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Toil and Trouble #1
The Witch Is Back
…and she spells trouble Born a witch, Emmaline Bluewater’s days of trying to fit in are over—they ended seven years ago when the man she’d hoped to marry left town without a word. She’s much happier now, living a human life and running her own cocktail bar. Until Bastian Truenote walks through the door and announces that he wants her back! Bastian had his reasons for leaving Emma even if he can’t tell her what they are. But now a curse on his family dictates he must marry her. Yet Emma is not the meek witch he remembers, and not easily won over. Magical contracts are not easily broken but they do become even more complicated when you fall in love…
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2023
304 people are currently reading
30559 people want to read
About the author
Sophie H. Morgan
8 books313 followersSophie H. Morgan is a romance author, repped by Cole Lanahan. She lives in crazy worlds, some concocted by her, some ruled by her spaniel.
You can usually find her on Instagram (SophiehMorgan), on Twitter (@SophieHMorgan) or through her website.
Happy Reading!
You can usually find her on Instagram (SophiehMorgan), on Twitter (@SophieHMorgan) or through her website.
Happy Reading!
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July 3, 2023I’ve been struggling with how best to review this. I didn’t enjoy this read all too much, but it’s difficult for me to tell whether the book itself is bad, or whether it just happens to hit many of the tropes and pet peeves that tend to put me off.
Emmaline Bluewater and Bastian Truenote (WOW @ those names, btw) were childhood best friends in a world of witches and magic hidden among humans. Emma has always been madly in love with Bastian, and so is overjoyed when their families sign a contract that arranges them to marry.
Then shortly before they’re meant to marry, Bastian runs away, breaking Emma’s heart. She moves to the city and opens a bar with her friends to take her mind off of it, and to take care of her secret half-sister. Then, seven years later, Bastian comes back into her life and asks her to marry him again—because a curse threatening his mother’s life demands it.
This setup is quite contrived. I had trouble suspending my disbelief. They have to get married or else his mom dies? Yeah, ok. That’s convenient for the plot, but doesn’t seem like something that would ever happen even in a magical world. It’s an outlandish way to force your two love interests together.
Then, as I mentioned, there were many tropes I just don’t like in romance:
- Doormat heroine: Bastian comes back after breaking Emma’s heart and ruining her in the eyes of witch society, but she’s back in love with him practically immediately, blushing and stuttering and all. It was hard to watch. Grow a spine, girl!
- Miscommunications: both characters keep secrets from each other, for no better reason than to create drama and draw out the time before they finally get together. Emma keeps her half-sister a secret for almost the entire book, for reasons I never understood. She also keeps vital information that could seriously put
- Virgin MC: hate this. She’s in her late twenties, pretty, runs a bar. Unless she’s ace, it’s hard for me to imagine that she wouldn’t have had sex, ever.
- Evil mother: This kind of black-and-white portrayal of women’s relationship with mothers just strikes me as lazy writing. It’s easy to include a mother character who’s endlessly evil and greedy. It’s much harder, and much more worthwhile, to actually dive into how complicated loving someone who can’t love you in a healthy way can be.
So all of these tropes together conspired to make this a very unpleasant read for me. I did not like either of the main characters and wasn’t particularly invested in their romance. The only reason I finished it (with lots of skimming) was that I wanted to be able to write up a full, honest review.
That said, the writing was fine, as was the pacing. I certainly could see why someone who doesn’t have a problem with the tropes above might enjoy this romance. It’s just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Emmaline Bluewater and Bastian Truenote (WOW @ those names, btw) were childhood best friends in a world of witches and magic hidden among humans. Emma has always been madly in love with Bastian, and so is overjoyed when their families sign a contract that arranges them to marry.
Then shortly before they’re meant to marry, Bastian runs away, breaking Emma’s heart. She moves to the city and opens a bar with her friends to take her mind off of it, and to take care of her secret half-sister. Then, seven years later, Bastian comes back into her life and asks her to marry him again—because a curse threatening his mother’s life demands it.
This setup is quite contrived. I had trouble suspending my disbelief. They have to get married or else his mom dies? Yeah, ok. That’s convenient for the plot, but doesn’t seem like something that would ever happen even in a magical world. It’s an outlandish way to force your two love interests together.
Then, as I mentioned, there were many tropes I just don’t like in romance:
- Doormat heroine: Bastian comes back after breaking Emma’s heart and ruining her in the eyes of witch society, but she’s back in love with him practically immediately, blushing and stuttering and all. It was hard to watch. Grow a spine, girl!
- Miscommunications: both characters keep secrets from each other, for no better reason than to create drama and draw out the time before they finally get together. Emma keeps her half-sister a secret for almost the entire book, for reasons I never understood. She also keeps vital information that could seriously put
- Virgin MC: hate this. She’s in her late twenties, pretty, runs a bar. Unless she’s ace, it’s hard for me to imagine that she wouldn’t have had sex, ever.
- Evil mother: This kind of black-and-white portrayal of women’s relationship with mothers just strikes me as lazy writing. It’s easy to include a mother character who’s endlessly evil and greedy. It’s much harder, and much more worthwhile, to actually dive into how complicated loving someone who can’t love you in a healthy way can be.
So all of these tropes together conspired to make this a very unpleasant read for me. I did not like either of the main characters and wasn’t particularly invested in their romance. The only reason I finished it (with lots of skimming) was that I wanted to be able to write up a full, honest review.
That said, the writing was fine, as was the pacing. I certainly could see why someone who doesn’t have a problem with the tropes above might enjoy this romance. It’s just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2025
3⭐️
I actually ended up enjoying this more than I thought I would! My expectations were pretty low, but I found myself giggling and swooning and just overall enjoying the story.
A big issue that people had with this book from what I saw was the characters and their way of communicating. I have to say, after reading it myself, I can’t entirely disagree but I don’t think it was THAT bad. The main miscommunication in this book came from when the main characters were children. This is a story about growing and evolving and keeping those we love close and safe. I can completely understand why Emma didn’t communicate all that she knew just to help and protect her sister.
However, with that being said, I wish that Emma had more of a backbone in her. It was pretty obvious she was gonna grow and change by the end of the story (very predictable), but I really enjoyed the journey that it took to get there. One thing that lacked for me in terms of these characters was their chemistry. I thought their relationship was sweet, but I don’t think Bastian groveled enough for the way he left Emma. I wanted that angst and yearning; I wanted him to earn it. And I think that’s where it fell a bit short.
The plot itself was actually fun and light and cute. This book has way more to it in terms of lessons and themes than I expected. The expectation that family members can put on you to simply please themselves or work in their own benefit…it felt too real. Emma’s mother wanted her to be a certain way just to be the “perfect daughter” and I found myself really connecting with that part of Emma. The emphasis on personal growth was a huge one too, both of Bastian and Emma.
Another thing I wanted to point out was that the spice in this book is kinda cringey. I liked the added effect of spice with magic involved, but I found it a bit awkward and like I had to look away cause I just couldn’t stand to look at it.
I thought this book would be more of a fall read since it really had the comforting witchy vibes, but I think this would be perfect for any time. While this book did have some issues, I had fun! It was cute, sweet, and by the end has you feeling very wholesome. Would I say this is the best book ever? Definitely not. But if you’re looking for something quick and entertaining this spooky season, I’d say give it a shot. 💙
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭:
I…don’t really know what to expect from this since I blindly picked it up cause it sounded cute but then I went to the reviews and oh…
Hey, everyone’s different so maybe I’ll enjoy this? Possibly? 🫣💙
I actually ended up enjoying this more than I thought I would! My expectations were pretty low, but I found myself giggling and swooning and just overall enjoying the story.
A big issue that people had with this book from what I saw was the characters and their way of communicating. I have to say, after reading it myself, I can’t entirely disagree but I don’t think it was THAT bad. The main miscommunication in this book came from when the main characters were children. This is a story about growing and evolving and keeping those we love close and safe. I can completely understand why Emma didn’t communicate all that she knew just to help and protect her sister.
However, with that being said, I wish that Emma had more of a backbone in her. It was pretty obvious she was gonna grow and change by the end of the story (very predictable), but I really enjoyed the journey that it took to get there. One thing that lacked for me in terms of these characters was their chemistry. I thought their relationship was sweet, but I don’t think Bastian groveled enough for the way he left Emma. I wanted that angst and yearning; I wanted him to earn it. And I think that’s where it fell a bit short.
The plot itself was actually fun and light and cute. This book has way more to it in terms of lessons and themes than I expected. The expectation that family members can put on you to simply please themselves or work in their own benefit…it felt too real. Emma’s mother wanted her to be a certain way just to be the “perfect daughter” and I found myself really connecting with that part of Emma. The emphasis on personal growth was a huge one too, both of Bastian and Emma.
Another thing I wanted to point out was that the spice in this book is kinda cringey. I liked the added effect of spice with magic involved, but I found it a bit awkward and like I had to look away cause I just couldn’t stand to look at it.
I thought this book would be more of a fall read since it really had the comforting witchy vibes, but I think this would be perfect for any time. While this book did have some issues, I had fun! It was cute, sweet, and by the end has you feeling very wholesome. Would I say this is the best book ever? Definitely not. But if you’re looking for something quick and entertaining this spooky season, I’d say give it a shot. 💙
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭:
I…don’t really know what to expect from this since I blindly picked it up cause it sounded cute but then I went to the reviews and oh…
Hey, everyone’s different so maybe I’ll enjoy this? Possibly? 🫣💙
August 15, 2023
A magical second chance romance...
Emmaline Bluewater (Emma) and Bastian Truenote were supposed to get married. In their witch society, their parents had signed a contract sealing the deal, but Bastian ran leaving Emma and her broken heart behind. Then years later Bastian returns, acts as if nothing has changed and wants her back...
This was an enjoyable book but was missing that little bit of something that would have pushed my rating higher. At times this felt like a YA book mixed with a fairy tale. Swooning, evil mother, magic, etc. I do not have an issue with YA books or fairy tales but the characters in this book felt younger than their ages. It also bothered me that when he came back after leaving her, he offered no explanation, and she did not demand one. That would have been the first thing out of my mouth, especially when he comes strolling in like he hadn't left her hanging and been gone. But I digress.... This book is full of communication issues, secrets, and swooning.
There were parts of this book that I enjoyed such as the support that Emma gets from her friends and her relationship with her sister. I also like how she stands up for herself at the end and takes a stand. I enjoyed her growth. This was a second chance romance that was cute and enjoyable but didn't fully work its magic on me.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Emmaline Bluewater (Emma) and Bastian Truenote were supposed to get married. In their witch society, their parents had signed a contract sealing the deal, but Bastian ran leaving Emma and her broken heart behind. Then years later Bastian returns, acts as if nothing has changed and wants her back...
This was an enjoyable book but was missing that little bit of something that would have pushed my rating higher. At times this felt like a YA book mixed with a fairy tale. Swooning, evil mother, magic, etc. I do not have an issue with YA books or fairy tales but the characters in this book felt younger than their ages. It also bothered me that when he came back after leaving her, he offered no explanation, and she did not demand one. That would have been the first thing out of my mouth, especially when he comes strolling in like he hadn't left her hanging and been gone. But I digress.... This book is full of communication issues, secrets, and swooning.
There were parts of this book that I enjoyed such as the support that Emma gets from her friends and her relationship with her sister. I also like how she stands up for herself at the end and takes a stand. I enjoyed her growth. This was a second chance romance that was cute and enjoyable but didn't fully work its magic on me.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
April 6, 2023
This was an adorable witchy read featuring the second chance romance trope.
This book has:
-A shy introverted heroine and an extroverted sunshine hero
-The friends to lovers trope with (seemingly) unrequited love from one of the parties
-Forced proximity and the marriage of convenience trope
-An “it’s always been you” scene
-Betrayal trope in the third act
If you’re looking for a steamy supernatural romance with intriguing family dynamics and an opposites attract couple, this is the book for you!
Thank you to Harlequin for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
This book has:
-A shy introverted heroine and an extroverted sunshine hero
-The friends to lovers trope with (seemingly) unrequited love from one of the parties
-Forced proximity and the marriage of convenience trope
-An “it’s always been you” scene
-Betrayal trope in the third act
If you’re looking for a steamy supernatural romance with intriguing family dynamics and an opposites attract couple, this is the book for you!
Thank you to Harlequin for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
September 18, 2023
The beginning was slow... and then I was caught in the story of two people being broken up by a misunderstanding. I immediately thought the hero was a douche bag but hoped that he would be redeemed through the story. But he wasn't and they get intimate while keeping all the secrets from each other. Around 61%, I was so irritated. I thought about DNFing at that point. But I didn't. And this is one of those books that proves it is better to DNF when you start questioning a book
There was so much here that drove me absolutely batty. Witch society is so gross. Arranged marriages for power, "mean girl" type behavior everywhere, racism, etc.
The hero is so condescending and patronizing. I hated that at the end the heroine ends up running after him.
I can see what the author was trying to do, but I hated the hero. He treats the heroine badly and then when she doesn't trust him for a long time, he treats her badly again when he thinks he understands what happened. And then she has to run after him and apologize to him.
I am so mad that the heroine in the beginning seems to have some spunk. And then, she becomes the mattiest doormat ever!
I hated the secrets, I hated the extreme family drama including a terrible mother, I hated the hero supposedly loving the heroine and not showing it in any healthy way, I hated that her friends did not support the dude being with her and then all the sudden are all on board with him when I am hating him. I hated her father for cheating on her mother. And not adequately protecting his children from the evil wife. And I hated how many times the hero is described as "movie star gorgeous" and the heroine is described as plain.
I could go on but I'm not going to because this book irritated me so much
There was so much here that drove me absolutely batty. Witch society is so gross. Arranged marriages for power, "mean girl" type behavior everywhere, racism, etc.
The hero is so condescending and patronizing. I hated that at the end the heroine ends up running after him.
I can see what the author was trying to do, but I hated the hero. He treats the heroine badly and then when she doesn't trust him for a long time, he treats her badly again when he thinks he understands what happened. And then she has to run after him and apologize to him.
I am so mad that the heroine in the beginning seems to have some spunk. And then, she becomes the mattiest doormat ever!
I hated the secrets, I hated the extreme family drama including a terrible mother, I hated the hero supposedly loving the heroine and not showing it in any healthy way, I hated that her friends did not support the dude being with her and then all the sudden are all on board with him when I am hating him. I hated her father for cheating on her mother. And not adequately protecting his children from the evil wife. And I hated how many times the hero is described as "movie star gorgeous" and the heroine is described as plain.
I could go on but I'm not going to because this book irritated me so much
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧
Emma and Bastian had been best friends when they were kids and seemed the perfect match so their parents arranged for them to be married at the age of twenty-one, but right before Emma’s 21st birthday, Bastian takes off, leaving a note for his parents saying that he can’t marry Emma. He shows back up 7 years later asking for her to fulfill the contract because his mom is dying because he didn’t fulfill his end of the contract. I really liked this except for the MFC. I thought she was too spineless, with her mother and Bastian.
Miscommunication Trope
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Emma and Bastian had been best friends when they were kids and seemed the perfect match so their parents arranged for them to be married at the age of twenty-one, but right before Emma’s 21st birthday, Bastian takes off, leaving a note for his parents saying that he can’t marry Emma. He shows back up 7 years later asking for her to fulfill the contract because his mom is dying because he didn’t fulfill his end of the contract. I really liked this except for the MFC. I thought she was too spineless, with her mother and Bastian.
Miscommunication Trope
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Read
April 10, 2023We all know from the gitgo that fantasy requires a huge helping of "just go with it," but I was a little disturbed in the first few pages when the characters shrug off with a joke the suggestion that one just wipe the memory of a performer who had come to do their job, but oops, the person hiring forgot to pay them. Maybe I'm too old, but I found that not funny at all.
Shortly after that, the hero turns up after dumping the heroine years ago, no explanation, when they were engaged. Does she act like an adult and ask for an explanation before going on? Nope. Yearns and burns, and he goes home and years and burns, and my eyes were rolling so hard that they clanged against the back of my skull.
There was a lot of fun with some of the magic, and I liked some of the characters, but for me this one never quite got past that jolting beginning. And there was more. Anyone think roofies are fun? Even magical?
Yeah, readers who don't find any of that a turnoff should really enjoy an otherwise sprightly, witchy romance.
Shortly after that, the hero turns up after dumping the heroine years ago, no explanation, when they were engaged. Does she act like an adult and ask for an explanation before going on? Nope. Yearns and burns, and he goes home and years and burns, and my eyes were rolling so hard that they clanged against the back of my skull.
There was a lot of fun with some of the magic, and I liked some of the characters, but for me this one never quite got past that jolting beginning. And there was more. Anyone think roofies are fun? Even magical?
Yeah, readers who don't find any of that a turnoff should really enjoy an otherwise sprightly, witchy romance.
August 21, 2023
The Witch Is Back is a cute witchy romance about a witch who gets engaged (once again) to the man who broke her heart seven years ago. The book and story were easy to follow and the characters are endearing in their own way. If you're looking for a cozy fantasy romance that'll be a quick read, definitely check this out.
Even though the beginning was a bit slow and I did get a little bit annoyed with both characters at one point (lmao), I still enjoyed the second half of this book a lot. I felt like maybe there could be more sweet moments between them because it felt a bit rushed and people might not believe the love story in its entirety because there aren't a lot of romantic moments between them. They don't trust easy so they don't really let down their walls until the very end and then you're left with only 60 pages where everything will be resolved. So I can definitely envision people not liking that part. Still, I enjoyed the book - there's nothing wrong with it and I feel like it's a nice book to read.
It's more a 3.5 almost 4.0 rating.
Even though the beginning was a bit slow and I did get a little bit annoyed with both characters at one point (lmao), I still enjoyed the second half of this book a lot. I felt like maybe there could be more sweet moments between them because it felt a bit rushed and people might not believe the love story in its entirety because there aren't a lot of romantic moments between them. They don't trust easy so they don't really let down their walls until the very end and then you're left with only 60 pages where everything will be resolved. So I can definitely envision people not liking that part. Still, I enjoyed the book - there's nothing wrong with it and I feel like it's a nice book to read.
It's more a 3.5 almost 4.0 rating.
September 22, 2023
I didn’t expect to find purity culture in a witch book. Like girl, who is your target audience here?
This book could’ve been really good but the author just HAD to make it weird. Also, it’s 2023. Can we not do the timid/no-back bone girl falls in love with the (barely thinly veiled) douche guy?
And the ending! I thought it was actually set up really well with Emma calling off the engagement so Baustian could have CHOICE (you know, the thing he b*tched about the whole book). Instead of being grateful, he calls her stupid like five times after she crawls back to him. And they somehow they end up happily ever after?
It would have been so much better if he would have come back to her and said thank you, now I have a choice and I CHOOSE you. Much more romantic IMO.
This book could’ve been really good but the author just HAD to make it weird. Also, it’s 2023. Can we not do the timid/no-back bone girl falls in love with the (barely thinly veiled) douche guy?
And the ending! I thought it was actually set up really well with Emma calling off the engagement so Baustian could have CHOICE (you know, the thing he b*tched about the whole book). Instead of being grateful, he calls her stupid like five times after she crawls back to him. And they somehow they end up happily ever after?
It would have been so much better if he would have come back to her and said thank you, now I have a choice and I CHOOSE you. Much more romantic IMO.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2023
The Witch Is Back by Sophie H. Morgan 🌷
Emmaline Bluewater was born into witch society, but she never felt like she fit in. Especially since the man she was supposed to marry left without a word. She now lives in Chicago where she owns a bar called Toil and Trouble with her two friends. Everything is going smoothly until Bastian Truenote, the man who left all those years ago, shows up again and says he needs her. In order to convince Emma that he had his reasons for leaving and that they need to honor the magical contract from the past. The one which results in them having a marriage of convenience.
I haven't read a witchy romance in a long time and this reminded me how cozy and fun they are! From the animal familiars to the witchy world that is so different from reality, it was a really enjoyable read. We get both Emma and Bastian's POV in this one and it's told in third person, which I didn't mind! I admittedly was holding a grudge against Bastian at the start since he left Emma all those years ago with no explanation, but as the story goes on and we learn from both of them more of the events that lead to it and where they are now, I developed a soft spot for him.
Both of them had a bit of growing to do from the start and that growth also tied with them getting to know each other gain after not seeing each other for seven years. Bastian does have a pretty good reason for showing up again and asking Emma to fulfill the marriage contract from the past, which then leads to some good forced proximity and banter between them.
My only gripes with this one is there is a bit of miscommunication between Emma and Bastian along with a third act breakup that was rough. Then again, I feel like the witchy world likes its drama so it still made for a really fun read.
If you're looking for a witchy romance full of character growth, banter, and a little bit of spice make sure to pick this one up.
Tropes:
🧙🏼♀️ witches
💍 marriage of convenience
🫶🏻 childhood friends to strangers to lovers
👥 forced proximity
🐶 includes a dog
🥰 found family
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
1.5/5 spice level 🌶️
Emmaline Bluewater was born into witch society, but she never felt like she fit in. Especially since the man she was supposed to marry left without a word. She now lives in Chicago where she owns a bar called Toil and Trouble with her two friends. Everything is going smoothly until Bastian Truenote, the man who left all those years ago, shows up again and says he needs her. In order to convince Emma that he had his reasons for leaving and that they need to honor the magical contract from the past. The one which results in them having a marriage of convenience.
I haven't read a witchy romance in a long time and this reminded me how cozy and fun they are! From the animal familiars to the witchy world that is so different from reality, it was a really enjoyable read. We get both Emma and Bastian's POV in this one and it's told in third person, which I didn't mind! I admittedly was holding a grudge against Bastian at the start since he left Emma all those years ago with no explanation, but as the story goes on and we learn from both of them more of the events that lead to it and where they are now, I developed a soft spot for him.
Both of them had a bit of growing to do from the start and that growth also tied with them getting to know each other gain after not seeing each other for seven years. Bastian does have a pretty good reason for showing up again and asking Emma to fulfill the marriage contract from the past, which then leads to some good forced proximity and banter between them.
My only gripes with this one is there is a bit of miscommunication between Emma and Bastian along with a third act breakup that was rough. Then again, I feel like the witchy world likes its drama so it still made for a really fun read.
If you're looking for a witchy romance full of character growth, banter, and a little bit of spice make sure to pick this one up.
Tropes:
🧙🏼♀️ witches
💍 marriage of convenience
🫶🏻 childhood friends to strangers to lovers
👥 forced proximity
🐶 includes a dog
🥰 found family
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
1.5/5 spice level 🌶️
August 9, 2023
Second Chance romance? Yes please!
The Witch Is Back is packed full of tropes!
Introvert/Extrovert
Forced Proximity
It's Always Been You
Friends To Lovers
Fake Dating
Marriage Of Convenience
I'm a big fan of witchy romance! The two main characters Emmaline "Emma"and Bastian are both fantastic. Bastian is very much swoon worthy. The open door scenes are spicy and the banter is spot on! I couldn't get enough of these two. I hope so much we get to see more of them in the future.
My thanks to Harlequin Books and Harlequin Publicity Team for my gifted copy!
The Witch Is Back is packed full of tropes!
Introvert/Extrovert
Forced Proximity
It's Always Been You
Friends To Lovers
Fake Dating
Marriage Of Convenience
I'm a big fan of witchy romance! The two main characters Emmaline "Emma"and Bastian are both fantastic. Bastian is very much swoon worthy. The open door scenes are spicy and the banter is spot on! I couldn't get enough of these two. I hope so much we get to see more of them in the future.
My thanks to Harlequin Books and Harlequin Publicity Team for my gifted copy!
January 4, 2024
Honestly, I was willing to give it 2 stars until the first sex scene. He knew she was a virgin because she was so tight? Sophie, please attend a 7th grade sex ed class. We know that's literally not how that works.
August 22, 2023
DNF at 67%. Im throwing in the towel.
July 19, 2023
Emma was devastated when Bastian broke their engagement and left the country years ago. She has since moved away from her hometown and witch society when suddenly Bastian shows back up in her life proposing marriage again because his mom is dying to due a clause in their betrothal contract.
I had a pretty difficult time with this book - the world building was pretty non existent and then all of a sudden new things would be randomly introduced with no explanation or having any set up. The whole book was set up on a miscommunication which we only found out after 50% through was because of a silencing hex and Bastian was literally unable to tell Emma the truth. One of my book pet peeves is when characters know something, have alluded multiple times to a secret, but the reader is still in the dark. This whole book was built upon miscommunications and keeping secrets. We spend a majority of the book not understanding the characters motivations which doesn't lend well to the likability of either character.
I thought both Emma and Bastian needed to do some serious growing up. I sort of believed their chemistry but man both of them need some serious therapy and communication classes. I could see the third act breakup coming from a mile away.
Things I did like: Emma's friend group, Emma's brother, the writing itself was okay too. I also liked that Bastian stood up to Emma's mom which in turn gave her the confidence to finally do so also.
Ultimately this just wasn't for me, though it might have been had there been less miscommunication and better world building. I actually think this would have worked much better as a marriage of convenience rather than...whatever it was that we got here.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had a pretty difficult time with this book - the world building was pretty non existent and then all of a sudden new things would be randomly introduced with no explanation or having any set up. The whole book was set up on a miscommunication which we only found out after 50% through was because of a silencing hex and Bastian was literally unable to tell Emma the truth. One of my book pet peeves is when characters know something, have alluded multiple times to a secret, but the reader is still in the dark. This whole book was built upon miscommunications and keeping secrets. We spend a majority of the book not understanding the characters motivations which doesn't lend well to the likability of either character.
I thought both Emma and Bastian needed to do some serious growing up. I sort of believed their chemistry but man both of them need some serious therapy and communication classes. I could see the third act breakup coming from a mile away.
Things I did like: Emma's friend group, Emma's brother, the writing itself was okay too. I also liked that Bastian stood up to Emma's mom which in turn gave her the confidence to finally do so also.
Ultimately this just wasn't for me, though it might have been had there been less miscommunication and better world building. I actually think this would have worked much better as a marriage of convenience rather than...whatever it was that we got here.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Okay, I wanted to love this. Truly. It had all the makings of a perfect cozy romcom-meets-magic escape. witch, a small town, some second-chance energy buuuut it never quite bewitched me (sorry, had to).
Morgan’s writing is fun and fast, and I can absolutely see this hitting for readers who want Hallmark-but-with-spellsenergy. You know the swoony, low-stakes, maybe a little camp in the best way energy. But for me the dynamic between the leads felt off balance (I kinda sorta wish he gave more obsessed with her and swoony romantic hero than the douchecanoe he came across as)
I think readers who love light, rom-com-forward fantasy (think The Ex Hex meets Once Upon a December) will eat this up.
Morgan’s writing is fun and fast, and I can absolutely see this hitting for readers who want Hallmark-but-with-spellsenergy. You know the swoony, low-stakes, maybe a little camp in the best way energy. But for me the dynamic between the leads felt off balance (I kinda sorta wish he gave more obsessed with her and swoony romantic hero than the douchecanoe he came across as)
I think readers who love light, rom-com-forward fantasy (think The Ex Hex meets Once Upon a December) will eat this up.
October 24, 2024
This was a slog and I am not a fussy reader. I don’t even know where to start. Are you sure Sophie H Morgan isn’t secretly a male author because it would make more sense if a man wrote this??
Emmaline was a doormat. I cannot relate to a character who will stay silent and not defend themselves. In her late twenties she is shy to the extreme, stutters, blushes, and lets everyone walk all over her. Her mother’s behaviour was disgusting and I found it hard to read at times. I cannot fathom why someone would write their main character this way? Emma was downtrodden, plain, boring and I’m just baffled by it. The fact she was the one to chase Bastian down at the end - I breathed fire. WHAT ARE YOU DOING WOMEN?!?!? GET A BLOODY BACKBONE!!!! He one million percent should have been the one to go to her. She did nothing but protect her sister at every turn as we all would.
Bastian was self centred. Barely apologised or grovelled but hey why bother she’ll forgive you anyway. He said Emma was a warlocks dream because she would be a quiet wife - gross!! He did stand up to Clarissa so I’ll give him that but he belongs in the bin.
I did like Emma’s relationship with her friends, her sister and her familiar Chester. I liked that she volunteered at the animal shelter and I also liked the creativeness with the magical tattoos that began with their union. Unfortunately the bad heavily outweighed the good, the constant miscommunication, the awful characters… Not for me! Give me a strong FMC who takes no crap thank you very much 🙌🏻
Emmaline was a doormat. I cannot relate to a character who will stay silent and not defend themselves. In her late twenties she is shy to the extreme, stutters, blushes, and lets everyone walk all over her. Her mother’s behaviour was disgusting and I found it hard to read at times. I cannot fathom why someone would write their main character this way? Emma was downtrodden, plain, boring and I’m just baffled by it. The fact she was the one to chase Bastian down at the end - I breathed fire. WHAT ARE YOU DOING WOMEN?!?!? GET A BLOODY BACKBONE!!!! He one million percent should have been the one to go to her. She did nothing but protect her sister at every turn as we all would.
Bastian was self centred. Barely apologised or grovelled but hey why bother she’ll forgive you anyway. He said Emma was a warlocks dream because she would be a quiet wife - gross!! He did stand up to Clarissa so I’ll give him that but he belongs in the bin.
I did like Emma’s relationship with her friends, her sister and her familiar Chester. I liked that she volunteered at the animal shelter and I also liked the creativeness with the magical tattoos that began with their union. Unfortunately the bad heavily outweighed the good, the constant miscommunication, the awful characters… Not for me! Give me a strong FMC who takes no crap thank you very much 🙌🏻
August 19, 2023
This was a heartfelt childhood friends to lovers, dual POV, second chance witchy romance that was full of family secrets, lies and miscommunication but at its heart was a beautiful love story between two witches destined to be together.
Good on audio narrated by Natalie Duke and perfect for fans of Avery Flynn's Witcha gonna do. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
This was my first book by Sophie H. Morgan and I look forward to reading more! Bring on #SpookySeason Reads!!
Good on audio narrated by Natalie Duke and perfect for fans of Avery Flynn's Witcha gonna do. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
This was my first book by Sophie H. Morgan and I look forward to reading more! Bring on #SpookySeason Reads!!
September 8, 2023
This was such a cute childhood friends to lovers romance. Emma and Bastian are really great together, and the side characters witch, human, and animal are all fantastic!
I'm seriously hoping Leah and Tia get their happily ever afters, too.
The Witch Is Back was witchy,charming,sexy, and a pleasure to read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I'm seriously hoping Leah and Tia get their happily ever afters, too.
The Witch Is Back was witchy,charming,sexy, and a pleasure to read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 8, 2023
Sadly, this became background noise after a while. The beginning was very strong, I was 100% invested and slowly around the beginnings of the halfway point, the pacing switched up and it became slow. I sat and knocked out most of it in one sitting but it wasn't because it was unputdownable, honestly I probably should have DNFd it but I haven't done that in so long...
Had a lot of promise and potential. I think it was a bit too long and what I assumed was going to be a. really fun magical witchy read...wasn't.
Had a lot of promise and potential. I think it was a bit too long and what I assumed was going to be a. really fun magical witchy read...wasn't.
August 31, 2023
The last witch Emmaline Bluewater expects to see walk though the door of Toil and Trouble, the Chicago bar she part owns with her best friends, is Bastian Truenote. It’s been almost seven years since her fiancé, and best friend, abandoned her without so much of a word, and in his absence Emma’s made a life for herself among humans, far from the disapproval of Witch Society, and her mother.
Bastian literally can’t tell Emmaline why he left her seven years ago but, with his mother suffering from the ill effects of his and Emma’s expired cursed engagement contract, he needs her to marry him now. He’s grateful when Emma agrees, but surprised when she demands the marriage be in name only.
The Witch is Back is a second-chance romance by Sophie H. Morgan. I was hoping to be pleasantly distracted by a lighthearted, low stakes story laced with magic, and I was in part, but there were elements of this novel that I found disappointing.
To begin with I was baffled as to how Bastian could believe that Emma would welcome his return with open arms after no contact for seven years, and why Emma wouldn’t demand an explanation the moment she saw him again. I found it really hard to move past this introduction as it flatters neither character and it’s never really resolved.
I found it easier to forgive Emma, whose issues are clearly the fault of her horrifyingly abusive mother. With not a single redeeming feature, Clarissa puts the ‘b’ in witch and everything that has gone wrong between Emma and Bastian can be traced to her really.
However, though a hex may have prevented Bastian from justifying his reasons for leaving, to do so without some sort of excuse for Emma was cruel. It takes Bastian far too long to apologise when he should have been well aware of what the consequences of him absconding would be for her.
I was also puzzled as to how Emmaline didn’t recognise the signs of the silencing spell that prevents Bastian from telling Emma the secret he is keeping. I would have thought the violent coughing and choking would have been a clue. Emma’s secrets are both benign and not, but she at least is proactive about the more damning of the two, which again is not her fault but her mother’s.
If you can skate over all of that, the romantic tension between Emma and Bastian works, and the spice is gratifying. I enjoyed the scenes where Emma spends time with her besties, Tia and Leah. It’s not difficult to see that Morgan probably has plans for Leah and Emma’s brother, Kole, for a future book.
Morgan’s world building is interesting too, but the upper echelons of Witch Society are really not pleasant, Morgan describes a world largely of grasping, power hungry socialites. The type and strength of magic varies between individuals, Bastian for example is a Higher Born son, a strong magic wielder with a particular talent for mind magic such as telekinesis, while Emma’s abilities are not very powerful. I did like the magic involved in the Divining, a process that determines the compatibility and power of a betrothed couple, though the hierarchical judgement seems a bit harsh.
Hovering around the ‘OK’ rating for me, The Witch is Back wasn’t the spellbinding read I hoped for.
Bastian literally can’t tell Emmaline why he left her seven years ago but, with his mother suffering from the ill effects of his and Emma’s expired cursed engagement contract, he needs her to marry him now. He’s grateful when Emma agrees, but surprised when she demands the marriage be in name only.
The Witch is Back is a second-chance romance by Sophie H. Morgan. I was hoping to be pleasantly distracted by a lighthearted, low stakes story laced with magic, and I was in part, but there were elements of this novel that I found disappointing.
To begin with I was baffled as to how Bastian could believe that Emma would welcome his return with open arms after no contact for seven years, and why Emma wouldn’t demand an explanation the moment she saw him again. I found it really hard to move past this introduction as it flatters neither character and it’s never really resolved.
I found it easier to forgive Emma, whose issues are clearly the fault of her horrifyingly abusive mother. With not a single redeeming feature, Clarissa puts the ‘b’ in witch and everything that has gone wrong between Emma and Bastian can be traced to her really.
However, though a hex may have prevented Bastian from justifying his reasons for leaving, to do so without some sort of excuse for Emma was cruel. It takes Bastian far too long to apologise when he should have been well aware of what the consequences of him absconding would be for her.
I was also puzzled as to how Emmaline didn’t recognise the signs of the silencing spell that prevents Bastian from telling Emma the secret he is keeping. I would have thought the violent coughing and choking would have been a clue. Emma’s secrets are both benign and not, but she at least is proactive about the more damning of the two, which again is not her fault but her mother’s.
If you can skate over all of that, the romantic tension between Emma and Bastian works, and the spice is gratifying. I enjoyed the scenes where Emma spends time with her besties, Tia and Leah. It’s not difficult to see that Morgan probably has plans for Leah and Emma’s brother, Kole, for a future book.
Morgan’s world building is interesting too, but the upper echelons of Witch Society are really not pleasant, Morgan describes a world largely of grasping, power hungry socialites. The type and strength of magic varies between individuals, Bastian for example is a Higher Born son, a strong magic wielder with a particular talent for mind magic such as telekinesis, while Emma’s abilities are not very powerful. I did like the magic involved in the Divining, a process that determines the compatibility and power of a betrothed couple, though the hierarchical judgement seems a bit harsh.
Hovering around the ‘OK’ rating for me, The Witch is Back wasn’t the spellbinding read I hoped for.
August 31, 2023
This was really cute, but it did sort of drag in the middle. Emma is the wallflower daughter of a cruel social-climbing mother and Bastian is the golden child of one of the most respected families in the country. The two were betrothed from a young age when their parents signed a contract on their behalf, with some hidden clauses. Around the time they both came of age, Bastian found out about one of said hidden clauses, and did a runner. Now he's back, wanting to fulfil the contract, not because he's loved her the whole time, but because it turns out one of those clauses no one noticed was that if it wasn't honored, his mother and Emma's father (who died in the interim) would get sick and eventually die of a wasting incurable sickness. And did I mention they're witches, because that's kind of important. (Apparently the magical don't read contracts before they're signed.)
Honestly, the Big Misunderstanding seemed a bit... contrived. Not so much Bastian's side of it, but Emma's reasons wore a bit thin after a while, especially regarding the Joining clause and her actions to protect Bastian. The rest I understood. About halfway through the book is when the Joining clause really should have been discussed, as well as Emma's attempts to thwart her eeeeeevil mother. Use your words, Emma.
But I did like the chemistry between the two, the character growth over the course of the story, and the dialogue. It was a library book but if I ever find it on sale, likely one I'd revisit in the future.
Honestly, the Big Misunderstanding seemed a bit... contrived. Not so much Bastian's side of it, but Emma's reasons wore a bit thin after a while, especially regarding the Joining clause and her actions to protect Bastian. The rest I understood. About halfway through the book is when the Joining clause really should have been discussed, as well as Emma's attempts to thwart her eeeeeevil mother. Use your words, Emma.
But I did like the chemistry between the two, the character growth over the course of the story, and the dialogue. It was a library book but if I ever find it on sale, likely one I'd revisit in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2023
Tenía muchas ganas de leerlo y me lleve una gran decepción.
Emma se deja ningunear por todos. Fue triste leer como no tiene columna vertebral y se dejaba pisotear.
Bastian la abandonó, rompiendo el compromiso, dejando que ella sufriera con las consecuencias y sólo regresó porque necesitaba algo de ella . Y como adivinaran, ella lo perdonó rápido.
Me hubiera gustado leer a Emma fuerte y haciendo que el tarado se humillara pidiéndole perdón.
Bastian se supone que es encantador, pero no vi nada de eso. Él y Emma fueron amigos por años, sin embargo, cuando hablaba de ella en el pasado, se refería como la pobrecita, la sin amigos, la que estaba anamorada de él y que podía chasquear los dedos y haría lo que fuera por él. Además nunca le gustó románticamente.
Y para colmo al final es Emma quien le pide perdón al tipo 😑.
Emma se deja ningunear por todos. Fue triste leer como no tiene columna vertebral y se dejaba pisotear.
Bastian la abandonó, rompiendo el compromiso, dejando que ella sufriera con las consecuencias y sólo regresó porque necesitaba algo de ella . Y como adivinaran, ella lo perdonó rápido.
Me hubiera gustado leer a Emma fuerte y haciendo que el tarado se humillara pidiéndole perdón.
Bastian se supone que es encantador, pero no vi nada de eso. Él y Emma fueron amigos por años, sin embargo, cuando hablaba de ella en el pasado, se refería como la pobrecita, la sin amigos, la que estaba anamorada de él y que podía chasquear los dedos y haría lo que fuera por él. Además nunca le gustó románticamente.
Y para colmo al final es Emma quien le pide perdón al tipo 😑.
November 19, 2023
This was fine? The romance didn't sweep me away when on paper it really should have. I did read this all in more or less one sitting, but will I remember it in a couple of months?
September 14, 2023
https://smexybooks.com/2023/08/review...
Last year I read quite a few quirky paranormal romances, by new to me authors and enjoyed myself so much. So when I saw The Witch is Back and read the blurb, I thought I’d try my luck once again. This was a sweet, second-chance, marriage of convenience, forced proximity romance that had me flipping pages well into the night.
Emmaline Bluewater was born into witch society, but her shyness and weak magic meant that she stayed in the shadows and away from the teasing and torment. Her one true friend was Bastian Truenote, heir to a powerful family, society darling, and her betrothed. But when he disappears without a word and stays away for seven years, Emma decides it’s time to take her life into her own hands and moves to Chicago, opens a bar with her two besties, and settles down into a quiet world surrounded by humans.
Then Bastian decides to come back to town and apparently, their wedding is back on.
Bastian Truenote ran away seven years ago for several reasons, the main one is that he discovered provisions in the marriage contract that would endanger his magic. But because of a silence hex, he can’t tell Emma anything. He’s back in town to get her to agree to marry him and help save his mother’s life. In the meantime, he’s hoping to figure out if Emma knows anything about those provisions and if she has any other secrets.
This was a fun read. The two main protagonists are easy to like and get to know. Understandably, their relationship starts out a bit hostile due to their backstory, with Bastian hesitantly turning on his charm to woo back his childhood friend and Emma standoffish and cold in his presence. She wants nothing to do with him, and he’s trying his best to get to know this new version of a woman who he hasn’t seen for seven years. They both have trust issues and secrets and as their friendship is reignited and I wanted them to just blurt out those secrets and work together to figure out a way forward, but I knew that wouldn’t happen and there would eventually be a BIG THING that would drive them apart until the eventual HEA. I did understand their motivations and hesitations in trusting each other again.
This is an open-door romance, and surprisingly sexy. I don’t know what I expected, maybe the cartoon cover threw me off, but I was happy to see these two get down to the sexytimes. I did end up really liking the way this couple figured out how to overcome the provisions in the contract, prove themselves to each other, and find their HEA.
If there was one thing I side-eyed, it was a scene in the middle where Bastian is given a truth hex in his drink. I understood the other “betrayals” by them both that led to him leaving and her keeping secrets, but this made me uncomfortable.
They are surrounded by an interesting cast of characters amid a unique magical world. I enjoyed the friendships between Emma, Leah, Tia, and Sloane, which are supportive, loyal, and loving. Bastian’s parents, Emma’s brother add more support to this couple who desperately need it. There are hints of some possible romances to come within the group, that I’m looking forward to. Especially, between Tia and Henry. That should be a fiery relationship.
Grade- B-
Last year I read quite a few quirky paranormal romances, by new to me authors and enjoyed myself so much. So when I saw The Witch is Back and read the blurb, I thought I’d try my luck once again. This was a sweet, second-chance, marriage of convenience, forced proximity romance that had me flipping pages well into the night.
Emmaline Bluewater was born into witch society, but her shyness and weak magic meant that she stayed in the shadows and away from the teasing and torment. Her one true friend was Bastian Truenote, heir to a powerful family, society darling, and her betrothed. But when he disappears without a word and stays away for seven years, Emma decides it’s time to take her life into her own hands and moves to Chicago, opens a bar with her two besties, and settles down into a quiet world surrounded by humans.
Then Bastian decides to come back to town and apparently, their wedding is back on.
Bastian Truenote ran away seven years ago for several reasons, the main one is that he discovered provisions in the marriage contract that would endanger his magic. But because of a silence hex, he can’t tell Emma anything. He’s back in town to get her to agree to marry him and help save his mother’s life. In the meantime, he’s hoping to figure out if Emma knows anything about those provisions and if she has any other secrets.
This was a fun read. The two main protagonists are easy to like and get to know. Understandably, their relationship starts out a bit hostile due to their backstory, with Bastian hesitantly turning on his charm to woo back his childhood friend and Emma standoffish and cold in his presence. She wants nothing to do with him, and he’s trying his best to get to know this new version of a woman who he hasn’t seen for seven years. They both have trust issues and secrets and as their friendship is reignited and I wanted them to just blurt out those secrets and work together to figure out a way forward, but I knew that wouldn’t happen and there would eventually be a BIG THING that would drive them apart until the eventual HEA. I did understand their motivations and hesitations in trusting each other again.
This is an open-door romance, and surprisingly sexy. I don’t know what I expected, maybe the cartoon cover threw me off, but I was happy to see these two get down to the sexytimes. I did end up really liking the way this couple figured out how to overcome the provisions in the contract, prove themselves to each other, and find their HEA.
If there was one thing I side-eyed, it was a scene in the middle where Bastian is given a truth hex in his drink. I understood the other “betrayals” by them both that led to him leaving and her keeping secrets, but this made me uncomfortable.
They are surrounded by an interesting cast of characters amid a unique magical world. I enjoyed the friendships between Emma, Leah, Tia, and Sloane, which are supportive, loyal, and loving. Bastian’s parents, Emma’s brother add more support to this couple who desperately need it. There are hints of some possible romances to come within the group, that I’m looking forward to. Especially, between Tia and Henry. That should be a fiery relationship.
Grade- B-
March 28, 2024
To say "I enjoyed this book" is an understatement. It, literally, ended my romance hiatus! If you love an unrequited wallflower love trope and/or an arranged magical marriage (hex included!), you should snatch this one up!
Here's how I'm feeling:
Friendships: Obsessed with Emma's choice in friends. Tia is utterly hilarious and so protective of Emma. It a beautiful and sweet sisterly relationship. Leah, who is human (and forbidden to know about magic, but DOES), is nothing but sweet and loving toward Emma. They're always laughing and she's constantly rooting for her friend. The three of them own a human bar in Chicago and I loved reading how they managed it together. And don't think I didn't see the potential for the second and third book with these ladies, Sophie! Please, please, please write them... we NEED THEM! Especially Emma's brother! Eep!
Bastian: Oh Bastian. Gah! Bastian ended up being exactly what we all wanted for ourselves, and Emma. That's all I'm going to say. Pick this book up to find out more. Let's just say, telling-off the worst person in the world?? I'm still fanning myself.
Magic: Though I was hesitant to read this book because of the magic elements, I felt like it was just enough magic to keep me interested. Especially as someone who loves to travel. The idea of portaling to Egypt at a moments notice is a dream come true. I loved how it didn't over power the book, because they work and live in the human world, and how it was used to up the emotion factor a lot.
Cover: I was drawn to the cover but after reading the book? I don't think the cover fits. It was much more complex than the actual cover. I'd like to see them more mature and a little bit more of a "wild" Emma owning her bar, rather than Clarissa'a Emma, on the cover. Not to mention Bastian is WAY more hunkier and masculine in all our minds. He's practically a preppy warlock god.
I'm so thrilled I got to experience this book. A major thank you to Sophie H, Morgan, Harlequin, and NetGalley for this eARC. I cannot wait to see what else Sophie H. Morgan writes!
* Review on blog will be out 06/29.
Here's how I'm feeling:
Friendships: Obsessed with Emma's choice in friends. Tia is utterly hilarious and so protective of Emma. It a beautiful and sweet sisterly relationship. Leah, who is human (and forbidden to know about magic, but DOES), is nothing but sweet and loving toward Emma. They're always laughing and she's constantly rooting for her friend. The three of them own a human bar in Chicago and I loved reading how they managed it together. And don't think I didn't see the potential for the second and third book with these ladies, Sophie! Please, please, please write them... we NEED THEM! Especially Emma's brother! Eep!
Bastian: Oh Bastian. Gah! Bastian ended up being exactly what we all wanted for ourselves, and Emma. That's all I'm going to say. Pick this book up to find out more. Let's just say, telling-off the worst person in the world?? I'm still fanning myself.
Magic: Though I was hesitant to read this book because of the magic elements, I felt like it was just enough magic to keep me interested. Especially as someone who loves to travel. The idea of portaling to Egypt at a moments notice is a dream come true. I loved how it didn't over power the book, because they work and live in the human world, and how it was used to up the emotion factor a lot.
Cover: I was drawn to the cover but after reading the book? I don't think the cover fits. It was much more complex than the actual cover. I'd like to see them more mature and a little bit more of a "wild" Emma owning her bar, rather than Clarissa'a Emma, on the cover. Not to mention Bastian is WAY more hunkier and masculine in all our minds. He's practically a preppy warlock god.
I'm so thrilled I got to experience this book. A major thank you to Sophie H, Morgan, Harlequin, and NetGalley for this eARC. I cannot wait to see what else Sophie H. Morgan writes!
* Review on blog will be out 06/29.
October 18, 2023
the witch is back 🔮✨🐕🥂📝💍🧁🐈⬛
“the more i know you, the more i like”
2.75 ☆ book one in the toil and trouble series by sophie h. morgan
(first book club read 🤭) i was excited to start this book because the cover was pretty and the back cover got me intrigued.
BUT i won’t lie it was a struggle reading this book. the chapters were long and the plot was moving way to slow for me.. the plot did catch me by surprise and i enjoyed that. as for the characters, i didn’t fall in love with them. i wish emmaline had a backbone. as for bastian.. i wish the man communicated NFJKAJ because all of this could have been resolved lol.
tropes ➞ marriage of convenience / second chance romance / slow burn
“the more i know you, the more i like”
2.75 ☆ book one in the toil and trouble series by sophie h. morgan
(first book club read 🤭) i was excited to start this book because the cover was pretty and the back cover got me intrigued.
BUT i won’t lie it was a struggle reading this book. the chapters were long and the plot was moving way to slow for me.. the plot did catch me by surprise and i enjoyed that. as for the characters, i didn’t fall in love with them. i wish emmaline had a backbone. as for bastian.. i wish the man communicated NFJKAJ because all of this could have been resolved lol.
tropes ➞ marriage of convenience / second chance romance / slow burn
August 30, 2023
I found this book to be extremely tedious and boring. It's like you knew what the main issues were from the beginning and that's all they kept talking about. Over and over it's like she secret is she keeping from me blah blah. Then her being like I'm too insecure for anyone to love me. I get it. No need to keep hammering it in. Then I had hope things would turn out ok it's just more miscommunications and selfishness from the characters. Not my thing. Also the world build was very lackluster.
May 4, 2023
I’m loving witchy romances lately and this one was filled with second chance romance and fake dating/marriage.
There is a lot of growth in these characters, which made it so incredibly special. I was rooting for Emma every step of the way.
More please!!!
There is a lot of growth in these characters, which made it so incredibly special. I was rooting for Emma every step of the way.
More please!!!
August 2, 2023
THE WITCH IS BACK by Sophie H. Morgan is a cute and enchanting romcom that weaves a tale of love, magic, and second chances. Emma, a once-heartbroken witch, has left her past behind and embraced a normal life in Chicago, running her bar, Toil and Trouble. However, her tranquil existence is disrupted when her former childhood sweetheart, Bastian, unexpectedly returns after seven years. With a delightful dual POV, the story delves into their complex emotions, secrets, and the magical contract that binds them together. The novel skillfully explores themes of vulnerability, trust, and the power of choice, as Emma faces the challenge of a marriage of convenience with Bastian to save his mother's life. The story's emotional depth and well-crafted characters make it a compelling read. The romance between Emma and Bastian is brimming with angst and heartbreak, making it a delightful experience for fans of the second-chance trope. Additionally, the book offers sequel material involving Emma's intriguing friends. This book is a spellbinding journey that leaves readers bewitched and eager for more adventures in this charming witchy romance.
October 1, 2023
This was a cute book. I enjoyed the banter and friendship between Emma and Bastian, and Emma's friendships with Leah and Tia were special. I liked how Emma kept Sloane safe and thought of others before herself. Emma and Bastian had some seriously hot sex. Whew! I was fanning myself reading about it. Lol. I liked learning about the different witch families and potions and spells. Bastian's telekinesis skills were pretty cool, and I enjoyed all the chaos that would happen around Bastian and Emma when they were having sex, like flowers growing, dishes flying out of the cupboards, candles lighting, extra hands stroking, etc. It was very unique. Bastian and Emma had both changed and grown since they were teenagers and were supposed to marry seven years before, and them spending time to get to know each other really helped their relationship the second time. I liked how Bastian protected Emma and pulled her out of her shell, and Emma showed Bastian his tender side that he didn't know he had. I was also glad when Emma stood up to her awful mother! Their familiars were too cute, and Chester and Hallie matched Emma and Bastian perfectly. I like how the book ended. It was very sweet. Emma finally believed in herself enough to go after what she wanted, which was Bastian.
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