Book of Shadow

The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel Series #2

by A.L. Hawke

Cursed the moment I fell in love with her.

While home in Raleigh for semester break, I didn’t expect my girlfriend, Alondra, to ask me for a present my Book of Shadows to the leader of a satanic cult. She was looking for a new male witch for her coven. Of course, she knew it wouldn’t be me.

But when a curse took hold of our college campus—and the spirits I thought I’d left behind came back—I realized I couldn’t keep the book closed much longer.

Now something dark surrounds me. Is it the work of the wizard with the devilish goatee? Or is it a little girl possessed by something far worse?

I lit a dark shadow, and now I feel only confusion. Whatever this darkness is, it’s coming for Alondra, our family, and every witch in Hawthorne.

188 pages, Paperback

Published July 27, 2025

About the author

A.L. Hawke is the author of the bestselling Hawthorne University Witch series. The author lives in Southern California torching the midnight candle over lovers against a backdrop of machines, nymphs, magic, spice and mayhem. A.L. Hawke writes fantasy and romance spanning four thousand years, from pre-civilization to contemporary and beyond.

Reviews

[Laure · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I am still not sure that I like Alondra at all, the girl is nothing but trouble. This book starts out with Liam/Lee showing the Book of Shadow to the leader of a satanic cult whom she is probably going to ask to join her coven as the male witch they need to complete their power dynamic. Then there is a curse which seems to have invaded their college campus and is affecting Liam in unexpected ways. These characters have complex personalities that kept me riveted throughout this book. Dark and magical with some surprising twists and turns in the plot. I found this to be a absolutely fascinating must-read book that I will recommend to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I can (& will) say about Mr Hawke is I never know what to expect! This is his creepeist book that I've read. Steven King should be jealous!

This follows "Alondra", which is prequel #1 to the Hawthorne series. You may be a bit freaked reading parts of this, but don't expect to be bored!

This is an author who should be on the NY Times best seller list He may need a new agent, as the only weakness is lack of popularity.

Also lots of intrigue, & paranormal/supernatural. The villain is a child; though I would reccomend this for adults only.

I do recommend it!

I received an advance reader's copy & am leaving an unbiased review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel Series. Books should be read in series order for maximum enjoyment.

'I lit a dark shadow, and now I feel only confusion. Whatever this darkness is, it’s coming for Alondra, our family, and every witch in Hawthorne.'

The characters were very complex and complicated and compelling. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first book, and I enjoyed this one just as much! Liam is still trying to convince himself that he wants nothing to do with magic, which is pretty funny considering everything that keeps happening to him. And I still love him and Alondra together, arguments and all!
There were some really creepy moments in this one, and I loved the mix of mystery, witchcraft, and romance. Just know that this is a dark book with explicit scenes and plenty of rough language, so it isn’t for everyone. A great continuation of the story, and I'm already looking forward to the next book!
I received an arc copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: I thought this story was a great example of the genre at which this author continues to excel at writing. I felt that all the rituals and descriptions transported the reader into the practices of those who follow this type of witchcraft. Some of the events sent tingles down my spine, and this story was not for the fainthearted. I thought the narration provided by Alexa Elmy and Preston Geer enhanced the story's gothic feel. I was gifted a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Brittany Britton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book of Shadow by A. L. Hawke is a great dark paranormal romance. The story is entertaining, enjoyable, suspenseful, thrilling, mature and more. Book of Shadow is the second book in The Hawthorne University Witch Prequel series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of the prequel series and Alondra needs a male witch for the coven. It’s an intriguing read full of surprises and twists and turns and has you hooked from start to finish. Complex and fascinating characters, and exciting, dark and magical storyline, this is a great addition.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read book. Action packed storyline full of exciting twists. Relatable characters and a detailed plot. Story pulled me in in the first chapter and never let me go. This was amazing, and I definitely enjoyed reading this book.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He knew once he fell in love with her he would be cursed. She asks for him to give her his book of shadows and wants a new male witch. Something is coming and he may need to open the book again. See where they will take you
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a brilliant read

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Book of Shadow of the Hawthorn University Witch series is prequel #2, which continues the story of Alondra, prequel #1. Alondra is the Hawthorne Witch and she's growing more powerful each day. She's in love with her boyfriend, Liam/Lee, who is absolutely smitten, but he's starting to realize that she's changing in ways he doesn't understand and of which he's slightly fearful. The coven needs a warlock and he is the obvious choice, but it puts him in danger and it changes him. Alondra has been more interested in practicing left hand magic and it's driven away some of her support. Liam is becoming more and more uncomfortable as she falls farther into the darkside and she turns mean. They argue and come to a standoff, at which time Liam breaks up with her. But, he runs into his best friend, Bill, who knows how much Liam loves Alondra and suggests that he give her another chance.