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Spellbound
Gemma inherited more than she can handle thanks to the hot inhabitants of her hotel . . .
When Gemma Fox inherits the storied Reynard Hotel from her great-aunt, she’s totally unprepared for the responsibility. It’s not the bills or the renovations or the repairs piling up. Or her family’s complete lack of confidence in her ability to manage the hotel. It’s that she’s not alone.
Bound to the hotel are two spirits, Archer and Soren Hyde. Brooding, handsome, immortal―they’ve been haunting the Reynard for generations. And Gemma is now their custodian.
As Gemma fights to keep the hotel from going under, she also finds herself fighting a growing attraction to the brothers. Each offers her something Archer is impish, fun, sexy, and just the distraction she needs. Soren’s arrogant, passionate, sinfully attractive, and driving her crazy. In turn, they each want something from her―one wants freedom, the other wants her heart.
It turns out that Archer and Soren are holding back a secret that might finally see them no longer spellbound. And when the truth comes out about who―and what―they are, their imperfect triangle shatters. With her life and her happiness on the line, and pressure mounting on all sides, Gemma is forced to make a decision that could change everything―for eternity.
When Gemma Fox inherits the storied Reynard Hotel from her great-aunt, she’s totally unprepared for the responsibility. It’s not the bills or the renovations or the repairs piling up. Or her family’s complete lack of confidence in her ability to manage the hotel. It’s that she’s not alone.
Bound to the hotel are two spirits, Archer and Soren Hyde. Brooding, handsome, immortal―they’ve been haunting the Reynard for generations. And Gemma is now their custodian.
As Gemma fights to keep the hotel from going under, she also finds herself fighting a growing attraction to the brothers. Each offers her something Archer is impish, fun, sexy, and just the distraction she needs. Soren’s arrogant, passionate, sinfully attractive, and driving her crazy. In turn, they each want something from her―one wants freedom, the other wants her heart.
It turns out that Archer and Soren are holding back a secret that might finally see them no longer spellbound. And when the truth comes out about who―and what―they are, their imperfect triangle shatters. With her life and her happiness on the line, and pressure mounting on all sides, Gemma is forced to make a decision that could change everything―for eternity.
352 pages, Paperback
Published September 13, 2022
20 people are currently reading
3423 people want to read
About the author
Crystal J. Johnson
24 books198 followersCrystal J. Johnson lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, son, and a multitude of rescued animals. She is the author of the Affliction Trilogy, a winner of the 2019 Fiction Awards on Wattpad. Currently, she is working on a new adult fantasy, The Crown Trilogy.
Crystal is a Wattpad Creator and Editor's Choice Author, with over a million reads on the publishing platform.
Along with Felicity Vaughn, she is one half of the writing duo and YouTube personalities, Crystal and Felicity. Their newest novel SPELLBOUND is available wherever books are sold.
You can read all of Crystal's solo books on WATTPAD.
Crystal is a Wattpad Creator and Editor's Choice Author, with over a million reads on the publishing platform.
Along with Felicity Vaughn, she is one half of the writing duo and YouTube personalities, Crystal and Felicity. Their newest novel SPELLBOUND is available wherever books are sold.
You can read all of Crystal's solo books on WATTPAD.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 20, 2022
Wattpad is shaping stars, and Crystal J. Johnson and Felicity Vaughn are no exceptions to the light shone upon them as their story casts its spell upon me!
While paranormal romance isn’t my go to these days, there was so much promise with this book and I was so enamoured by the storytelling that I finished it in one day. There was a relatability to Gemma’s character and her growth and determination - despite her family’s doubts - was satisfying to witness. And Soren! Oh my, Soren. It’s a good thing I never had to promise I wouldn’t fall in love with him because I loved this man with all my being!
I enjoyed the folklore that Johnson and Vaughn incorporated as they unpacked the mystery behind the Reynard’s permanent residents, and the journal entries were a great addition in conveying the Hyde Brother’s story and the history of the Reynard. At each turn, this world was layered and believable, the little details woven throughout further drawing me under its spell. And, it was in these same carefully considered details that these author’s talents shone. Their characters and worlds were vivid and thriving, the tension and series of twists laid out well thought and executed. Even the side characters played their parts well in bringing the mystery of the Reynard to life.
With its enchanting lore, sizzling romance, and (hot) beings that go bump in the night, I might just have to schedule another trip to the Reynard Hotel this fall 😉
Thank you to W by Wattpad Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
While paranormal romance isn’t my go to these days, there was so much promise with this book and I was so enamoured by the storytelling that I finished it in one day. There was a relatability to Gemma’s character and her growth and determination - despite her family’s doubts - was satisfying to witness. And Soren! Oh my, Soren. It’s a good thing I never had to promise I wouldn’t fall in love with him because I loved this man with all my being!
I enjoyed the folklore that Johnson and Vaughn incorporated as they unpacked the mystery behind the Reynard’s permanent residents, and the journal entries were a great addition in conveying the Hyde Brother’s story and the history of the Reynard. At each turn, this world was layered and believable, the little details woven throughout further drawing me under its spell. And, it was in these same carefully considered details that these author’s talents shone. Their characters and worlds were vivid and thriving, the tension and series of twists laid out well thought and executed. Even the side characters played their parts well in bringing the mystery of the Reynard to life.
With its enchanting lore, sizzling romance, and (hot) beings that go bump in the night, I might just have to schedule another trip to the Reynard Hotel this fall 😉
Thank you to W by Wattpad Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
November 20, 2022
•UPDATED REVIEW•
SPELLBOUND by Crystal J Johnson and Felicity Vaughn. 5/5 ⭐️
‼️⚠️‼️!!!MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!‼️⚠️‼️
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly, I went into this book already having read the original story on Wattpad and loving it - so I wasn't sure how it could get better. but my GOD, it did.
I could not put this book down. When I started it, I was in a really bad reading slump and I can safely say this book got me out of it and I've got my mojo back!
These authors always manage to pull a visceral reaction from me with their characters and this did not disappoint. The characters I was meant to love, I loved with my whole being. The characters I was meant to hate, I, in the words of the Grinch, loathed entirely.
As a character, Gemma is so relatable with the ADHD and the commitment issues - so I loved having that extra layer of understanding for of character.
I also enjoyed the brief moments in the story where Gemma questioned whether she was imagining things. In the prologue, it's clear how enamoured Gemma is with the hotel and all the 'things that go bump in the night' and had some paranormal experiences herself when she was small. However when she inherits the hotel, it's clear that after being around her family - none of whom give the hotels history a second thought, just putting it down to Hazel being wacky - that Gemma has started to question her own experiences. However it only takes the briefest of time for her to realise that she wasn't wrong after all and that the experiences she had were not ones to be explained away by chance. But I loved the show of self doubt creeping - because it made the moment where she realises Soren and Archer are there and aren't human that much greater.
I also absolutely LOVED the journal entries. Learning about the backstory of the hotel and the past owners had me gripped and I felt like I was reading along with Gemma. Learning about each Fox's experience was something that I think added so much context to the story.
The continual consent seeking was also something I picked up on and appreciated. From both the twins at different points they would make sure Gemma was comfortable and that it was what she wanted - and I loved that in this context. ✨Consent is sexy✨
I loved the relationship development between Gemma and Soren. Near the beginning Gemma makes it clear that she 'doesn't have sex with people she doesn't love' and despite being close to Archer in the first half, engaging in other acts. the fact she couldn't fully trust him made her hold back from taking anything further with him - regardless of her feelings towards him. So when it came to Gemma going all the way with Soren, I was squealing inside like a little girl "SHE LOVES HIM" lol. And then waiting for that moment where she finally says it...which doesn't come straight away...just chefs kiss.
I was crying and swooning over Soren telling her that no matter what happened that night, that she couldn't fall in love with him. And I was making so many theories with my tabs while reading and the resolution did not disappoint one bit.
Now...one thing these authors NEVER disappoint on is their side characters. Whether you're meant to love or hate them, they never ever miss. While I absolutely hate Raven with my entire mind, body and soul - she is a brilliant character who I loved to hate. Some of her comments to, and about Gemma made me physically angry and do NOT get me started on her dad. He was an absolute bleep. The fact Gemma really had no family in her corner except Hunter made me sad, but it also emphasised just how much Hazel and the hotel meant to Gemma - and why.
I also loved the fact that the two cousins were so dissimilar - how Raven was almost like a reincarnation of bitter Betty and Gemma the double of Hazel. I loved the addition of Skye, who wasn't in the original story. Her friendship with Gemma was super sweet and I enjoyed the added layer of girl power to the story. I loved Hunter, I thought he had some absolutely cracking one liners and the scene where he's with his boyfriend and Gemma knocks on the door cracked me up. And of course I can't neglect to mention my main man Larry. He was one of my favourites in the OG story and I can't help but have an AU ship for Larry and Hazel. 🥲 He sounded so fond of her that I can't help but think deep down maybe he loved her in secret.
I also loved Wanda Willow...she's one of those iconic characters where they're not in it all that much but you can absolutely picture them in your head and you will never forget them.
This book truly pulled so many emotions from me. There were moments I was chucking to myself, moments where I felt secondhand embarrassment, moments I felt I could genuinely unalive a character for what they'd said, moments where I was swooning so hard I could've swore I was turning into a bird, moments where I thought 'hot damn I better call him' bc the spice was so dang good, moments where I was flitting between what I believed and what I wanted to happen. I just really loved this book y'all.
I was rooting so hard for Gemma and when everything went down and she left - I was breaking my heart so bad that I needed to put the book down to gather myself because I quickly learned I couldn't read with tears in my eyes.
I was so happy with the ending, the resolution was perfect and I wouldn't have changed a single thing about the way it ended. One of my favourite books of the year so far, by a mile.
//////////////
- OLD REVIEW -
~ This review is based on the pre-published version of Spellbound, via wattpad. Updated review on edited version to come ~
This was one of my fav reads of 2021. I read this book on wattpad and absolutely fell in love with the story and characters. This book was the first paranormal romance I had read and it had me hooked from chapter one.
Gemma is such a relatable and loveable character and the twins had such a love-hate quality that switched on its head a couple times. I didn't see the plot twists coming at all and I was so intrigued and invested right up to the last chapter.
One thing I absolutely love about these authors, and know I can always count on this from them, is that their side characters are never forgotten about. They are just as lovable, comical and relatable as the main characters.
I am beyond excited to read this book now that it's published and see all the edits and changes the authors have made. I pre-ordered the second I saw it was live so September cannot come quick enough! I really don't know how it could possibly get better from what i've already read, but I know full well it will be because these authors never fail to deliver and pay attention to every detail.
New review to come upon release!
SPELLBOUND by Crystal J Johnson and Felicity Vaughn. 5/5 ⭐️
‼️⚠️‼️!!!MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!‼️⚠️‼️
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly, I went into this book already having read the original story on Wattpad and loving it - so I wasn't sure how it could get better. but my GOD, it did.
I could not put this book down. When I started it, I was in a really bad reading slump and I can safely say this book got me out of it and I've got my mojo back!
These authors always manage to pull a visceral reaction from me with their characters and this did not disappoint. The characters I was meant to love, I loved with my whole being. The characters I was meant to hate, I, in the words of the Grinch, loathed entirely.
As a character, Gemma is so relatable with the ADHD and the commitment issues - so I loved having that extra layer of understanding for of character.
I also enjoyed the brief moments in the story where Gemma questioned whether she was imagining things. In the prologue, it's clear how enamoured Gemma is with the hotel and all the 'things that go bump in the night' and had some paranormal experiences herself when she was small. However when she inherits the hotel, it's clear that after being around her family - none of whom give the hotels history a second thought, just putting it down to Hazel being wacky - that Gemma has started to question her own experiences. However it only takes the briefest of time for her to realise that she wasn't wrong after all and that the experiences she had were not ones to be explained away by chance. But I loved the show of self doubt creeping - because it made the moment where she realises Soren and Archer are there and aren't human that much greater.
I also absolutely LOVED the journal entries. Learning about the backstory of the hotel and the past owners had me gripped and I felt like I was reading along with Gemma. Learning about each Fox's experience was something that I think added so much context to the story.
The continual consent seeking was also something I picked up on and appreciated. From both the twins at different points they would make sure Gemma was comfortable and that it was what she wanted - and I loved that in this context. ✨Consent is sexy✨
I loved the relationship development between Gemma and Soren. Near the beginning Gemma makes it clear that she 'doesn't have sex with people she doesn't love' and despite being close to Archer in the first half, engaging in other acts. the fact she couldn't fully trust him made her hold back from taking anything further with him - regardless of her feelings towards him. So when it came to Gemma going all the way with Soren, I was squealing inside like a little girl "SHE LOVES HIM" lol. And then waiting for that moment where she finally says it...which doesn't come straight away...just chefs kiss.
I was crying and swooning over Soren telling her that no matter what happened that night, that she couldn't fall in love with him. And I was making so many theories with my tabs while reading and the resolution did not disappoint one bit.
Now...one thing these authors NEVER disappoint on is their side characters. Whether you're meant to love or hate them, they never ever miss. While I absolutely hate Raven with my entire mind, body and soul - she is a brilliant character who I loved to hate. Some of her comments to, and about Gemma made me physically angry and do NOT get me started on her dad. He was an absolute bleep. The fact Gemma really had no family in her corner except Hunter made me sad, but it also emphasised just how much Hazel and the hotel meant to Gemma - and why.
I also loved the fact that the two cousins were so dissimilar - how Raven was almost like a reincarnation of bitter Betty and Gemma the double of Hazel. I loved the addition of Skye, who wasn't in the original story. Her friendship with Gemma was super sweet and I enjoyed the added layer of girl power to the story. I loved Hunter, I thought he had some absolutely cracking one liners and the scene where he's with his boyfriend and Gemma knocks on the door cracked me up. And of course I can't neglect to mention my main man Larry. He was one of my favourites in the OG story and I can't help but have an AU ship for Larry and Hazel. 🥲 He sounded so fond of her that I can't help but think deep down maybe he loved her in secret.
I also loved Wanda Willow...she's one of those iconic characters where they're not in it all that much but you can absolutely picture them in your head and you will never forget them.
This book truly pulled so many emotions from me. There were moments I was chucking to myself, moments where I felt secondhand embarrassment, moments I felt I could genuinely unalive a character for what they'd said, moments where I was swooning so hard I could've swore I was turning into a bird, moments where I thought 'hot damn I better call him' bc the spice was so dang good, moments where I was flitting between what I believed and what I wanted to happen. I just really loved this book y'all.
I was rooting so hard for Gemma and when everything went down and she left - I was breaking my heart so bad that I needed to put the book down to gather myself because I quickly learned I couldn't read with tears in my eyes.
I was so happy with the ending, the resolution was perfect and I wouldn't have changed a single thing about the way it ended. One of my favourite books of the year so far, by a mile.
//////////////
- OLD REVIEW -
~ This review is based on the pre-published version of Spellbound, via wattpad. Updated review on edited version to come ~
This was one of my fav reads of 2021. I read this book on wattpad and absolutely fell in love with the story and characters. This book was the first paranormal romance I had read and it had me hooked from chapter one.
Gemma is such a relatable and loveable character and the twins had such a love-hate quality that switched on its head a couple times. I didn't see the plot twists coming at all and I was so intrigued and invested right up to the last chapter.
One thing I absolutely love about these authors, and know I can always count on this from them, is that their side characters are never forgotten about. They are just as lovable, comical and relatable as the main characters.
I am beyond excited to read this book now that it's published and see all the edits and changes the authors have made. I pre-ordered the second I saw it was live so September cannot come quick enough! I really don't know how it could possibly get better from what i've already read, but I know full well it will be because these authors never fail to deliver and pay attention to every detail.
New review to come upon release!
June 6, 2022
Gemma is set to take over her great-aunt’s hotel, the Reynard, which has been in the family for over a century. Unfortunately, not only does Gemma have to deal with a conniving cousin who also wants the Reynard, but also a set of sexy twin spirits who have haunted the establishment since the late 1800s. Does Gemma have what it takes to run the business and set the twins free? Or will she flake out, as commitment has never been a strength for our main character?
Spellbound was a fun book originally found on Wattpad. I liked the premise and the fast pace. The spice was decent, if a bit repetitive. Gemma’s character was certainly flaky, and the drama with her family added to her character arc and growth. Thank you to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for the advanced copy!
Spellbound was a fun book originally found on Wattpad. I liked the premise and the fast pace. The spice was decent, if a bit repetitive. Gemma’s character was certainly flaky, and the drama with her family added to her character arc and growth. Thank you to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for the advanced copy!
September 14, 2022
Thank you Wattpad for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
To start it off, I originally read this story when it was posted on Wattpad and didn’t think I could adore it anymore than I originally did, but boy was I wrong.
We start this story off with Gemma inheriting a hotel from her great aunt, and not just any hotel; but one filled with things that go bump in the night and leave all guests of the Reynard in awe. The paranormal twist to this story was one of the first things that drew me into wanting to read it, and when the mischievous Hyde twins were mentioned I quite literally pulled the book closer to my face as if the page was going to come to life and tell me all the secrets they were hiding.
Not only did the authors have me falling for each of their main characters, but the details the put into their side characters had me wanting sequels, prequels, novella’s for all of the other characters too. I found myself relating to their personalities, quirks. I grew attached to them all; even Gemma’s horrendous cousin, Raven. She’s one of those characters you love to hate.
From the beginning I was transfixed by how the authors described and brought to life the town of Spelling and the Reynard itself. I felt as if I could picture it all in front of me as I read and desperately wished it existed so I could go off on my own little ghost tour.
Of course I have to mention the romance…. Damn… When things become intimate, I’m left needing a fan. Crystal and Felicity; girls you do spice right. Not only spice though, those sweet tender moments when you can see the characters falling deeper for each other, without words. My heart felt so full. I may have needed a tissue once or twice and I have no shame in admitting that.
I loved so many aspects of this story, the authors really did capture my heart with this one. I felt so many emotions throughout my reading of the book. I could write so much about this book, but yet it would be so little; because to really experience this story and truly witness the magic, you’re going to have to pick it up and embark on the wonderful journey yourself.
I promise you won’t be disappointed.
To start it off, I originally read this story when it was posted on Wattpad and didn’t think I could adore it anymore than I originally did, but boy was I wrong.
We start this story off with Gemma inheriting a hotel from her great aunt, and not just any hotel; but one filled with things that go bump in the night and leave all guests of the Reynard in awe. The paranormal twist to this story was one of the first things that drew me into wanting to read it, and when the mischievous Hyde twins were mentioned I quite literally pulled the book closer to my face as if the page was going to come to life and tell me all the secrets they were hiding.
Not only did the authors have me falling for each of their main characters, but the details the put into their side characters had me wanting sequels, prequels, novella’s for all of the other characters too. I found myself relating to their personalities, quirks. I grew attached to them all; even Gemma’s horrendous cousin, Raven. She’s one of those characters you love to hate.
From the beginning I was transfixed by how the authors described and brought to life the town of Spelling and the Reynard itself. I felt as if I could picture it all in front of me as I read and desperately wished it existed so I could go off on my own little ghost tour.
Of course I have to mention the romance…. Damn… When things become intimate, I’m left needing a fan. Crystal and Felicity; girls you do spice right. Not only spice though, those sweet tender moments when you can see the characters falling deeper for each other, without words. My heart felt so full. I may have needed a tissue once or twice and I have no shame in admitting that.
I loved so many aspects of this story, the authors really did capture my heart with this one. I felt so many emotions throughout my reading of the book. I could write so much about this book, but yet it would be so little; because to really experience this story and truly witness the magic, you’re going to have to pick it up and embark on the wonderful journey yourself.
I promise you won’t be disappointed.
April 29, 2024
The premise of a love triangle between identical brothers is actually hilarious to me but I did enjoy it. 😂 Some ‘ghost’ elements, magic & spice!
I got this book for free & wrapped on independent bookstore day! (s/o west side books in denver)
I got this book for free & wrapped on independent bookstore day! (s/o west side books in denver)
December 18, 2022
I’d rate this negative stars if I could.
Also I was promised ghost romance and I didn’t get it.
Also I was promised ghost romance and I didn’t get it.
May 26, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I was asked to give an honest review and I am always a little nervous when that happens because I never know what I’m going to get. First, I’m a mood reader and this broke that. I was in the mood for a smutty reverse harem, and this was not that. Nope it was better. This had so many different layers that I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the amazing story telling. There is a dash of everything that makes a book so good!
Spice. Mystery. And who doesn’t love an immortal lover!? And it made it truly magical! I think this read will appeal to so many! I just know it! Can’t wait for More readers to get their hands on this one!
Spice. Mystery. And who doesn’t love an immortal lover!? And it made it truly magical! I think this read will appeal to so many! I just know it! Can’t wait for More readers to get their hands on this one!
September 13, 2022
Unique plot ✔️
Lovable MC ✔️
Enemies to Lovers ✔️
Tension ✔️
All the feels from anger to excitement to love. This story has a unique premise, and is unlike anything else I’ve ever read. You can count on Crystal and Felicity to come up with a unique plot a weave it into a brilliant romance. Add in a twin brother love triangle, age old secret, and an MC who refuses to give up and you get this 5 star read!
Lovable MC ✔️
Enemies to Lovers ✔️
Tension ✔️
All the feels from anger to excitement to love. This story has a unique premise, and is unlike anything else I’ve ever read. You can count on Crystal and Felicity to come up with a unique plot a weave it into a brilliant romance. Add in a twin brother love triangle, age old secret, and an MC who refuses to give up and you get this 5 star read!
August 2, 2022
Thank you to Wattpad Books and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Spellbound by Crystal J. Johnson and Felicity Vaughn is an adult fantasy romance about a haunted hotel. The story revolves around Gemma, who has recently inherited her aunt's historic hotel. But that's not the only thing she's inherited. On the premises of the hotel, she meets twin brothers, Archer and Soren. They've been staying at the hotel for ages - literally. As Gemma gets to know the brothers, she starts to fall in love. Along the way, she discovers that the two brothers aren't human. Can she deal with this discovery? Will true love conquer all?
Here is a spooky excerpt from the Prologue:
"The twin boys were rumored to haunt the grounds of the historic Reynard. Disembodied laughter, pounding footsteps, and glowing orbs of blue and purple had all been caught on video and attributed to the brothers. On occasion, keys and sunglasses would inexplicably fly across a room, and tapping would sound from inside the walls as the two souls cursed to live out eternity in the hotel made their presence known to the living."
Overall, Spellbound is an adult fantasy that will appeal to fans of Vampire Diaries or Lost Girl. One highlight of this book is the haunted hotel setting, which would make it the perfect Halloween read. Another highlight of this book is the fantasy aspect. I was surprised to learn what the two brothers actually are, because it's something that isn't often seen in the fantasy genre.
One last highlight of this book is the romance, which isn't just a love triangle - it's more of a love square, which is a more interesting dynamic in my opinion. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of fantasy romances, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in September!
Spellbound by Crystal J. Johnson and Felicity Vaughn is an adult fantasy romance about a haunted hotel. The story revolves around Gemma, who has recently inherited her aunt's historic hotel. But that's not the only thing she's inherited. On the premises of the hotel, she meets twin brothers, Archer and Soren. They've been staying at the hotel for ages - literally. As Gemma gets to know the brothers, she starts to fall in love. Along the way, she discovers that the two brothers aren't human. Can she deal with this discovery? Will true love conquer all?
Here is a spooky excerpt from the Prologue:
"The twin boys were rumored to haunt the grounds of the historic Reynard. Disembodied laughter, pounding footsteps, and glowing orbs of blue and purple had all been caught on video and attributed to the brothers. On occasion, keys and sunglasses would inexplicably fly across a room, and tapping would sound from inside the walls as the two souls cursed to live out eternity in the hotel made their presence known to the living."
Overall, Spellbound is an adult fantasy that will appeal to fans of Vampire Diaries or Lost Girl. One highlight of this book is the haunted hotel setting, which would make it the perfect Halloween read. Another highlight of this book is the fantasy aspect. I was surprised to learn what the two brothers actually are, because it's something that isn't often seen in the fantasy genre.
One last highlight of this book is the romance, which isn't just a love triangle - it's more of a love square, which is a more interesting dynamic in my opinion. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of fantasy romances, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in September!
September 8, 2022
I want to start this off by saying thank you to Wattpad for giving me an arc in exchange for my honest review.
When I tell you this book had me under its spell from the beginning, believe me. This book had me captivated from the moment I opened the first page. My emotions were up and down, from anger to sadness; love and pain.
When reading this book; the authors did an incredible job and really brought you into the town of Spelling with their writing. You got to experience it through Gemma’s eyes and see what the hotel meant to her, how she felt about each of the Hyde brothers and you cheered her on as she faced struggles to obtain her dream.
It gave a wide range of diversity with the main character having ADHD. I was reading and found I could relate to Gemma, and the other amazing characters in this story.
It was a well written book, a beautiful story, though emotional at times; but it ends perfectly.
This book is definitely worth it and has easily became one of my favorites. The authors Crystal and Felicity really know how to write good stories. This book comes out on September 13th and if you haven’t preordered it, you should go get it. These authors and their book deserves all the hype in the world.
When I tell you this book had me under its spell from the beginning, believe me. This book had me captivated from the moment I opened the first page. My emotions were up and down, from anger to sadness; love and pain.
When reading this book; the authors did an incredible job and really brought you into the town of Spelling with their writing. You got to experience it through Gemma’s eyes and see what the hotel meant to her, how she felt about each of the Hyde brothers and you cheered her on as she faced struggles to obtain her dream.
It gave a wide range of diversity with the main character having ADHD. I was reading and found I could relate to Gemma, and the other amazing characters in this story.
It was a well written book, a beautiful story, though emotional at times; but it ends perfectly.
This book is definitely worth it and has easily became one of my favorites. The authors Crystal and Felicity really know how to write good stories. This book comes out on September 13th and if you haven’t preordered it, you should go get it. These authors and their book deserves all the hype in the world.
January 25, 2023
I enjoyed this one. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started it, but I really connected to Gemma’s character. Her struggles not to disappoint her parents and to fully commit to the Reynard were easy to relate to. I really liked the hints about her relationship with her great-aunt Hazel, and I loved that Hazel seemed to have really known and understood Gemma. Gemma needed support, and her family all frustrated me and had me wanting to scream. Only her brother Hunter had her back, and I really liked their sibling bond.
The mystery of the Hyde twins was intriguing, and I think a creepy old hotel was an excellent setting for this story. Archer and Soren were good characters, and I really liked them both. I liked the paranormal/fantasy elements of the story, and I thought they were interesting. I wish that the ending had been done with a bit more detail about those paranormal elements because I wanted more.
I liked the pacing of the book, and I found the writing style really flowed. Being in Gemma’s head was an easy place to understand the story, and I really did connect with her character throughout the book. I liked the romance, and I liked that it was all wrapped up neatly at the end.
This was a really good paranormal romance standalone with a little bit of spice, ghostly intrigue, and family drama.
The mystery of the Hyde twins was intriguing, and I think a creepy old hotel was an excellent setting for this story. Archer and Soren were good characters, and I really liked them both. I liked the paranormal/fantasy elements of the story, and I thought they were interesting. I wish that the ending had been done with a bit more detail about those paranormal elements because I wanted more.
I liked the pacing of the book, and I found the writing style really flowed. Being in Gemma’s head was an easy place to understand the story, and I really did connect with her character throughout the book. I liked the romance, and I liked that it was all wrapped up neatly at the end.
This was a really good paranormal romance standalone with a little bit of spice, ghostly intrigue, and family drama.
July 2, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad for this advanced digital reviewer copy. I definitely do recommend this book for a quick supernatural/fantasy story.
The book starts with Gemma inheriting her aunt Hazel's hotel, the Reynard. Within the hotel two boys, Soren and Archer Hyde, are cursed to live within its walls as "spirits" that are rumored to haunt the hotel. As the story progresses Gemma hopes to save her hotel from her judgmental and controlling family from taking over while getting to know both Soren and Archer.
I rated the book a 4.2/5. When I started reading the book, I enjoyed the prologue and how it set up the story. However, it took me longer after that to actually get into the book. Until the story started moving along after Gemma inherited the hotel, I felt like the first few chapters was slow. But once I read past those chapters, I really enjoyed the rest of the story. I do wish that there could have been more story telling regarding Soren and Archer's past living within the hotel. The author could have added a little bit more of their history.
The book starts with Gemma inheriting her aunt Hazel's hotel, the Reynard. Within the hotel two boys, Soren and Archer Hyde, are cursed to live within its walls as "spirits" that are rumored to haunt the hotel. As the story progresses Gemma hopes to save her hotel from her judgmental and controlling family from taking over while getting to know both Soren and Archer.
I rated the book a 4.2/5. When I started reading the book, I enjoyed the prologue and how it set up the story. However, it took me longer after that to actually get into the book. Until the story started moving along after Gemma inherited the hotel, I felt like the first few chapters was slow. But once I read past those chapters, I really enjoyed the rest of the story. I do wish that there could have been more story telling regarding Soren and Archer's past living within the hotel. The author could have added a little bit more of their history.
July 25, 2022
I went into this book without knowing much except it was a paranormal romance ? And it’s soooo much more than that!
Gemma our main character is the type of person who always seems to disappoint her family no matter how much she fights it. So what happens when Gemma’s loving aunt passes away leaving her to inherit a hotel that may have more secrets than Gemma is prepared for? 👀 her family already considers aunt Hazel a crazy relative so it’s no surprise they’re practically disgusted to see it handed to Gemma rather a more “fit” prospect to be done with it… can Gemma win over her family and keep this hotel? What secrets did aunt hazel leave behind in that hotel? And how is gemma going to choose between the two men that haunt her new hotel? This book is the perfect blend of mystery, romance and spicccceeeee✨
Overall I believe this book is the definition of exciting!
Honestly with every new chapter I kept getting more and more invested and excited about what was to come for all the characters. (So much so that I couldn’t help but enjoy guessing what was to come and NO it’s not very predictable lol!) & I’ve never read a book that nearly made me throw my kindle because I HATED with a PASSION a side character lmao 🤣 these authors definitely know how to push their readers buttons! I will always recommend this book and hope you decide to read it too! 🫶🏼
Gemma our main character is the type of person who always seems to disappoint her family no matter how much she fights it. So what happens when Gemma’s loving aunt passes away leaving her to inherit a hotel that may have more secrets than Gemma is prepared for? 👀 her family already considers aunt Hazel a crazy relative so it’s no surprise they’re practically disgusted to see it handed to Gemma rather a more “fit” prospect to be done with it… can Gemma win over her family and keep this hotel? What secrets did aunt hazel leave behind in that hotel? And how is gemma going to choose between the two men that haunt her new hotel? This book is the perfect blend of mystery, romance and spicccceeeee✨
Overall I believe this book is the definition of exciting!
Honestly with every new chapter I kept getting more and more invested and excited about what was to come for all the characters. (So much so that I couldn’t help but enjoy guessing what was to come and NO it’s not very predictable lol!) & I’ve never read a book that nearly made me throw my kindle because I HATED with a PASSION a side character lmao 🤣 these authors definitely know how to push their readers buttons! I will always recommend this book and hope you decide to read it too! 🫶🏼
October 7, 2022
I did not know what this book would be like, but I never imagined it would be so good. It has ghost stories along with magic, legends and love. This book kept me engaged the whole time, beautifully written to take you on mystical journey.
Gemma inherits her great-aunts beloved hotel the Reynard, but with the hotel comes two spirts Archer and Soren. Both handsome and immortal, she can't help but be drawn to the two, but there is a secret both are keeping from her. With hotel on brink of financial ruin can she figure out a way to save the hotel from her evil cousin Raven? Can she find out the secrets of why Archer and Soren are bound to the hotel and maybe save them? Will she lose both her heart and the hotel trying?
A mix of paranormal, fantasy and romance this story is sure to win you over. I am looking forward to more books by these authors.
Thank you to NetGally and Wattpad for copy of this book for my honest review.
Gemma inherits her great-aunts beloved hotel the Reynard, but with the hotel comes two spirts Archer and Soren. Both handsome and immortal, she can't help but be drawn to the two, but there is a secret both are keeping from her. With hotel on brink of financial ruin can she figure out a way to save the hotel from her evil cousin Raven? Can she find out the secrets of why Archer and Soren are bound to the hotel and maybe save them? Will she lose both her heart and the hotel trying?
A mix of paranormal, fantasy and romance this story is sure to win you over. I am looking forward to more books by these authors.
Thank you to NetGally and Wattpad for copy of this book for my honest review.
October 1, 2022
3.75 - This was such a fun book for spooky season! I loved the FMC Gemma she was such a fun character, she suffers from ADHD and is always struggling to prove her self to her family. It when her aunt hazel dies ( the only one who Gemma ever felt a connection and loved by) she inherits her old hotel and the two Ghost boys that haunt the place. Her family obviously doesn’t think Gemma can do this and thinks Raven(who is the worst ever) her older house should of got it. But aunt Hazel had a reason she left it to Gemma. And that’s when Gemma meets the famous Hyde men who have been trapped to the hotel grounds for all of their life. Archer and Soren, Gemma feels an attraction to Archer right away and against the better judgement of Soren Gemma falls for him. But as she finds and reads an old journal from generations before she Learns all
About the boys and the kids they have lived in this hotel for all the years and Learning what they really are. As the book goes on Gemma finds her self questioning everything and finds her self getting closer to the other Hyde bother Soren. I really liked this book but I felt like the ending had some open ending questions! I won’t say them here to not give away the story but I definitely wanted more details. I also felt like Gemma was having great character development till almost the ending! I felt like she just gave up and did what her family wanted even tho she finally went for what she wanted in the end I thought her just giving up was out of line for the Gemma I was reading about! Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for a copy of this book for a review!
About the boys and the kids they have lived in this hotel for all the years and Learning what they really are. As the book goes on Gemma finds her self questioning everything and finds her self getting closer to the other Hyde bother Soren. I really liked this book but I felt like the ending had some open ending questions! I won’t say them here to not give away the story but I definitely wanted more details. I also felt like Gemma was having great character development till almost the ending! I felt like she just gave up and did what her family wanted even tho she finally went for what she wanted in the end I thought her just giving up was out of line for the Gemma I was reading about! Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for a copy of this book for a review!
September 12, 2022
Everything about this book screamed read me! First, I love a good paranormal romance. Second, who doesn't love a magical little town?
Right from the start this book pulled me into the town of Spelling and I just loved everything about the Reynard Hotel, Aunt Hazel and those Hyde twins!
The characters were the kind of characters you wish you could read more about. With quirky Aunt Hazel who you cannot help but love, Gemma who is so unsure of herself and commitment that you just find yourself cheering her on, to Raven who you hate more than anything, and those Hyde twins who were just so intensely swoon-worthy.
This was a fast paced, keep you reading late into the night, spicy book that is definitely worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley and W by Wattpad Books for this eBook ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Right from the start this book pulled me into the town of Spelling and I just loved everything about the Reynard Hotel, Aunt Hazel and those Hyde twins!
The characters were the kind of characters you wish you could read more about. With quirky Aunt Hazel who you cannot help but love, Gemma who is so unsure of herself and commitment that you just find yourself cheering her on, to Raven who you hate more than anything, and those Hyde twins who were just so intensely swoon-worthy.
This was a fast paced, keep you reading late into the night, spicy book that is definitely worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley and W by Wattpad Books for this eBook ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 13, 2022
*ARC provided by netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This was a really fun read! I’ve never read a book with paranormal aspects but I really enjoyed this one.
It was creepy at parts, spicy, and the magic system was well explained.
My only complaints are that some of the dialogue was quite cheesy, but other than that it was enjoyable!
This was a really fun read! I’ve never read a book with paranormal aspects but I really enjoyed this one.
It was creepy at parts, spicy, and the magic system was well explained.
My only complaints are that some of the dialogue was quite cheesy, but other than that it was enjoyable!
June 5, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not going to lie, this book took me a minute to get into. It was my second ever paranormal romance, so I’m new to the genre- but once I got into it, I could not put it down.
I didn’t feel the connection between Archer and Gemma at first, and I think that’s why I was hesitant. But now that I’ve finished, I know exactly why I felt that way, and the connection between Soren and Gemma??? Unmatched.
This book had such a sweet romance, some infuriating family drama that made you really root for the main character, and some of the most interesting supernatural aspects I have ever read about. It also felt very researched, and I LOVE when authors respect the lore they include in their work. So I really appreciated the in depth learning of the Kobold.
This is also the first book I’ve read written by these authors, and I absolutely adore them. I will be looking into more of their work! Easy 5 stars ⭐️
I’m not going to lie, this book took me a minute to get into. It was my second ever paranormal romance, so I’m new to the genre- but once I got into it, I could not put it down.
I didn’t feel the connection between Archer and Gemma at first, and I think that’s why I was hesitant. But now that I’ve finished, I know exactly why I felt that way, and the connection between Soren and Gemma??? Unmatched.
This book had such a sweet romance, some infuriating family drama that made you really root for the main character, and some of the most interesting supernatural aspects I have ever read about. It also felt very researched, and I LOVE when authors respect the lore they include in their work. So I really appreciated the in depth learning of the Kobold.
This is also the first book I’ve read written by these authors, and I absolutely adore them. I will be looking into more of their work! Easy 5 stars ⭐️
June 4, 2022
To say I couldn’t put this book down is an understatement!!! I literally couldn’t keep my eyes open, and woke up to it still open!! Gemma is an amazingly strong female, who got the crap end of the stick on family. Well mostly! Her mother does try, but Hunter always has her back!!! Archer and Soren are characters who you bounce back and forth between loving and hating! They have dealt with so much in their lifetime, and not by choice! The twists, and turns this book takes keep you guessing! I sincerely hope there is more to this story!!
June 5, 2022
One of my favorite books this summer! I read this as an early release from NetGalley.com. I thought the lead character of Gemma was written very well. She is relatable and likable. The two main male characters are charming as well. I look forward to reading more from these authors!
April 28, 2022
Got a copy of this from Edelweiss and figured I'd actually review something I've read lately. I wanted to like this so much. The premise grabbed me right away. But I DNFed this at the end of chapter 6, which is when the main character, who spent a few paragraphs explaining how having sex with someone is super serious to her and dumped her last boyfriend for pushing her too far too fast, proceeds to hook up with a dude she's encountered for two brief moments so far in the book--and it didn't even provoke any feelings that we tend to read spicy books for. *sigh* There was a lot in the first six chapters that bothered me to the point where I couldn't even force myself to read on. And I went into this with low expectations because I've been on a paranormal/fantasy romance kick and just needed something light, fluffy, and romancey. The whole thing left me feeling like I was in the shallow end of the kiddie pool. The main character's family trope was annoying and shoved down your throat repeatedly. The main character was a hot mess, and not in the way the authors intended. She was basically a walking contradiction. Does she still believe in the ghosts from her childhood that haunt this place or am she going to be an adult and pretend they doesn't exist even though they are immediately in front of her? Are they ghosts or not? Is she supposed to be afraid of them or not? Can we make up our mind? Honestly there was no sense of urgency, no tension--good or bad--and the attraction and repulsion the MC has for the twins is so forced. Because it happens immediately with absolutely zero romantic tension or build up. I couldn't even hang on long enough to CARE what the "drop dead gorgeous" twins even are. Because they mysteriously reveal in the initial meetings with the MC that they're not ghosts but also not human. So why is this a paranormal romance when I got zero paranormal OR romance vibes? This really was a really, really big bummer for me.
December 30, 2022
I usually enjoy fantasy fiction and when you throw in the paranormal aspect, it gets fun. Spellbound was one such book that I truly enjoyed. I am not one to read books with ghosts or spirits in them but, this book had me hooked. The mystery surrounding the Reynard hotel drew me in and I fell in love with the setting, description and even the characters.
The story follows Gemma who inherits the Reynard hotel from her great-aunt. This makes her even more unpopular among her family members some of whom think they were cheated out of the inheritance and money. Gemma is given a time frame to be able to run the place and prove that she is capable of the task set in front of her, while most of the family deem her unfit for the responsibility. Little does anyone know that running the Reynard is the least of anyone's worry. The secret to the hotel lies in it's unexpected inhabitants who are bound to the place and who had a very special connection with Gemma's great-aunt making them her responsibility now.
I adored the characters of Soren and Archer. The two are very different and yet have an interesting connection to the hotel and develop a connection with Gemma. As she navigates a complicated love triangle, managing the hotel, family members who want to see her fail, we meet a whole lot of characters (including Larry, Skye, Raven and many more) whom we either love or hate. The authors have done a wonderful job in describing each character and give them enough space in the plot to ensure that the reader is familiar with them.
The twists at the end and the decisions Gemma faces make the story and mystery of the place that much more interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it for all fans of the genre. Even those who do not normally read paranormal fantasy can pick up this book and enjoy the story!
The story follows Gemma who inherits the Reynard hotel from her great-aunt. This makes her even more unpopular among her family members some of whom think they were cheated out of the inheritance and money. Gemma is given a time frame to be able to run the place and prove that she is capable of the task set in front of her, while most of the family deem her unfit for the responsibility. Little does anyone know that running the Reynard is the least of anyone's worry. The secret to the hotel lies in it's unexpected inhabitants who are bound to the place and who had a very special connection with Gemma's great-aunt making them her responsibility now.
I adored the characters of Soren and Archer. The two are very different and yet have an interesting connection to the hotel and develop a connection with Gemma. As she navigates a complicated love triangle, managing the hotel, family members who want to see her fail, we meet a whole lot of characters (including Larry, Skye, Raven and many more) whom we either love or hate. The authors have done a wonderful job in describing each character and give them enough space in the plot to ensure that the reader is familiar with them.
The twists at the end and the decisions Gemma faces make the story and mystery of the place that much more interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it for all fans of the genre. Even those who do not normally read paranormal fantasy can pick up this book and enjoy the story!
September 13, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up
I could not put this book down!!! It had such a unique story line and I was absolutely absorbed into it! AHHHH what a fun read!
It’s not everyday that you find a story that has not just an awesome FMC, but one that also has wonderful side characters!! I loved the hotel staff, and a few select members of Gemma’s family. Learning the history about the hotel that Gemma inherits from her aunt was so fascinating, and the mystery behind it all made it that much more enjoyable.
And let’s not forget about the twins 🥵 a love triangle?! Oooo babyyyyyy. There were definitely some tingling moments in this book that you won’t want to miss!
I went into the story blind (I never actually read the blurb oops) but it made it that much better for me! I knew it was a supernatural/paranormal romance, but literally nothing else. And it was GREAT!
The beginning took me a bit to get through, and I will blame that on me also reading like 4 other books. But I’m telling you, once you actually start getting into the story, you can’t STOP! You have to know what happens and get all the answers!
P.S. I fcking hate Raven (Gemma’s cousin). Right from the start, she drove me nuts and I wanted to slap her so many times (so kudos to the authors for making her so hateable!!!).
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes:
HOT TWINS
Spooky vibes
PNR
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
I could not put this book down!!! It had such a unique story line and I was absolutely absorbed into it! AHHHH what a fun read!
It’s not everyday that you find a story that has not just an awesome FMC, but one that also has wonderful side characters!! I loved the hotel staff, and a few select members of Gemma’s family. Learning the history about the hotel that Gemma inherits from her aunt was so fascinating, and the mystery behind it all made it that much more enjoyable.
And let’s not forget about the twins 🥵 a love triangle?! Oooo babyyyyyy. There were definitely some tingling moments in this book that you won’t want to miss!
I went into the story blind (I never actually read the blurb oops) but it made it that much better for me! I knew it was a supernatural/paranormal romance, but literally nothing else. And it was GREAT!
The beginning took me a bit to get through, and I will blame that on me also reading like 4 other books. But I’m telling you, once you actually start getting into the story, you can’t STOP! You have to know what happens and get all the answers!
P.S. I fcking hate Raven (Gemma’s cousin). Right from the start, she drove me nuts and I wanted to slap her so many times (so kudos to the authors for making her so hateable!!!).
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes:
HOT TWINS
Spooky vibes
PNR
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
May 26, 2022
GODDAMN. THIS BOOK >>>> truly exceeded expectations.
I literally found this book from a Tiktok comment by the legit Wattpad account recommending it on some Booktok video. When I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down.
This book is truly one of the most creative and amazing books I’ve ever read and I LOVED IT. I’ve truly never read something so original and interesting and I haven’t stopped talking about it to this day. It deserves every bit of praise and hype as possible. Just wow. AND ITS FREE?!?!?! ON WATTPAD?!?!? Bro. Just read it. Do yourself a favor, drop everything, and read it.
5/5🌟
I literally found this book from a Tiktok comment by the legit Wattpad account recommending it on some Booktok video. When I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down.
This book is truly one of the most creative and amazing books I’ve ever read and I LOVED IT. I’ve truly never read something so original and interesting and I haven’t stopped talking about it to this day. It deserves every bit of praise and hype as possible. Just wow. AND ITS FREE?!?!?! ON WATTPAD?!?!? Bro. Just read it. Do yourself a favor, drop everything, and read it.
5/5🌟
July 1, 2022
♾/5 stars!!!
i loved every second of this book (wattpad & published version). i didnt think the published could be any better but it exceeded my expectations. i almost forgot how much i loved this book. <333
i loved every second of this book (wattpad & published version). i didnt think the published could be any better but it exceeded my expectations. i almost forgot how much i loved this book. <333
October 29, 2023
Spellbound is a sizzling paranormal romance that is hard to put down.
I always love discovering new authors because it feels like you are making new friends who will take you on fabulous adventures. I met Crystal and Felicity at FanExpo (think Canadian version of Comicon). I loved their fun, outgoing personalities, and when they started talking about their book, I knew I needed to read it. I enjoy reading paranormal romance books because I love the sense of magic and mystery that often exists within their stories. It just gives me this feeling that anything is possible. For this review, I will be intentionally vague when discussing some aspects of this book. This is because one of the reasons why I loved Spellbound so much was the unexpected direction the authors took me in. I went into this thinking I would be getting a ghostly love story, and what I ended up reading was something far different. I enjoy a book with a lot of delicious drama in it, and this book is full of family and relationship drama.
It was a lot of fun exploring the folklore that Crystal and Felicity created in this book. There is a lot of mystery surrounding Reynard Hotel and its two mysterious residents. The authors take their readers on this winding journey of discovery, and they use various methods to give readers more information about this supernatural world that exists within the Reynard Hotel. Gemma was left an old magical journal that her past relatives had written in to talk about the hotel and its permanent residents, Archer and Soren. I loved reading those journal entries with Gemma; they were interesting and added richness to the story. I enjoyed how, at times, the entries made things clearer and at other times, they added more mystery to the story. The secondary characters also add to the mystery and folklore of this book. A few characters have this connection with the hotel either through work or through their relationship with Gemma’s great aunt, and you know that they know more about the supernatural things that are going on in the hotel than they are letting on. They all want Gemma to figure out why Archer and Soren are bound to the hotel on her own. They guide her on her quest but will never give anything away. I enjoy their interactions with Gemma. There are also characters in this book that you will hate with every fiber of your being. Gemma’s cousin Raven and her father are terrible people. They have no redeeming qualities about them, but they do add to the drama the overall story has and are great, shall we say, villains/adversaries that Gemma has to contend with.
Gemma is a lot of fun. Her family has deemed her as being a hot mess and someone who will never amount to anything. The anger they direct towards Gemma when they find out she has inherited the hotel just leapt from the pages. I could just feel Gemma’s pressure to succeed and know that if she failed, the hotel would be passed on to her cousin Raven. Gemma’s character felt real to me. Her flighty behaviour comes from having ADHD, something her family doesn’t accept that she has. Despite coming from a horrible family, Gemma is kind-hearted, funny, and smart (when she isn’t letting her insecurities take over). It was fun watching her grow as a character.
The romance in this book is piping hot. If you are a fan of love triangles, forced proximity, insta lust and enemies to lovers, you will enjoy the relationship between Gemma, Archer, and Soren. I’m not always a fan of love triangle tropes, but I like this one because it really works with the overall story. Gemma is instantly attracted to Archer at the beginning of the book and vice versa. There is definitely that insta lust between these two characters. But one telling sign that you know that these two weren’t meant to be was the fact that Gemma wouldn’t sleep with Archer because she didn’t feel comfortable taking it that far. There are plenty of heated scenes between these two, but I didn’t feel that connection. Soren and Gemma don’t get off on the right foot; their relationship has an enemies-to-lover vibe. But even when they are arguing, you can feel that chemistry between them, and you know that something deeper is going on between them.
Spellbound is a fabulous and addictive paranormal romance romp.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://yourbookishlife.com/book-revi...
I always love discovering new authors because it feels like you are making new friends who will take you on fabulous adventures. I met Crystal and Felicity at FanExpo (think Canadian version of Comicon). I loved their fun, outgoing personalities, and when they started talking about their book, I knew I needed to read it. I enjoy reading paranormal romance books because I love the sense of magic and mystery that often exists within their stories. It just gives me this feeling that anything is possible. For this review, I will be intentionally vague when discussing some aspects of this book. This is because one of the reasons why I loved Spellbound so much was the unexpected direction the authors took me in. I went into this thinking I would be getting a ghostly love story, and what I ended up reading was something far different. I enjoy a book with a lot of delicious drama in it, and this book is full of family and relationship drama.
It was a lot of fun exploring the folklore that Crystal and Felicity created in this book. There is a lot of mystery surrounding Reynard Hotel and its two mysterious residents. The authors take their readers on this winding journey of discovery, and they use various methods to give readers more information about this supernatural world that exists within the Reynard Hotel. Gemma was left an old magical journal that her past relatives had written in to talk about the hotel and its permanent residents, Archer and Soren. I loved reading those journal entries with Gemma; they were interesting and added richness to the story. I enjoyed how, at times, the entries made things clearer and at other times, they added more mystery to the story. The secondary characters also add to the mystery and folklore of this book. A few characters have this connection with the hotel either through work or through their relationship with Gemma’s great aunt, and you know that they know more about the supernatural things that are going on in the hotel than they are letting on. They all want Gemma to figure out why Archer and Soren are bound to the hotel on her own. They guide her on her quest but will never give anything away. I enjoy their interactions with Gemma. There are also characters in this book that you will hate with every fiber of your being. Gemma’s cousin Raven and her father are terrible people. They have no redeeming qualities about them, but they do add to the drama the overall story has and are great, shall we say, villains/adversaries that Gemma has to contend with.
Gemma is a lot of fun. Her family has deemed her as being a hot mess and someone who will never amount to anything. The anger they direct towards Gemma when they find out she has inherited the hotel just leapt from the pages. I could just feel Gemma’s pressure to succeed and know that if she failed, the hotel would be passed on to her cousin Raven. Gemma’s character felt real to me. Her flighty behaviour comes from having ADHD, something her family doesn’t accept that she has. Despite coming from a horrible family, Gemma is kind-hearted, funny, and smart (when she isn’t letting her insecurities take over). It was fun watching her grow as a character.
The romance in this book is piping hot. If you are a fan of love triangles, forced proximity, insta lust and enemies to lovers, you will enjoy the relationship between Gemma, Archer, and Soren. I’m not always a fan of love triangle tropes, but I like this one because it really works with the overall story. Gemma is instantly attracted to Archer at the beginning of the book and vice versa. There is definitely that insta lust between these two characters. But one telling sign that you know that these two weren’t meant to be was the fact that Gemma wouldn’t sleep with Archer because she didn’t feel comfortable taking it that far. There are plenty of heated scenes between these two, but I didn’t feel that connection. Soren and Gemma don’t get off on the right foot; their relationship has an enemies-to-lover vibe. But even when they are arguing, you can feel that chemistry between them, and you know that something deeper is going on between them.
Spellbound is a fabulous and addictive paranormal romance romp.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://yourbookishlife.com/book-revi...
August 22, 2022
I was intrigued by the premise of this book and I have to say it held up. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I really couldn't' see where it was going so it kept me reading. .
Gemma has inherited a hotel from her eccentric Aunt. The hotel is known for its paranormal activity and we learn of the Hyde Brothers that are attached to the hotel - or Spellbound.. Are they ghosts or something other? When Soren the hot, grumpy, sarcastic brother gives Gemma the magic diary of the previous Fox woman that have owned the hotel the mysterious brothers back story comes to life we are drawn into a very She now is in charge of figuring out how to set the brothers free and run the hotel to prove to her family that she can do it. While Gemma find herself at first attracted to Archer it is Soren that always captured my attention. I loved their banter, their attraction for each other and they way they challenged each other.
I loved the setting of this book. I loved the hotel, the staff, even the town. I loved how the hotel ad secret passages, and secret rooms and the cozy suite that her Aunt Hazel had been in all give a great back drop to the haunted story of the Hyde Brothers. I loved the love story between Soren and Gemma. Their connection was enemies to friends to lovers and I loved the progression as they got to know each other. He was always looking out for her and it was so sweet.
I didn't like the Archer/Gemma Story line. I wish she had turned him down when he pursued her. I found it weird that she was with one brother and then boom on to the next and I loved her and Soren together I had such a hard time reading when she was with Archer. I wish that had been handled a little different. I hated her family and they were portrayed as over the top critical and mean just to be mean. I hated how much Gemma doubted herself and I wish there had been more about her proving she could run the hotel to prove to herself and her family that she did it right. I thought we were headed in that direction with how she had handled the water main break but they took the hotel away from her anyway. I wanted that come to moment with her family where she stands up to her family and takes back the hotel. .Any time she fought with her family the story took a very middle school vibe which didn't mesh with the very adult romance
Overall, this was a very good story with a very HEA which makes me happy. I would recommend to anyone that like a good haunting book with little spicy and a lot of love.
Gemma has inherited a hotel from her eccentric Aunt. The hotel is known for its paranormal activity and we learn of the Hyde Brothers that are attached to the hotel - or Spellbound.. Are they ghosts or something other? When Soren the hot, grumpy, sarcastic brother gives Gemma the magic diary of the previous Fox woman that have owned the hotel the mysterious brothers back story comes to life we are drawn into a very She now is in charge of figuring out how to set the brothers free and run the hotel to prove to her family that she can do it. While Gemma find herself at first attracted to Archer it is Soren that always captured my attention. I loved their banter, their attraction for each other and they way they challenged each other.
I loved the setting of this book. I loved the hotel, the staff, even the town. I loved how the hotel ad secret passages, and secret rooms and the cozy suite that her Aunt Hazel had been in all give a great back drop to the haunted story of the Hyde Brothers. I loved the love story between Soren and Gemma. Their connection was enemies to friends to lovers and I loved the progression as they got to know each other. He was always looking out for her and it was so sweet.
I didn't like the Archer/Gemma Story line. I wish she had turned him down when he pursued her. I found it weird that she was with one brother and then boom on to the next and I loved her and Soren together I had such a hard time reading when she was with Archer. I wish that had been handled a little different. I hated her family and they were portrayed as over the top critical and mean just to be mean. I hated how much Gemma doubted herself and I wish there had been more about her proving she could run the hotel to prove to herself and her family that she did it right. I thought we were headed in that direction with how she had handled the water main break but they took the hotel away from her anyway. I wanted that come to moment with her family where she stands up to her family and takes back the hotel. .Any time she fought with her family the story took a very middle school vibe which didn't mesh with the very adult romance
Overall, this was a very good story with a very HEA which makes me happy. I would recommend to anyone that like a good haunting book with little spicy and a lot of love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2022
My rating: 2.5
The book was a bit of a letdown in some aspects but it does have some redeeming qualities though. A light breezy paranormal romance, which might be ok for you if you are looking for a casual read.
First, what did not work -
The main character Gemma was a compilation of contradictions. She loves ghosts but as an adult, she did not believe in ghosts? She takes sex seriously but hooks up with a random hot guy? (BTW I wonder what the author’s definition of sex in here)
The twins have spent 140 years together, but there is rarely a relationship depicted between them. Their dynamic is the least explored. It would have really helped to have a bit more info in that regard. Can’t help but compare this to ‘The Vampire Diaries’ which kind of has the same dynamic. The best part of the story was not just the romance with Elena, but the bromance between Stefan & Damon. That is totally missing here, making the characters not flushed out.
The Fox family and the antagonists are so predictable and one-dimensional. Stories are only as interesting as their villains, which this lacks.
Now, on to the good things -
The side characters (not the living Fox’s but the dead ones) were really interesting. Especially, Hazel - she seemed like a wonderful and caring woman who was just comfortable in her own skin
The lore and setup are good. Haunted hotel and another dimension made for an interesting read.
Surprisingly, the final resolution and payoff were good. It neatly tied up the story in a bow making for a satisfying conclusion.
The book was a bit of a letdown in some aspects but it does have some redeeming qualities though. A light breezy paranormal romance, which might be ok for you if you are looking for a casual read.
First, what did not work -
The main character Gemma was a compilation of contradictions. She loves ghosts but as an adult, she did not believe in ghosts? She takes sex seriously but hooks up with a random hot guy? (BTW I wonder what the author’s definition of sex in here)
The twins have spent 140 years together, but there is rarely a relationship depicted between them. Their dynamic is the least explored. It would have really helped to have a bit more info in that regard. Can’t help but compare this to ‘The Vampire Diaries’ which kind of has the same dynamic. The best part of the story was not just the romance with Elena, but the bromance between Stefan & Damon. That is totally missing here, making the characters not flushed out.
The Fox family and the antagonists are so predictable and one-dimensional. Stories are only as interesting as their villains, which this lacks.
Now, on to the good things -
The side characters (not the living Fox’s but the dead ones) were really interesting. Especially, Hazel - she seemed like a wonderful and caring woman who was just comfortable in her own skin
The lore and setup are good. Haunted hotel and another dimension made for an interesting read.
Surprisingly, the final resolution and payoff were good. It neatly tied up the story in a bow making for a satisfying conclusion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2022
I received an electronic advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions, thank you to Wattpad and Crystal J Johnson & Felicity Vaughn for letting me read Spellbound before it's release later this month.
After the death of her great aunt, Gemma unexpectedly finds herself in possession of the hotel she has loved since she was a child; the Reynard Hotel. Despite having been passed through her family for generations, there are few in the Fox family who care for the future of the hotel as Gemma does. While many of her family are sure she will fail; judging her unfairly for her ADHD, Gemma is full of passion to honour both her aunts memory and to preserve the experience that the hotel is known for.
The Reynard Hotel is far more than it seems, and while her family do not believe the legends of the Hyde twins, Gemma is about to learn first hand how wrong they are. With the help of a book passed down from owner to owner, Gemma will learn the full history of Archer and Soren Hyde and perhaps she will finally be the one to break their spell.
This book was just brilliant; I almost instantly grew attached to Gemma and I was beyond eager for her to succeed and prove her family wrong. Her relationship with Hunter was adorable and he's one of the only Fox family members I liked aside from Gemma. I loved the journey Gemma took, both with proving herself and with learning about the deep history that tied both the Fox family and the Hyde twins fates together.
The use of the book within the story was brilliant; I found myself desperate to read the next journal entry much like Gemma, as it slowly revealed everything Archer and Soren have gone through over the years. I loved seeing the development of their relationships with the Fox family, and my opinion of Soren changed more and more as the story unfolded.
This book took my emotions on a rollercoaster ride; leaving me with an immense feeling of satisfaction at the end as the authors wrapped up the story so wonderfully. It was truly a pleasure to read and I would 100% recommend it to anyone who loves romance, and particularly to anyone looking for another book to add to their spooky season TBR! These two authors are firmly on my auto read authors list and I cannot wait for everyone to experience this book when it releases!
After the death of her great aunt, Gemma unexpectedly finds herself in possession of the hotel she has loved since she was a child; the Reynard Hotel. Despite having been passed through her family for generations, there are few in the Fox family who care for the future of the hotel as Gemma does. While many of her family are sure she will fail; judging her unfairly for her ADHD, Gemma is full of passion to honour both her aunts memory and to preserve the experience that the hotel is known for.
The Reynard Hotel is far more than it seems, and while her family do not believe the legends of the Hyde twins, Gemma is about to learn first hand how wrong they are. With the help of a book passed down from owner to owner, Gemma will learn the full history of Archer and Soren Hyde and perhaps she will finally be the one to break their spell.
This book was just brilliant; I almost instantly grew attached to Gemma and I was beyond eager for her to succeed and prove her family wrong. Her relationship with Hunter was adorable and he's one of the only Fox family members I liked aside from Gemma. I loved the journey Gemma took, both with proving herself and with learning about the deep history that tied both the Fox family and the Hyde twins fates together.
The use of the book within the story was brilliant; I found myself desperate to read the next journal entry much like Gemma, as it slowly revealed everything Archer and Soren have gone through over the years. I loved seeing the development of their relationships with the Fox family, and my opinion of Soren changed more and more as the story unfolded.
This book took my emotions on a rollercoaster ride; leaving me with an immense feeling of satisfaction at the end as the authors wrapped up the story so wonderfully. It was truly a pleasure to read and I would 100% recommend it to anyone who loves romance, and particularly to anyone looking for another book to add to their spooky season TBR! These two authors are firmly on my auto read authors list and I cannot wait for everyone to experience this book when it releases!
July 21, 2022
Gemma just inherited her family’s haunted house , The Reynard. Known to have two sexy male twins who have been haunting the establishment since the 1800’s. Gemma isn’t known for her thriving commitment, and with juggling a cousin who wants to steal the Reynard from her, and the twins keeping her busy- will Gemma actually be able to commit and run this business successfully?
This premise seemed wholly unique, and though it took me a while to get into the book- I was thoroughly rewarded.
Some tropes and elements I loved in this book:
✨Paranormal romance
✨Love triangle
✨Mystery
✨Character development
Gemma’s character started off a bit flaky and had me seriously wondering if she would pull it off, but her family drama really added so much to her character development( damn I hated Raven SO MUCH) , and my word this love triangle had me seriously having a hard time to choose. But the connection between Soren and Gemma- impeccable, without a doubt the best match.
Steam level:🌶🌶
The spice scenes were good, it just got repetitive which took a bit of the kick out of it.
Overall a amazing supernatural/paranormal romance, with an utterly unique premise and amazingly fluffy romance.
Easiest 5 stars!
This premise seemed wholly unique, and though it took me a while to get into the book- I was thoroughly rewarded.
Some tropes and elements I loved in this book:
✨Paranormal romance
✨Love triangle
✨Mystery
✨Character development
Gemma’s character started off a bit flaky and had me seriously wondering if she would pull it off, but her family drama really added so much to her character development( damn I hated Raven SO MUCH) , and my word this love triangle had me seriously having a hard time to choose. But the connection between Soren and Gemma- impeccable, without a doubt the best match.
Steam level:🌶🌶
The spice scenes were good, it just got repetitive which took a bit of the kick out of it.
Overall a amazing supernatural/paranormal romance, with an utterly unique premise and amazingly fluffy romance.
Easiest 5 stars!
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