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The Hawthorne University Witch Series #1
Broomstick
I used to not believe in witches.
Until I enrolled in Dr. Alondra Johansen’s metaphysical history class. Bryce, Alondra’s super cute teaching assistant, told me my element sign is Earth. I am, in fact, a pragmatic sort of girl. My name is Cadence Hawthorne, but you can call me Katie.
Darkness fell over me and my family during my sophomore year. I thought maybe Alondra could help me with my grief and visions of ghosts. But there was this guy working with her, with a goatee and sardonic smile, who looked more like the devil than a professor. He did terrible things to my best friend, threatening my growing love for Bryce.
Do you believe in ghosts? How ‘bout witches? I do. See, it was at Hawthorne University that I learned all about them. Come take a look in my grimoire. I wrote it all down here in Broomstick.
Until I enrolled in Dr. Alondra Johansen’s metaphysical history class. Bryce, Alondra’s super cute teaching assistant, told me my element sign is Earth. I am, in fact, a pragmatic sort of girl. My name is Cadence Hawthorne, but you can call me Katie.
Darkness fell over me and my family during my sophomore year. I thought maybe Alondra could help me with my grief and visions of ghosts. But there was this guy working with her, with a goatee and sardonic smile, who looked more like the devil than a professor. He did terrible things to my best friend, threatening my growing love for Bryce.
Do you believe in ghosts? How ‘bout witches? I do. See, it was at Hawthorne University that I learned all about them. Come take a look in my grimoire. I wrote it all down here in Broomstick.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2020
187 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Hawke
38 books757 followersA.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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 18, 2020
This is definitely a book for younger or lighter readers. The story is slow paced, the romance is lukewarm and the plot is confusing. A full third of the way into the story and the romance is a couple of kisses and a “love spell” where she loses her virginity alone in a bathtub. The main character has no deep feelings about anything. I just couldn’t find the point.
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.
July 31, 2020
I was hoping for more from this book. I found that it was slow and it didn't hold my attention. The romance was weird and so were the witches. I didn't really connect to any part of the book. I was hoping for a more action and a better romance. There were several points that raised reg flags, like the TA which she feel for, the teacher inviting students back to her house. Parts were also very confusing.
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July 25, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/25/2020)! 🎁
Want to read
April 7, 2021I only want to read it, because my name is Alondra!! I've never seen my name in a book before, this is awesome.
**Disclaimer: No the author does not know me and this character is not based on me. LOL. I just think it's cool!!
**Disclaimer: No the author does not know me and this character is not based on me. LOL. I just think it's cool!!
December 23, 2023
I think this is meant to be a sexy book? It is not sexy. There is a lot of focus on virginity and non consensual sex. I think it's meant to be about a young woman finding her voice and power but that falls flat. The characters are flat. The story doesn't make sense in places. It thinks it's more clever than it is.
April 19, 2020
Broomstick is a page-turner, which is surprising given its setting is a college in Atlanta, Georgia. It is full of suspense, secrets, some romance, and action, just not the physical kind. There is a bit of a philosophical edge as the main character, who people call Katie even though her name is Cadence, takes us on her journey to becoming a witch with real magical powers, or perhaps she is just going crazy. There are several instances in which you think so. Broomstick is also a story about a young woman coming into her power, which may be more about the choices that she makes than her abilities-though those are cool too. As much of a train wreck Cadence is, she is compelling. A.L. Hawke creates a world and characters that draw you in and keeps the reader engaged.
The characters are believable, and you have to wonder if there might be some real-life truths in the story. Cadence's grief is palpable, as is her father's. Bryce feels like a very kind and genuine person. He is a nice guy who also happens to be hot. Maddie is an awesome best friend who is fiercely loyal. Though more on the periphery, other characters, such as Mira, Tammy, and Catherine, are complete in the parts in the storyline.
Alondra is the type of professor college students flocks to hear lecture. She challenges them to look at life outside of the prism of what western society deems as normal, good, bad, evil, acceptable, etc. She is a bit complicated, but Professor Rierdon is not. His beliefs aside, he is a weasel through and through. What a dichotomy these two struck.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are believable, and you have to wonder if there might be some real-life truths in the story. Cadence's grief is palpable, as is her father's. Bryce feels like a very kind and genuine person. He is a nice guy who also happens to be hot. Maddie is an awesome best friend who is fiercely loyal. Though more on the periphery, other characters, such as Mira, Tammy, and Catherine, are complete in the parts in the storyline.
Alondra is the type of professor college students flocks to hear lecture. She challenges them to look at life outside of the prism of what western society deems as normal, good, bad, evil, acceptable, etc. She is a bit complicated, but Professor Rierdon is not. His beliefs aside, he is a weasel through and through. What a dichotomy these two struck.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2022
This was quite possibly one of the stupidest books I've ever read. I want the hours I spent with this book back! To begin, the author tries to write in present tense. Writing in present tense is extremely difficult to pull off by even the most accomplished writers, and this author falls so tragically short of even being adequate that the writing sounds like a teenage girl's Sophomore English assignment.
The conflict between the main character and her friends is maudlin at best and dull and tedious after about the first several pages making it very difficult to relate to the characters.
In terms of her characters, they are uninteresting and two-dimensional. There is very little character development, and most of the story centers around the main character's struggle to believe in a campus cult headed by one of the professors. While the main character's internal struggle might have been interesting and possibly sympathy-inducing, the author fails to bring the audience into any kind of relationship with the main character by her constant browbeating the same lines over and over. For God's sake, get over it already! All through the story, the same refrain is repeated continually, then at the end, Oh look! The main character changes her mind all of a sudden, and all is well! It was a total sell-out and horrible writing.
Speaking of just the writing, there were a ton of grammatical errors that were extremely annoying. Hire a proofreader if you can't construct a decent sentence. There were also a ton of typos, but the most annoying and, for me, distracting grammatical faux pas was the tense switching. The author clearly didn't understand that if she was going to write in present tense, she had to maintain present tense throughout the ENTIRE story.
I finished the book because I'm one of those people who can't not finish a book once I start it, but this was one book I would rather have left unread. Sorry, author, but I really can't recommend your book.
The conflict between the main character and her friends is maudlin at best and dull and tedious after about the first several pages making it very difficult to relate to the characters.
In terms of her characters, they are uninteresting and two-dimensional. There is very little character development, and most of the story centers around the main character's struggle to believe in a campus cult headed by one of the professors. While the main character's internal struggle might have been interesting and possibly sympathy-inducing, the author fails to bring the audience into any kind of relationship with the main character by her constant browbeating the same lines over and over. For God's sake, get over it already! All through the story, the same refrain is repeated continually, then at the end, Oh look! The main character changes her mind all of a sudden, and all is well! It was a total sell-out and horrible writing.
Speaking of just the writing, there were a ton of grammatical errors that were extremely annoying. Hire a proofreader if you can't construct a decent sentence. There were also a ton of typos, but the most annoying and, for me, distracting grammatical faux pas was the tense switching. The author clearly didn't understand that if she was going to write in present tense, she had to maintain present tense throughout the ENTIRE story.
I finished the book because I'm one of those people who can't not finish a book once I start it, but this was one book I would rather have left unread. Sorry, author, but I really can't recommend your book.
April 22, 2020
In a college university setting, Cadence Hawthorne (“Katie”) tells the reader of her journey to becoming a witch, even though she had never believed in witches or ghosts before enrolling in Dr. Alondra Johansen’s metaphysical history class and learning to keep an open mind. Bryce, Alondra’s teaching assistant, informed Katie that her element sign is Earth, and she really likes him. Alondra’s house is in the middle of a forest and she has the students meet there to discuss a project and to meet Katie for the first time. An older man is there also, Dr. Reardon, another history professor at Hawthorne University. They hand out champagne to everyone and toast to life. New prospects for the project introduce themselves.
I found myself not at all sure where this book was going. As far as I had read, I had not liked any of the characters, I wasn’t sure what the whole point was, and the professors were definitely odd. I started paging through to find something interesting and eventually gave up. Even the parts I thought I could make sense out of were somewhat uncomfortable and it just wasn’t worth finishing.
I found myself not at all sure where this book was going. As far as I had read, I had not liked any of the characters, I wasn’t sure what the whole point was, and the professors were definitely odd. I started paging through to find something interesting and eventually gave up. Even the parts I thought I could make sense out of were somewhat uncomfortable and it just wasn’t worth finishing.
May 19, 2023
This is about a college student, Cadence, who is invited to join an “honors group” with her best friend, a TA she on whom she has a crush, and her favorite professor. The group makes her uncomfortable and she decides not to participate, but she becomes very concerned when her best friend does and starts to pull away from her. Everything that happens within this group has to remain confidential, and Cadence is worried that something bad happened to her friend. She consents to join the group and the story unfolds as she has to juggle her growing feelings for the TA she is crushing on, her relationship with her best friend and the secrets between them, her feelings of misgiving about this group she has joined, and additional loss.
This is a really strange journey for Cadence as well as for the listener of this audiobook. It took me two tries to get into the story. The narrator seemed to contribute to my difficulty starting the book, but I found that she became more engaging as the book continued and, for the majority of the audiobook, she seemed to have been a good fit. Despite taking longer than I anticipated to get into this story, I did enjoy it by the end. It was definitely different from other stories I have recently read. The heroine of this tale spends a great deal of time struggling with her emotions, which is part of the stage of life one is in while in college. Her journey is just complicated with dealing with experiences that fall outside the norm, and conflicts that arise over this group she has joined. Meanwhile, she has a budding relationship which is also caught up in what is happening among the group members. I would give this book 3.5 stars as the story was a slow start, but an interesting audiobook to listen to by the end. I would suggest that it is a story that may appeal to readers who like to read coming of age stories about magic and witches. Be prepared for some difficult subjects such as the issue of consent in intimate relations, philosophical debate about what constitutes good and evil, including symbolism for Satan, and death of a family member. I am voluntarily submitting this review after listening to an advanced complementary copy of this audiobook.
This is a really strange journey for Cadence as well as for the listener of this audiobook. It took me two tries to get into the story. The narrator seemed to contribute to my difficulty starting the book, but I found that she became more engaging as the book continued and, for the majority of the audiobook, she seemed to have been a good fit. Despite taking longer than I anticipated to get into this story, I did enjoy it by the end. It was definitely different from other stories I have recently read. The heroine of this tale spends a great deal of time struggling with her emotions, which is part of the stage of life one is in while in college. Her journey is just complicated with dealing with experiences that fall outside the norm, and conflicts that arise over this group she has joined. Meanwhile, she has a budding relationship which is also caught up in what is happening among the group members. I would give this book 3.5 stars as the story was a slow start, but an interesting audiobook to listen to by the end. I would suggest that it is a story that may appeal to readers who like to read coming of age stories about magic and witches. Be prepared for some difficult subjects such as the issue of consent in intimate relations, philosophical debate about what constitutes good and evil, including symbolism for Satan, and death of a family member. I am voluntarily submitting this review after listening to an advanced complementary copy of this audiobook.
December 9, 2023
*4.75 stars: book; 5 stars: audiobook*
This is book one of this series. I was excited to read this book after reading the first two prequels. It had it’s spooky moments and was a bit heavy on the witchcraft, but no were near as much as “Alondra” and I would check the trigger warnings too if you have any.
I listened to the audiobook on Spotify, and was happy to listen to more of Alexa Elmy’s own splash of magic at bringing this story to life. While I was hoping that Preston Geer (who voiced Liam and the other male characters from “Alondra”) would be back to voice all of the male characters, Alexa didn’t disappoint.
I was surprised to see the dynamic of Alondra, Maddie and Candace’s relationship. I loved how protective Candace was over Maddie and how close they were. I felt a sense of Deja Vu when it came to Candace and Bryce’s relationship. They definitely had chemistry, but let their beliefs get in the way.
Candace was shy and quiet, but I loved watching her break out of her shell. I was reminded of Liam a lot when she staid in denial about magic in general and her own powers. While I empathized with her for what she went through and could understand most of her anger; I found myself getting aggravated with her for her lack of respect for Alondra outside of the coven and demanding answers, but wouldn’t let, listen to or believe what was trying to be or was told.
I was also hoping to see Liam since he told her in the second prequel that he would always be there for her, but he wasn’t mentioned and didn’t show up in the book. That was a bit disappointing since I was hoping to figure out what happened to Alondra and him and see what happened there. I was not expecting Bill (Liam’s best friend) to have the role he did in this story. That was a complete surprise to me. My heart broke at the end when Alondra dropped that bombshell of news.
I am excited to see if Candace finally embraces her powers and accepts what Alondra gifted her.
I received an e-book advanced readers copy via Author’s XP and an audiobook for Spotify advanced listeners copy via the author. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is book one of this series. I was excited to read this book after reading the first two prequels. It had it’s spooky moments and was a bit heavy on the witchcraft, but no were near as much as “Alondra” and I would check the trigger warnings too if you have any.
I listened to the audiobook on Spotify, and was happy to listen to more of Alexa Elmy’s own splash of magic at bringing this story to life. While I was hoping that Preston Geer (who voiced Liam and the other male characters from “Alondra”) would be back to voice all of the male characters, Alexa didn’t disappoint.
I was surprised to see the dynamic of Alondra, Maddie and Candace’s relationship. I loved how protective Candace was over Maddie and how close they were. I felt a sense of Deja Vu when it came to Candace and Bryce’s relationship. They definitely had chemistry, but let their beliefs get in the way.
Candace was shy and quiet, but I loved watching her break out of her shell. I was reminded of Liam a lot when she staid in denial about magic in general and her own powers. While I empathized with her for what she went through and could understand most of her anger; I found myself getting aggravated with her for her lack of respect for Alondra outside of the coven and demanding answers, but wouldn’t let, listen to or believe what was trying to be or was told.
I was also hoping to see Liam since he told her in the second prequel that he would always be there for her, but he wasn’t mentioned and didn’t show up in the book. That was a bit disappointing since I was hoping to figure out what happened to Alondra and him and see what happened there. I was not expecting Bill (Liam’s best friend) to have the role he did in this story. That was a complete surprise to me. My heart broke at the end when Alondra dropped that bombshell of news.
I am excited to see if Candace finally embraces her powers and accepts what Alondra gifted her.
I received an e-book advanced readers copy via Author’s XP and an audiobook for Spotify advanced listeners copy via the author. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 18, 2023
Wow. Not what I expected. I first discovered A.L. Hawke's writing, with her masterpiece, "The Azure Series". My second exposure was a totally different story, "Shades".
And once again, this novel is quite different from the other 2.
I'm still trying to process how I feel about it. As far as the read, I read most of it it in 1 day, so that says a lot.
Briefly, a bit more about me than I would usually state in a review to put it in context:
I am older, & despise what the world & it's culture as a whole have become. A couple years back, I started reading inexpensive paranormal ebooks as a means of escape from what feels to me like an untolerable reality. When I recently read an ARC of Azure, it was different, as I still felt the happy place escape, but it was aimed at people older than young adults (with more life experience), & I really liked that. Shades was a well written YA paranormal.
But Broomstick is far different from either. The topic is evil; deep evil. And I don't say that from a religious point of view, as I despise organized religion.
Enough about me. Broomstick is likely the most focused on pure evil of all the contemporary books I've read in the last couple of years. Think Aleister Crowley. And though it was disconcerting, I still enjoyed it. If given the opportunity, I would read books 2 & 3. One thing about A.L. Hawke: the author's writing always makes me think. I like that.
The plot is hard to summarize; there are nice people who discover they are uber powerful witches; 1 nasty witch, a supreme witch who isn't as nice as she seems; & her husband who considers himself to be Satan.
The book did leave me disturbed; but I think that is the intention. It is well crafted.
I received a copy of this book at no charge and I'm leaving an honest review.
And once again, this novel is quite different from the other 2.
I'm still trying to process how I feel about it. As far as the read, I read most of it it in 1 day, so that says a lot.
Briefly, a bit more about me than I would usually state in a review to put it in context:
I am older, & despise what the world & it's culture as a whole have become. A couple years back, I started reading inexpensive paranormal ebooks as a means of escape from what feels to me like an untolerable reality. When I recently read an ARC of Azure, it was different, as I still felt the happy place escape, but it was aimed at people older than young adults (with more life experience), & I really liked that. Shades was a well written YA paranormal.
But Broomstick is far different from either. The topic is evil; deep evil. And I don't say that from a religious point of view, as I despise organized religion.
Enough about me. Broomstick is likely the most focused on pure evil of all the contemporary books I've read in the last couple of years. Think Aleister Crowley. And though it was disconcerting, I still enjoyed it. If given the opportunity, I would read books 2 & 3. One thing about A.L. Hawke: the author's writing always makes me think. I like that.
The plot is hard to summarize; there are nice people who discover they are uber powerful witches; 1 nasty witch, a supreme witch who isn't as nice as she seems; & her husband who considers himself to be Satan.
The book did leave me disturbed; but I think that is the intention. It is well crafted.
I received a copy of this book at no charge and I'm leaving an honest review.
May 12, 2023
Broomstick is the first book in the Hawthorne University Witch Series by A.L. Hawke. It is a paranormal romance that follows the story of Cadence Hawthorne, a college student who discovers she is a witch.
Cadence has always been a bit of a loner, never really feeling as though she fit in. When she arrives at Hawthorne University and enrolls in Dr. Alondra Johansen's metaphysical history class, she starts to feel like she finally belongs.
Dr. Johansen is a powerful witch, and she quickly takes Cadence under her wing. She teaches Cadence about her heritage and helps her to develop her magical powers. Cadence also meets Bryce, Dr. Johansen's teaching assistant.
But Cadence's new life as a witch is not without its challenges. She soon discovers that there are dark forces at work on campus, and she must use her magic to protect herself and her friends.
Broomstick was fast-paced when it came to events but a bit slower when it came to character relationships and development. I find this common with first-in-a-series reads.
Cadence's character was strong and independent.
Bryce was more compassionate, always there for Cadence, no matter what.
They were a great combination together.
The supporting characters were also well-developed and added depth to the story. There were a few times I questioned if I had the right person(s) pegged as the villain(s)
The narrator really brought the scenes and the characters to life
Definitely one of those stories that I believe, for me, the audio version is better than the print one.
Some of the plot twists were predictable but not really a game changer. Also as I previously mentioned there is a lot of foundation building here and at times the story dragged a bit.
Overall I enjoyed the listen and intend to check out the next book in the series
Cadence has always been a bit of a loner, never really feeling as though she fit in. When she arrives at Hawthorne University and enrolls in Dr. Alondra Johansen's metaphysical history class, she starts to feel like she finally belongs.
Dr. Johansen is a powerful witch, and she quickly takes Cadence under her wing. She teaches Cadence about her heritage and helps her to develop her magical powers. Cadence also meets Bryce, Dr. Johansen's teaching assistant.
But Cadence's new life as a witch is not without its challenges. She soon discovers that there are dark forces at work on campus, and she must use her magic to protect herself and her friends.
Broomstick was fast-paced when it came to events but a bit slower when it came to character relationships and development. I find this common with first-in-a-series reads.
Cadence's character was strong and independent.
Bryce was more compassionate, always there for Cadence, no matter what.
They were a great combination together.
The supporting characters were also well-developed and added depth to the story. There were a few times I questioned if I had the right person(s) pegged as the villain(s)
The narrator really brought the scenes and the characters to life
Definitely one of those stories that I believe, for me, the audio version is better than the print one.
Some of the plot twists were predictable but not really a game changer. Also as I previously mentioned there is a lot of foundation building here and at times the story dragged a bit.
Overall I enjoyed the listen and intend to check out the next book in the series
September 23, 2023
Broomstick is one of the most uniquely fascinating stories I've read in the last year. I could feel the paranormal world all around me, the atmosphere was that good. Now, days later, I still haven't stopped thinking about it. It's a story that combines the spiritual, secular and metaphysical worlds and stretches the boundaries of belief. Cadence (Katie) Hawthorne and her best friend, Maddie, are beginning freshman year at Hawthorne University, but there's a sadness surrounding Cadence because her mother is dying of multiple sclerosis. She and Maddie are enchanted with their history class and the magnetic personality of their professor. Alondra teaches a history class whose primary focus is on ancient magic, and it isn't too long before Maddie and Cadence sign on to the madness that waits for them in the coven. There are enigmatic characters who populate the campus and classrooms, and each one adds a little bit more to the overall arc of the story. I have to admit that Alondra's TA, Bryce, is a good guy and an even better boyfriend. Okay, I have to admit that he might have a small problem with bathtubs! But then there's Professor Reardon who's quite the deviant devil and, thankfully, he doesn't hang around for long. The status quo is going to be broken when Alondra becomes sick and the title and the powers are handed off to Cadence. The storytelling is spot on with a nod to Nathaniel Hawthorne and characters that are cloaked in legend. Josiah Billington, Abigail and Escoba...a lovers triangle of ghosts. This is a HFN with much more to come.
Alexa Elmy does a wonderful job with the narration. Her dynamic voice and emotional range bring each character to life with their own personality and attitude.
Alexa Elmy does a wonderful job with the narration. Her dynamic voice and emotional range bring each character to life with their own personality and attitude.
April 9, 2023
Broomstick by C.C. Reilly is a thrilling tale of magic, witches, and darkness that will have you hooked from the very first page. The story follows Cadence Hawthorne, a pragmatic girl who never believed in witches until she enrolled in Dr. Alondra Johansen's metaphysical history class.
As she delves deeper into the world of magic, Cadence discovers that her element sign is Earth, which makes her more curious about her new identity. However, things take a dark turn when a sinister figure with a goatee and sardonic smile begins threatening her growing love for Bryce, Alondra's super cute teaching assistant.
The author masterfully weaves together elements of grief, love, and the supernatural to create a captivating and suspenseful read. The characters are well-developed, with Cadence being a relatable protagonist who experiences a range of emotions throughout the story.
What sets Broomstick apart from other books in the genre is its unique take on witchcraft. The book provides a fascinating insight into the world of witches and their magical practices, making it an interesting read for both believers and skeptics.
Overall, Broomstick is a well-written and engaging book that will leave you wanting more. It is perfect for fans of young adult fiction, fantasy, and supernatural stories. If you're looking for a thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then this is the book for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As she delves deeper into the world of magic, Cadence discovers that her element sign is Earth, which makes her more curious about her new identity. However, things take a dark turn when a sinister figure with a goatee and sardonic smile begins threatening her growing love for Bryce, Alondra's super cute teaching assistant.
The author masterfully weaves together elements of grief, love, and the supernatural to create a captivating and suspenseful read. The characters are well-developed, with Cadence being a relatable protagonist who experiences a range of emotions throughout the story.
What sets Broomstick apart from other books in the genre is its unique take on witchcraft. The book provides a fascinating insight into the world of witches and their magical practices, making it an interesting read for both believers and skeptics.
Overall, Broomstick is a well-written and engaging book that will leave you wanting more. It is perfect for fans of young adult fiction, fantasy, and supernatural stories. If you're looking for a thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then this is the book for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2020
ONE ACTION PACKED ADVENTURE!!!
Holy hell! Hawke unleashes one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, delivering a beautifully composed work of art, displaying an impressive storyline and gripping plot, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. A multitude of horrendous trials and formidable tribulations, exposing the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never anticipated. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, riding roughshod and imparting one block busting delight, thrusting this gem to life brilliantly. Rousting the drama, turmoil, intrigue, underlying threats, danger, spiraling suspense and nerve racking situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging bedlem, you have one mind-blowing masterpiece. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions, charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Awesome job Hawke, thanks for sharing this little treasures with us.
Holy hell! Hawke unleashes one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, delivering a beautifully composed work of art, displaying an impressive storyline and gripping plot, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. A multitude of horrendous trials and formidable tribulations, exposing the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never anticipated. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, riding roughshod and imparting one block busting delight, thrusting this gem to life brilliantly. Rousting the drama, turmoil, intrigue, underlying threats, danger, spiraling suspense and nerve racking situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging bedlem, you have one mind-blowing masterpiece. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions, charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Awesome job Hawke, thanks for sharing this little treasures with us.
May 8, 2023
This is the first time I’ve done a review on an audio book. It’s much different to simply listen opposed to forming the words in your mind and painting your own picture and hearing the voices however you are used to hearing them. I don’t know if I can say that this is the way I prefer to “read” my books or not, or that I’ll seek out more like this.
That being said, the book was enjoyable. It was something “new” for me. Yes, I have read many books about witches, and in the general genre, but this is much different than the ones that I have become accustomed to. In that, it kept me interested.
I have enjoyed A. L. Hawke’s writing before, and have written reviews on previously read books. This author has great writing skills, I am always able to follow anywhere the book takes me. The writing keeps me engaged and wanting to see what happens next.
I don’t like spoilers, so I don’t review books I read that way. I was given this book by the author to review, and I appreciate the opportunity to let people read this without me tainting the message the author wants to give. Please, if you like the world of witchcraft, give this book a listen. It will keep your attention and will take you to places you never expected when you started reading.
That being said, the book was enjoyable. It was something “new” for me. Yes, I have read many books about witches, and in the general genre, but this is much different than the ones that I have become accustomed to. In that, it kept me interested.
I have enjoyed A. L. Hawke’s writing before, and have written reviews on previously read books. This author has great writing skills, I am always able to follow anywhere the book takes me. The writing keeps me engaged and wanting to see what happens next.
I don’t like spoilers, so I don’t review books I read that way. I was given this book by the author to review, and I appreciate the opportunity to let people read this without me tainting the message the author wants to give. Please, if you like the world of witchcraft, give this book a listen. It will keep your attention and will take you to places you never expected when you started reading.
February 27, 2022
One sentence review: A bizarre witchy tale that will have you intrigued throughout.
'Broomstick' was a risk for me - it was the type of book I would have read as a teenager, but I haven't read anything like it since then. However, I found it very enjoyable!
I am a little conflicted with what age group this book is for - the main character, Cadence, is fairly immature and her actions seem to be aimed at a teenage audience. However, the in-depth seminars about religion, satan and witchcraft seem more adult. I think it's also important to note that there are talks of sexual assault throughout, which I wouldn't class as suitable content for younger YA readers.
However, the narrative itself flowed very well and the characters were very odd and quirky, which I prefer! It is quite clearly an introductory book, and not much action happens until close to the end, but it was a good first book in a series. I found myself excited throughout and it didn't ever feel dull. Some of the book is outright bizarre, but if you don't mind that then this book is for you!
Overall, I really enjoyed 'Broomstick' and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series progresses!
'Broomstick' was a risk for me - it was the type of book I would have read as a teenager, but I haven't read anything like it since then. However, I found it very enjoyable!
I am a little conflicted with what age group this book is for - the main character, Cadence, is fairly immature and her actions seem to be aimed at a teenage audience. However, the in-depth seminars about religion, satan and witchcraft seem more adult. I think it's also important to note that there are talks of sexual assault throughout, which I wouldn't class as suitable content for younger YA readers.
However, the narrative itself flowed very well and the characters were very odd and quirky, which I prefer! It is quite clearly an introductory book, and not much action happens until close to the end, but it was a good first book in a series. I found myself excited throughout and it didn't ever feel dull. Some of the book is outright bizarre, but if you don't mind that then this book is for you!
Overall, I really enjoyed 'Broomstick' and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series progresses!
May 13, 2023
💀🔥😳 A very strange reading...
Hawthorne University, Georgia:
Cadence "Katie" and her friend Madison "Maddie" walk across campus to the college cafe.
Madison is in a foul mood and tells her about her disastrous date the night before...
----------------------------
Here is a very strange reading, uncomfortable at times, certainly due to the atmosphere of the story on the theme of witchcraft, black magic. Very well described by the author.
I loved the character of Cadence "Katie" at the base, very touching, but I did not like the other characters who are all awkward and secretive.
But how did Cadence get caught up in such a story?
The book left me with a strange feeling of unease, inexplicable...
For fans of the genre.
Hawthorne University, Georgia:
Cadence "Katie" and her friend Madison "Maddie" walk across campus to the college cafe.
Madison is in a foul mood and tells her about her disastrous date the night before...
----------------------------
Here is a very strange reading, uncomfortable at times, certainly due to the atmosphere of the story on the theme of witchcraft, black magic. Very well described by the author.
I loved the character of Cadence "Katie" at the base, very touching, but I did not like the other characters who are all awkward and secretive.
But how did Cadence get caught up in such a story?
The book left me with a strange feeling of unease, inexplicable...
For fans of the genre.
April 26, 2020
Cadence’s (“Katie”) love for her friend Madison (Maddie) and her extreme like of her Student Advisor Bryce (Tall, Dark, and Handsome as she call him) - as well as her own interest in magic and sorcery - draws her into the ‘Human Study Group’.
Kind of all over the place because Katie can’t decide if she believes in Witches and Warlocks or if the ‘cult’ is only a sex induced threat to the members.
Even being said – I finished this in one day – I couldn’t put it down wanting to know what was going to happen next. And even though I am a ‘seasoned reader’ I enjoyed this young adult college paranormal romance & absolutely LOVED Katie’s choice of music!
Kind of all over the place because Katie can’t decide if she believes in Witches and Warlocks or if the ‘cult’ is only a sex induced threat to the members.
Even being said – I finished this in one day – I couldn’t put it down wanting to know what was going to happen next. And even though I am a ‘seasoned reader’ I enjoyed this young adult college paranormal romance & absolutely LOVED Katie’s choice of music!
April 1, 2023
The book was not what I was expecting. I can see the attraction for some readers. To me, the book is geared towards young adults, however, some of the content is more an adult arena. I love paranormal stories, and like books of different genres. I was not able to get into this story, which is a rarity for me. The story is focused on good and evil, people are not always as they portray themselves. Narration was well done.
I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 20, 2023
Cadence Hawthorne is a student at Hawthorne University. Her best friend Maddie, who also attends Hawthorne, convinces her to join a club she has joined. At first Cadence hesitates as the club seems like a cult to her. The leader of the club or coven, as they like to call themselves, Alondra, wants her to join because she believes Cadence is a descendent of the Hawthorne witch and that she has great power if she would just believe. This book chronicles her journey from not believing to finally accepting her what she is, a witch.
February 26, 2024
I generally love fantasy stories or stories that live within magic and reality. This story about a unwittingly budding witch was an easy read, but hard to get through. I really tried to stick with this story because I thought it would get better. Needless to say it did not. It has well written descriptions of the surrounding area, but the protagonist is very whiny and the ending was abrupt. I was having a hard time staying engaged mainly because I was annoyed by the main character. This is the first time in a long time that I didn't want to finish a book.
April 28, 2020
Broomstick by A.L. Hawke is a wonderful story that I have had the privilege to read. I loved reading this story very much it was written by a brand new author for me to read and has strong characters with a fantastic story line, I can not wait to read more form this amazing new author. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about witches, fantasy and paranormal romance.
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.
July 10, 2020
Conflicted
The story as a whole was entertaining, but I found some of the angry drama to be a little much. However, I think it needed to be that way to sell the ending. The anger seems to be an unusual thing for the main character, and then it becomes the normal. Do I wish it had been written a little differently, yes. Am I happy that I spent the time reading it, also yes. ...and there's the conflict.
The story as a whole was entertaining, but I found some of the angry drama to be a little much. However, I think it needed to be that way to sell the ending. The anger seems to be an unusual thing for the main character, and then it becomes the normal. Do I wish it had been written a little differently, yes. Am I happy that I spent the time reading it, also yes. ...and there's the conflict.
October 24, 2020
4.3 stars for Broomstick by A L Hawke
Let me preface this by admitting I am too old at 70 to really empathize with YA fantasy romances in most cases. That certainly applies to this story, because I would be exhausted if I worried about everything all the time and threw temper tantrums daily. The story about the coven and witches in general was interesting and fun. PS loved the cover!
Let me preface this by admitting I am too old at 70 to really empathize with YA fantasy romances in most cases. That certainly applies to this story, because I would be exhausted if I worried about everything all the time and threw temper tantrums daily. The story about the coven and witches in general was interesting and fun. PS loved the cover!
April 10, 2023
This is the first book in The Hawthorne University Witch Series, a Dark Fantasy Series. The story is darker than expected. The characters are enigmatic. The storyline is original, raw, intense, confusing, and complex, filled with mystery, secrets, and twists and turns. Great narration from Alexa Elmy. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. #Booksprout
May 17, 2023
Audiobook: This was my first experience with A. L. Hawke's work, and it was intriguing. The worldbuilding was extensive. The characters were dark and complicated. The story was fast paced. There were some dark and mature themes explored within the contents of this story. Alexa Elmy's narration was fine, and her performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
May 25, 2023
I received a copy of this audio book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. Ok so this was not my cup of tea sorry to much teenage angst. Not sure if I am just sick of all the winning in book or my taste has changed but I just couldn’t do it. I did t even get have way through the book. I may have been the person reading the book as well as her voice was a bit annoy to me.
Thank you to the author for allowing the opportunity to read you work but I just couldn’t get into this one.
Thank you to the author for allowing the opportunity to read you work but I just couldn’t get into this one.
June 13, 2020
Loved it
I found this book on Kindle Unlimited right in the middle of a reading slump.
I'm not in a slump anymore...this book caught me right from the start and I had a hard time putting it down
I'm not one to spoil a story so I'm just going to say Get it and I hope you enjoy it like I did
I found this book on Kindle Unlimited right in the middle of a reading slump.
I'm not in a slump anymore...this book caught me right from the start and I had a hard time putting it down
I'm not one to spoil a story so I'm just going to say Get it and I hope you enjoy it like I did
October 5, 2020
3 1/2 stars. A cute paranormal fantasy that involves witches at a university in Georgia. Katie has a lot to deal with: her best friend's strange behavior, her attraction to a teacher, a coven of witches that includes a devil worshiper her feelings between good and evil. Magic and sorcery, romance, and a touch of humor.
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