers for a supernatural punching bag who lets the whole goddamn world - up to and including the villains - abuse them and then turns the other fucking cheek. And above all, I did not come here for Kelly - shrill, hypocritical bitch - to lecture Maeve about being more Christian. Where Christian, in this series, is apparently the superstitious mob wielding torches and burning people on stakes. Oh, and denying baptisms to babies because these so-called Christians are deeply filled with righteous hate.
Up until the polygamous witch sex book went all Jesus, I was really going to finish it because I wanted to see the ending. Despite the fact that I hate Maeve.
Not kidding, I really do. She has become a shrill, judgmental bitch that is in fierce competition with Jane and Kelly for the world-champion title of The Worst. And she still mocks any talk of magic or spells ... STILL, despite her doing magic and spells herself. Which makes her an asshole, and also TSTL. But, I guess, more Christian, at least in this series' version of Christianity.
Fuck this series. Tie it to a stake and burn it all. It's what Jesus would do.
March 1, 2022
I just couldn't wait anymore. That cliffhanger was simply TOO horrible. I had to know how they were gonna continue the story. I had to know how those characters were gonna save themselves and each other. I had to know how this series ended. So, since The Atlas Six was a little more tasking then I had prepared for, I chose this book to read on the side, to give me something slightly more relaxing. Although, truly relaxing isn't the right way to describe this book.
Luckily this books picks up right where the previous book left us. I therefore didn't have to wait too long to find out what was happening and how they were gonna give themselves a fighting chance against the fae and the demons in the underworld. And I quite liked how Holmes eventually tied up literally every loose end and assured a happily ever after for our characters. However, that doesn't mean she made it easy.
Especially emotionally the characters had to go through a lot in this book. There is a lot of grief, there is a lot of pain and hurt. A lot of traumas from their pasts are catching up with them. And also the tension between these characters explodes. Holmes built up everything perfectly well in the previous four books and now she's showing that nothing, not even the smallest line and littlest moment, was useless or leading nowhere. Just like the characters need all their powers, knowledge and talents to complete their life mission.
Although it's always hard to say goodbye to characters I've grown attached to, it also felt quite right to leave these characters now. We've witnessed them fighting the biggest fight of their life. We've seen how they've been through hell and back. But they deserve a future, they deserve to be left alone now, to live the rest of their lives in peace. Although, I do somehow hope that Holmes will return to this world. I'm sure there are more characters with interesting fights and stories to tell.
Luckily this books picks up right where the previous book left us. I therefore didn't have to wait too long to find out what was happening and how they were gonna give themselves a fighting chance against the fae and the demons in the underworld. And I quite liked how Holmes eventually tied up literally every loose end and assured a happily ever after for our characters. However, that doesn't mean she made it easy.
Especially emotionally the characters had to go through a lot in this book. There is a lot of grief, there is a lot of pain and hurt. A lot of traumas from their pasts are catching up with them. And also the tension between these characters explodes. Holmes built up everything perfectly well in the previous four books and now she's showing that nothing, not even the smallest line and littlest moment, was useless or leading nowhere. Just like the characters need all their powers, knowledge and talents to complete their life mission.
Although it's always hard to say goodbye to characters I've grown attached to, it also felt quite right to leave these characters now. We've witnessed them fighting the biggest fight of their life. We've seen how they've been through hell and back. But they deserve a future, they deserve to be left alone now, to live the rest of their lives in peace. Although, I do somehow hope that Holmes will return to this world. I'm sure there are more characters with interesting fights and stories to tell.
July 15, 2025
I have really enjoyed this series. The characters were fun and I liked the interaction between them all.
November 13, 2018
This series has been so intense, this mythology so detailed, and more secrets and lies come out in this installment. Maeve true to her intellectual roots still doesn't "believe" all of magic. She's still trying to find scientific proof. But the big showdown is here and it's time for all of them to bring their A game. Sorrow covers a lot of this story but there is also a lot of determination and hopefulness. These books are heavy with the fantasy aspects and mysticism but the characters are also fully developed. Corbin, Flynn, Arthur, Rowan, Blake and Maeve will be hard to forget.
November 21, 2018
I'm saddened to see that this is the last of Maeve and her boys but I am happy that she finally accepted who she was and that it was okay to have five men in her life.
Here we find Maeve and four of her boys grieving the passing of Corbin who brought three into the castle and somehow formed a family then Maeve discovers she is the owner of the castle Briarwood but she must accept that it has four occupants that must stay. Arthur who is a fire witch, a Scottish water witch or is he from Ireland and unfortunately I am not good with names and didn't have my laptop or a notebook handy to joy names and thoughts down, then we have our earth witch who keeps the kitchen as his domain, he has a few problems where he must count things to keep himself calm and is very quiet and Corbin the glue that holds them all together is an air witch. The we have Blane I believe who comes to the castle later he and Maeve have similar gifts of spirit, he was raised by the Fae so he is quite different then the others. But Maeve takes them all to her heart.
Corbin is tragically killed in a fight with the fae and demons. Each of these characters blame themselves for his death. And it is this that truly brings them together as well as the fight against the slaugh.
I voluntarily chose to read an advance copy and have not been compensated in any way. All I can tell you is this author writes with emotions so that you can feel them right along with the characters and that if my financial situation were different this series would be in my kindle library for future rereading pleasure but don't take my word for it judge it for yourself you may be glad you did if this genre is right for you.
Here we find Maeve and four of her boys grieving the passing of Corbin who brought three into the castle and somehow formed a family then Maeve discovers she is the owner of the castle Briarwood but she must accept that it has four occupants that must stay. Arthur who is a fire witch, a Scottish water witch or is he from Ireland and unfortunately I am not good with names and didn't have my laptop or a notebook handy to joy names and thoughts down, then we have our earth witch who keeps the kitchen as his domain, he has a few problems where he must count things to keep himself calm and is very quiet and Corbin the glue that holds them all together is an air witch. The we have Blane I believe who comes to the castle later he and Maeve have similar gifts of spirit, he was raised by the Fae so he is quite different then the others. But Maeve takes them all to her heart.
Corbin is tragically killed in a fight with the fae and demons. Each of these characters blame themselves for his death. And it is this that truly brings them together as well as the fight against the slaugh.
I voluntarily chose to read an advance copy and have not been compensated in any way. All I can tell you is this author writes with emotions so that you can feel them right along with the characters and that if my financial situation were different this series would be in my kindle library for future rereading pleasure but don't take my word for it judge it for yourself you may be glad you did if this genre is right for you.
June 11, 2019
That was an eventful two weeks
In two weeks time the FMC inherits a castle, moves to the uk from the US, discovers magic is real, goes to fairy land, oh yeah and discovers fairies are real, goes back to the US to rescue her sister, goes back to the uk, saves babies, has a falling out with her sister, has trouble with some witches, meets her bio parents, all of them, falls in love with five guys and learns everything's about them, and then everything that happens in this book. I mean come on now, she wouldn't even be over her hear jetlag from all that transatlantic flying. Oh and I get the sex is supposed to give her her power but the sex really pops up at inopportune times and feels awkward in the story. The FMC strick adherence to since when she has been welding magic, seeing fae and other creatures, and traveling to different worlds, at the VERY least, if she was half the scientist Holmes tries to write her to be, the FMC would be like huh, some of our science was based on incomplete data and assumptions and we are going to have to revisit everything we know rather than just continually asserting this cant happen despite literally being hit in the face with it repeatedly. And the whole plot line with the cop in this book, that is almost as bad as finding your dead lover alive in the shower and discovering everything had been a dream. Much like the rest of the series the epilog is an incredibly rushed wherein everyone's lives have been completely wrapped up and figured out in a three month period. It's just ridiculous.
In two weeks time the FMC inherits a castle, moves to the uk from the US, discovers magic is real, goes to fairy land, oh yeah and discovers fairies are real, goes back to the US to rescue her sister, goes back to the uk, saves babies, has a falling out with her sister, has trouble with some witches, meets her bio parents, all of them, falls in love with five guys and learns everything's about them, and then everything that happens in this book. I mean come on now, she wouldn't even be over her hear jetlag from all that transatlantic flying. Oh and I get the sex is supposed to give her her power but the sex really pops up at inopportune times and feels awkward in the story. The FMC strick adherence to since when she has been welding magic, seeing fae and other creatures, and traveling to different worlds, at the VERY least, if she was half the scientist Holmes tries to write her to be, the FMC would be like huh, some of our science was based on incomplete data and assumptions and we are going to have to revisit everything we know rather than just continually asserting this cant happen despite literally being hit in the face with it repeatedly. And the whole plot line with the cop in this book, that is almost as bad as finding your dead lover alive in the shower and discovering everything had been a dream. Much like the rest of the series the epilog is an incredibly rushed wherein everyone's lives have been completely wrapped up and figured out in a three month period. It's just ridiculous.
August 17, 2019
An epic battle of life and death,of wisdom, rage and chaos that drive the world of witches, humans and demons.
Maeve lost Corbin, and now is forced to cope without him, facing the threat of the Slaugh riding approaching fast and Daigh's schemes plotting against everyone complicating the already impossible situation. As new facts come to surface, Maeve and her guys start to realize the vastness of the situation and the heaviness of every decision. These times transform them completely into new persons, and only a strong union can lead to victory and survival. Only, can they find enough belief to create such union?
This was really an epic finale of the series, with all the drama, action, tension, and heat one can expect in a RH book. I enjoyed it from the first page until the last word, cheering on the characters to push them forward, to go on even though they couldn't hear me. My hope aligned with their story, with the dramatic twists and small steps towards the final act. I loved it, and even though I caught up with this last book way too late comparing to when I read the other books, it did not diminish the reading experience. I take it as a sign of a good book (or series) to remember all details after months to catch up easily with where the previous book ended, and I will happily read more stories written by this author in the future as well.
Maeve lost Corbin, and now is forced to cope without him, facing the threat of the Slaugh riding approaching fast and Daigh's schemes plotting against everyone complicating the already impossible situation. As new facts come to surface, Maeve and her guys start to realize the vastness of the situation and the heaviness of every decision. These times transform them completely into new persons, and only a strong union can lead to victory and survival. Only, can they find enough belief to create such union?
This was really an epic finale of the series, with all the drama, action, tension, and heat one can expect in a RH book. I enjoyed it from the first page until the last word, cheering on the characters to push them forward, to go on even though they couldn't hear me. My hope aligned with their story, with the dramatic twists and small steps towards the final act. I loved it, and even though I caught up with this last book way too late comparing to when I read the other books, it did not diminish the reading experience. I take it as a sign of a good book (or series) to remember all details after months to catch up easily with where the previous book ended, and I will happily read more stories written by this author in the future as well.
December 23, 2025
🌶️ Holy crap, I made it to the end, and it was a good one, thank goodness. After the emotional trauma of the fourth book, it was a relief to get find it works out in the end, if not in the way I had imagined.
Kelly grew on me, finally, though Aline still drove me a bit batty. And, surprise to me, fox shapeshifter Ryan Raynard has his own series in the Crookshollow Gothic books! Guess I know what I’m reading next…
Still love the boys, and they really are busy in this one. Not sure I liked Arthur’s arc, but the boy needed a cooling off period, I guess. Rowan is still my favorite of the witches, but Flynn really grew on me here. I love finding out in the epilogue that Rowan is doing much better with his mental health and that everyone is now planning for a future that works for them staying together as a coven.
A delightful series, though the lack of editing was annoying at times. Would I read it again? Hmmmm… probably, but I would have to wait awhile until I forgot the details so I could enjoy the twists again. I am, however, old enough that I feel mothery to all the young adults rather than twitterpated over them. It’s why I love Rowan so much- I just want to give him a hug, bake him cookies and then adopt the poor boy.
Definitely a racy series, so if that’s your thing then give them a read, but still it’s a great narrative even if you’re more into storylines.
Kelly grew on me, finally, though Aline still drove me a bit batty. And, surprise to me, fox shapeshifter Ryan Raynard has his own series in the Crookshollow Gothic books! Guess I know what I’m reading next…
Still love the boys, and they really are busy in this one. Not sure I liked Arthur’s arc, but the boy needed a cooling off period, I guess. Rowan is still my favorite of the witches, but Flynn really grew on me here. I love finding out in the epilogue that Rowan is doing much better with his mental health and that everyone is now planning for a future that works for them staying together as a coven.
A delightful series, though the lack of editing was annoying at times. Would I read it again? Hmmmm… probably, but I would have to wait awhile until I forgot the details so I could enjoy the twists again. I am, however, old enough that I feel mothery to all the young adults rather than twitterpated over them. It’s why I love Rowan so much- I just want to give him a hug, bake him cookies and then adopt the poor boy.
Definitely a racy series, so if that’s your thing then give them a read, but still it’s a great narrative even if you’re more into storylines.
November 18, 2024
Following The Castle of Wind and Whispers I had wondered where we were going to be taken next. How was Maeve going to get out of this cliffhanger?
The answer was - brilliantly - in the shape of The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow.
This is the darkest book of the series and had so many questions to answer and problems to resolve. In this book we learned so much about the character’s, their drives, dreams, and abilities to give of themselves.
The depths that all the characters would go to support Maive was just astounding, none more than the risks taken by Corbin.
The truth about the Fae, Lia and Daigh's stories that truly come out in this final episode will have you shouting at the book as you reach for the paper tissues. So many twists and plots ad sub-plots in one book, but it all flowed and made sense.
There are hero's a plenty, and traitors too. So much where you would not have seen it coming. But will everyone get it together in time, will the right team come out on top, or slip at the last hurdle.
You will have to read this to find out.
So, grab a copy, you will not regret it.
This is Stephanie at her absolute best.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The answer was - brilliantly - in the shape of The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow.
This is the darkest book of the series and had so many questions to answer and problems to resolve. In this book we learned so much about the character’s, their drives, dreams, and abilities to give of themselves.
The depths that all the characters would go to support Maive was just astounding, none more than the risks taken by Corbin.
The truth about the Fae, Lia and Daigh's stories that truly come out in this final episode will have you shouting at the book as you reach for the paper tissues. So many twists and plots ad sub-plots in one book, but it all flowed and made sense.
There are hero's a plenty, and traitors too. So much where you would not have seen it coming. But will everyone get it together in time, will the right team come out on top, or slip at the last hurdle.
You will have to read this to find out.
So, grab a copy, you will not regret it.
This is Stephanie at her absolute best.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2019
So this series was a pretty fun ride. I read all five books over a weekend, which is a testament to how addictive the series was, even though I don't think I'm really that into reverse harem as a trope. However, I enjoyed the series enough to want to see how it all ended. And, I'll be honest, to see Rowan and Corbin get their happy ending because they're mainly who I'm here for.
I thought this one would be way more about fighting the sluagh but it was more about the Underworld and getting Corbin back and there was at least one twist I did not see coming. The ending was pretty cute.
A few minor continuity errors with which POV we're in / who knows what. e.g. Maeve tells Rowan about her and Corbin discussing studying at Oxford in two separate conversations, and in the second one he reacts as if it's the very first time he's heard of it.
I thought this one would be way more about fighting the sluagh but it was more about the Underworld and getting Corbin back and there was at least one twist I did not see coming. The ending was pretty cute.
A few minor continuity errors with which POV we're in / who knows what. e.g. Maeve tells Rowan about her and Corbin discussing studying at Oxford in two separate conversations, and in the second one he reacts as if it's the very first time he's heard of it.
November 12, 2024
This book picks up from the cliffhanger on book #4.. and the start of this book was mesmerizing.. the struggle and hope and the half bits of information to piece together was done really well. After that what I thought would be the main battle (since we'd been reading about the build up throughout the entire series) was over in a chapter with relatively little struggle - but then the book focused on the underworld - which we hadn't spent too much time on. It was nice that all the sub plot lines got a little nod in the epilogue to tie off various loose ends. As a stand alone - this one was a little light, but as the wrap up to the 5 book series, it was just the right amount of sweet endings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2024
4.25 ⭐️ 2🌶️
A satisfying end to The Briarwood Witches series.
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow picks up right after the cliffhanger ending in The Castle of Wind and Whispers. With a member of there group lost and the slaugh on their doorstep the Briarwood coven is dealing either guilt and grief.
The character development work done in the first four books really shines as the ending of the series comes to an end as we see the characters deal with both their past and present situations.
The book is also fast paced and full of twists and turns that kept me wanting to read more! This paired with a satisfying ending to the series makes this book my favorite in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A satisfying end to The Briarwood Witches series.
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow picks up right after the cliffhanger ending in The Castle of Wind and Whispers. With a member of there group lost and the slaugh on their doorstep the Briarwood coven is dealing either guilt and grief.
The character development work done in the first four books really shines as the ending of the series comes to an end as we see the characters deal with both their past and present situations.
The book is also fast paced and full of twists and turns that kept me wanting to read more! This paired with a satisfying ending to the series makes this book my favorite in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2024
Spirit and Sorrow is the chilling finale to the Briarwood Witches series by USA Today bestselling author Steffanie Holmes. There are trigger warnings including self-harm and suicide, please be aware.
These books are heavy with the fantasy aspects and mysticism. This book picks up right where the previous book left off. The story definitely feels a bit rushed. I mean, this is a lot to happen in so little time. HEA ending for Maeve and her boys, Corbin, Flynn, Arthur, Rowan, Blake. I am curious to see what Holmes comes out with next. And if I could do half stars I would 3.5 this rating. It's an overall good story, it was just a lot for one story.
These books are heavy with the fantasy aspects and mysticism. This book picks up right where the previous book left off. The story definitely feels a bit rushed. I mean, this is a lot to happen in so little time. HEA ending for Maeve and her boys, Corbin, Flynn, Arthur, Rowan, Blake. I am curious to see what Holmes comes out with next. And if I could do half stars I would 3.5 this rating. It's an overall good story, it was just a lot for one story.
December 21, 2018
The Castle of Spirit and Sorrow by Steffanie Holmes is book 5 in the Briarwood Reverse Harem series
Since this continues the story of Maeve you do need to read the previous book to fully enjoy this one. This one picks up where the last one ended and does complete this series. This has almost everything you could want in a fantasy read. This does have the reverse harem theme too, so Maeve is settling into that way of life not to mention the drama that they have been dealing with.
Over all this has been a very hot and exciting read.
Since this continues the story of Maeve you do need to read the previous book to fully enjoy this one. This one picks up where the last one ended and does complete this series. This has almost everything you could want in a fantasy read. This does have the reverse harem theme too, so Maeve is settling into that way of life not to mention the drama that they have been dealing with.
Over all this has been a very hot and exciting read.
April 3, 2022
A thrilling adventure. And who’d have thought self-centred Aline could save the day (in her own way)?
Corbin’s parents finally woke up from their stupidity. Rowan gets the professional help he needs. The brainiacs save the world with science – who knew? And the secrets of the Soho coven actually turns out to be helpful. Even Arthur realises that cutting himself isn’t the answer.
Some interesting magic throughout. I most enjoyed the scene with the Slaugh.
A steamy reverse harem series with a solid storyline.
Corbin’s parents finally woke up from their stupidity. Rowan gets the professional help he needs. The brainiacs save the world with science – who knew? And the secrets of the Soho coven actually turns out to be helpful. Even Arthur realises that cutting himself isn’t the answer.
Some interesting magic throughout. I most enjoyed the scene with the Slaugh.
A steamy reverse harem series with a solid storyline.
November 7, 2024
Ok. I finished the series because the plot was interesting and I wanted to know how it all wrapped up.
But OMG with the self destructive "oh wow is me. It was all my fault!" Even the parents! It was so annoying!
And Maeve is a whiney idiot in this book. She wouldn't know how to find her face with a map. She was so adamant that she was right, but when things went south she tortured herself for making the decisons instead of finding a new solution.
This wasn't a bad series until this last book. It took everything in me to finish it.
But OMG with the self destructive "oh wow is me. It was all my fault!" Even the parents! It was so annoying!
And Maeve is a whiney idiot in this book. She wouldn't know how to find her face with a map. She was so adamant that she was right, but when things went south she tortured herself for making the decisons instead of finding a new solution.
This wasn't a bad series until this last book. It took everything in me to finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2024
From The Ashes, Triumph
Things are looking seriously grim for Maeve and her boys. Death, serious injury and infighting are causing fractures in their coven, and the Slaugh ride at midnight. Will the belief magic enough to turn back death? Wow, this story took me on a nearly painful emotional ride from mourning, anguish and anxiety to joyous conclusion. I read the last three in this series back-to-back, so I felt completely immersed in Maeve’s magical-scientific world. Truly, an amazing story in a fantastic series.
March 21, 2025
I almost didn't finish it... The last book in the series and I almost didn't finish it. I really liked the story and the guys. The story definitely kept me interested.
Buuuuuut Maeve was insufferable. I've never hated a character more than her. She is self-centered, hypocritical, spoiled, and truly obnoxious. She was constantly storming off and refusing to talk about anything she didn't want too or refusing to listen to others options. However, she demanded that the guys didn't keep secrets and always shared everything with her. The. Worst. Gaah.
Buuuuuut Maeve was insufferable. I've never hated a character more than her. She is self-centered, hypocritical, spoiled, and truly obnoxious. She was constantly storming off and refusing to talk about anything she didn't want too or refusing to listen to others options. However, she demanded that the guys didn't keep secrets and always shared everything with her. The. Worst. Gaah.
November 8, 2018
I cannot recommend this book enough. After the devastating cliffhanger of the previous book I had to get this on release day. I only stopped reading when driving and eating dinner. I simply HAD to know if Corbin could be saved. And THEN! OMG, I thought my heart was going to break several more times! This book, this series may be the most exciting, epic, adventure and love story ever. I recommend this series to everyone.
November 9, 2018
This last book of the series is full of sorrow and joy, despair and hope, love and hate. Maeve and her guys must overcome a lot in their quest to unite fae, witch, and human. I am not going to spoil it for you by telling what happens, you must read it for yourself. If you liked the other books in the series, you will love the finale!
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary. I am sorry to see the series end, but boy what an ending.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary. I am sorry to see the series end, but boy what an ending.
January 25, 2019
If you haven't read the books in this series you are definitely missing out. I loved every book in the series and this last book pulled it all together and I haven't read one book that Holmes didn't pull my emotions to the surface. The emotions of the characters were so raw and real and the ending beautiful. I highly recommend this to anyone!
Holmes has a permanent spot on my eReader. Kudos for excellence!
Holmes has a permanent spot on my eReader. Kudos for excellence!
October 27, 2024
The last book of the series! The plot is still going strong and it was pretty fast paced. Maeve though, had me rolling my eyes at the beginning, as she still tried to analytical when plenty had occurred that can only be explained by magic. She gets better as the story progresses. It was a fun book and a nice ending to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2024
Briarwood’s Scars
Maeve and her harem mourn the loss of one of their own but the danger surrounding the human realm increases. Surprising revelations and allies add to the suspense as this story evolves. It was entertaining despite Maeve’s rigid beliefs that cost the group valuable time and information. Overall, the conclusion was intriguing but a view further forward would have be a nice addition.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maeve and her harem mourn the loss of one of their own but the danger surrounding the human realm increases. Surprising revelations and allies add to the suspense as this story evolves. It was entertaining despite Maeve’s rigid beliefs that cost the group valuable time and information. Overall, the conclusion was intriguing but a view further forward would have be a nice addition.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2024
this was a strong fifth entry in the Briarwood Witches series, it had that element that I was wanting and enjoyed the story-line. The characters were everything that I was looking for. It uses the Fae romance element that I was looking for and enjoyed the characters in this world. I'm excited to read more from Steffanie Holmes as this series has been really well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2018
Just when Maeve's life couldn't get any worse...it does. The battle between the Fae and the Locals didn't end so well. And more trouble is quickly coming. Everyone is looking to the High Priestess for answers. It ended great, all questions were answered and mysteries solved, but not necessarily in a predictable manner.
November 12, 2018
I love this series and an sad to see it end. There is plenty of action, suspense and even romance to keep you pulled in from start to finish. Even though this book was the end I really wish that there was more so we can continue on with Maeve and her men and even her sister. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 13, 2018
3.5, but the first half really annoyed me, so rounding down.
This has been a pretty good series overall, and I would recommend RH fans give it a go. The ending was satisfactory and I liked how it all resolved in the end.
However, the characters and their behaviour really annoyed me for the first half, particularly Maeve and Arthur, and I found myself eye rolling a lot and skim reading parts.
This has been a pretty good series overall, and I would recommend RH fans give it a go. The ending was satisfactory and I liked how it all resolved in the end.
However, the characters and their behaviour really annoyed me for the first half, particularly Maeve and Arthur, and I found myself eye rolling a lot and skim reading parts.
November 17, 2018
Castle of Spirit and Sorrow
This was so hard for me to start reading after book 4. I bought it and had it for almost two weeks before I could bring myself to read it. I can say that I honestly love the book. It was so very well written and the story so absorbing that I started and didn't stop it until I was finished. Bravo!
This was so hard for me to start reading after book 4. I bought it and had it for almost two weeks before I could bring myself to read it. I can say that I honestly love the book. It was so very well written and the story so absorbing that I started and didn't stop it until I was finished. Bravo!
June 20, 2022
This was my favourite of the series, perhaps because I felt the characters finally came into their own as fully developed people. Blake has to be my favourite - I would love to see a book focused on his future. I also enjoyed the metaphorical and literal message of everything burning to the ground but they feel they can build it back up through the relationships they've all formed.
November 12, 2024
So much was thrown into this finale!! With the Slaugh on the verge of killing off every living thing on earth, Maeve and her guys try whatever they can to stop that happening. Family, Witches & Fae all brought together to make for one hell of an ending. Mix in some laughs, tears and plenty of steam. It was a cracking conclusion to a brilliant series.
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