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Embracing Darkness Collection
Heart of a Witch
A vengeful fantasy standalone romance perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdom and A Touch of Darkness
I’d never particularly liked humans, but I’d never wanted to kill one. Until now.
Hidden in a kingdom that hates witches, I’m forced to hide what I am. With my sister working in a secret dark magic club, and our family’s shop gaining unwanted attention, things couldn’t be worse when the notorious witch hunter, Damian Shaw, comes to town.
When my sister shows up dead, and my family’s name is called into question, we’re forced to adopt new aliases and leave the home we cherished. As I watch my life fall apart, I vow to destroy the hunter responsible, but his punishment would not be swift. Death was too easy.
Redforest is a quaint town, with a church, pretty shops, and like any good town, a dark past. When my family and I move in, I set my sights on the Shaw family, quickly learning everything I can about them. Damian’s son, Elijah, is the hunter’s greatest pride. His heir. His confidante. The only family he trusts.
I come up with a plan. I am going to shatter every good thing in Damian’s life, ending with his son. My goal: make Elijah Shaw fall in love with me, twist him into the very thing his father hates, then kill him.
With my heart challenged, the attraction growing, I find myself trapped in a deadly game. In a twist of fate, Elijah might just end up being the death of me.
Embraced by Darkness is a collection of standalone books set in the same world without an overarching plot, which means you can start with any books in the series and pick and choose which ones you want to read. This collection of novels follows different couples as they go from enemies to friends to lovers, while facing dangerous obstacles in a world split between humans, shifters, witches and gods, set in two kingdoms that separate them.
I’d never particularly liked humans, but I’d never wanted to kill one. Until now.
Hidden in a kingdom that hates witches, I’m forced to hide what I am. With my sister working in a secret dark magic club, and our family’s shop gaining unwanted attention, things couldn’t be worse when the notorious witch hunter, Damian Shaw, comes to town.
When my sister shows up dead, and my family’s name is called into question, we’re forced to adopt new aliases and leave the home we cherished. As I watch my life fall apart, I vow to destroy the hunter responsible, but his punishment would not be swift. Death was too easy.
Redforest is a quaint town, with a church, pretty shops, and like any good town, a dark past. When my family and I move in, I set my sights on the Shaw family, quickly learning everything I can about them. Damian’s son, Elijah, is the hunter’s greatest pride. His heir. His confidante. The only family he trusts.
I come up with a plan. I am going to shatter every good thing in Damian’s life, ending with his son. My goal: make Elijah Shaw fall in love with me, twist him into the very thing his father hates, then kill him.
With my heart challenged, the attraction growing, I find myself trapped in a deadly game. In a twist of fate, Elijah might just end up being the death of me.
Embraced by Darkness is a collection of standalone books set in the same world without an overarching plot, which means you can start with any books in the series and pick and choose which ones you want to read. This collection of novels follows different couples as they go from enemies to friends to lovers, while facing dangerous obstacles in a world split between humans, shifters, witches and gods, set in two kingdoms that separate them.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2021
93 people are currently reading
4962 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca L. Garcia
20 books95 followersRebecca writes dark fantasy romance, usually with gothic elements and always with morally gray characters. Originally from England, she lives in Texas with her husband, and two sons. She loves anything with enemies to lovers, slow burn, and lots of angst.
Find out more about Rebecca and check out her books here:
Website: www.rebeccagarciabooks.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rebeccalgarciabooks
Find out more about Rebecca and check out her books here:
Website: www.rebeccagarciabooks.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rebeccalgarciabooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
December 6, 2021
“If they wanted darkness, I’d shroud them in it until they choked.”
I love a dark and villainous main character, but when you add witchcraft, great family banter, religious zealots, enemies to lovers, and a hefty dose of revenge… Magic happens. This was so well done! The MC Victoria is constantly on the cusp of being consumed by her own dark demons, especially after witnessing a legendary witch hunter murder her younger sister. Instead of running away & hiding the rest of her life, she moves right to his hometown and plots revenge! What better way to destroy a man, than take away everything he holds dear & make his son fall in love with what he hates most right? Easier said than done… after meeting charming Elijah.
I loved the banter, sarcastic humor, and the sexual tension/chemistry between Victoria and Elijah was fantastic. Definitely recommend if you like any of the themes I mentioned already, witches in general, or paranormal romance.
Thank you to Rebecca L. Garcia, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I love a dark and villainous main character, but when you add witchcraft, great family banter, religious zealots, enemies to lovers, and a hefty dose of revenge… Magic happens. This was so well done! The MC Victoria is constantly on the cusp of being consumed by her own dark demons, especially after witnessing a legendary witch hunter murder her younger sister. Instead of running away & hiding the rest of her life, she moves right to his hometown and plots revenge! What better way to destroy a man, than take away everything he holds dear & make his son fall in love with what he hates most right? Easier said than done… after meeting charming Elijah.
I loved the banter, sarcastic humor, and the sexual tension/chemistry between Victoria and Elijah was fantastic. Definitely recommend if you like any of the themes I mentioned already, witches in general, or paranormal romance.
Thank you to Rebecca L. Garcia, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 7, 2021
NA Witchy/Paranormal/Dark Romance!
✨ ARC review ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Heart of a Witch by @rebeccalgarciabooks ARC provided by @netgalley
Y’all, this is a VILLAIN ORIGIN STORY!!
High end enemies to lovers, Witch to Witch Hunter, and the MC is hellbent on revenge. Hexes, curses, dark magic… Literally willing to do anything to avenge her family and oh my lord… she’s badass.
We are all too familiar with the MC navigating their path to become the hero of their story… this is not that story.
This is the making of a villain and I am here👏🏻for👏🏻it👏🏻
Though a bit dark, I thought it was really well written. The deception, the betrayal, the deaths.. all had my heart rate skyrocketing waiting to see what would happen next.
I am not even going to hint at how the ending made me feel for fear of spoiling it for someone else!
Absolute must read for dark/witchy fantasy/paranormal romance lovers!
✨ ARC review ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Heart of a Witch by @rebeccalgarciabooks ARC provided by @netgalley
Y’all, this is a VILLAIN ORIGIN STORY!!
High end enemies to lovers, Witch to Witch Hunter, and the MC is hellbent on revenge. Hexes, curses, dark magic… Literally willing to do anything to avenge her family and oh my lord… she’s badass.
We are all too familiar with the MC navigating their path to become the hero of their story… this is not that story.
This is the making of a villain and I am here👏🏻for👏🏻it👏🏻
Though a bit dark, I thought it was really well written. The deception, the betrayal, the deaths.. all had my heart rate skyrocketing waiting to see what would happen next.
I am not even going to hint at how the ending made me feel for fear of spoiling it for someone else!
Absolute must read for dark/witchy fantasy/paranormal romance lovers!
December 4, 2021
Her name is Victoria Amberwood, and this is her villain origin story…
I didn’t expect to like this book this much… and then I read it in ONE sitting!
Thank you Rebecca for writing a story about a female villain. I loved to see Victoria’s character evolve throughout the story, and how she succumbed more and more to the dark side to get her revenge. As always when it comes Rebecca’s stories, I truly enjoyed the complexity of the characters, and similar to Spellbound, the (sort of) found family.
I am so grateful to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC.
I didn’t expect to like this book this much… and then I read it in ONE sitting!
Thank you Rebecca for writing a story about a female villain. I loved to see Victoria’s character evolve throughout the story, and how she succumbed more and more to the dark side to get her revenge. As always when it comes Rebecca’s stories, I truly enjoyed the complexity of the characters, and similar to Spellbound, the (sort of) found family.
I am so grateful to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC.
December 10, 2021
I really loved parts of this book, but the story as a whole sadly just didn't jive with me.
I love a good witchy, romantic read with a villainous main character, but the relationship between Victoria and Elijah was just disappointing and lacking.
So, Victoria is portrayed as this morally-grey witch, dark in all her witchy ways and to be honest, that's why I wanted to read this book, but she just didn't live up to that hype for me. She continually lost her edge with the hot and cold, back and forth dance she kept playing to string Elijah along for her own vengeance. It truly made me lose interest. Which is completely a bummer because the familial relationships were much more enjoyable. When the two main characters driving the plot fall flat though...eh.
While I am bummed this book missed the mark for me, I will check out the other book(s) in the series.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the e-ARC to read and review honestly.
I love a good witchy, romantic read with a villainous main character, but the relationship between Victoria and Elijah was just disappointing and lacking.
So, Victoria is portrayed as this morally-grey witch, dark in all her witchy ways and to be honest, that's why I wanted to read this book, but she just didn't live up to that hype for me. She continually lost her edge with the hot and cold, back and forth dance she kept playing to string Elijah along for her own vengeance. It truly made me lose interest. Which is completely a bummer because the familial relationships were much more enjoyable. When the two main characters driving the plot fall flat though...eh.
While I am bummed this book missed the mark for me, I will check out the other book(s) in the series.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the e-ARC to read and review honestly.
December 8, 2021
BOOK: Heart of a Witch
RELEASE DATE: December 14, 2021
GENRE: fantasy
TROPES & THEMES: enemies to lovers, revenge, witches & hunters, paranormal romance, hidden identity
TRIGGERS WARNING: execution scenes and description of abuse, loss of a sibling and a parent
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
STORYLINE: Victoria is a witch. Tortured by her past "mistakes" she burdens herself with caring for her family who gets carried away with interacting with humans. After Damien Shaw a ruthless priest and witch hunter comes to her small village, a lot of devastation and loss happens. Instead of hiding Victorica together with her brother and sister comes up with a plan for a ravage. Targeting not only Damien Shaw but his family members too. But things are not as they seem. Elijah Shaw is nothing like his father. What secrets is hiding Shaw family? Will Victoria's plan succeed?
THOUGHTS: This is a book that delivers. What you think you will get when you read the blurb you will probably get. I like the balance the author did with the fantasy and romance storyline. It is a book easy to follow. I also appreciate those brutal and gruesome scenes, nothing overly done but it got me a clearer picture and emotional connection with the characters.
Whereas this is not a book I am obsessed with as it is not five stars. It is still a great read because I understand what the author's intention behind the premise was. I love the subtler approach to idea and notations that drives the characters and story. Good vs. bad. Choices and obstacles the characters face as they are on opposite sides. Sacrifice they make for their family members. All exceptionally well-done themes of this book.
I am a fantasy reader who likes her fantasy with a strong romance side premise. So, when I saw this one is marked as such a book. I requested it. Another plus factor is that this is standalone. And I am in the middle of enough series as it is, so this was a welcomed shift. If you recognize yourself in this - I recommend you this book.
This book was my first read by its author and it won't be the last.
* Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for the copy of the book in exchange of an honest review
RELEASE DATE: December 14, 2021
GENRE: fantasy
TROPES & THEMES: enemies to lovers, revenge, witches & hunters, paranormal romance, hidden identity
TRIGGERS WARNING: execution scenes and description of abuse, loss of a sibling and a parent
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
STORYLINE: Victoria is a witch. Tortured by her past "mistakes" she burdens herself with caring for her family who gets carried away with interacting with humans. After Damien Shaw a ruthless priest and witch hunter comes to her small village, a lot of devastation and loss happens. Instead of hiding Victorica together with her brother and sister comes up with a plan for a ravage. Targeting not only Damien Shaw but his family members too. But things are not as they seem. Elijah Shaw is nothing like his father. What secrets is hiding Shaw family? Will Victoria's plan succeed?
THOUGHTS: This is a book that delivers. What you think you will get when you read the blurb you will probably get. I like the balance the author did with the fantasy and romance storyline. It is a book easy to follow. I also appreciate those brutal and gruesome scenes, nothing overly done but it got me a clearer picture and emotional connection with the characters.
Whereas this is not a book I am obsessed with as it is not five stars. It is still a great read because I understand what the author's intention behind the premise was. I love the subtler approach to idea and notations that drives the characters and story. Good vs. bad. Choices and obstacles the characters face as they are on opposite sides. Sacrifice they make for their family members. All exceptionally well-done themes of this book.
I am a fantasy reader who likes her fantasy with a strong romance side premise. So, when I saw this one is marked as such a book. I requested it. Another plus factor is that this is standalone. And I am in the middle of enough series as it is, so this was a welcomed shift. If you recognize yourself in this - I recommend you this book.
This book was my first read by its author and it won't be the last.
* Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for the copy of the book in exchange of an honest review
December 4, 2021
If humans wanted to believe us evil, then I would become precisely that. If they wanted darkness, I’d shroud them in it until they choked. If the hunter wanted another reason to hate witches, I would be that, for him, because in his vengeance against us, he’d turned me into his own personal poison.
Victoria was one of the best female characters I’ve ever read! And that alone says a lot. She practices dark magic, she’s hellbent on seeking vengeance for her sister’s murder, she’s morally grey. But beneath her anger and hatred of the man responsible for the slaughters of her people, there’s a flicker of goodness. It’s just enough to give her character a satisfying arc, without making her grovel and apologize for all the wrongs she’s committed. I also loved Elijah, and found his character very charming and the perfect counterpart to Victoria’s.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Besides the romance I loved Victoria’s dynamic with her siblings, including Elijah’s with his brother Corbin. The aesthetics were fantastic, too. Made it easy for me to navigate the story which is always so important to me.
On a side note, I actually wouldn’t mind having a novella with Corbin and Alex. ;) Just a thought…
Victoria was one of the best female characters I’ve ever read! And that alone says a lot. She practices dark magic, she’s hellbent on seeking vengeance for her sister’s murder, she’s morally grey. But beneath her anger and hatred of the man responsible for the slaughters of her people, there’s a flicker of goodness. It’s just enough to give her character a satisfying arc, without making her grovel and apologize for all the wrongs she’s committed. I also loved Elijah, and found his character very charming and the perfect counterpart to Victoria’s.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Besides the romance I loved Victoria’s dynamic with her siblings, including Elijah’s with his brother Corbin. The aesthetics were fantastic, too. Made it easy for me to navigate the story which is always so important to me.
On a side note, I actually wouldn’t mind having a novella with Corbin and Alex. ;) Just a thought…
Want to read
June 20, 2022La traducción estará disponible pronto 🤭. Mientras, os dejo un adelanto:
Cerré los ojos. Aparté a Ember de mi mente, ocupándola en su lugar con el cazador de brujas. La gente del pueblo. Los dueños del club, que ya estaban muertos.
Un destello del azar. Durante siglos, las brujas habían sido demonizadas, pero al igual que los humanos, había buenos y malos en todos nosotros, y Ember era buena. Ella confiaba en los humanos. Donaba a la caridad y trataba de hacer y decir lo correcto. Sorteaba los sentimientos de la gente con cuidado de no herirlos. Ella y yo no podíamos ser más diferentes, pero la quise por eso. Ella era la luz que yo no tenía, pero la habían matado. Habían aplastado su luz como si no fuera nada, y sólo les quedaba la oscuridad. Yo.
Me agarré a los bordes de la bañera. Me agarré a los bordes de la bañera hundida. La furia me nubló la vista y mis orificios nasales se ensancharon a medida que cada injusticia la sentía de repente como una montaña que se derrumbaba encima de mí. Había dejado pasar demasiadas cosas a lo largo de los años, y eso nos había costado caro. Dejé pasar lo que le ocurrió a nuestro primo. No me había defendido. Nunca había luchado contra los cazadores ni contra nadie que nos demonizara.
Si los humanos querían considerarnos como el mal, entonces me convertiría exactamente en eso. Si querían oscuridad, los envolvería en ella hasta que se ahogaran. Si el asesino quería otra razón para odiar a las brujas, yo sería ese motivo, porque en su venganza contra nosotras, me había convertido en su propio veneno personal.
Me senté en la bañera, conspirando, planeando hasta que el agua se enfrió y la luz azul pálido se filtraba por la ventana.
No lo mataría directamente como él lo hizo con ella. En lugar de eso, lo destruiría de principio a fin. La muerte le iba a llegar en algún momento, pero quería asegurarme de que rogara por ella cuando lo hiciera.
Cerré los ojos. Aparté a Ember de mi mente, ocupándola en su lugar con el cazador de brujas. La gente del pueblo. Los dueños del club, que ya estaban muertos.
Un destello del azar. Durante siglos, las brujas habían sido demonizadas, pero al igual que los humanos, había buenos y malos en todos nosotros, y Ember era buena. Ella confiaba en los humanos. Donaba a la caridad y trataba de hacer y decir lo correcto. Sorteaba los sentimientos de la gente con cuidado de no herirlos. Ella y yo no podíamos ser más diferentes, pero la quise por eso. Ella era la luz que yo no tenía, pero la habían matado. Habían aplastado su luz como si no fuera nada, y sólo les quedaba la oscuridad. Yo.
Me agarré a los bordes de la bañera. Me agarré a los bordes de la bañera hundida. La furia me nubló la vista y mis orificios nasales se ensancharon a medida que cada injusticia la sentía de repente como una montaña que se derrumbaba encima de mí. Había dejado pasar demasiadas cosas a lo largo de los años, y eso nos había costado caro. Dejé pasar lo que le ocurrió a nuestro primo. No me había defendido. Nunca había luchado contra los cazadores ni contra nadie que nos demonizara.
Si los humanos querían considerarnos como el mal, entonces me convertiría exactamente en eso. Si querían oscuridad, los envolvería en ella hasta que se ahogaran. Si el asesino quería otra razón para odiar a las brujas, yo sería ese motivo, porque en su venganza contra nosotras, me había convertido en su propio veneno personal.
Me senté en la bañera, conspirando, planeando hasta que el agua se enfrió y la luz azul pálido se filtraba por la ventana.
No lo mataría directamente como él lo hizo con ella. En lugar de eso, lo destruiría de principio a fin. La muerte le iba a llegar en algún momento, pero quería asegurarme de que rogara por ella cuando lo hiciera.
July 13, 2025
4⭑
This book follows Victoria (Tori) who comes from a family of witches, her mum, two sisters (Alex and Ember) and her brother Cas.
However a witch hunter recently murdered Ember and as a result Tori and her family have escaped their village and taken on new identities.
Tori thinks up a plan to get revenge on the witch hunter by hurting what he loves most, his son Elijah who is soon to be a hunter. Tori’s plan is to make his son fall in love with her so she can destroy him and then destroy the witch hunter.
I am not a huge fantasy reader but I really enjoyed this book.
I would say that this book is a great book if you are new to fantasy. There isn’t too much world building and isn’t confusing at all. With that being said, some experienced fantasy/high fantasy readers may not enjoy it because of that.
I loved that this book was from a villainous perspective and I loved even more that it was the heroine who was the villain. I really liked that you could see when she started to question her own morals and what was right and wrong.
I really liked Elijah. He was a sunshine kind of hero and cares so much for everyone.
This was a great read and would recommend.
Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review
This book follows Victoria (Tori) who comes from a family of witches, her mum, two sisters (Alex and Ember) and her brother Cas.
However a witch hunter recently murdered Ember and as a result Tori and her family have escaped their village and taken on new identities.
Tori thinks up a plan to get revenge on the witch hunter by hurting what he loves most, his son Elijah who is soon to be a hunter. Tori’s plan is to make his son fall in love with her so she can destroy him and then destroy the witch hunter.
I am not a huge fantasy reader but I really enjoyed this book.
I would say that this book is a great book if you are new to fantasy. There isn’t too much world building and isn’t confusing at all. With that being said, some experienced fantasy/high fantasy readers may not enjoy it because of that.
I loved that this book was from a villainous perspective and I loved even more that it was the heroine who was the villain. I really liked that you could see when she started to question her own morals and what was right and wrong.
I really liked Elijah. He was a sunshine kind of hero and cares so much for everyone.
This was a great read and would recommend.
Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review
December 7, 2021
Heart of a Witch had me on the edge of my seat for the whole ride!
I absolutely loved the anti heroine in this story and the lengths she goes to for her revenge.
This is full send enemies to lovers with witches vs. witch-hunters in a worlds of narrow minded people.
The story development was so intense, but so good!
I don't want to spoil anything by talking about it more because you should go blind into this for a better experience!
I would definitely recommend if you love: witches, strong female mc, enemies to lovers, romance, revenges and cuddly snakes.
I absolutely loved the anti heroine in this story and the lengths she goes to for her revenge.
This is full send enemies to lovers with witches vs. witch-hunters in a worlds of narrow minded people.
The story development was so intense, but so good!
I don't want to spoil anything by talking about it more because you should go blind into this for a better experience!
I would definitely recommend if you love: witches, strong female mc, enemies to lovers, romance, revenges and cuddly snakes.
December 3, 2021
A whirlwind of magic, darkness, and deception, paired with an enemies to lovers romance that left me breathless with anticipation. Victoria and Elijah have instant, but believable, chemistry, and they're surrounded by supporting characters that feel rich, real, and are there for more than set dressing. I would love to read more about these characters and this world (*hint hint Rebecca*)
Garcia has a spellbinding way with words that will keep you reading long into the night. I've been a slow reader this year, but I devoured this one.
Garcia has a spellbinding way with words that will keep you reading long into the night. I've been a slow reader this year, but I devoured this one.
December 9, 2021
I am a huge fan of Rebecca's work and Heart of a Witch is her best novel yet!
As part of the Embracing Darkness Collection, Heart of a Witch can be enjoyed by itself but, there is another standalone in the Embracing Darkness Collection, Spellbound, you're sure to love if you love witchy books.
I LOVE witchy books and now Heart of a Witch is my new favorite. I've never shipped two enemies so hard while simultaneously being shocked by, yet totally understanding their dark motivations and goals. I was able to fully immerse myself in these sympathetic villains' perspectives because it's so well written that you feel for them but are also feeling a bit cringy by their actions. Not to mention their moments of chemistry. Whew!
Heart of a Witch is fully fleshed out with ups and downs, great plot points, great pace, and progression, tons of magic both with spells, magical action, and romantic magic. Also, I was very satisfied with the ending!
Thank you to the author, Rebecca L. Garcia and The Next Step PR for a free review copy of Heart of a Witch. It was my choice to read and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
As part of the Embracing Darkness Collection, Heart of a Witch can be enjoyed by itself but, there is another standalone in the Embracing Darkness Collection, Spellbound, you're sure to love if you love witchy books.
I LOVE witchy books and now Heart of a Witch is my new favorite. I've never shipped two enemies so hard while simultaneously being shocked by, yet totally understanding their dark motivations and goals. I was able to fully immerse myself in these sympathetic villains' perspectives because it's so well written that you feel for them but are also feeling a bit cringy by their actions. Not to mention their moments of chemistry. Whew!
Heart of a Witch is fully fleshed out with ups and downs, great plot points, great pace, and progression, tons of magic both with spells, magical action, and romantic magic. Also, I was very satisfied with the ending!
Thank you to the author, Rebecca L. Garcia and The Next Step PR for a free review copy of Heart of a Witch. It was my choice to read and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
December 25, 2021
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Victoria’s sister is murdered by a famed witch hunter she becomes hell bent on revenge and will do anything to get it. This was a quick read, and I really enjoyed the anti-heroine in this one! Actually I liked all the characters and the world building. Tons of enemies to lovers vibes and there is some light spice. This was my first book from Rebecca Garcia and I will likely pick up more!
When Victoria’s sister is murdered by a famed witch hunter she becomes hell bent on revenge and will do anything to get it. This was a quick read, and I really enjoyed the anti-heroine in this one! Actually I liked all the characters and the world building. Tons of enemies to lovers vibes and there is some light spice. This was my first book from Rebecca Garcia and I will likely pick up more!
October 22, 2022
Initial thoughts after finishing. All the freaking stars! I am in emotional turmoil, in a good way. This book grabbed at my heart strings and made me love characters I didn't think I would, I was fully invested in these characters. I feel so much anger and hatred for the true villian, Rebecca did a superb job to make me feel this way. There was so many twists and turns in this book I didn't expect many of the directions it was going in. It was a continuous surprise for me. The last 50 pages 🤯 yet again Rebecca had me worried with the 'how do we wrap this up so much is going on' thoughts and just blew my mind. I loved it so much! Every book I read by Rebecca becomes a new favourite and I can't wait to read my next book by this author.
I was left fully satisfied if not wanting more yet again in this world 😍
Minor spoiler.
This book is full or morally grey characters with enemies to lovers 🥵 - two of my favourite things.
⚠️ Content warning
This book does contain alcoholism and physcial abuse. No abuse between the two main characters, however it is a big part of the plot line.
I was left fully satisfied if not wanting more yet again in this world 😍
Minor spoiler.
This book is full or morally grey characters with enemies to lovers 🥵 - two of my favourite things.
⚠️ Content warning
This book does contain alcoholism and physcial abuse. No abuse between the two main characters, however it is a big part of the plot line.
August 23, 2022
I support women’s rights, but more importantly I support women’s wrongs
October 30, 2022
4.5/5 Stars
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
This book was so, so good! This was my first book from Rebecca L. Garcia but it will not be my last! This book was simply addicting with its intensity, compelling plot, and excellent characters.
I really loved Garcia's writing style. I was really drawn in by the personal feel of her storytelling. The world-building was vivid and detailed. I loved the entire premise of the story and thought that the story was plotted out very well. The only thing that I would change would be the ending. It felt a little rushed and abrupt. I would have liked the climax of the story to have been a little more drawn out.
It was so easy to fall in love with these characters. Garcia makes it so easy to immerse yourself in the lives of her characters. I loved how complex they were and how the author didn't shy away from the more personal and gritty parts of their lives. It really endeared the characters to the reader. I loved the antihero angle and that the author didn't hold back on showing the less appealing aspects of the characters. It added so much depth to them. Apart from the characters being so distinct and multi-faceted, they also had great character growth. I am actually sad that this was a standalone (in a series of standalones) because I hate saying goodbye to these characters.
The romance in this book was tantalizing. It is the perfect revenge story with enemies-to-lovers vibes. Victoria and Elijah shared such a connection that you could feel it like a tangible thing.
Overall, I was really blown away by this book! This book had unexpected plot twists, memorable characters, and atmospheric storytelling. I definitely recommend this one. It is certainly a hidden gem. Rebecca L. Garcia has won a new fan and I can't wait to read more from her.
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Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
This book was so, so good! This was my first book from Rebecca L. Garcia but it will not be my last! This book was simply addicting with its intensity, compelling plot, and excellent characters.
I really loved Garcia's writing style. I was really drawn in by the personal feel of her storytelling. The world-building was vivid and detailed. I loved the entire premise of the story and thought that the story was plotted out very well. The only thing that I would change would be the ending. It felt a little rushed and abrupt. I would have liked the climax of the story to have been a little more drawn out.
It was so easy to fall in love with these characters. Garcia makes it so easy to immerse yourself in the lives of her characters. I loved how complex they were and how the author didn't shy away from the more personal and gritty parts of their lives. It really endeared the characters to the reader. I loved the antihero angle and that the author didn't hold back on showing the less appealing aspects of the characters. It added so much depth to them. Apart from the characters being so distinct and multi-faceted, they also had great character growth. I am actually sad that this was a standalone (in a series of standalones) because I hate saying goodbye to these characters.
The romance in this book was tantalizing. It is the perfect revenge story with enemies-to-lovers vibes. Victoria and Elijah shared such a connection that you could feel it like a tangible thing.
Overall, I was really blown away by this book! This book had unexpected plot twists, memorable characters, and atmospheric storytelling. I definitely recommend this one. It is certainly a hidden gem. Rebecca L. Garcia has won a new fan and I can't wait to read more from her.
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December 14, 2021
I am a huge fan of stories about vengeance and you don’t get a better revenge story than Heart of a Witch by Rebecca L. Garcia.
Victoria is one of a family of witches living among humans. Her family lives a fairly unassuming life. They run their family shop, selling items that border on witchcraft, but not strongly enough to draw attention to the family or their true identities. One night Tori’s life is upended when she witnesses an infamous witch hunter kill her sister. Knowing he’ll come after the rest of the family, Tori and her family flee. But instead of going into hiding and living a life on the run, Tori has vowed to avenge her sister’s death by destroying the witch hunter. Tori not only moves directly into the town the witch hunter lives in, she also pursues the hunter’s son. What better vengeance than to make the one person her enemy holds most dear fall in love with the one thing he finds most vile: a witch.
Elijah is handsome, charming, and has great aspirations for what he wants to do with his life. Unfortunately, he’s bound by familial duty to carry on his father’s work as a legendary witch hunter. When a beautiful young lady comes to town, he’s drawn to her despite the danger he knows can come of it.
Heart of a Witch is the deeply engaging new novel from Rebecca L. Garcia that explores the descent of someone from optimistic and hopeful to a dark and vengeful entity. Garcia has brilliantly layered every event that leads Tori down her dark evolution to the point that you’re right there with her—even rooting for her villainous ways. The chemistry between Tori and Elijah is sizzling and the relationships between Tori and her family are achingly realistic. If you love magic, witches, vengeance, and enemies to lovers, this is the book for you.
Heart of a Witch is a standalone YA novel in the same world as her previous novel, Spellbound. It will be available everywhere 12/14/22
Victoria is one of a family of witches living among humans. Her family lives a fairly unassuming life. They run their family shop, selling items that border on witchcraft, but not strongly enough to draw attention to the family or their true identities. One night Tori’s life is upended when she witnesses an infamous witch hunter kill her sister. Knowing he’ll come after the rest of the family, Tori and her family flee. But instead of going into hiding and living a life on the run, Tori has vowed to avenge her sister’s death by destroying the witch hunter. Tori not only moves directly into the town the witch hunter lives in, she also pursues the hunter’s son. What better vengeance than to make the one person her enemy holds most dear fall in love with the one thing he finds most vile: a witch.
Elijah is handsome, charming, and has great aspirations for what he wants to do with his life. Unfortunately, he’s bound by familial duty to carry on his father’s work as a legendary witch hunter. When a beautiful young lady comes to town, he’s drawn to her despite the danger he knows can come of it.
Heart of a Witch is the deeply engaging new novel from Rebecca L. Garcia that explores the descent of someone from optimistic and hopeful to a dark and vengeful entity. Garcia has brilliantly layered every event that leads Tori down her dark evolution to the point that you’re right there with her—even rooting for her villainous ways. The chemistry between Tori and Elijah is sizzling and the relationships between Tori and her family are achingly realistic. If you love magic, witches, vengeance, and enemies to lovers, this is the book for you.
Heart of a Witch is a standalone YA novel in the same world as her previous novel, Spellbound. It will be available everywhere 12/14/22
January 11, 2022
Terrible writing, in the style of Kalynn Bayron's Cinderella Is Dead.
Painfully literal and spelled out while still being vague and confusing.
An enemies to lovers story rivaling the worst unedited (or, as we say in the biz, un-betaed) fanfictions.
Anyway, shout-out to the true witch of *my* heart, Yennefer of Vengerberg, hope it's nice where you are, queen!
Painfully literal and spelled out while still being vague and confusing.
An enemies to lovers story rivaling the worst unedited (or, as we say in the biz, un-betaed) fanfictions.
Anyway, shout-out to the true witch of *my* heart, Yennefer of Vengerberg, hope it's nice where you are, queen!
October 12, 2022
I'll need to write up a review but I am NOT a fan of revenge stories. I like enemies to lovers but I'm picky in how it's handled and this wasn't it. 2 ⭐
November 15, 2021
A dark and twisted tale of family and sacrifice, love and loss, and grief and vengeance.
This is a story of immense love and devastating loss. How being blinded by grief can harden your heart to the point all you see is the need for revenge at any cost. When dealing with immeasurable heartache darkness can creep in and take over.
The catastrophic outcomes of ignorance and prejudice.
Light vs Dark and the battles we face both internally and externally.
It shows so well how hurt people, hurt people. But it's also a great example of how the tiniest bit of empathy and compassion can heal the deepest wounds.
This is a story of immense love and devastating loss. How being blinded by grief can harden your heart to the point all you see is the need for revenge at any cost. When dealing with immeasurable heartache darkness can creep in and take over.
The catastrophic outcomes of ignorance and prejudice.
Light vs Dark and the battles we face both internally and externally.
It shows so well how hurt people, hurt people. But it's also a great example of how the tiniest bit of empathy and compassion can heal the deepest wounds.
December 18, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
The premise of this book — witch and witch hunter seemed amazing. Enemies to lovers, lies, magic and betrayal. It was perfect on paper.
Unfortunately, this book did not deliver it. It felt like a very basic YA book (even though it’s NA) with no depth whatsoever. It wasn’t memorable at all and I had such a hard time going through it.
What I liked:
- Alex and Corbin. We BARELY got to know them (I understand this might be a series so they might get their own book) but even so, they were the best characters, with the most personality.
What I disliked:
- The main character: it’s terrible when you don’t get to connect with a Mc. I was doomed from the start. Victoria was barely described (I don’t even know what she looks like). She had the whole “I’m not like other girls” vibe.
- The romance: it was oddly paced. They had little to no moments together (I think the entire book happens in a week, the timeline wasn’t very well defined) and suddenly have sex and fall in love. They acted like children most of the time so it would’ve been better for this book to be YA imo. The smut/cursing served little to no purpose.
- The worldbuilding: now this is what troubled me the most. We learn /nothing/ of the magic system, where they are, why witches are hunted. Not a thing. It made the story less believable, and I couldn’t deep dive into it because I simply didn’t care about this world.
- The dialogues: They went from Lord of the Rings to Fifty Shades of Grey. I didn’t know if this was a medieval world or a contemporary one. Very confusing.
- The plot: The twists made no sense whatsoever and weren’t foreshadowed at all. Succubus appearing out of nowhere? Enemy families showing up to kill them?? The villain discovering the entire “plot” in one sentence and out of the blue? Not good. All the action scenes were underwhelming too and it did more of telling than showing.
I wanted to like this so bad. Unfortunately, this book wasn’t it for me, but hopefully book 2 will improve it because Alex and Corbin seem like promising characters.
The premise of this book — witch and witch hunter seemed amazing. Enemies to lovers, lies, magic and betrayal. It was perfect on paper.
Unfortunately, this book did not deliver it. It felt like a very basic YA book (even though it’s NA) with no depth whatsoever. It wasn’t memorable at all and I had such a hard time going through it.
What I liked:
- Alex and Corbin. We BARELY got to know them (I understand this might be a series so they might get their own book) but even so, they were the best characters, with the most personality.
What I disliked:
- The main character: it’s terrible when you don’t get to connect with a Mc. I was doomed from the start. Victoria was barely described (I don’t even know what she looks like). She had the whole “I’m not like other girls” vibe.
- The romance: it was oddly paced. They had little to no moments together (I think the entire book happens in a week, the timeline wasn’t very well defined) and suddenly have sex and fall in love. They acted like children most of the time so it would’ve been better for this book to be YA imo. The smut/cursing served little to no purpose.
- The worldbuilding: now this is what troubled me the most. We learn /nothing/ of the magic system, where they are, why witches are hunted. Not a thing. It made the story less believable, and I couldn’t deep dive into it because I simply didn’t care about this world.
- The dialogues: They went from Lord of the Rings to Fifty Shades of Grey. I didn’t know if this was a medieval world or a contemporary one. Very confusing.
- The plot: The twists made no sense whatsoever and weren’t foreshadowed at all. Succubus appearing out of nowhere? Enemy families showing up to kill them?? The villain discovering the entire “plot” in one sentence and out of the blue? Not good. All the action scenes were underwhelming too and it did more of telling than showing.
I wanted to like this so bad. Unfortunately, this book wasn’t it for me, but hopefully book 2 will improve it because Alex and Corbin seem like promising characters.
December 16, 2021
Heart of a Witch (Embracing Darkness Collection Series) is a enemies-to-friends-to-lovers vengeful fantasy novel crafted with magic. The prologue is heartwitching and begins the love affair with this story. I absolutely loved Victoria's character and her dark villainous ways. The writing style is captivating and holds true for the whole novel. Rebecca L. Garcia is a gifted author who writes about new fantasy worlds that keep you entertained and escaping from reality. Dark magic mixed with betrayal, deception and deaths bleeding through the pages. Excellent wrapping up the story. I highly recommend fantasy romance lovers read this novel.
December 9, 2021
The second book in the Embracing Darkness series, Heart of a Witch follows Victoria Amberwood, a witch in a kingdom that persecuted witches. When one of the most notorious witch hunters comes to her town, Victoria and her family suffer an unbelievable loss and must flee their home. Intent on revenge for the brutal death of her sister, Victoria plans to ingratiate herself into the murderer’s life and ruin it starting with the witch hunter’s son. However, things become complicated when Victoria meets the witch hunter’s son Elijah.
I loved this dark and twisty story. It has complex and compelling characters who blur the line between good and bad. The story is also atmospheric and immersive, and the world-building creates such a vivid and detailed picture of this dangerous society where people are persecuted for being different. An ominous sense of foreboding permeates the story, which switches between Victoria and Elijah’s perspectives. I’m a fan of dual narration, and I liked getting to know the thoughts, feelings, and backstories of both characters.
Victoria is a complex, morally grey protagonist who, along with her brother and sister, is bent on revenge for the murder of her sister and will risk anything to gain vengeance. Though her own life is often at risk, Victoria does everything she can to destroy her enemy, including getting his son to fall in love with her so she can ruin him too. However, her plans come with a cost. Victoria is fierce and not above using dark magic. But she constantly battles the darkness inside her, which is threatening to take over.
In contrast, Victoria is also kind and caring and nurturing. Her beloved pets, which are venomous and deadly snakes, see the good in her, as does her family. Even though they don’t always see eye to eye, Victoria loves her family and has strong relationships with her siblings. She’s such an interesting and complicated person, and I like her complexity. She is often conflicted between doing what she knows is right and getting her revenge. Though she is not the villain of the story, she is certainly villainous.
Elijah is also dynamically developed, and his story is as complex and heartbreaking as Victoria’s. At first, I didn’t find him to be overly likable. However, the more I learned about him, the more drawn I was to his story. There is so much more to Elijah than he lets the world see, and I think Victoria learns as much from her relationship with Elijah as he does from knowing her. They are so different, yet they connect on such a deep level, even when it’s against their better judgment. Victoria and Elijah have both lived their lives in fear, and though it’s for different reasons, it’s because of the same man. It’s a terrible connection to have, but it definitely changes the way both see things. Their individual stories are as interesting as their growing relationship is.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, and Victoria and Elijah’s is the best! They have such fantastic chemistry, and their complicated relationship is so entertaining. Though it seems impossible for this couple to end up together, I found myself hoping that they could find a way! There are several other stand-out relationships in the story too. Victoria’s relationship with her siblings is great. They are so funny together, and you can tell that even with all their teasing and tormenting, they really care about each other. They are protective of each other, much like Elijah and his brother. I think there are some great messages here about the bonds between siblings, as well as the lengths a person will go to get revenge and the power of love, kindness, and acceptance.
This is such a fantastic addition to the Embracing Darkness series, and I would definitely recommend this to readers who like dark fantasy romance and paranormal romance. Though it’s the second book in the series, each book is a standalone. The stories take place in the same world, but the characters and stories are separate. However, Spellbound, the first book in the series, is fabulous too and one I would definitely recommend. Thanks so much to Rebecca L. Garcia for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this dark and twisty story. It has complex and compelling characters who blur the line between good and bad. The story is also atmospheric and immersive, and the world-building creates such a vivid and detailed picture of this dangerous society where people are persecuted for being different. An ominous sense of foreboding permeates the story, which switches between Victoria and Elijah’s perspectives. I’m a fan of dual narration, and I liked getting to know the thoughts, feelings, and backstories of both characters.
Victoria is a complex, morally grey protagonist who, along with her brother and sister, is bent on revenge for the murder of her sister and will risk anything to gain vengeance. Though her own life is often at risk, Victoria does everything she can to destroy her enemy, including getting his son to fall in love with her so she can ruin him too. However, her plans come with a cost. Victoria is fierce and not above using dark magic. But she constantly battles the darkness inside her, which is threatening to take over.
In contrast, Victoria is also kind and caring and nurturing. Her beloved pets, which are venomous and deadly snakes, see the good in her, as does her family. Even though they don’t always see eye to eye, Victoria loves her family and has strong relationships with her siblings. She’s such an interesting and complicated person, and I like her complexity. She is often conflicted between doing what she knows is right and getting her revenge. Though she is not the villain of the story, she is certainly villainous.
Elijah is also dynamically developed, and his story is as complex and heartbreaking as Victoria’s. At first, I didn’t find him to be overly likable. However, the more I learned about him, the more drawn I was to his story. There is so much more to Elijah than he lets the world see, and I think Victoria learns as much from her relationship with Elijah as he does from knowing her. They are so different, yet they connect on such a deep level, even when it’s against their better judgment. Victoria and Elijah have both lived their lives in fear, and though it’s for different reasons, it’s because of the same man. It’s a terrible connection to have, but it definitely changes the way both see things. Their individual stories are as interesting as their growing relationship is.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, and Victoria and Elijah’s is the best! They have such fantastic chemistry, and their complicated relationship is so entertaining. Though it seems impossible for this couple to end up together, I found myself hoping that they could find a way! There are several other stand-out relationships in the story too. Victoria’s relationship with her siblings is great. They are so funny together, and you can tell that even with all their teasing and tormenting, they really care about each other. They are protective of each other, much like Elijah and his brother. I think there are some great messages here about the bonds between siblings, as well as the lengths a person will go to get revenge and the power of love, kindness, and acceptance.
This is such a fantastic addition to the Embracing Darkness series, and I would definitely recommend this to readers who like dark fantasy romance and paranormal romance. Though it’s the second book in the series, each book is a standalone. The stories take place in the same world, but the characters and stories are separate. However, Spellbound, the first book in the series, is fabulous too and one I would definitely recommend. Thanks so much to Rebecca L. Garcia for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
February 16, 2025
"I learned to be kind to myself. I found happiness in the little things, and I let myself feel sad when I needed to."
Really liked this part where the character talks about dealing with grief, it was very finely done.
Anyways so the review, I loved this book. I loved reading it, I quite literally had my fun with it. I was actively biting my nails at some parts and just straight up laughing out loud at some. And see that's the funny thing there was barely anything actually funny in here but the way it was written. Like the part where victoria was beating the shit out of damian should have been a little disturbing but I loved it, I was literally going HAHAHA so so loudly my sister was concerned. I feel the writing style was charming in a sense, like it was straightforward but also gave off this cozy vibe even though nothing that was going on during the entire book was cozy. Like the atmosphere felt charged but warm at the same time, which is just interesting.
Also I loved the execution of the plot. I love how the first time Victoria actually felt bad for deceiving Elijah was when we were only left with 10% of the book, because I hate it when characters start on something and fall in love within a second and start regretting things not even halfway through. Like if you're there for revenge i don't think it should be that easy to fall in love and give it all up for that love, and it wasn't, so thank you to the author. Also I guess at the end it did help that Elijah was nicer than his father and he wasn't really the real enemy, so him and victoria getting married was fine!!
Also loved the writing at the climax part where Victoria finally tries to kill Damian. It was fun because it was written very well. If this had been any other book I would have been so mad that she let Damian go, that she didn't kill him, but the author made it make sense. It was very fun that Damian ended up in the asylum, it served him right and Victoria got her revenge albeit not in the way planned. but yk. I loved it here.
I want to say 5 stars but even though I had a lot of fun, it probably still stays 4 or 4.5 you could say.
Really liked this part where the character talks about dealing with grief, it was very finely done.
Anyways so the review, I loved this book. I loved reading it, I quite literally had my fun with it. I was actively biting my nails at some parts and just straight up laughing out loud at some. And see that's the funny thing there was barely anything actually funny in here but the way it was written. Like the part where victoria was beating the shit out of damian should have been a little disturbing but I loved it, I was literally going HAHAHA so so loudly my sister was concerned. I feel the writing style was charming in a sense, like it was straightforward but also gave off this cozy vibe even though nothing that was going on during the entire book was cozy. Like the atmosphere felt charged but warm at the same time, which is just interesting.
Also I loved the execution of the plot. I love how the first time Victoria actually felt bad for deceiving Elijah was when we were only left with 10% of the book, because I hate it when characters start on something and fall in love within a second and start regretting things not even halfway through. Like if you're there for revenge i don't think it should be that easy to fall in love and give it all up for that love, and it wasn't, so thank you to the author. Also I guess at the end it did help that Elijah was nicer than his father and he wasn't really the real enemy, so him and victoria getting married was fine!!
Also loved the writing at the climax part where Victoria finally tries to kill Damian. It was fun because it was written very well. If this had been any other book I would have been so mad that she let Damian go, that she didn't kill him, but the author made it make sense. It was very fun that Damian ended up in the asylum, it served him right and Victoria got her revenge albeit not in the way planned. but yk. I loved it here.
I want to say 5 stars but even though I had a lot of fun, it probably still stays 4 or 4.5 you could say.
December 3, 2021
WOW! Wow.... This is one of the first books I've read lately where I sat at the end and thought, "that was a friggin awesome story!" I've never read anything by Rebecca L. Garcia prior to Hear of a Witch but this book definitely has me wanting more. This is a dark and twisted tale about how overwhelming grief and anger can drive a person to madness and a need for revenge at any cost.
Victoria Amberwood is a witch. She lives in a kingdom that hates witches and is forced to hide what she, and her family is. When a Dark Magic club gains the attention of a notorious witch hunter, Damian Shaw, it gets raided and Victoria's younger sister ends up dead. It forces Victoria and the rest of her family to change their identities and flee the home they adored. She vows the darkest of revenge upon the man who killed her beloved sister and will stop at nothing to get it. She moves her family right under Damian's nose, worming her way into his town, his church, his home, his life...determined to destroy everything he holds dear, starting with his son, Elijah. Her goal is to make Elijah fall in love with her, and then ruin their lives from the inside.
I can't say anything more without totally getting excited and dropping spoilers. As I said previously, this is a tale in which you see how heart-wrenching grief can blind a person to the point they no longer recognize themselves and the actions they take. However, it is also a tale of how just a tiny bit of love and empathy can crack the armor most people build around themselves when faced with such unimaginable tragedy.
While this is an "enemies to lovers" trope, I loved the natural progression of the relationship between Victoria and Elijah. They didn't just fall into immediate lust and then love. Victoria's heart truly had to be thawed before she recognized her feelings.
I also really loved the overall thread of hope that danced in the underlying background even in the midst of the darkness of Victoria's story. You really didn't know if she'd come out ahead, or if there would be a happy ending but her love for her family, her willingness to protect them at all costs, and the empathy that was shown to Elijah and Elijah to her, as they chipped away at each other spoke loudly as the overall message of the book.
I loved this book. I'm so enthralled with it and can't wait to read others by Ms. Garcia!
THANK YOU NETGALLEY, for my copy.
Victoria Amberwood is a witch. She lives in a kingdom that hates witches and is forced to hide what she, and her family is. When a Dark Magic club gains the attention of a notorious witch hunter, Damian Shaw, it gets raided and Victoria's younger sister ends up dead. It forces Victoria and the rest of her family to change their identities and flee the home they adored. She vows the darkest of revenge upon the man who killed her beloved sister and will stop at nothing to get it. She moves her family right under Damian's nose, worming her way into his town, his church, his home, his life...determined to destroy everything he holds dear, starting with his son, Elijah. Her goal is to make Elijah fall in love with her, and then ruin their lives from the inside.
I can't say anything more without totally getting excited and dropping spoilers. As I said previously, this is a tale in which you see how heart-wrenching grief can blind a person to the point they no longer recognize themselves and the actions they take. However, it is also a tale of how just a tiny bit of love and empathy can crack the armor most people build around themselves when faced with such unimaginable tragedy.
While this is an "enemies to lovers" trope, I loved the natural progression of the relationship between Victoria and Elijah. They didn't just fall into immediate lust and then love. Victoria's heart truly had to be thawed before she recognized her feelings.
I also really loved the overall thread of hope that danced in the underlying background even in the midst of the darkness of Victoria's story. You really didn't know if she'd come out ahead, or if there would be a happy ending but her love for her family, her willingness to protect them at all costs, and the empathy that was shown to Elijah and Elijah to her, as they chipped away at each other spoke loudly as the overall message of the book.
I loved this book. I'm so enthralled with it and can't wait to read others by Ms. Garcia!
THANK YOU NETGALLEY, for my copy.
December 16, 2021
Heart of a Witch is a standalone dark fantasy story full of heartache, devastation, vengeful witches, religious zealots and secrets upon secrets. I was completely drawn in from the very beginning and the twisted storyline kept me hooked.
When Victoria's sister is killed by the famous Witch hunter, Damian Shaw, she will stop at nothing in her quest for vengeance. Together with her siblings, they devise a plan to make Damian suffer as much as possible before he ultimately must die. However, what they weren't expecting was for Damian's sons, Corbin and Elijah, to not be the monsters they believed. Victoria must use Elijah to get to Damian but she struggles with her growing feelings for him.
I love that the story is told from both Victoria's and Elijah's POVs. It made the romance aspect much more believable as neither of them were particularly affectionate. The chemistry and tension was definitely there but both characters fight their feelings and there is a constant push-and-pull to the story.
I am loving dark, witchy stories lately and this one did not disappoint. The characters are flawed and complex, the story is gripping and the drama is plenty. Definitely one to check out if you are a fan of fantasy stories with badass Witches.
When Victoria's sister is killed by the famous Witch hunter, Damian Shaw, she will stop at nothing in her quest for vengeance. Together with her siblings, they devise a plan to make Damian suffer as much as possible before he ultimately must die. However, what they weren't expecting was for Damian's sons, Corbin and Elijah, to not be the monsters they believed. Victoria must use Elijah to get to Damian but she struggles with her growing feelings for him.
I love that the story is told from both Victoria's and Elijah's POVs. It made the romance aspect much more believable as neither of them were particularly affectionate. The chemistry and tension was definitely there but both characters fight their feelings and there is a constant push-and-pull to the story.
I am loving dark, witchy stories lately and this one did not disappoint. The characters are flawed and complex, the story is gripping and the drama is plenty. Definitely one to check out if you are a fan of fantasy stories with badass Witches.
December 13, 2021
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This in no way has affected my review and all opinions are my own.
This is book 2 in the Embracing Darkness series. What I like about this series is that each book takes place in the same world, but each story is about a different person or family. You also do not have to read the books in sequence in order to enjoy the series.
This book follows the family of Victoria Amberwood whose sister is brutally murdered by a Witch Hunter, Damian Shaw. Victoria and her siblings go on a path of vengeance in order to seek the death of the man who took their sister from them. This is all about settling the score for their sister. I loved the siblings and the way they each felt about what they were doing. Rebecca Garcia weaves their life in a way that you feel their pain of loss. I loved the enemies to lovers aspect and Elijah was swoon worthy. The story has some graphic descriptions of death in the book so be aware of that when reading. This book is a great continuation of the world building that Garcia has achieved within this realm and I cannot wait to see the next story in this series. I give this book 5 stars.
This is book 2 in the Embracing Darkness series. What I like about this series is that each book takes place in the same world, but each story is about a different person or family. You also do not have to read the books in sequence in order to enjoy the series.
This book follows the family of Victoria Amberwood whose sister is brutally murdered by a Witch Hunter, Damian Shaw. Victoria and her siblings go on a path of vengeance in order to seek the death of the man who took their sister from them. This is all about settling the score for their sister. I loved the siblings and the way they each felt about what they were doing. Rebecca Garcia weaves their life in a way that you feel their pain of loss. I loved the enemies to lovers aspect and Elijah was swoon worthy. The story has some graphic descriptions of death in the book so be aware of that when reading. This book is a great continuation of the world building that Garcia has achieved within this realm and I cannot wait to see the next story in this series. I give this book 5 stars.
December 11, 2021
I loved this book so much!!
Tori is such a great character. She is the one who takes it upon herself to make sure her family is taken care of, and that there is no chance that a witch hunter will be able to find them.. Even if that means dabbling in black magic, and causing harm to herself. When her little sister is murdered Tori decides that its time for someone to take the witch hunter down.. and that person is her. Thankfully her sister and brother want to help her, so she isn't alone in her quest for revenge. Both her sister and brother are great fleshed out characters that bring alot to this story.
Elijah doesn't want to be a witch hunter, but his father is forcing this on him.. He has grown up with his father telling him all kinds of horrible things about witches, and while he may not want to be one himself he does believe that they are monsters.
When Tori comes up with a plan to get close to Elijah to take down his father she doesn't expect that she could actually like him, let alone develop real feelings.. She moves into his town and they begin to attend the same chuch that Damian (elijahs father) preaches at. She makes Elijah question everything he thought he knew, all the while plotting to take him and his father down.
I love how even though Tori is falling for Elijah she doesn't stop her quest for revenge. She is still determined to do whatever it takes to stop Damian.. Up until the very end of the story you have no idea how things are going to end. I loved their relationship.. it was full of sass, and deception, truths that they werent expecting to share bringing them closer together..
I can't wait to read more books by this author!!
Tori is such a great character. She is the one who takes it upon herself to make sure her family is taken care of, and that there is no chance that a witch hunter will be able to find them.. Even if that means dabbling in black magic, and causing harm to herself. When her little sister is murdered Tori decides that its time for someone to take the witch hunter down.. and that person is her. Thankfully her sister and brother want to help her, so she isn't alone in her quest for revenge. Both her sister and brother are great fleshed out characters that bring alot to this story.
Elijah doesn't want to be a witch hunter, but his father is forcing this on him.. He has grown up with his father telling him all kinds of horrible things about witches, and while he may not want to be one himself he does believe that they are monsters.
When Tori comes up with a plan to get close to Elijah to take down his father she doesn't expect that she could actually like him, let alone develop real feelings.. She moves into his town and they begin to attend the same chuch that Damian (elijahs father) preaches at. She makes Elijah question everything he thought he knew, all the while plotting to take him and his father down.
I love how even though Tori is falling for Elijah she doesn't stop her quest for revenge. She is still determined to do whatever it takes to stop Damian.. Up until the very end of the story you have no idea how things are going to end. I loved their relationship.. it was full of sass, and deception, truths that they werent expecting to share bringing them closer together..
I can't wait to read more books by this author!!
December 22, 2021
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4.5 stars rounded up.
If you are looking for a dark, witchy book with morally grey characters and enemies to lovers then look no further!
From the author who brought us Spellbound, Heart of a Witch is the second in a series of standalone fantasies that is sure to appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Jennifer L Armentrout.
.
.
.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅:
-Dark twisty MC hell-bent on revenge
-Hexes, curses and dark magic galore
-Enemies to lovers
-Darkness, Death, Betrayal
-A plot full of twists & turns that kept me wanting
-Well written throughout with a satisfying ending
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆:
-There was nothing I actually disliked but it was lacking that "spark" for me that would make it a 5 star. Something was missing that I can't quite put my finger on. I wasn't obsessed.
𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍:
This was a really enjoyable read with a writing style that is easy to follow and descriptive with excellent world-building and character development. I liked the banter between the characters and the dialogue was good fun. If you enjoy a witchy villain and enemies to lovers romance then this one is definitely worth picking up!
4.5 stars rounded up.
If you are looking for a dark, witchy book with morally grey characters and enemies to lovers then look no further!
From the author who brought us Spellbound, Heart of a Witch is the second in a series of standalone fantasies that is sure to appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Jennifer L Armentrout.
.
.
.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅:
-Dark twisty MC hell-bent on revenge
-Hexes, curses and dark magic galore
-Enemies to lovers
-Darkness, Death, Betrayal
-A plot full of twists & turns that kept me wanting
-Well written throughout with a satisfying ending
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆:
-There was nothing I actually disliked but it was lacking that "spark" for me that would make it a 5 star. Something was missing that I can't quite put my finger on. I wasn't obsessed.
𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍:
This was a really enjoyable read with a writing style that is easy to follow and descriptive with excellent world-building and character development. I liked the banter between the characters and the dialogue was good fun. If you enjoy a witchy villain and enemies to lovers romance then this one is definitely worth picking up!
December 9, 2021
After Victoria's sister gets murdered by a famous witch hunter, she is driven to take revenge. This story is a tale of love and loss, grief and vengeance, sacrifice and love. The story and world building in this book was great.
Victoria has to leave town and moves with her brother and sister to where the witch hunter, Damian Shaw, lives. There is when she acts out her plan of revenge. She is fully aware of the sacrifices she needs to make in order to keep her family safe.
Elijah is Damian's son, but doesn't want to follow in his footsteps. Tori's way to revenge is through Elijah. They develop real feelings and at moments she wants to hate him, but can't since he's not his father. This was somewhat of an enemies and lovers (mainly on one side, Elijah was clueless to her being a witch). She makes Elijah question everything he thought he knew about witches, which is helping her case on taking his father down.
I also loved her relationship with her siblings. Their dynamic added some love and humor to this book, in a world full of darkness. Definitely would recommend if you like witchy themes.
Victoria has to leave town and moves with her brother and sister to where the witch hunter, Damian Shaw, lives. There is when she acts out her plan of revenge. She is fully aware of the sacrifices she needs to make in order to keep her family safe.
Elijah is Damian's son, but doesn't want to follow in his footsteps. Tori's way to revenge is through Elijah. They develop real feelings and at moments she wants to hate him, but can't since he's not his father. This was somewhat of an enemies and lovers (mainly on one side, Elijah was clueless to her being a witch). She makes Elijah question everything he thought he knew about witches, which is helping her case on taking his father down.
I also loved her relationship with her siblings. Their dynamic added some love and humor to this book, in a world full of darkness. Definitely would recommend if you like witchy themes.
December 22, 2021
This is for fans of 𝗔 𝗧𝗢𝗨𝗖𝗛 𝗢𝗙 𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦 and 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗗𝗢𝗩𝗘. This has HUGE enemies to lovers vibes. Like HUGE. And I was all about it.
Are you the hunter or the hunted?
Damian Shaw is the most notorious witch hunter in Salvius. Every person knows his name throughout the kingdom. Witches burn on the inside with hatred at the mention of a Shaw.
Victoria watches as Damian holds her sisters heart in his hand. She vows that she will find him and get her revenge. Forced to flee town and change their names to escape Damian, the Amberwood’s try to deal with their grief and formulate a plan to infiltrate the very town where the Shaw family resides.
Do you love:
🥀 witches
🥀blood magic
🥀romance
🥀dark female characters
Then you need this.
Victoria was my favourite. She is a complex character that pulls more towards darkness and I loved that about her.
“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗽𝗶𝗲𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗳𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀.”
4 ⭐️
Thank you to Rebecca and Victory Editing Netgalley for the ARC!
Are you the hunter or the hunted?
Damian Shaw is the most notorious witch hunter in Salvius. Every person knows his name throughout the kingdom. Witches burn on the inside with hatred at the mention of a Shaw.
Victoria watches as Damian holds her sisters heart in his hand. She vows that she will find him and get her revenge. Forced to flee town and change their names to escape Damian, the Amberwood’s try to deal with their grief and formulate a plan to infiltrate the very town where the Shaw family resides.
Do you love:
🥀 witches
🥀blood magic
🥀romance
🥀dark female characters
Then you need this.
Victoria was my favourite. She is a complex character that pulls more towards darkness and I loved that about her.
“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗽𝗶𝗲𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗳𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀.”
4 ⭐️
Thank you to Rebecca and Victory Editing Netgalley for the ARC!
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