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Enchanted Autumn
When Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie shows up in Salem, Massachusetts to study the witch trials, Hazel and her best friend, Roxy, are both instantly attracted to the workaholic professor. Roxy snags a date with Elizabeth first, but when their chemistry fizzles out, Hazel sees an opportunity to pursue Elizabeth herself—until she realizes Elizabeth is avowedly anti-magic.
That’s definitely a problem since Hazel is a bona fide witch: rides a broom, has a black cat, brews love potions, lives in a haunted house, and has a vampire ex-girlfriend. Roxy is the only person who knows the truth, and Hazel has gotten used to hiding who she is, but she can’t live a lie with the person she loves most. Can Hazel give up magic to make it work with Elizabeth? Or will she give up on the love of her life instead?
That’s definitely a problem since Hazel is a bona fide witch: rides a broom, has a black cat, brews love potions, lives in a haunted house, and has a vampire ex-girlfriend. Roxy is the only person who knows the truth, and Hazel has gotten used to hiding who she is, but she can’t live a lie with the person she loves most. Can Hazel give up magic to make it work with Elizabeth? Or will she give up on the love of her life instead?
266 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
About the author
Ursula Klein
1 book6 followersUrsula Klein is originally from Maryland, where she grew up and attended university. She taught ESL in Europe after college, then returned to the United States and pursued graduate studies in New York. She has since lived in Tennessee, Texas, and Georgia before landing in her current location, Wisconsin. Ursula loves reading fantasy, romance, science fiction, and mysteries; she also enjoys crocheting, traveling, and spending time with her wife and young son. She is a huge fan of dressing up in costumes, loves celebrating Halloween, and was probably a witch in a past life.
Librarian note: Multiple authors with the same name in the GR database; this author is entered with 2 spaces.
Librarian note: Multiple authors with the same name in the GR database; this author is entered with 2 spaces.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 11, 2022
Witches.
This book is meant to be fun, a comedy like Bewitched, with magical love potions and exaggerated reactions rather than a sizzling romance.
It's written in the POVs of three characters - Hazel, Elizabeth and Roxy, and even though there's a hint of a love triangle, Roxy never really stood a chance because Elizabeth wasn't interested so Hazel makes a play for Elizabeth instead and Elizabeth reciprocates. The problem though is that Hazel is a witch like Samantha in Bewitched and Elizabeth is adamant that the supernatural doesn't exist and she's of course, proven wrong.
This story is light and enjoyable and apart from Hazel the witch, there's also a ghost, vampire and talking cat to populate the story. This isn't exactly the kind of story I would typically read but if it suits you, you'd likely enjoy it.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is meant to be fun, a comedy like Bewitched, with magical love potions and exaggerated reactions rather than a sizzling romance.
It's written in the POVs of three characters - Hazel, Elizabeth and Roxy, and even though there's a hint of a love triangle, Roxy never really stood a chance because Elizabeth wasn't interested so Hazel makes a play for Elizabeth instead and Elizabeth reciprocates. The problem though is that Hazel is a witch like Samantha in Bewitched and Elizabeth is adamant that the supernatural doesn't exist and she's of course, proven wrong.
This story is light and enjoyable and apart from Hazel the witch, there's also a ghost, vampire and talking cat to populate the story. This isn't exactly the kind of story I would typically read but if it suits you, you'd likely enjoy it.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2022
3.25 Stars
“Enchanted Autumn” is a paranormal romance by debut author Ursula Klein.
Hazel and Roxy are best friends in Salem, Massachusetts. They are together when they meet a visiting history professor, Elizabeth. Hazel and Roxy are both interested in Elizabeth but she’s more interested in Hazel. Hazel is quite happy with this until she realizes that even though Elizabeth is in town researching the witch trials, she doesn’t actually believe in witches or magic or any of that nonsense. The problem for Hazel is that she is most definitely a real witch. Not only that, she has a vampire for an ex-girlfriend and her house has a friendly ghost living there.
This was an interesting read for me. Even though there are otherworldly beings (what they preferred to be called) besides humans, most of them hide who they really are in public. It’s mentioned that there’s a community of otherworldly beings but we meet exactly one witch, one vampire, one ghost and one fae, which kind of amused me honestly. I would have liked to see more of the magical world than what we got. This was more contemporary where one of the main’s just happens to be a witch than anything else.
By the cover you can tell this is on the lighter side of things. There’s a couple of different love triangles going on with different characters, though none are too serious. The biggest issue is how Elizabeth will react when she finds out magic really does exist and that Hazel is a witch. Hazel hides from the world but doesn’t want to hide her true self from her love so she’s torn about what to do.
The reason I didn’t love this more was a couple of different things. I’m not a fan of point of views outside the two main love interests so the fact that we also get Roxy’s point of view annoyed me. She generally annoyed me so having her pov really didn’t help things. I also wasn’t a fan of Elizabeth. She comes off snobby and rude several different times and I just never warmed up to her.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Enchanted Autumn” is a paranormal romance by debut author Ursula Klein.
Hazel and Roxy are best friends in Salem, Massachusetts. They are together when they meet a visiting history professor, Elizabeth. Hazel and Roxy are both interested in Elizabeth but she’s more interested in Hazel. Hazel is quite happy with this until she realizes that even though Elizabeth is in town researching the witch trials, she doesn’t actually believe in witches or magic or any of that nonsense. The problem for Hazel is that she is most definitely a real witch. Not only that, she has a vampire for an ex-girlfriend and her house has a friendly ghost living there.
This was an interesting read for me. Even though there are otherworldly beings (what they preferred to be called) besides humans, most of them hide who they really are in public. It’s mentioned that there’s a community of otherworldly beings but we meet exactly one witch, one vampire, one ghost and one fae, which kind of amused me honestly. I would have liked to see more of the magical world than what we got. This was more contemporary where one of the main’s just happens to be a witch than anything else.
By the cover you can tell this is on the lighter side of things. There’s a couple of different love triangles going on with different characters, though none are too serious. The biggest issue is how Elizabeth will react when she finds out magic really does exist and that Hazel is a witch. Hazel hides from the world but doesn’t want to hide her true self from her love so she’s torn about what to do.
The reason I didn’t love this more was a couple of different things. I’m not a fan of point of views outside the two main love interests so the fact that we also get Roxy’s point of view annoyed me. She generally annoyed me so having her pov really didn’t help things. I also wasn’t a fan of Elizabeth. She comes off snobby and rude several different times and I just never warmed up to her.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2022
Featured presentation: Enchanted Autumn by Ursula Klein
This Halloween, love is magical. Do you believe?
Cast: Hazel not only runs a witch themed shop in Salem, Massachusetts, she really is a witch. She does not resemble a Grimm brothers’ witch, but her whole family is Otherworldly. Her ex-girlfriend is a vampire, for crying out loud. She has never dated a human… Dr Elizabeth Cowrie is a devoted academic. She had to fight for her spot in academia and most certainly do not believe in magic and such nonsense, despite the fact that she is studying the Salem witch trials. Roxy is Hazel’s best friend and the only human who knows just how magical Hazel truly is. She has difficulty with relationships and trust in general as a result of her parents’ divorces.
The Plot: Hazel and Roxy both find Elizabeth captivating. The good doctor, however, only has eyes for Hazel even though Roxy gets there first. Our young friends decide to assist Elizabeth in her research. And if they can convince Elizabeth that magic is real, Hazel might actually have a shot at love. The road to love is not an easy one, especially not once magic is involved…
The blazing: I adored the word choices and punctuation! There is a fine line between comprehensive vocabulary and sounding pretentious and Ms Klein walks it perfectly. And then there are colons and semi-colons – simply scrumptious…
The bright: Both Roxy and Hazel are attracted to Elizabeth from the first moment they see her and I thought I were in for instalove… It turned out to rather be instant attraction and the characters spent time getting to know each other. Hazel shows early on how much she cherishes Roxy and their friendship is portrayed beautifully, yet realistically throughout the book. Apologies form an important part of the interactions between the characters and it was nice to see each of them realizing their mistakes and being willing to atone for it.
Hazel is clearly a cat person! Not only is her familiar a large, black cat named Beezle, consent is an important issue when it comes to her magic.
Foxy Roxy starts out as a quirky best friend character, but I found her the best written. She is clearly misguided and more than just a little bit messed up from her upbringing. Initially, she comes across as unintelligent, but we learn she is actually just uninformed. She has an aversion to academic learning, but she oozes her own special brand of charm. I had to smile whenever she mixed up a metaphor!
I also liked the differences in the characters' vernacular. Elizabeth is from England and it is clear from her word choices. Roxy also has a very informal way of speaking with lots of slang thrown in. Elizabeth is the highly educated professional and one can hear it from the way she speaks. Hazel (and most of the smaller characters) fall somewhere in between.
The magic potions also deserve a mention. It was refreshing that the potions were rooted in reality. They are meant to enhance existing aspects and do not have the power to create something out of thin air.
Throughout the book there are minor details or mentions of lesbian or queer characters. These were artfully applied and gives us a unique view of Salem. Attention to detail were also liberally applied for the scenery.
The bleak: Despite Roxy’s antics, the characters felt a bit two-dimensional. Elizabeth, especially, felt not fleshed out enough. She is meant to be a workaholic historian, but she is easily distracted by the appearance of two beautiful women.
There is quite a bit of conflict between the characters and every time it is resolved in a timely manner which felt a bit rushed – heartache does not disappear that quickly…
It is also a bit hard to believe that Roxy and Hazel are Monty Python fans, but are unfamiliar with the English vernacular.
The epilogue felt a bit content heavy, but this will be a matter of taste…
The burned-to-ashes: Nothing. Not even a vampire…
And then The Plot Thickens enough to give us a solid story of trickery and it treats us to a myriad of magical mishaps. Enchanted Autumn may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is worth the read. It is quite possible that Ms Klein’s debut will find a comfortable spot amongst Halloween favourites and will be reread every year during October.
Studio: Bold Stokes Books
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by Bold Stokes Books and NetGalley.
This Halloween, love is magical. Do you believe?
Cast: Hazel not only runs a witch themed shop in Salem, Massachusetts, she really is a witch. She does not resemble a Grimm brothers’ witch, but her whole family is Otherworldly. Her ex-girlfriend is a vampire, for crying out loud. She has never dated a human… Dr Elizabeth Cowrie is a devoted academic. She had to fight for her spot in academia and most certainly do not believe in magic and such nonsense, despite the fact that she is studying the Salem witch trials. Roxy is Hazel’s best friend and the only human who knows just how magical Hazel truly is. She has difficulty with relationships and trust in general as a result of her parents’ divorces.
The Plot: Hazel and Roxy both find Elizabeth captivating. The good doctor, however, only has eyes for Hazel even though Roxy gets there first. Our young friends decide to assist Elizabeth in her research. And if they can convince Elizabeth that magic is real, Hazel might actually have a shot at love. The road to love is not an easy one, especially not once magic is involved…
The blazing: I adored the word choices and punctuation! There is a fine line between comprehensive vocabulary and sounding pretentious and Ms Klein walks it perfectly. And then there are colons and semi-colons – simply scrumptious…
The bright: Both Roxy and Hazel are attracted to Elizabeth from the first moment they see her and I thought I were in for instalove… It turned out to rather be instant attraction and the characters spent time getting to know each other. Hazel shows early on how much she cherishes Roxy and their friendship is portrayed beautifully, yet realistically throughout the book. Apologies form an important part of the interactions between the characters and it was nice to see each of them realizing their mistakes and being willing to atone for it.
Hazel is clearly a cat person! Not only is her familiar a large, black cat named Beezle, consent is an important issue when it comes to her magic.
Foxy Roxy starts out as a quirky best friend character, but I found her the best written. She is clearly misguided and more than just a little bit messed up from her upbringing. Initially, she comes across as unintelligent, but we learn she is actually just uninformed. She has an aversion to academic learning, but she oozes her own special brand of charm. I had to smile whenever she mixed up a metaphor!
I also liked the differences in the characters' vernacular. Elizabeth is from England and it is clear from her word choices. Roxy also has a very informal way of speaking with lots of slang thrown in. Elizabeth is the highly educated professional and one can hear it from the way she speaks. Hazel (and most of the smaller characters) fall somewhere in between.
The magic potions also deserve a mention. It was refreshing that the potions were rooted in reality. They are meant to enhance existing aspects and do not have the power to create something out of thin air.
Throughout the book there are minor details or mentions of lesbian or queer characters. These were artfully applied and gives us a unique view of Salem. Attention to detail were also liberally applied for the scenery.
The bleak: Despite Roxy’s antics, the characters felt a bit two-dimensional. Elizabeth, especially, felt not fleshed out enough. She is meant to be a workaholic historian, but she is easily distracted by the appearance of two beautiful women.
There is quite a bit of conflict between the characters and every time it is resolved in a timely manner which felt a bit rushed – heartache does not disappear that quickly…
It is also a bit hard to believe that Roxy and Hazel are Monty Python fans, but are unfamiliar with the English vernacular.
The epilogue felt a bit content heavy, but this will be a matter of taste…
The burned-to-ashes: Nothing. Not even a vampire…
And then The Plot Thickens enough to give us a solid story of trickery and it treats us to a myriad of magical mishaps. Enchanted Autumn may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is worth the read. It is quite possible that Ms Klein’s debut will find a comfortable spot amongst Halloween favourites and will be reread every year during October.
Studio: Bold Stokes Books
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by Bold Stokes Books and NetGalley.
March 8, 2022
Seems kind of pointless to note: this is the first book I've read by this author when: this is the author's first book. Doesn't read like a first book.
This is one of those few books I'd actually pre-ordered before publication. I'd modify that with something like "by an author I've not read before", but there are few authors I tend to preorder books from. Let's move on.
Why was I interested? Something about the cover and description caught my eye and attention. Book was not what expected, but still good.
This book takes place during Halloween and, quite frankly, I'm not sure why this book didn't get published around that time of year. Sure, I've read and liked/loved books with certain themes at non-theme related times of the year. A skiing/winter vacation book read in the middle of summer; a summer book while Christmas music is playing in retail stores; a Christmas book in June. Still, there is a possibility I would have rated this slightly more if I had read in October or early November.
Right, so. This was a weird one in terms of point of view. Let me take a moment to make sure I'm remembering this book correctly. The point of views in this book are: Roxy & Hazel, best friends of each other (and residents of Salem), plus Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie, British person. Quite frankly, I don't think it worked that well, and, also quite frankly, I would have loved if I did not have Roxy's point of view. It wasn't needed and was distracting.
Right, so: Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie is a British professor in Salem Massachusetts to get on hand access to some archives - she is writing a book on the Salem Witch Trials. No, she does not believe in Witches (is important point).
Meanwhile: Hazel, a real life witch, owns a bookstore that has some of that "touristy" witchy stuff a lot of the other stores in Salem have. Roxy, meanwhile, is Hazel's best friend, and ... um, a sporty person. She's a tour guide. Dates frequently and often, also loses interest super quickly.
Well, all the above is important in one way or another to the plot line of the book. Like: Roxy flirts heavily with Elizabeth upon first meeting. While Elizabeth doesn't really appear to have any interest in Roxy, Hazel backs off and allows Roxy "her shot". For . . . reasons. Mind you: when Roxy began this heavy flirtation, she was, at the time, currently dating (so seriously, that she had begged, before Elizabeth turned up, for Hazel to give her some love potion).
Right, so: Roxy, Hazel, & Dr. Elizabeth circle each other, while Hazel's ex-Camilie (who, shockingly doesn't have a point of view in the story) circles Hazel trying to restart a relationship. Oh, and Camilie (or was that Camilia?) is a real life vampire. (and is obviously based off of that vampire lesbian web series Carmilla . . . or, if not, she acts exactly like Carmilla from that series; mmphs. I just now looked for that web series and can't find it).
Okay, where was I? Oh, right. Setting Salem. Plot: British researcher in Salem to research Salem witch trials. Three POV characters. Many more of importance (well, more). Multiple love hook-ups. May or many not have supposed to been something intended to be filled with humor, but, if so, I didn't really spot it ("filled with humor" - mostly because of the weird stuff that unfolds in the book).
Good solid book.
Rating: 3.68
March 7 2022
This is one of those few books I'd actually pre-ordered before publication. I'd modify that with something like "by an author I've not read before", but there are few authors I tend to preorder books from. Let's move on.
Why was I interested? Something about the cover and description caught my eye and attention. Book was not what expected, but still good.
This book takes place during Halloween and, quite frankly, I'm not sure why this book didn't get published around that time of year. Sure, I've read and liked/loved books with certain themes at non-theme related times of the year. A skiing/winter vacation book read in the middle of summer; a summer book while Christmas music is playing in retail stores; a Christmas book in June. Still, there is a possibility I would have rated this slightly more if I had read in October or early November.
Right, so. This was a weird one in terms of point of view. Let me take a moment to make sure I'm remembering this book correctly. The point of views in this book are: Roxy & Hazel, best friends of each other (and residents of Salem), plus Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie, British person. Quite frankly, I don't think it worked that well, and, also quite frankly, I would have loved if I did not have Roxy's point of view. It wasn't needed and was distracting.
Right, so: Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie is a British professor in Salem Massachusetts to get on hand access to some archives - she is writing a book on the Salem Witch Trials. No, she does not believe in Witches (is important point).
Meanwhile: Hazel, a real life witch, owns a bookstore that has some of that "touristy" witchy stuff a lot of the other stores in Salem have. Roxy, meanwhile, is Hazel's best friend, and ... um, a sporty person. She's a tour guide. Dates frequently and often, also loses interest super quickly.
Well, all the above is important in one way or another to the plot line of the book. Like: Roxy flirts heavily with Elizabeth upon first meeting. While Elizabeth doesn't really appear to have any interest in Roxy, Hazel backs off and allows Roxy "her shot". For . . . reasons. Mind you: when Roxy began this heavy flirtation, she was, at the time, currently dating (so seriously, that she had begged, before Elizabeth turned up, for Hazel to give her some love potion).
Right, so: Roxy, Hazel, & Dr. Elizabeth circle each other, while Hazel's ex-Camilie (who, shockingly doesn't have a point of view in the story) circles Hazel trying to restart a relationship. Oh, and Camilie (or was that Camilia?) is a real life vampire. (and is obviously based off of that vampire lesbian web series Carmilla . . . or, if not, she acts exactly like Carmilla from that series; mmphs. I just now looked for that web series and can't find it).
Okay, where was I? Oh, right. Setting Salem. Plot: British researcher in Salem to research Salem witch trials. Three POV characters. Many more of importance (well, more). Multiple love hook-ups. May or many not have supposed to been something intended to be filled with humor, but, if so, I didn't really spot it ("filled with humor" - mostly because of the weird stuff that unfolds in the book).
Good solid book.
Rating: 3.68
March 7 2022
February 17, 2022
Dr Elizabeth Cowrie is on sabbatical from her job at an English university doing some research on the Salem witch trials. She meets Hazel and her best friend Roxy, two locals who would both like to be more than friends with Elizabeth. Hazel though is a real witch and trying to keep that secret from Elizabeth turns into a full time job. Especially as they navigate through Salem and all the otherworldly spirits, vampires and talking cats that Hazel knows and loves.
I liked the plot of this book and it was very well written. I also liked the two MCs, both were sweet and seemed well suited for each other. The shenanigans that Hazel goes through was pretty entertaining and sometimes hilarious. Camille was a great villain and created a lot of trouble for poor Hazel as well, she was constantly up to no good. I did not care for Roxy at all though, she comes off as childish and selfish throughout the whole book. She acts like a man child used to getting her own way and pouts and throws a tantrum until she gets her way. She also is very pushy and won’t take no for an answer and seems borderline stalkerish at times. I would have not been surprised if she had roofied Alicia or Elizabeth’s drinks in her quest for a girlfriend. I liked this book but could have done without Roxy. I will definitely be on the lookout for future releases by Ursula Klein, fingers crossed they don’t have another Roxy.
I liked the plot of this book and it was very well written. I also liked the two MCs, both were sweet and seemed well suited for each other. The shenanigans that Hazel goes through was pretty entertaining and sometimes hilarious. Camille was a great villain and created a lot of trouble for poor Hazel as well, she was constantly up to no good. I did not care for Roxy at all though, she comes off as childish and selfish throughout the whole book. She acts like a man child used to getting her own way and pouts and throws a tantrum until she gets her way. She also is very pushy and won’t take no for an answer and seems borderline stalkerish at times. I would have not been surprised if she had roofied Alicia or Elizabeth’s drinks in her quest for a girlfriend. I liked this book but could have done without Roxy. I will definitely be on the lookout for future releases by Ursula Klein, fingers crossed they don’t have another Roxy.
February 9, 2022
Magical Fun!
Elizabeth is in Salem studying the witch trials when she meets best friends Roxy and Hazel. After a failed date with Roxy, Elizabeth finds herself exploring her feelings for Hazel, who owns a little shop that has all things magical. Elizabeth isn’t much a believer in magic, which becomes a problem for Hazel when she realises they have the potential for a great relationship, but how can she be honest with Elizabeth about the fact she is actually a witch!
This story was so much fun! Filled with magical moments, comedy, drama, and pesky otherworldly beings in Salem that can’t help but interfere in things where Hazel’s personal life is concerned. Each new chapter brought wonder and a new element the story that had the potential to mess with things in a way that only magic can.
All the character dynamics were fascinating. From the relationship between Hazel and Elizabeth to the beautiful friendship between Roxy and Hazel, every character had such personality and part to play in the outcome. Hazel’s life is magical madness but that was the most enjoyable bit of the story, in no other place and with no other person, would such things happen than to Hazel in Salem!
I really enjoyed the whole story, moments shared between Hazel and Elizabeth were truly magical, even when nothing physically magical was at played and I believed in them greatly. They were exciting together and alone we got to know each of them quite intimately through thoughts and feelings they shared. It was easy to get thoroughly immersed in the moments with the characters and just feel like you were there with them, having the magical experiences, and indulging in the mayhem magic typically causes.
A great debut from Ursula Klein that has left me really excited for what she’ll bring next. Hopefully there are more magical stories in store, and that some of them will include Roxy, Hazel, Elizabeth and perhaps some of the other amazing characters from this story. A lovely romance that will suit both romance readers and those that like an element of fantasy too!
Elizabeth is in Salem studying the witch trials when she meets best friends Roxy and Hazel. After a failed date with Roxy, Elizabeth finds herself exploring her feelings for Hazel, who owns a little shop that has all things magical. Elizabeth isn’t much a believer in magic, which becomes a problem for Hazel when she realises they have the potential for a great relationship, but how can she be honest with Elizabeth about the fact she is actually a witch!
This story was so much fun! Filled with magical moments, comedy, drama, and pesky otherworldly beings in Salem that can’t help but interfere in things where Hazel’s personal life is concerned. Each new chapter brought wonder and a new element the story that had the potential to mess with things in a way that only magic can.
All the character dynamics were fascinating. From the relationship between Hazel and Elizabeth to the beautiful friendship between Roxy and Hazel, every character had such personality and part to play in the outcome. Hazel’s life is magical madness but that was the most enjoyable bit of the story, in no other place and with no other person, would such things happen than to Hazel in Salem!
I really enjoyed the whole story, moments shared between Hazel and Elizabeth were truly magical, even when nothing physically magical was at played and I believed in them greatly. They were exciting together and alone we got to know each of them quite intimately through thoughts and feelings they shared. It was easy to get thoroughly immersed in the moments with the characters and just feel like you were there with them, having the magical experiences, and indulging in the mayhem magic typically causes.
A great debut from Ursula Klein that has left me really excited for what she’ll bring next. Hopefully there are more magical stories in store, and that some of them will include Roxy, Hazel, Elizabeth and perhaps some of the other amazing characters from this story. A lovely romance that will suit both romance readers and those that like an element of fantasy too!
January 25, 2022
'Enchanted Autumn’ is an engaging romance, full of magic, interesting characters and the perfect setting. Hazel is a Salem witch – and a real one at that. With a black cat, her very own broom stick and a penchant for potion-making, she is proud of who she is. That is until English academic, Dr Elizabeth Cowrie, arrives in town. The history researcher has an interest in the Salem witch trials, but does not believe in magic. In fact she scoffs at the very idea that it may exist. Hazel’s attraction to her is going to be a problem, as she must decide if she’s willing to give up her true self in pursuit of love.
I loved that the story was set in Salem. The author managed to weave some historical details from the witch trials into this modern romance. But it was ultimately about the triumph of magic, of love. Hazel was an astute businesswoman, but still managed to stay true to her roots. Her witchcraft was important to her and to the whole community, even if some of them were not aware of her true nature. Elizabeth may have been a sceptic, but she was kind, passionate and intelligent. I adored the ‘Britishisms’ scattered throughout the story. They were spot-on. I also enjoyed the writing style, which pulled me into their world, a world I’d like to revisit.
I was given this ARC to review.
I loved that the story was set in Salem. The author managed to weave some historical details from the witch trials into this modern romance. But it was ultimately about the triumph of magic, of love. Hazel was an astute businesswoman, but still managed to stay true to her roots. Her witchcraft was important to her and to the whole community, even if some of them were not aware of her true nature. Elizabeth may have been a sceptic, but she was kind, passionate and intelligent. I adored the ‘Britishisms’ scattered throughout the story. They were spot-on. I also enjoyed the writing style, which pulled me into their world, a world I’d like to revisit.
I was given this ARC to review.
June 27, 2022
2.5 rounded to 3
Hazel is living the dream as an actual witch who lives in Salem, Massachusetts in a beautiful historical home that’s haunted by a friendly ghost and she also has a popular spiritualist shop/book store. She runs into issues with her love life when she’s trying to get over her vampire ex, but falls for the new professor in town who thinks magic isn’t real, and that kitschy Salem is ridiculous. Hazel struggles with keeping magic a secret from humans in general while also trying to get Elizabeth, the professor, to believe. This was more cutesy then what I was expecting. It really has Bewitched, or Sabrina The Teenage Witch vibes (the 90’s one). The pacing was slow for me and even though it’s not a long read it began to drag a lot. The characters also felt like too much. I think maybe the author was trying to exaggerate their personality traits, but it didn’t really work for me. For instance Roxy, the best friend, has childhood trauma from her parent’s nasty divorce and I enjoyed how the author handled Roxy’s vulnerability when speaking about it, but she was too all over the place. Even making one weird (playful, I guess?) comment in the beginning to Hazel and then never bringing it up again. Roxy bounced back and forth between her on again off again girlfriend and Elizabeth that sort of hinted at a love triangle between the three mains that never actually really happened. I really enjoyed the overall supernatural/witchy vibes, but the storyline went in several directions that kind of felt like they didn’t go anywhere.
Hazel is living the dream as an actual witch who lives in Salem, Massachusetts in a beautiful historical home that’s haunted by a friendly ghost and she also has a popular spiritualist shop/book store. She runs into issues with her love life when she’s trying to get over her vampire ex, but falls for the new professor in town who thinks magic isn’t real, and that kitschy Salem is ridiculous. Hazel struggles with keeping magic a secret from humans in general while also trying to get Elizabeth, the professor, to believe. This was more cutesy then what I was expecting. It really has Bewitched, or Sabrina The Teenage Witch vibes (the 90’s one). The pacing was slow for me and even though it’s not a long read it began to drag a lot. The characters also felt like too much. I think maybe the author was trying to exaggerate their personality traits, but it didn’t really work for me. For instance Roxy, the best friend, has childhood trauma from her parent’s nasty divorce and I enjoyed how the author handled Roxy’s vulnerability when speaking about it, but she was too all over the place. Even making one weird (playful, I guess?) comment in the beginning to Hazel and then never bringing it up again. Roxy bounced back and forth between her on again off again girlfriend and Elizabeth that sort of hinted at a love triangle between the three mains that never actually really happened. I really enjoyed the overall supernatural/witchy vibes, but the storyline went in several directions that kind of felt like they didn’t go anywhere.
February 15, 2022
Elizabeth is in Salem as an English professor looking to study the witch trials when she meets best friend witch duo Roxy and Hazel. The friends both set their sites on Elizabeth which results in a failed date with Roxy and a potentially amazing relationship with Hazel. However there is one problem, Elizabeth doesn’t believe in magic. As Hazel tries to figure out how to broach the subject the story explores fun times, dramatic times and some other worldly madness.
The characters in this are beautiful and lovable and the exploration of both the romantic and friendship relationships were deep and compelling allowing you do become completely lost in the characters lives. I am a massive fan of all things witchy and I loved how the magic was written within the world and how it affected their relationships. A great supernatural romance suitable for all readers.
This was an amazing debut and I hope for more magical stories from Klein.
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for letting me read and ARC.
The characters in this are beautiful and lovable and the exploration of both the romantic and friendship relationships were deep and compelling allowing you do become completely lost in the characters lives. I am a massive fan of all things witchy and I loved how the magic was written within the world and how it affected their relationships. A great supernatural romance suitable for all readers.
This was an amazing debut and I hope for more magical stories from Klein.
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for letting me read and ARC.
February 12, 2022
Hazel runs a books and tourist gift shop in Salem, MA, called the Witch Is In. Hazel is a witch. Her best friend Roxy is a bit girl crazy and presses for Hazel to enhance her chances in love with potions and spells. Dr. Elizabeth Cowrie comes to Salem to do historical research and meets both locals. Hazel and Roxy are both interested but Roxy acts faster. Elizabeth is nice but comes off a bit snooty and aloof, looking down on the kitschiness of Salem and H & R's work. She also does not believe in magic, ghosts etc.
The basic story is good and I like Salem as the setting. Especially with the extra craziness that comes from being near Halloween. But parts of the story feel clunky. I didn't like Roxy and Hazel both having interest in Elizabeth. And the use of spells, potions and glamouring blur the lines of consent. (Although the author takes care not to cross that line.) Of the threesome I only liked Hazel. And I'm not sure why she was attracted to Elizabeth. Roxy felt more like comic relief but some of her malapropism didn't seem funny. This was nice to read but I didn't really care who ended up who at the end. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The basic story is good and I like Salem as the setting. Especially with the extra craziness that comes from being near Halloween. But parts of the story feel clunky. I didn't like Roxy and Hazel both having interest in Elizabeth. And the use of spells, potions and glamouring blur the lines of consent. (Although the author takes care not to cross that line.) Of the threesome I only liked Hazel. And I'm not sure why she was attracted to Elizabeth. Roxy felt more like comic relief but some of her malapropism didn't seem funny. This was nice to read but I didn't really care who ended up who at the end. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Hazel and Roxy both share a attraction to Dr. Elizabeth who comes to Salem, Massachusetts to study witch trials even though she doesn’t believe in magic. Hazel is actually a witch and enjoys being one but wonders should she hide who she is to be with Elizabeth or realize she doesn’t have to give up who she is if Elizabeth can’t accept her.
I like how the author weave in historical facts into the story I like Hazel although she sweet and kind she can stand up for herself I like that the author handle the love triangle very well ex vampire girlfriend Camille she was bit much. Overall good debut for the author.
Hazel and Roxy both share a attraction to Dr. Elizabeth who comes to Salem, Massachusetts to study witch trials even though she doesn’t believe in magic. Hazel is actually a witch and enjoys being one but wonders should she hide who she is to be with Elizabeth or realize she doesn’t have to give up who she is if Elizabeth can’t accept her.
I like how the author weave in historical facts into the story I like Hazel although she sweet and kind she can stand up for herself I like that the author handle the love triangle very well ex vampire girlfriend Camille she was bit much. Overall good debut for the author.
February 24, 2022
“We all thought there was but one truth to believe, not knowing there was more than one truth.”
So we’re off to a fairly well-trodden start. Suddenly I remember I’m a grumpy, cynical old demiace and ask past me what I was thinking.
But actually, I get settled in pretty quickly. We start by getting to know Hazel & Roxy: best friends, lesbians, not interested in each other – got it.
That established, we start getting to know them as narrative moves through Hazel, Roxy and, later, Elizabeth.
I found liking Roxy difficult at first. She is clearly self-centred and somewhat arrogant and oblivious of others. Her surprise that Elizabeth doesn’t immediately fall all over her was off-putting, especially when she tries to force past those boundaries.
But when we see her through Hazel’s eyes – a people-pleaser, kind and warm – we are invited to see it as more of a spilling out of her exuberant nature. And though events later do dampen that somewhat, the overall picture on leaving the book is of a good, kind person who acts without thinking, but also puts the same energy into improving things and helping.
Hazel is clearly written to be sympathetic. She is good, kind, aware, patient, understanding, and a bit of a doormat. She is very much what she appears to be on the surface (magic excluded), and she is working hard on fighting those people-pleaser instincts so she can think first, before answering – something shown to good effect with Camille.
Interestingly as well, though we begin with Roxy asking Hazel for a love potion – something she does so often Hazel is cutting her off after this one – we’re given a hard line of both parties needing to consent. Not only was that excellent to get ahead of, but if anyone else just thought “Chekhov’s Gun” – I was right there with you.
Elizabeth is practical and observant, but also kind and warm when she lets down her guard. As a pair, even the friendly charms of Hazel and Roxy are difficult to resist, and she quickly finds herself persuaded to hang out with them.
So we have the setup. And at this point I just crossed my fingers and hoped for a beautiful friendship between two lesbians (Hazel & Roxy), with neither “and the best friends realised they were soulmates” nor “jealousy over the new person drives them apart”.
As it goes, the first was nowhere in sight, and the second gets off on a technicality. But you’re gonna have to read it to figure that one out.
I surprised myself, actually, with how much I enjoyed this one. Klein has a very smooth and measured way of writing, that keeps you in and the plot flowing while it feels like nothing is really happening. Suddenly you’re at the end, and you barely seemed to start!
Klein clearly knows her characters deeply, and the focus on them makes up for a fairly sparse world around them. Aside from sketching out a couple of side characters, there’s not a lot of meat on that bone. But with the focus where it is, and the very enjoyable writing, that’s easily passed by.
I enjoyed this and I’d definitely read Klein again.
So we’re off to a fairly well-trodden start. Suddenly I remember I’m a grumpy, cynical old demiace and ask past me what I was thinking.
But actually, I get settled in pretty quickly. We start by getting to know Hazel & Roxy: best friends, lesbians, not interested in each other – got it.
That established, we start getting to know them as narrative moves through Hazel, Roxy and, later, Elizabeth.
I found liking Roxy difficult at first. She is clearly self-centred and somewhat arrogant and oblivious of others. Her surprise that Elizabeth doesn’t immediately fall all over her was off-putting, especially when she tries to force past those boundaries.
But when we see her through Hazel’s eyes – a people-pleaser, kind and warm – we are invited to see it as more of a spilling out of her exuberant nature. And though events later do dampen that somewhat, the overall picture on leaving the book is of a good, kind person who acts without thinking, but also puts the same energy into improving things and helping.
Hazel is clearly written to be sympathetic. She is good, kind, aware, patient, understanding, and a bit of a doormat. She is very much what she appears to be on the surface (magic excluded), and she is working hard on fighting those people-pleaser instincts so she can think first, before answering – something shown to good effect with Camille.
Interestingly as well, though we begin with Roxy asking Hazel for a love potion – something she does so often Hazel is cutting her off after this one – we’re given a hard line of both parties needing to consent. Not only was that excellent to get ahead of, but if anyone else just thought “Chekhov’s Gun” – I was right there with you.
Elizabeth is practical and observant, but also kind and warm when she lets down her guard. As a pair, even the friendly charms of Hazel and Roxy are difficult to resist, and she quickly finds herself persuaded to hang out with them.
So we have the setup. And at this point I just crossed my fingers and hoped for a beautiful friendship between two lesbians (Hazel & Roxy), with neither “and the best friends realised they were soulmates” nor “jealousy over the new person drives them apart”.
As it goes, the first was nowhere in sight, and the second gets off on a technicality. But you’re gonna have to read it to figure that one out.
I surprised myself, actually, with how much I enjoyed this one. Klein has a very smooth and measured way of writing, that keeps you in and the plot flowing while it feels like nothing is really happening. Suddenly you’re at the end, and you barely seemed to start!
Klein clearly knows her characters deeply, and the focus on them makes up for a fairly sparse world around them. Aside from sketching out a couple of side characters, there’s not a lot of meat on that bone. But with the focus where it is, and the very enjoyable writing, that’s easily passed by.
I enjoyed this and I’d definitely read Klein again.
February 2, 2022
Thank you Bold Stroke Books and Netgalley for this eARC
This was such an adorable story!
I wasn't entirely sure I was going to be comfortable in with the book when the story opened with Roxy, one of the main characters, trying to twist Hazel's arm into giving her a love potion, to convince a woman she was in love with her. It just seemed a little too creepy, and I was happy that Hazel was quick to talk about consent. Once I got past it, however, and dove into the book, I really, really enjoyed it.
Hazel, as arguably the lead of 3 POV characters, was wonderful. Warm, and caring, and sure, pretty self conscious, but I could totally understand where she was coming from. I do like that she could stand up for herself when need be, also. Elizabeth, when we get to know her, is also wonderful, though with her dismissiveness to certain things, and occasionally judgmental nature, I can understand why she might not be for everyone. Roxy seemed like she would be a lot of fun to hang out and grab a beer with, though she's definitely frustrating at times.
And then there's Camille, the vampire ex. I wanted to like her because I like vampires and vampire stories, but the things she does...no lie, I had to put my phone down and take a bit of a break, they upset me that much. And yeah, vampires, morality can be different, and we honestly don't get enough about how vampires work in this world the author has created, but still, she seems to function enough in the more mundane world I have trouble believing she could justify doing what she did, and yet here we are. She does do a bit to redeem herself, however, so there's that.
The world and setting was great, and felt lived in. I wanted to dive deeper into how the Otherworldy population lives, which is certainly a compliment to the author. I would 100% enjoy if this turned into a series, something like the Mercy Thompson one where we dive into different aspects of the supernatural world...but gay, so obviously better.
Wonderful book, would absolutely recommend to others. 4.5 stars.
This was such an adorable story!
I wasn't entirely sure I was going to be comfortable in with the book when the story opened with Roxy, one of the main characters, trying to twist Hazel's arm into giving her a love potion, to convince a woman she was in love with her. It just seemed a little too creepy, and I was happy that Hazel was quick to talk about consent. Once I got past it, however, and dove into the book, I really, really enjoyed it.
Hazel, as arguably the lead of 3 POV characters, was wonderful. Warm, and caring, and sure, pretty self conscious, but I could totally understand where she was coming from. I do like that she could stand up for herself when need be, also. Elizabeth, when we get to know her, is also wonderful, though with her dismissiveness to certain things, and occasionally judgmental nature, I can understand why she might not be for everyone. Roxy seemed like she would be a lot of fun to hang out and grab a beer with, though she's definitely frustrating at times.
And then there's Camille, the vampire ex. I wanted to like her because I like vampires and vampire stories, but the things she does...no lie, I had to put my phone down and take a bit of a break, they upset me that much. And yeah, vampires, morality can be different, and we honestly don't get enough about how vampires work in this world the author has created, but still, she seems to function enough in the more mundane world I have trouble believing she could justify doing what she did, and yet here we are. She does do a bit to redeem herself, however, so there's that.
The world and setting was great, and felt lived in. I wanted to dive deeper into how the Otherworldy population lives, which is certainly a compliment to the author. I would 100% enjoy if this turned into a series, something like the Mercy Thompson one where we dive into different aspects of the supernatural world...but gay, so obviously better.
Wonderful book, would absolutely recommend to others. 4.5 stars.
December 19, 2022
This has been a fun story, unreal but it would be great if it could happen, with somewhat simple characters but the theme does not need much complexity, after all it is a comedy like the one that the book mentions several times, Bewitched.
The protagonists are a trio. Elizabeth, an English professor who comes to Salem to do research for her thesis. Roxy, a woman who falls in love easily and very frequently, full of enthusiasm but somewhat insecure deep down, which she hides behind a smug facade. And finally Hazel, the main protagonist since she is a bit the main apex besides being a real witch with a broom and everything else.
Elizabeth, despite being a student of the historical trials that occurred in Salem and other places, is completely skeptical and does not believe that supernatural powers or anything like that ever existed. So it's really going to be a problem that she and Hazel might have a thing, even after Roxy's failed attempt to win over Elizabeth.
We must highlight the appearance of Camille, Hazel's ex, a vampire from head to toe, who is going to boss around as much as she can and more so that Hazel returns with her.
In short, this has been a entertaining, easy, uncomplicated and fun vaudeville.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
The protagonists are a trio. Elizabeth, an English professor who comes to Salem to do research for her thesis. Roxy, a woman who falls in love easily and very frequently, full of enthusiasm but somewhat insecure deep down, which she hides behind a smug facade. And finally Hazel, the main protagonist since she is a bit the main apex besides being a real witch with a broom and everything else.
Elizabeth, despite being a student of the historical trials that occurred in Salem and other places, is completely skeptical and does not believe that supernatural powers or anything like that ever existed. So it's really going to be a problem that she and Hazel might have a thing, even after Roxy's failed attempt to win over Elizabeth.
We must highlight the appearance of Camille, Hazel's ex, a vampire from head to toe, who is going to boss around as much as she can and more so that Hazel returns with her.
In short, this has been a entertaining, easy, uncomplicated and fun vaudeville.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
February 4, 2022
Enchanted Autumn was a delightful read that actually surprised me with having multiple POVs. Typically when I read multi-POV it's the 2 main casts and maybe a villain but this one included Roxy, the main character's best friend.
The story starts off perfectly witchy. Its set in Salem and the Main character Hazel is a business owner marketing her witchy products to humans and witches alike. Roxy her best friend and the love-obsessed queen is looking to make her fling fall further in love. I loved how Hazel stressed the importance of consent. Unfortunately, Roxy quickly changes her mind when she meets her main love interest Elizabeth who is in Salem to research from England.
I am not quite sure I liked Elizabeth as a character or Hazel's vampire ex-girlfriend but it can be forgiven with how much I adored Hazel and the secondary characters including the ghost that lives in her house.
I would love to continue exploring these characters and I am really hoping this becomes a series!
The story starts off perfectly witchy. Its set in Salem and the Main character Hazel is a business owner marketing her witchy products to humans and witches alike. Roxy her best friend and the love-obsessed queen is looking to make her fling fall further in love. I loved how Hazel stressed the importance of consent. Unfortunately, Roxy quickly changes her mind when she meets her main love interest Elizabeth who is in Salem to research from England.
I am not quite sure I liked Elizabeth as a character or Hazel's vampire ex-girlfriend but it can be forgiven with how much I adored Hazel and the secondary characters including the ghost that lives in her house.
I would love to continue exploring these characters and I am really hoping this becomes a series!
February 17, 2022
Enchanted Autumn is a novel that follows the lives of a witch named Hazel and her best friend, Roxy. One day by chance, they run into a prestigious professor named Elizabeth, in town on research for the next few months. After a quick chat over coffee the three become fast friends. As time goes on Hazel and Elizabeth start falling for one another but there’s just one problem. As a professor, Elizabeth is an unbeliever of all things supernatural and has no idea Hazel is a witch. Will their new found love beat all odds, or will Hazel’s secret ruin everything?
There’s tons of laughs, troubling obstacles, an interesting cast of characters and heart warming moments all throughout the story. I thought this was a nice and easy read and found the story and plot to be entertaining. Anyone who loves a nice romantic comedy or the sitcom “bewitched” will enjoy this.
(I received a free e-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way changed or influenced my views or opinions)
There’s tons of laughs, troubling obstacles, an interesting cast of characters and heart warming moments all throughout the story. I thought this was a nice and easy read and found the story and plot to be entertaining. Anyone who loves a nice romantic comedy or the sitcom “bewitched” will enjoy this.
(I received a free e-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way changed or influenced my views or opinions)
December 2, 2023
This was a sapphic romance set in a contemporary-fantasy version of Salem, MA which I enjoyed, but found frustrating and ultimately not super memorable. It follows local witch Hazel (and her best friend Roxy) as she falls in love with a serious, academic newcomer to the town.
My favorite thing about the book was the setting, which was charming and atmospheric and right out of a ‘90s Halloween movie in the absolute best of ways. Unfortunately, the rest of the book didn’t quite do it for me; I felt like some of the plot points weren’t super fleshed out (especially the subplot with Hazel’s vampire ex), and I wasn’t entirely convinced by the major conflict of the relationship, the LI’s skepticism about magic; it didn’t seem to actually carry as much weight as the book set it up to carry, and there was another (far more compelling) conflict presented which was brushed aside.
Not my cup of tea in the end, but if you're looking for a fun, fluffy, autumnal romance, you might enjoy it! Thanks to Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley for the advance copy!
My favorite thing about the book was the setting, which was charming and atmospheric and right out of a ‘90s Halloween movie in the absolute best of ways. Unfortunately, the rest of the book didn’t quite do it for me; I felt like some of the plot points weren’t super fleshed out (especially the subplot with Hazel’s vampire ex), and I wasn’t entirely convinced by the major conflict of the relationship, the LI’s skepticism about magic; it didn’t seem to actually carry as much weight as the book set it up to carry, and there was another (far more compelling) conflict presented which was brushed aside.
Not my cup of tea in the end, but if you're looking for a fun, fluffy, autumnal romance, you might enjoy it! Thanks to Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley for the advance copy!
January 31, 2022
Enchanted Autumn was a sweet and magical little love story. I loved the friendship between Roxy and Hazel, and appreciated the way the author handled the love triangle. I really enjoyed the story and it only took me around an hour to finish up, and I would definitely recommend this story to someone looking for a quick, sweet, read. I enjoyed watching the relationships and friendships between the characters develop over the course of the book, and watching Elizabeth learn more about Salem over time was really sweet. I also enjoyed reading a book partly set in archives! I received an ARC of the book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of their site, but have chosen to crosspost here.
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February 12, 2022*Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
I really wanted to like this book. A paranormal romance with witches, vampires, talking cat, sign me up. I think the writing fell short for me. The sentence structure and descriptions felt stiff and the story felt forced.
The premise of the story centers on Roxy, Hazel and Elizabeth. Roxy and Hazel live in Salem, MA, whereas Elizabeth is from the UK. Elizabeth travels to Salem to do some research on the witch trials and is decidedly anti-magic. This poses a problem for Hazel, who is a witch. Roxy and Hazel both have an immediate attraction to Elizabeth and the story goes from there.
The story had some really great opportunity and I loved the setting. The writing just isn't my favorite.
I really wanted to like this book. A paranormal romance with witches, vampires, talking cat, sign me up. I think the writing fell short for me. The sentence structure and descriptions felt stiff and the story felt forced.
The premise of the story centers on Roxy, Hazel and Elizabeth. Roxy and Hazel live in Salem, MA, whereas Elizabeth is from the UK. Elizabeth travels to Salem to do some research on the witch trials and is decidedly anti-magic. This poses a problem for Hazel, who is a witch. Roxy and Hazel both have an immediate attraction to Elizabeth and the story goes from there.
The story had some really great opportunity and I loved the setting. The writing just isn't my favorite.
February 10, 2022
This was a really good quick read. The romance between Hazel and Elizabeth was sweet and easy even though there was a bit of drama thrown in at the end it didn't last long. The supporting characters helped to move this story along and made it even more enjoyable. I loved that this book was centered around witches, vampires, ghosts and other magical beings. The cat Beezles was my favorite especially when protecting Hazel who's a witch and he's her familiar. I hope there's another book about these characters, because this felt like just the beginning of a series. I would definitely recommend this to my friends and family, and I look forward to what is next from this author.
February 17, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book.
Can a woman who doesn't believe in magic and a witch fall in love? October in Salem finds a bourgeoning romance between a British researcher visiting Salem for work and a shop owner and witch. The researcher can't believe magic exists though, even when the witch's vampire ex-girlfriend uses magic to interfere in their relationship.
This story is cute and it seems perfect for autumn. I enjoyed the characters and the drama. It was an easy read that made me smile.
Can a woman who doesn't believe in magic and a witch fall in love? October in Salem finds a bourgeoning romance between a British researcher visiting Salem for work and a shop owner and witch. The researcher can't believe magic exists though, even when the witch's vampire ex-girlfriend uses magic to interfere in their relationship.
This story is cute and it seems perfect for autumn. I enjoyed the characters and the drama. It was an easy read that made me smile.
September 16, 2023
I loved this a disproportionate amount. I tend to read a bunch of horror books as soon as the weather starts turning away from summer, but I eventually really need a palate cleanser, and this sweet spooky season love story was exactly the right thing. The Massachusetts’s autumn vibes were impeccable, the fantasy elements were a nice light dusting of magic on top of a lovely character driven story, and the romance made me want to wrap it up in a fuzzy sweater and take it home for a cup of chai by the fire.
🧡🖤💚🖤🧡 I will 1000% read whatever this author writes next!!
🧡🖤💚🖤🧡 I will 1000% read whatever this author writes next!!
February 10, 2022
This book was a nice easy read. Perhaps I would’ve found it a bit more exciting closer to Halloween.
I love all things Halloween, witchy, and lesbian so I really thought I’d love this book. Maybe my expectations were a bit too high because I only liked this book.
I gave it four stars because I liked the ending and the book overall did keep me engaged. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a nice happy read, but I don’t think I’d reread it again (except maybe around Halloween)
I love all things Halloween, witchy, and lesbian so I really thought I’d love this book. Maybe my expectations were a bit too high because I only liked this book.
I gave it four stars because I liked the ending and the book overall did keep me engaged. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a nice happy read, but I don’t think I’d reread it again (except maybe around Halloween)
March 20, 2022
A perfect Halloween read, can a non believer really fall in love with a full blooded witch? This was light and fun, I enjoyed the interaction between the three main characters, Elizabeth, Hazel and third wheel Roxy and the storyline kept me engaged. The author did a great job of building the Salem world and the reappearance of Hazel’s ex added a nice bit of drama to the comedy elements.
Look forward to the next book from this author.
Look forward to the next book from this author.
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 23, 2022This seemed like a fun story, but I just couldn't connect with the prose. I liked the characters, the setting was adorable, and in theory this should've been a hit for me. Sadly in practice it wasn't.
But it's 100% a case of "it's not you, it's me", and I would even go as far as to say I'd probably still recommend this to someone specific if I knew their reading tastes extremely well.
(I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
But it's 100% a case of "it's not you, it's me", and I would even go as far as to say I'd probably still recommend this to someone specific if I knew their reading tastes extremely well.
(I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
May 25, 2023
This witch vs. non-believer rom-com is an enjoyable tale. Local witch, Hazel (ha!), is drawn to English academic researcher Elizabeth, who is in town (Salem, Massachusetts) to research the Salem witch trials. A madcap comedy with everything going wrong ensues. Really enjoyed this lighthearted, fun read.
February 7, 2022
It was a cute story. I liked it but never really grew attracted to the characters or what was going on. It's a good quick, light read.
March 21, 2022
Such a fun, delightful book! Great storyline that kept me engaged the whole book!
June 27, 2023
The writing just felt very amateurish and the plot dragged.
October 23, 2023
It was a fun read for October and I enjoyed it but I couldn't always relate to characters, especially in regards to Camillle.
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