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Forbidden Gift
Can an untried witch find true love while working at a magical brothel?
Gisela recently came of age, and now her uncle expects her to go to work. At their people’s brothel. So he can spend the money she earns however he likes.
Without a cent to her name, Gisela has no other options. Her uncle has threatened to chain her elemental magic if she refuses. The witches working at her city’s Teutonic brothel are permitted to have children, so at least she’ll help ensure her people don’t die out.
And she’s not about to admit she has no experience with such things. As a virgin.
Forbidden Gift is a fade-to-black paranormal (mmf) romance featuring an orphan heroine, a bisexual hero, and elemental witches combatting their culture’s prejudices.
Scroll up and one-click to start reading this provocative romantic fantasy today.
Gisela recently came of age, and now her uncle expects her to go to work. At their people’s brothel. So he can spend the money she earns however he likes.
Without a cent to her name, Gisela has no other options. Her uncle has threatened to chain her elemental magic if she refuses. The witches working at her city’s Teutonic brothel are permitted to have children, so at least she’ll help ensure her people don’t die out.
And she’s not about to admit she has no experience with such things. As a virgin.
Forbidden Gift is a fade-to-black paranormal (mmf) romance featuring an orphan heroine, a bisexual hero, and elemental witches combatting their culture’s prejudices.
Scroll up and one-click to start reading this provocative romantic fantasy today.
95 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2025
4 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Carhart
27 books68 followersC.L. Carhart has been writing since the age of 4, dabbling in everything from children’s books, to fantasy, to historical fiction. Eventually, her lifelong interest in European history inspired her to create a mystical other-world based on the Teutonic people groups. Her Teutonic Fantasy Realm is chock full of heart-pounding adventure, dark magic, and swoon-worthy romance.
A book addict, stray cat rescuer, and unashamed metalhead, you can find her plotting out fresh stories deep in the night with a can of diet soda and a fun-sized panther infringing on her progress.
Join her mailing list ➜ https://bf.clcarhart.com/6w57qgfhc9
Visit her website ➜ https://clcarhart.com/
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Follow her on Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/c.l.carhart...
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A book addict, stray cat rescuer, and unashamed metalhead, you can find her plotting out fresh stories deep in the night with a can of diet soda and a fun-sized panther infringing on her progress.
Join her mailing list ➜ https://bf.clcarhart.com/6w57qgfhc9
Visit her website ➜ https://clcarhart.com/
Like her Facebook page ➜ https://www.facebook.com/CLCarhartAuthor
Follow her on Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/c.l.carhart...
Follow her on BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/profile/c-l-c...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 4, 2025
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
‘Forbidden Gift’ continues the ‘Elemental Gifts’ series, following a similar theme of magic and supernatural intrigue. Unfortunately, much like the previous book, it suffers from a lack of depth, making it difficult to fully connect with the story.
Plot: ★★☆☆☆
The premise has potential, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. The story feels rushed, with events unfolding too quickly for any real tension or development. There are intriguing elements in the mix, but they aren’t given enough space to properly unfold, making the plot feel thin rather than immersive.
Character: ★★☆☆☆
The characters don’t feel fully developed, and their relationships lack emotional depth. Their interactions seem surface-level, which makes it hard to invest in them or their journeys. More time spent fleshing out personalities and motivations would have greatly improved the experience.
Setting: ★★★☆☆
The magical world here is interesting but again underutilised. There are glimpses of an intriguing setting, but the book doesn’t explore it in enough detail. More vivid descriptions and a deeper dive into the worldbuilding would have enhanced the reading experience.
Engagement: ★★☆☆☆
I struggled to stay engaged with this story. The lack of character depth and rushed pacing made it difficult to immerse myself in the plot. It felt more like a sketch of a story rather than a fully realized novel.
Readability: ★★★★☆
The writing itself is clear and easy to follow, making for a smooth reading experience. However, the lack of substantial content means that, while quick to get through, it doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
Enjoyment: ★★☆☆☆
While there are some enjoyable elements, the overall experience felt underwhelming. The story had potential, but it didn’t deliver enough substance to truly captivate me.
‘Forbidden Gift’ presents interesting ideas but doesn’t develop them enough to be truly engaging. The rushed plot, flat characters, and lack of depth made it a disappointing read. While it may work for readers who enjoy short magical stories with a light touch, those looking for a more immersive fantasy experience may find it lacking.
‘Forbidden Gift’ continues the ‘Elemental Gifts’ series, following a similar theme of magic and supernatural intrigue. Unfortunately, much like the previous book, it suffers from a lack of depth, making it difficult to fully connect with the story.
Plot: ★★☆☆☆
The premise has potential, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. The story feels rushed, with events unfolding too quickly for any real tension or development. There are intriguing elements in the mix, but they aren’t given enough space to properly unfold, making the plot feel thin rather than immersive.
Character: ★★☆☆☆
The characters don’t feel fully developed, and their relationships lack emotional depth. Their interactions seem surface-level, which makes it hard to invest in them or their journeys. More time spent fleshing out personalities and motivations would have greatly improved the experience.
Setting: ★★★☆☆
The magical world here is interesting but again underutilised. There are glimpses of an intriguing setting, but the book doesn’t explore it in enough detail. More vivid descriptions and a deeper dive into the worldbuilding would have enhanced the reading experience.
Engagement: ★★☆☆☆
I struggled to stay engaged with this story. The lack of character depth and rushed pacing made it difficult to immerse myself in the plot. It felt more like a sketch of a story rather than a fully realized novel.
Readability: ★★★★☆
The writing itself is clear and easy to follow, making for a smooth reading experience. However, the lack of substantial content means that, while quick to get through, it doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
Enjoyment: ★★☆☆☆
While there are some enjoyable elements, the overall experience felt underwhelming. The story had potential, but it didn’t deliver enough substance to truly captivate me.
‘Forbidden Gift’ presents interesting ideas but doesn’t develop them enough to be truly engaging. The rushed plot, flat characters, and lack of depth made it a disappointing read. While it may work for readers who enjoy short magical stories with a light touch, those looking for a more immersive fantasy experience may find it lacking.
February 19, 2025
When she comes of age, her uncle is quick to dispose of her, sending her to work. Not any work but at a brothel. Her uncle's betrayal and threat are enough for her to find herself in those walls through a contract she was forced to sign. With their people decreasing, it is no surprise the brothel is used for breeding. The witches are to be of service to the Teutons. At the mere age of eighteen, Gisela isn't cut out for this. Her luck comes from a bisexual and gay couple.
Forbidden Gift: Elemental Gift is a paranormal romance by C.L. Carhart. It also happens to be a reverse harem. The characters are well played out. From Gisela, readers feel her panic and vulnerability. The plot is well developed and thought out.
However, the book's pacing is not consistent. It doesn’t affect the book much; it's barely noticeable. At first the book feels slow and well-paced, then it suddenly feels rushed when it comes to an end. The creativity shown when it comes to their powers is intriguing. It isn't portrayed the same way traditionally witches are portrayed.
I would recommend this book to those who love paranormal romance as well as harems. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Forbidden Gift: Elemental Gift is a paranormal romance by C.L. Carhart. It also happens to be a reverse harem. The characters are well played out. From Gisela, readers feel her panic and vulnerability. The plot is well developed and thought out.
However, the book's pacing is not consistent. It doesn’t affect the book much; it's barely noticeable. At first the book feels slow and well-paced, then it suddenly feels rushed when it comes to an end. The creativity shown when it comes to their powers is intriguing. It isn't portrayed the same way traditionally witches are portrayed.
I would recommend this book to those who love paranormal romance as well as harems. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 21, 2025
Threatened by her uncle to have her power taken from her, Gisela is talked into working at a magical brothel. There, she meets a Teuton priest interested in finding out how the working witches are treated by its owners; and at night she meets her first client, Radomir - who starts teaching her how to use her gift better. On the day after that night, Gisela talks to one of her colleagues and discovers that the working witches are bled from time to time so the brothel's owners and the city's highest autority can know what goes on on those women's minds. Terrified, Gisela tells Radomir what she discovered, and together with Gustav - Radomir's partner - and other Teuton priests will have to find a way to save the witches from a horrible life.
I loved how the relationship between Gisela and Radomir was built, then with her colleagues, and with Gustav. Also how the story developed.
There is danger, abuse, companionship, some romance and tragedy.
I've received an ARC of this e-book. All the opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I loved how the relationship between Gisela and Radomir was built, then with her colleagues, and with Gustav. Also how the story developed.
There is danger, abuse, companionship, some romance and tragedy.
I've received an ARC of this e-book. All the opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
March 9, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Back in the world of Teutonica and man, it's good to be back.
It's especially good because we explore the origin story of a few people we've already met in previous work(s), making it doubly special.
I've had a soft spot for Gisela, Radomir and Gustav from the moment I met them, and was enraged about the brothel "breeding" program right from the start. Seeing behind the walls at what was happening just makes me madder, but goes to show why it's important for good Teuton priests and witches, such as Tobias, Nelke and the others, have to keep fighting.
Ms Calhart weaves a raw, heart-wrenching world that intersects at multiple points, some of which we're still discovering, and I'm here for it.
Would I have loved if this was longer? Yes but, that's a me problem. The snapshot of a story is self-contained and self-explanatory, and it has a start, middle, and epic conclusion all the same.
I think it's a mighty fine, magical addition. Definitely recommend, and the two series as a whole!
Back in the world of Teutonica and man, it's good to be back.
It's especially good because we explore the origin story of a few people we've already met in previous work(s), making it doubly special.
I've had a soft spot for Gisela, Radomir and Gustav from the moment I met them, and was enraged about the brothel "breeding" program right from the start. Seeing behind the walls at what was happening just makes me madder, but goes to show why it's important for good Teuton priests and witches, such as Tobias, Nelke and the others, have to keep fighting.
Ms Calhart weaves a raw, heart-wrenching world that intersects at multiple points, some of which we're still discovering, and I'm here for it.
Would I have loved if this was longer? Yes but, that's a me problem. The snapshot of a story is self-contained and self-explanatory, and it has a start, middle, and epic conclusion all the same.
I think it's a mighty fine, magical addition. Definitely recommend, and the two series as a whole!
March 31, 2025
Forbidden Gift is a well-paced, unique romantasy novella.
I found Gisela a compelling character and liked reading from her perspective, she was very vulnerable and earnest which was refreshing. I enjoyed learning about her tumultuous backstory and how that informed the way she formed relationships with the guys. Ultimately though, I got very lost and confused with the world and the magic systems and found myself having to re-read whole sections to understand what was going on. I think this is mostly my fault for not reading the other books set in this world. While it can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading at least one other book in the series so you have a grasp on the mechanics of the fantasy world before picking this one up.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for this advance copy!
I found Gisela a compelling character and liked reading from her perspective, she was very vulnerable and earnest which was refreshing. I enjoyed learning about her tumultuous backstory and how that informed the way she formed relationships with the guys. Ultimately though, I got very lost and confused with the world and the magic systems and found myself having to re-read whole sections to understand what was going on. I think this is mostly my fault for not reading the other books set in this world. While it can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading at least one other book in the series so you have a grasp on the mechanics of the fantasy world before picking this one up.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for this advance copy!
May 5, 2025
C.L. Carhart's Forbidden Gift is an intriguing paranormal romance set in a Teutonic-inspired world. The story follows a witch of metal navigating a unique societal structure and finding unexpected love. Carhart crafts a compelling narrative with well-developed characters and complex relationships. The premise is original, and the author explores themes of societal expectations and personal agency with skill. The romance is central to the story and is handled with care. While the world-building is fascinating, I would have appreciated even more depth. Overall, Forbidden Gift is an enjoyable and engaging read that I recommend to fans of paranormal romance looking for something a bit different.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
FORBIDDEN GIFT #2 in the Elemental Gifts Series by C.L. Carhart
This novella is a one sitting read that is a full story in 108 pages. It can also be read as a stand-alone.
This PNR is set in an undefined time - sometimes it seems like a few centuries ago and others it feels 20th century. While it reads "dark" (meaning not light well and slightly heavy feeling), it has some lightness and self discovery built in.
At the heart of the story, is a brothel for unmarried witches with the sole purpose of breeding children to continue a magical lineage. It is HANDSMAID TALE-esque and I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Book Sirens.
4 solid stars!
This novella is a one sitting read that is a full story in 108 pages. It can also be read as a stand-alone.
This PNR is set in an undefined time - sometimes it seems like a few centuries ago and others it feels 20th century. While it reads "dark" (meaning not light well and slightly heavy feeling), it has some lightness and self discovery built in.
At the heart of the story, is a brothel for unmarried witches with the sole purpose of breeding children to continue a magical lineage. It is HANDSMAID TALE-esque and I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Book Sirens.
4 solid stars!
February 23, 2025
We follow a girl tricked by her uncle and forced to work somewhere she desperately doesn’t want to be. On her first night, she encounters someone in spirit form who speaks to her, making him realize she may need help. Then, her first customer arrives—someone who unexpectedly is friends with the person she talked to as a sprite and they take a liking to her and offer to help her escape. Together, they devise a plan to free not only her but also the other women trapped there.
While the story had a satisfying conclusion, the ending felt a bit abrupt to me. It wrapped up too quickly, leaving me wanting more closure.
While the story had a satisfying conclusion, the ending felt a bit abrupt to me. It wrapped up too quickly, leaving me wanting more closure.
February 20, 2025
Forbidden Gift - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
C.L Carhart's Forbidden Gift tells of Gisela - a gifted young witch with unexplored powers.
Ill-treated by a greedy, cruel relative, she's betrayed into service as a baby-breeder, before finding true love with an unusual saviour.
A supernatural fantasy that hints at diverse influences, like The Handmaid's Tale and X-Men, plus a soupcon of Cinderella thrown in for good measure, Forbidden Gift is sure to mesmerise the reader.
Grab a copy today...and keep your crucifix and some garlic handy!
C.L Carhart's Forbidden Gift tells of Gisela - a gifted young witch with unexplored powers.
Ill-treated by a greedy, cruel relative, she's betrayed into service as a baby-breeder, before finding true love with an unusual saviour.
A supernatural fantasy that hints at diverse influences, like The Handmaid's Tale and X-Men, plus a soupcon of Cinderella thrown in for good measure, Forbidden Gift is sure to mesmerise the reader.
Grab a copy today...and keep your crucifix and some garlic handy!
February 23, 2025
Highly recommend. A quick read with short bursts of suspense and magic.
C.L. Carhart is a wonderful storyteller, with marvellously relatable characters and Forbidden Gift lives up to expectations.
Gisela's uncle shatters her dreams when he sends her to work in a Teuton brothel. But Forbidden Gift shows us that sometimes fate and the kindness of strangers can turn the tables and lift us from the pits of despair. Perhaps Gisela's stuggle against adversity will result in a future even better than she dreamed of.
C.L. Carhart is a wonderful storyteller, with marvellously relatable characters and Forbidden Gift lives up to expectations.
Gisela's uncle shatters her dreams when he sends her to work in a Teuton brothel. But Forbidden Gift shows us that sometimes fate and the kindness of strangers can turn the tables and lift us from the pits of despair. Perhaps Gisela's stuggle against adversity will result in a future even better than she dreamed of.
February 16, 2025
This novella was a great little addition to the Elemental Bloodlines series. You finally get a look into the brothel and the ladies who work there. Reading their unfortunate experiences and a start to the downfall of the brothel itself has me anticipating the next book with great fervor. Gisela and Radomir find an enchantment within each other’s souls. With the help of Gustav can she be saved? I guess you’ll have to read this wonderful story for yourself.
March 31, 2025
Gisela has been through a horrible ordeal after her parents' deaths, and her uncle becomes her guardian. He basically sells her to a brothel so she can bankroll his extravagant lifestyle. She is lucky to meet Radomir on her first night, and he desires to keep her forever but doesn’t know who to trust or even if leaving the brothel is an option. This is a fade-to-black novella, with sparks of magic.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
March 20, 2025Forbidden Gift: Elemental Gift is a reverse harem, paranormal romance by C.L. Carhart. Gisela is made to work at a magical brothel. There she learns of the devious inner workings of the priests and Keyholder. I won't tell you what happens next but it's something you definitely won't want to miss. I can't wait to see what's coming next!
March 20, 2025
Part of the elemental series this fade to black fantasy romance is a great read. Poor Gisela has an awful uncle who says that she has to work in the Teuton brothel or he will chain her elemental magic. We follow Gisela as we follow her into the workings of the brothel where maybe all is not as it seems. Great relatable characters and a storyline that’s full of drama, danger and a little romance!
February 15, 2025
I read this in one evening and I loved it from beginning to end the story of these three people and how they interacted related to one another. I don't wanna give any spoilers and I just wanna say it's a great read.
February 17, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised that this story of a brothel did not go as I expected it to. It provides a great reveal of the devious inner workings of the the priests and Keyholder. They are poisoning the witches to suppress their abilities. Someone needs to save them!
February 19, 2025
I so enjoyed this novella. It’s wonderfully written, the characters were interesting and likable, and I enjoyed their interactions. I really enjoyed the insight into the brothel and all the ladies. A terrific read and one I recommend.
February 20, 2025
In this story Gisela ends up in a brothel due to her uncle and covers what happens there. An interesting look inside the brothels in this series. Liked the characters and the story was better then I thought it would be.
Read
March 21, 2025This book follows Gisela, her journey had been full of trouble and struggle. Her uncle gets rid of her and makes her work in a brothel. Her life changes.
It was a good medium paced book which had dark theme. I enjoyed Reading this one. Recommend.
It was a good medium paced book which had dark theme. I enjoyed Reading this one. Recommend.
April 15, 2025
Unexpected union
Gisela, Radomir and Gustav weave a tale of betrayal, danger, magic, secrets and romance. Set in a unique society, this is a fast paced and exciting page turner. I really enjoy these quick adventures into the Teuton realm.
Gisela, Radomir and Gustav weave a tale of betrayal, danger, magic, secrets and romance. Set in a unique society, this is a fast paced and exciting page turner. I really enjoy these quick adventures into the Teuton realm.
February 20, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Forbidden Gift. The audacity of her uncle! Teuton world is getting better and better in my opinion.
May 13, 2025
I found this a very u question but compelling read. It had me captivated from the first word to the last. I just wished it had been longer.
September 6, 2025
Can an untried witch find true love while working at a magical brothel?
Dive into the thrilling journey of Gisela, a witch trapped in a brothel by her ruthless uncle! This captivating tale begins at a slow pace, but don’t let that fool you-things quickly escalate as Gisela discovers a shocking secret: the witches are being drained by the brothel’s owners to read their minds!
With the help of her enigmatic first client and a mysterious stranger, Gisela embarks on a daring quest to not only save herself but also free her fellow witches from their dark fate. As the plot thickens, the tension rises, and Gisela’s complex relationship with Randomir unfolds-can she trust him, or will he lead her further into danger?
This book is a delightful escape, perfect for anyone seeking a fast-paced story that whisks you away to a world filled with intrigue, magic, and unexpected twists!
Dive into the thrilling journey of Gisela, a witch trapped in a brothel by her ruthless uncle! This captivating tale begins at a slow pace, but don’t let that fool you-things quickly escalate as Gisela discovers a shocking secret: the witches are being drained by the brothel’s owners to read their minds!
With the help of her enigmatic first client and a mysterious stranger, Gisela embarks on a daring quest to not only save herself but also free her fellow witches from their dark fate. As the plot thickens, the tension rises, and Gisela’s complex relationship with Randomir unfolds-can she trust him, or will he lead her further into danger?
This book is a delightful escape, perfect for anyone seeking a fast-paced story that whisks you away to a world filled with intrigue, magic, and unexpected twists!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews