Witches

Nightbooks | Book Review

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About The Book
A boy named Alex finds himself imprisoned by a witch and must tell her a new scary story every night to survive. As he runs out of stories, Alex desperately searches for a way to escape. This contemporary fantasy by J.A. White blends suspense and creativity, making it perfect for fans of dark yet accessible tales. Budding writers and readers alike will enjoy its clever twists and themes of storytelling.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4e4BqY1

My Rating

This fun, spooky story follows Alex, a boy who a witch tricks into becoming her prisoner. From the start, the plot feels creepy and original, moving at a fast pace that kept me engaged the whole time. Even though it’s a middle-grade book, it’s perfect for anyone craving a spine-chilling read that won’t keep them up at night.

Alex is a really likable main character, especially with his love for storytelling. He feels like a real kid—he loves writing creepy tales but doesn’t enjoy living one out. Alex also struggles with feeling different from other kids and thinks he’s weird, which makes him even more relatable. I rooted for him and his friends to escape, and while there were moments I worried for them, the story overall wasn’t too scary.

“And now I realize—so what if I write scary stories?”

The author keeps the story engaging with creepy twists and a few surprises. While middle grade isn’t a genre I usually read, I tend to enjoy it more when it involves fantasy and horror, and this book didn’t disappoint—it entertained me from start to finish, and I’m glad I picked it up. Don’t worry about the horror label; it’s a tame read, so there’s no need to feel nervous if you’re not into sscary books.

Overall, I recommend this book! I’m excited to watch the movie adaptation because I could easily picture it as a film while reading. As much as I enjoyed the book, I have a feeling I might love the movie even more. If you or a younger reader are looking for a great fall read, it’s perfect for spooky season vibes without being too frightening.

If you’ve read the book or watched the movie, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like this post and share it with fellow readers. You can also listen to the audiobook on Everand, and if you’re interested, grab a free trial using my link [Here]. To stay updated and help support my blog, be sure to hit the follow button so you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Witch Of Wild Things | Book Review

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About The Book
Sage Flores returns to her hometown eight years after her sister’s death, resuming her job at Cranberry Rose Company. She’s forced to work with Tennessee Reyes, her high school crush who she never fully got over. While juggling a ghostly sister, a stormy sibling, and an old flame, Sage navigates the tangled roots of her past and the new growth of her heart.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3BBsStZ

My Rating

This book is perfect for bridging the gap between summer and fall, with a mix of witchcraft and a touch of magic. Think Practical Magic meets Encanto and I loved every minute of it. The plot, characters, and unique twist on a second-chance romance make it a really engaging read. The romance involves secret high school pen pals—or AIM friends—which adds a fun twist to the typical second-chance story.

Sage Flores, the main character, is incredibly well-developed. She’s dealing with guilt over her younger sister Skye’s death, a tough relationship with her other sister Teal, and still holding on to her anger that when they were growing up, she had to act like a mother figure to her siblings and wasn’t able to be a kid herself. Despite these challenges, Sage’s protective nature and her journey to stand up for herself make her a character you’ll root for.

Even though second-chance romances usually aren’t my thing, this one stood out because it’s different from the usual plot. The reasons for the original conflict make sense, especially considering the characters were teenagers. Tennessee, the love interest, is fantastic and definitely falls first. There is something about the guy falling first in a romance that I just love.

“They needed to break. So now the roots and leave can come out and everything can bloom again.”

The side characters, especially Sage’s sisters Teal and Skye, add a lot to the story. Teal might come off as a bit harsh at first, but there’s more to her character than meets the eye. I also enjoyed Skye’s fun and adventurous personality. The magic tied to the Flores family is really interesting and make the plot even more compelling. I’m a sucker for a good witchy story, and this one didn’t disappoint.

The writing is great, balancing fast-paced action with slower, more thoughtful moments. Even when the plot slows down, I stayed hooked on the characters and their journey. The ending is satisfying and leaves room for more stories with these characters.

Overall, I wouldn’t call this a romcom but more of a magical realism or paranormal romance. If you’re interested in or new to romantasy, this is a good place to start. It’s a lighter take on the genre, with less world-building but a similar feel, making it an enjoyable read.

If you enjoyed this review or have read the book yourself, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please like, comment, and share this post. Don’t forget to follow the blog for more reviews and bookish content.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Weyward // Book Review

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About The Book
In 2019, Kate escapes her abusive partner to live in Weyward Cottage, inherited from a mysterious great-aunt. In 1619, Altha awaits trial for murder, desperately fighting accusations of witchcraft. During World War II, Violet is confined to her family’s estate, seeking answers about her mother’s mysterious past. These intertwined stories of Kate, Altha, and Violet span five centuries, highlighting their resilience. “Weyward” is a captivating debut novel about female strength.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4bpemlU

My Rating

I’ll admit, I wasn’t immediately drawn into the story, but there was something about it that kept me intrigued. As I delved deeper, I found myself captivated by the historical elements and witchy vibes. Plus, the way all three characters and timelines were woven together was nothing short of brilliant.

I’ve never been a huge fan of historical fiction, but the book has completely changed my perspective. Turns out, I have a soft spot for stories that blend history with a touch of magical realism. Who knew? I think that the writing really helped me enjoy the genre, and I’ll definitely be reading more books by this author in the future.

Let’s talk characters. Altha, Violet, and Kate—three women from different time periods, each with their own story to tell. While I liked them all, I couldn’t shake the feeling that they lacked distinct personalities. Still, their journeys were compelling enough to keep me turning the pages.

“Everything is made out of magic, leaves and trees, flowers and birds, badgers and foxes and squirrels and people. So it must be all around us.”

When it comes to pacing, it’s not what I’d call a fast-moving story. But you know what? That’s okay. The slower pace actually worked in favor of the narrative, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the plot and each character’s story. I was completely invested, despite having a pretty good idea of where the plot was headed.

Now, here’s something I didn’t love so much about the book. While I appreciated the feminist themes woven throughout, I couldn’t help but feel like the portrayal of men was a bit one-sided. Sure, not all men are saints, but lumping them all together felt a tad unfair. It would have been nice to see a broader range of male characters, acknowledging that while some men can be horrible, others can be kind and true of heart.

Overall, this is a beautifully written novel with an intriguing storyline. The ending tied everything up nicely, though I couldn’t shake the feeling that the feminist message was a bit heavy-handed. Still, it’s definitely worth a read, especially if you’re a fan of historical fiction with a magical twist. It’s 100% a girls supporting girls book, which is great, but it also contains a lot of triggering topics, so please check out Trigger Warning Database for a complete list.

Have you read “Weyward”? I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’re interested in checking it out, the audiobook is available on Everand—I’ve got a link (click here) for a free trial if you’re interested. Don’t forget to hit that follow button for more bookish content!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Kiss Curse // Book Review

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About The Book
 The follow-up to Erin Sterling’s New York Times bestselling hit The Ex Hex features fan favorite Gwyn and the spine-tinglingly handsome Wells Penhallow as they battle a new band of witches and their own magical chemistry. When a mysterious new coven of witches come to town and Gwyn’s powers begin fading, she and Wells must work together to figure out just what these new witches want and how to restore Gwyn’s magic before it’s too late.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3rC4pjJ

My Rating

If you are looking for a witchy romcom, with the perfect amount of witty banter and romance, this is a great read for you. This is a companion novel to ‘The Ex Hex’ (also by Erin Sterling) – but this time around, we’re following Gwyn and Wells, instead of Vivi and Rhys.

Gwyn is Vivi’s cousin, and she is a strong, willed, and opinionated witch. Wells is a serious, non-nonsense-type warlock. He is also the brother of Rhys. Rhys, you may remember, was Vivi’s ex-boyfriend from the previous book.

The cute part is how well the pairing works. Gwyn brought out a more laid back side of Wells. I loved how she always teased him. He was able to keep up with her sarcasm, which was awesome. Thus, there was a ton of witty banter throughout the story.

“The best magic is always a little risky, right?”

The book contains some spicy scenes that I loved. There wasn’t a ton of smut, and most of the romance scenes are the ‘fade to black’ type, but the chemistry between the characters made the scenes even better. This is definitely a ‘he falls first’ type of romance.

In addition to the romance, the plot was amazing. I loved the storyline and all the fun magical moments. It gave me the cozy fall vibes that I look for in a witchy romcom. The pacing of the story was good, and I liked how everything was wrapped up.

Overall, this was a ten out of ten read. It is a great frenemies to lovers magical romance. The story is something I think many people will enjoy. I mean it is a witchy story with my favorite trope; no wonder I liked it.

In the comments, let me know if you are a fan of Gwyn and Wells. Do not forget to like and share this post with others. And, hit that follow button before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Ex Hex | Book Review

- Bunny 2 Comments

About The Book
Vivienne Jones, a small-town witch, must team up with Rhys Penhallow, the man who broke her heart, when his return to Graves Glen triggers a series of supernatural disasters. They have to work together to save the town and break the breakup curse while trying to ignore their undeniable chemistry.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3F3J31J

My Rating

If you’re looking for a cozy, witchy romance, then look no further. This is a second chance romance about a witch and a warlock that must work together to break a curse that has thrown their town into magical chaos.

In the book, we follow Vivienne, who is a college professor and witch. Vivi is the sensible type of girl, and hasn’t really given into her witchy side. I loved her relationship with her family. Her aunt and her cousin are her best friends and support system.

Rhys is Vivi ex-boyfriend and warlock that returns to town on his father orders. He’s very charming, and acts before he thinks. His personality is very go with the flow and I liked the contrast between his more easygoing demeanor and Vivi’s somewhat more methodical personality.

“Never mix vodka and witchcraft.”

I loved how Vivi’s teenage self is coming back to bite her in the book. Because, a harmless joking curse she put on Rhys after their bad breakup is the cause of all the town’s misfortune. I liked seeing Rhys and Vivi work together, and realize how much their past relationship meant to them.

Unfortunately, this was a second chance romance book, and although I liked the characters and the plot, I am not a fan of second chance romances. The fact that Vivi and Rhys were still carrying that baggage for each other, even after 9 years, is ridiculous. Neither of them were in a relationship or have even had any meaningful relationships.

Overall, the writing and storyline saved the book for me. I was completely engaged the entire time reading it, and I loved all the witchy Halloween vibes. The ending was so good, and it instantly put me in the fall mood. So, I would recommend this book for anyone looking for a good fall magical romance.

In the comments, leave me some witchy book recommendations. Don’t forget to share this post with other book lovers. And, as always, follow the blog before you go.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Fall 2023 // To Be Read

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
As you probably know, I am a mood reader. So, I decided instead of sharing a monthly TBR, I would talk about some books that I would like to read this Fall! I have 12 books that I would like to pick up soon. I’m not sure I’m actually going to get to any of these, but they are currently on my radar.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: I recently bought a beautiful edition of this book, but I’ve never read it before. Of course, I know the premise of the story and have read a retelling of it. It is one of the only classic novels that insterest me, so I would like to read it sometime this fall.
Related Post: The Dark Descent Of Elizabeth Frankenstein // Book Review

The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: This is apparently loosely based on the classic story ‘The Island of Doctor Moreau.’ I have never heard of Doctor Moreau before, but I enjoyed Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s writing in the past.
Related Post: Mexican Gothic // Book Review


New Moon by Stephenie Meyer: What better time to jump back into the Twilight universe than during the spooky season. I have heard that this is probably the worst book in the series, but I would like to read it before the end of the year.
Related Post: Twilight // Book Review

Mere Mortals by Erin Jade Lange: This is a book I have been wanting to read since its release last year. It is a young adult comedic take-on a vampire story, so I am excited to see if I enjoy it. I did not hear a lot of people talking about it last year, but I think it is going to be a fun read.


Coraline by Neil Gaiman: Does this book really need much explanation? I read this book every fall because it is a perfect cozy-spooky read. I love me a good spooky middle-grade book, and this one is my go to every autumn.
Related Post: Coraline // Book Review

The ​Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman: Like I said, I love a good spooky middle-grade read. I have heard that this is a great October read, and since I love Coraline so much, I thought I should pick this book up, too. I do not know much about it, but I cannot wait to see if it will be another must read for me every fall.


Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: Everyone has read this book, and truthfully, I am not sure I am going to get to it before the end of the year. I hear it is a fantasy that will give you ‘Hunger Games’ and ‘Divergent’ vibes. Honestly, that sounds amazing! I just do not know if I am going to be in the mood to start a new fantasy series.

The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw: I believe this is a witchy book and that it is really creepy. Even the title seems spooky. I am not sure if this is a middle-grade or young adult, but I am always up for a good creepy magical witch story. The fall time is when I try to read more books centered on magic and witches, so this book should be perfect.
Related Post: Long Live The Pumpkin Queen // Book Review


The September House by Carissa Orlando: I have been dying to read this since I heard about it. I love me a good creepy haunted house story, so I am very excited to get into this book. It is an adult horror novel where a couple moves into a seemingly normal house, but every September, the walls start to bleed. I have only heard good things about this book, and the cover is eerie.

Clown in a Cornfield by Adam Cesare: I have heard so much about this book in 2023 alone. It sounds like a perfect young adult slasher book, and I cannot wait to pick it up. As someone who loves a good campy horror film, this is right up my alley. I am excited to see if I enjoy it as much as others have.


You, Again by Kate Goldbeck: Since I have become more of an adult romance reader, I l’ve been in the mood for a good fall love story. The concept of this book sounds amazing because it’s frenemies-without-benefits turned possibly lovers. And, it takes place in New York City during the fall season. I am instantly obsessed.

Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter: This book has been a must read for me since it was released. I am a Stan for Lynn Painter, ever since I read ‘Better Than The Movies.’ If I am not mistaken, this is an office-romance/enemies-to-lovers story. The fact that the blurb mentions Pumpkin Spice Latte automatically makes me think of fall time.
Related Post: Better Than The Movies // Book Review

In the comments, let me know what you are planning to read this fall. Remember that you can always follow the blog to get post notifications and it really helps my blog grow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

These Witches Don’t Burn // Book Review

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Title: These Witches Don’t Burn
Author: Isabel Sterling
Published: 2019
Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal
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Synopsis
Isabel Sterling’s delightful, suspenseful debut is equal parts sweet romance and thrilling mystery. With everything she loves on the line, Hannah must confront this murderous villain before her coven—and any chance she has with the new girl—is destroyed.

I must admit, this book didn’t intrigue me that much. Still, I am glad that I gave it a chance. Once I was a few chapters in, I couldn’t put it down. This book follows Hannah, who is an elemental witch in Salem. It is such a cliche, but I love it when witch stories take place in Salem. Hannah’s family is part of a coven of elemental witches, which her ex-girlfriend, Veronica, happens to be in as well.

I thought that the breakup drama was well written. You could tell that they both still had feelings for one another, but Hannah wasn’t going to just forgive and forget. If you are curious about what Veronica did (like I was), apparently she left Hannah in a deadly situation with a blood witch. However, I wish that we got more context to the breakup, and perhaps even a flashback or two.

Throughout the book we see Hannah trying to sort out her complex feelings for her ex, while starting a relationship with the new girl in town, Morgan. Morgan was a sweet character, and didn’t blame Hannah for running off to, unbeknownst to her, deal with this supernatural crisis. Also, it’s hard when your crush still has a close relationship with her ex, but Morgan was very understanding throughout the story.

“And it’s not like Disney ever showed us how to fall for another girl.”

Hannah’s parents and best friend, Jemma were likeable enough supporting characters. Towards the end, Jemma became one of my favorite characters. She added a much-needed comic relief to the story. Also, she was quick to defend Hannah to other people in her life. Hannah’s parents might not have understood their daughter at times, but you could see that they truly loved her.

The main plot is finding out who is responsible for the dark magic being used in Salem. Yet, there were times when we focused on the romance and family side of the story. I wouldn’t classify this as a contemporary. The magic and mystery plot was the backbone of the book. But I did like the times we stepped-away from the main plot to focus on ‘normal’ teenager things, like dating, heartbreak and parental drama.

For the most part, the book kept me interested, and there were some confessions that threw me for a loop. However, the storyline and ending were easy to predict. I am not suggesting that’s a bad thing, because sometimes it is nice to know what to expect. But I would have liked a few more surprising elements. I didn’t foretell some of the sadder moments, and although they hurt my heart, I do think they were needed to push the story forward.

Seeing as this is a duology, I will most likely be picking up the second book. But it may not be until next fall, since I think witchy books make good October reads. Do let me know in the comments if you have read this one, and what your opinions are on it. And before you leave, why don’t you give the blog a follow? It is completely free, and you get to support me and get updates at the same time

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Undead Girl Gang // Book Review

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Title: Undead Girl Gang
Author: Lily Anderson
Published: 2018
Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal
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Synopsis
Meet teenage Wiccan Mila Flores, who truly could not care less what you think about her Doc Martens, her attitude, or her weight because she knows that, no matter what, her BFF Riley is right by her side. So when Riley and Fairmont Academy mean girls June Phelan-Park and Dayton Nesseth die under suspicious circumstances, Mila refuses to believe everyone’s explanation that her BFF was involved in a suicide pact. Instead, armed with a tube of lip gloss and an ancient grimoire, Mila does the unthinkable to uncover the truth: she brings the girls back to life.
Credit: Google Books

From what I’ve seen and heard, this book isn’t very liked. However, I found it to be a funny and thrilling. Their were some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, but loved. At first, I thought this would be fun, witchy contemporary, but it surprisingly has a lot of thriller aspects.

To be honest, the writing isn’t the best, so that might turn some readers off. Yet, I found that the writing fit the story perfectly. The entire book felt like an old-school teen movie. It was lighthearted, but had spooky elements too. I noticed that there were a lot of pop-culture references throughout the book.

These days a lot of contemporary seem to be full of pop-culture references. Perhaps authors believe that they’ll relate more to the younger generation if they talk about ‘Instagram’ and ‘HP’ in their stories. I personally don’t care when authors do this, but I know some readers find it annoying. I will say that those references worked well in this case, since the story was very campy.

“You wouldn’t understand. It’s a dead girl thing.”

The best part of the book was the twist at the end. Now, I am not the best at solving mysteries. So I found the reveal at the end to be shocking. However, I can see how some could find it underwhelming. Looking back, there were a lot of red flags when it came to the killer that I seemed to have overlooked.

Personally, my favorite thing about the book was the dialog. For a spooky YA story, I found it to be pretty funny. The author did an amazing job mixing a mystery-thriller with a cheerful contemporary. I probably wouldn’t rereead the book, since I already know the big twist at the end. Still, I will recommend it to others looking for a more tame YA thriller.

Let me know your thoughts on the book in the comments. And, like, share and follow the blog. Please and thank you!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny