Category: Debut Novel

A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart by Morgan Lockhart

On By TracyIn Christmas, Debut Novel, Paranormal / Fantasy, Romantasy, Standalone Title, Tracy's ReviewsLeave a comment

A Spell for Midwinter's HeartA Spell for Midwinter’s Heart by Morgan Lockhart

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: September 23, 2025

After years of not practicing magic, Rowan Midwinter returns home to Elk Ridge, Washington to help her mother’s coven cast the annual snow spell at the winter festival. Rowan, who has avoided magic for years after past mishaps, is hesitant to jump back into the magical world. And to make matters worse, she crosses paths with her old high school rival and secret crush, Gavin McCreary, whose family is entangled in a corporate scheme threatening the town’s charm. As Rowan grapples with rekindling her magical abilities, confronting old wounds, and possibly rekindling romance with Gavin, the fate of the town’s festival hangs in the balance.

When I read the blurb for this book my first thought was that it was going to be a cute Christmas story with magic and Hallmark vibes and for the most part that is exactly what it was. I did enjoy learning more about Yule traditions, but the story lacked real depth, and I really had a hard time believing Rowan and Gavin as a couple. I just didn’t feel the chemistry and wanted more magic. The book does have a very diverse cast of characters, great family and holiday vibes, but it was a bit too predictable and fluffy for me. However, if you are looking for a light, cozy holiday read with witchy vibes, second chances and happy endings – you might want to give this book a read.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *

Song of the Hell Witch by Taylor Hartley

On By TracyIn Debut Novel, Historical Paranormal/Fantasy, New To Me Author, Non-Traditional Romance, Paranormal / Fantasy, Part of a Series, Romantasy, Tracy's ReviewsLeave a comment

Song of the Hell WitchSong of the Hell Witch by Taylor Hartley

Tracy’s Rating: 2 of 5 stars

Series: None Given

Release Date: September 9, 2025

A one-time criminal, hell witch Prudence Merriweather, has clawed her way to the top of society and now enjoys power as the Duchess of Talonsbury. But one night Prudence’s magic turns on her and she is forced to flee. She needs to get to the hell witch safe haven of Stormlash and for that she will need help. She turns to the one person she can think to help, Puck, her one-time love whom she hasn’t seen in twelve years. Widower Puck is a thief and also the father of a gravely daughter. When Prudence arrives asking for help, she makes it clear that the hell witches can also help Bea. And so, begins the journey to Stormlash and possibly a second chance at happiness.

This book was 100% not what I was expecting. I have said this before, but it bears repeating; feminism and misandry are not the same thing, and this book had way too much man-hating, female rage for my taste. I did think the trauma-based magic was an interesting concept, but the story didn’t stay on point and the super slow-burn, second-chance romance combined with a cliffhanger ending was a complete fail for me. Overall, I think that this author may have found an untapped niche in romantasy that may appeal to some readers, but this is not a series I have any desire to continue with.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *