Enchanted Kisses

Fairy Tale Romance Stories #2

by Tara Gallina

A romantic tale where reality meets fantasy

What's a girl to do when death is the worst and best thing that can happen to her?

When 19-year-old Lily gives into her heart and kisses her best friend Caiden, he disappears before her eyes leaving her to wonder if she inherited her father's hallucination disorder.  

Her simple existence turns dangerous when Caiden reappears three months later to save her from a dark stranger. Soon, Lily discovers she's surrounded by liars and mythological creatures sent to capture her. Hunted by two opposing realms for powers she doesn't know she possesses, Lily must resist trickery from masterful beings and keep her budding magic safe.

With Caiden by her side, their connection and chemistry feel stronger than ever. She’s a kiss away from giving him her body and soul, but can she trust him?

When secrets about his past emerge, she questions if her love for him is real or conjured, and if her powers are his only goal. With loss and heartache around every corner, Lily must decide to find her place in this new world or play the one card she's kept to herself—a permanent fate that will take her away from everyone forever.

Genres: Fantasy, Friends To Lovers, Paranormal Romance

Kindle Edition

First published June 29, 2021

About the author

Tara Gallina writes across various romance genres, from new adult and college to small town and fantasy. While most of her books are steamy, she’s also penned a few sweeter titles.

Her stories blend angst, tormented heroes, a hint of humor, and the occasional tear. Many of her stories come alive through settings inspired by her travels.

When she’s not writing, she loves to visit gardens, New England in the fall, European castles, and Caribbean beaches. She has a fairy garden, a Lady Lair for writing, favors the color pink, and only drinks wine that tastes like melted sugar.

She lives in the Sunshine State with her husband, though her two sons have since left for college. Her writing journey began in 2015 when she signed with a literary agent for a young adult retelling. Since then, she’s moved on to publishing steamy romances and hasn’t looked back.

Reviews

[Anna Theurer (Anna's Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enchanted Kisses lives up to it’s title as it is indeed an enchanting read! With a captivating storyline, engaging characters, and spectacular world building, I found myself fully immersed with the story and invested in the characters.

Lily is a heroine that I could not help but love. Her life is changing and she quickly comes to realize that she has some tough decisions ahead of her. As she struggles with determining what path she must take, the author has created a character that possesses both strengths and flaws, thus making her relatable. Caiden is deletable and I really enjoyed getting to know more about him. I also found the secondary characters to be quite interesting and like how they contributed story.

The author beautifully captures the essence of Lily’s and Caiden’s feelings toward each other and I found their connection to be electrifying, loving, and tangible. Their souls are tethered together in such a way that I couldn’t help but want these two to prevail. Of course, a relationship between Caiden and Lily seems impossible at times with all of the potentially insurmountable obstacles in their way. Can these two defy the odds?

While I have read this author’s The Forever Series, this is the first fantasy novel that I have read by her. I greatly enjoyed the premise of the story and I thought the world building was well done. I delighted in the paranormal aspect along with action and romance. I definitely recommend this book to those who love new adult fantasy romances!

I voluntarily read an early version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Moony (Captain Mischief) MeowPoff · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting. I enjoyed Caiden and Lily together, they were cute.
But i did feel that Dagan was just there for drama and it annoyed me.

[Rachel Talavera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes!! First book I've read by this author but will NOT be the last! Fabulous characters that I was fully invested in!!

[Aly Martinez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I deeply enjoyed this book. I had an ARC copy of this and I admit I'm late to the review game. I've been struggling with a book slump but this got me through it. I feel like I had been destroyed and healed again. It kept me guessing on who was truly genuine Caiden or Dagan and had me rooting for both at different moments in the book. I shed many tears over this book and that for me is a marker of a good book.

There were some moments that I felt the flow was a bit weird and one instance where I felt that the emotions of the characters were too cheery when it was a heavy scene. For the sake of keeping this review spoiler free I won't mention the scene that I referring too.

The spice was definitely just right. It was just enough that it didn't take away from the book's plot. It added a little zest to it though. Sorry not sorry for the pun!

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a genre that I would normally read but as it was written by Tara Gallina who is one of my favourite authors I decided to give it a go and I am so glad that I did as I couldn't put it down as it was such a magical read that was full of twists and turns. I loved the connection between Lily and Caiden and found myself captivated by chemistry and feelings for each other and hoping that they get there much deserved happy ending. The characters and storyline pulled you in right from start and didn't want to let you go even after the final page and it was a real page turner and so addictive. Tara Gallina is an amazing author and writer and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future as she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and on the edge of their seats and I definitely recommend you read this book and others by her and you will not be disappointed.

I Voluntarily Reviewed an Arc Copy of this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanted Kisses is a unique blend of paranormal and fantasy. The world building is strong and beautifully done. The characters were endearing and mysterious. I like how Lily the main character had flaws but with the determination to push through any challenge. The attraction between Caiden and Lily was undeniable from the start. I liked how they had a friendship first and there was no Instalove. Sagan’s character was sexy and dark but he had a softer side that appeared near the end. Raysa is a great friend to a Lily and supportive in a beautiful way. Overall, I found this to be a fascinating read filled with magic, tension, and romance. Highly recommend!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanted Kisses: Uncut & Extended Special Edition by Tara Gallina, this is the first book I’ve read by this author. But let me tell you after reading this one it definitely won’t be the last!!! This book was amazing!!!! Now don’t be confused, there is another book that has this name but it’s the PG-13 version. This one here has all the spice that’s beautifully done and extended scenes between the lovers. This book plays on one of my favorite things of all time which is Greek mythology! This was an addicting fantasy read that’s for sure, I couldn’t put the book down once I started it.

I loved the characters of Lilly and Caidan and reading them come into their own was freaking fantastic. This book had me on such a roller coaster of a ride that I couldn’t swipe my kindle fast enough. I experienced so many different emotions while reading this magical journey. I mean hats off to Tara Gallina for writing this world that I absolutely found myself lost in… the book is so descriptive you’ll feel like you’re in the book with the characters. If you love Greek mythology and a great romantasy this book is 100% for you!

Final Review:

5 out of 5 stars
For me never wanting to leave:
5 out of 5 roses

[Lemonberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSED with this version! I loved the first version. The world building, the character development, the creative twist on Greek mythology. I wanted to live in the world and realms Tara Gallina created. This version is all that but with the steamy scenes that were glossed over in the first version. The new scenes match the Caiden and Lily’s personalities perfectly and aren’t overly done. I am delighted to have read this, and in all honesty, I can’t wait to read it again! A must read!

[Izzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this book!!! I was initially a little confused as it seemed rather fast going in the beginning but once I got into it. It got really good!!! I love the characters and the journey they all go on, both physically and mentally. The spicy scenes were *chef kiss* and ugh! It was just awesome!!! Would highly recommend to everyone who likes Twilight and anything with faeries and fantasy!

[Kristin Hinck · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was delightful! I loved seeing the relationship between Lily and Caiden grow and the added spice in this version is *chef’s kiss* !! This story is a play on Greek mythology with Fae! Immersive storytelling and wonderful writing, I enjoyed this book!

[Ivy Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanted Kisses had been on my TBR pile for far longer than I care to admit. I spotted it a few weeks before it came out, added it, and somehow it just continued to get buried. I was finally able to get to it, and I gotta be real with you! It’s entirely worth the wait.

Enchanted Kisses is a fantasy/fairy tale romance, centered around our heroine, Lily, and the apple of her eye, Caiden. Lily is thrown into a world of magic and royalty, making her question everything she thought she ever knew. Caiden disappeared from her life with no explanation, only to re-emerge to tell her that all of the fairy tales he had whispered in her ear were real. She is pulled in many directions and forced to choose between worlds. A choice that is ultimately made for her, when she becomes hunted by Caiden’s enemies.

My plot description of this book is, frankly, paltry in comparison to what you actually get reading the book. So much happens.

First and foremost, the world-building and lore are fantastic. I loved the world that Tara Gallina crafted, and would absolutely read more books in this world. I think it’s incredibly cool, and frankly… well, just so cool.

The writing in this book was beautiful. I really felt for the main characters (Lily and Caiden) and ended up rooting for them.

Frankly, this would be an easy five stars for me (which, let’s be real, I’m going to be rounding up since Goodreads and most platforms don’t allow half stars), but I do have some gripes that took away from the overall enjoyment of the book.

First, it feels very strongly like a love triangle is there to deepen the tension between Lily and Caiden. But, what we end up with, instead, is a sort of insta-lust feeble plot device that I don’t know served much of a purpose beyond an excuse to transport Lily from one place to the other. I didn’t get the strong sense that there was a connection between Lily and Dagan, and it felt less like part of the story, and more of a less-flushed-out storytelling device to create more tension/drama with Caiden and Lily. Honestly, there was more than enough without the addition of romantic sidebars with Dagan. This story is strong enough to stand on its own without its addition.

I was a bit irked by the lack of closure we got from the Dagan subplot at the end, as well. It seemed, again, like an afterthought as opposed to a neatly polished conclusion.

Strangely enough, as much as I do love Dagan (and would devour a novel featuring him as the MMC), I feel almost like this story might have been stronger if it was allowed to be unrequited possessiveness, or, simply, him wanting her because he wanted to steal her from his brother.

Overall, I am greatly looking forward to reading more from this author. And fortunately enough for me, it looks like she already has quite an extensive backlog.

[RedReviews4You Susan-Dara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an intriguing novel that blends fantasy and mythology with romance and some spice. There are two editions of this book, and I read the version that had some of the “spicier bits’ included. I like that anyone can purchase the edition of the story that they are most comfortable with or which is most age appropriate for the reader. I enjoyed the way that Lily was portrayed in the book and the premise of the whole novel, however I will give a little free advice to anyone walking into this book “Stick with it for the first few chapters because I was a little disoriented by the first chapter when I was Caiden’s head and then thrown for a loop in the next when I was in Lily's. There is a reason for this, and I will not give any spoilers here because these switches are later important to the story; just remember that you are reading a fantasy novel and you’ll be in a strong place to begin this book.

Focusing mostly on Lily’s character, we watch as she discovers worlds that she never knew existed as well as a family history that was so well hidden that Lily herself feared that the glimpses she had of it were proof of her developing a mental illness. But what else is anyone supposed to think when they kiss their best friend and he disappears in front of them? This is the beginning of Lily’s journey and the moment that she comes to understand that there is a larger mystery that she needs to solve, her world is tilted on its axis. As with all good fantasy novels, how she attempts to address this and how she plans to return things to the way they were before drives this interesting story. With plot twists and intrigues around every corner, this is a story that will engage and keep you guessing. I also found myself returning to the book again and again to see if my guesses were correct or to look for new aspects of the story constantly emerging with the turn of a page.
I enjoyed this book and found myself often thinking about what I would do if I was Lily. With all this said, why did this get 4 stars rather than 5? I wanted to know more about the male characters in the book and I found myself wondering about the ‘set up’ and ‘background’ of certain scenes and the motivation behind certain actions. But, I tend to be the person who likes the Director's Extended Versions of movies because I want more time with characters and the world that I enjoy, even if it means an extra hour spent watching a movie for what it’s worth.

I will be following to see what this author writes in the future, because she has a good voice, a vivid imagination, and a solid writing style that I really enjoyed. Thank you Tara Gallina and Breys Book Tours for a chance to read this copy.

[Karlee Berrios · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lily's best friend, Caiden, disappears into a cloud of shimmering gold dust, she begins to think she must be starting to suffer from the same hallucinations as her dad. Three months later, Caiden returns and seemingly has an explanation for it all. But how can she trust someone she was falling in love with, who then fled as soon as she tried to voice her feelings? Especially when he starts telling her unbelievable stories of other realms, immortal beings, and mystical prophecies? In only a matter of days, everything she thinks she knows is turned on its head, leaving her no choice but to trust Caiden, even though he seems to be hiding something from her.

The world that Tara Gallina has created in Enchanted Kisses is so beautiful. The way she managed to take lore that we've heard of before and transform it into something new is really refreshing. The plotline will leave readers questioning what's going to happen until the very end, with revelations and twists at every step. The way she writes will also really evoke a lot of emotion from readers. Some of the conflicts Lily faces will hit readers hard, drawing out gut-wrenching feelings.

Something that might irk readers is some of Lily's inner monologue. She mentions more than once that she's "fairy sized" or some other iteration of being short and comparing herself to everyone else around her in height. Or the number of times she talks about herself in a deprecating manner. Sometimes it seems as though she says these things in an attempt to get someone else to compliment her. On top of that, she doesn't seem to have much of a backbone. She lets every person in her life walk all over her. Even the ones she hardly knows. Because of this, she runs headfirst into conflicts that could have been avoided. It makes it kind of hard to like her as a character.

Overall, I rate Enchanted Kisses 3.5 out of 5 stars. The storyline is truly unique, with so many intriguing and creative elements. But a protagonist that's a little insufferable and doesn't lead the story can make an incredible plot feel lackluster.

That said, I think the storytelling, the plotline, and the mythology surrounding it all is beautiful. It's also a perfect in-between level of romance. It's not strictly YA appropriate, but it's not explicit enough to be an adult/new adult book. So it would be an incredible read for someone looking for contemporary high fantasy with more mature themes than your average young adult novel.

[Moná · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life is more enjoyable when shared with those you love and who love you. Unfortunately, things sometimes happen where misunderstanding and lack of communication may occur. What if you discovered that your entire life was a lie and your parents were the ones who withheld the truth from you? Not many people would maintain their composure, while others would feel the need to leave their family behind to seek what and who they are.

In "Enchanted Kisses," author Tara Gallina indulges her readers in a story of a young 19-year-old named Lily as she goes through the motions of young adulthood and uncovers a secret about her. Her best friend, Rasia, and her male best friend crush, Caiden, are two of the most constant people in her life, aside from her father. Little did she know her best friends were more than average exchange college students. As her best friends, watching and guiding her was their essential role in her life. Now that Lily is of age, her mother's side of genetics has officially kicked in but lies dormant until she utilizes her gift. Learning everything she needed to know about her mother and who she truly is at her core has stirred up mixed emotions towards her parents, especially her father. Missing her mother has sent her father into a whirlwind of hallucinations that he sought medical attention from a hypnotist to function daily. When it comes to her father, Lily will do anything to ensure he is taken care of because he has been through so much, losing the one he loves.

I enjoyed reading this book and recommend this to everyone that prefers a good romance novel with a hint of comedy. Based on my reading experience, Caiden and Lily make such a cute pair.

[Angelica Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This enchanting story weaves a mundane world with a world of magic and the paranormal seamlessly. I never wanted to put this book down, and devoured it so quickly.

The world building was spot on. Painting detail after detail before my eyes as I read the story. There is clarity in every description from the world to the characters and to the actions that occur.

Caiden and Lily's relationship was truly enjoyable to read about, and I was entranced from page one to learn more about them. I love that their relationship starts off as being one of friendship before he disappears and when he comes back into her life there is a flaming hot chemistry that boils between them that at first they still try to fight but inevitable dropping their resistance and falling head first into a romance together that could shift the tides of the paranormal world for the better.

They are both far more than meets the eye, and so is Raysa and Dagan. These four characters were all well done with character arcs that I absolutely loved. This story toes the line between young adult and new adult without truly falling into either category, but I don't think that hinders the story at all. It allows for a bit of a heavier story line without a lot of curse words and no explicit scenes.

Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this novel.

[Amanda Macinnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short review because I’m just getting off a 16 hour shift in a hospital so I plan to come back later to edit and add more.

First, I have to start with I’m in love with the cover of this book.

Second, I’ve never read anything by Tara Gallina before so this review is biased free.

This book was different my my usual books mostly because I read it in digital format on my kindle and I prefer physical books but that’s ok. I did enjoy this book with each chapter I read I was expecting a plot twist which says a lot because it keeps you wanting more. I was kind of disappointed that Lily made a vow that seemed like it was against her instincts granted she did it for what she thought was the right reasons. Dagan is definitely a sly guy for someone who can’t lie. I’m not surprised that Dagan finds himself wanting Lily too. Do like how it ended because I will admit I was not expecting that at all. I honestly thought it would end with Lily going back to the Realm of the Dead with Dagan leaving Caiden as a distant memory from her past.

[mooniebee❀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE THIS BOOK. It was made for me.

First of all, it’s a standalone. Amazing. No waiting around anxiously to see what happens.

The fantasy world and ideas in this book are something I’ve never read before. Also amazing.

Finally, FINALLY the “dark, bad boy” doesn’t get the girl! There was a hint at a possible love triangle, but it didn’t take off, which is another thing I hugely appreciate.

Lily and Caiden’s relationship has twists and turns but their love for each other is always obvious(to the reader).

The only thing is, I wish there had been more to this book! Just a longer book with certain plot lines being more fleshed out.

I hope that someday we will be getting books for Raysa and Dagan

Anyway, I am welcoming this book to my favorites shelf!

*thank you to TLC Press and Tara Gallina for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review*

[Angana B · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐.75

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- This is an interesting book, i really liked the story and it was so easy to glide through it, i was able to complete it in no time☺️

- The author has beautifully described different realms of life and death, how it was portrayed and the differences between them.

- This book feels like a Netflix show that I could watch with all the quirky and well-defined characters🤍✨

աɦɛʀɛ ɨȶ ƈօʊʟɖ ɢʀօա

- The FMC, Lily has been tried to be portrayed as strong but as per my perspective, is more towards annoyingly aloof and immature.

- I was really liking the third wheel in the story,Dagan and would have loved if his character had much importance in the story.

What to expect -

♾️ First Love
♾️ Nature Goddess & Prince of Death
♾️ Reality meets Fantasy
♾️ Hidden powers
♾️ Best Friend to Lover

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!!!

I was gifted an ARC for an honest review.

Enchanted kisses follows the relationship between Lily and Caiden after he disappears from her life without explanation, only to reappear 3 months later to save her from a dark stranger.

It was a nice easy to follow read with fantasy, romance and a touch of spice. The connection between Caiden and Lily progressed naturally and felt genuine. I loved Raysa so much, I want her to be my best friend.

I had a little cry towards the end, it completely broke my heart but thankfully things worked out!

I felt the author did an amazing job at capturing Lily in the sense that she is mature and adult but at the same time has the naïve innocence of a 19 year old who has been sheltered from the world.

There was nothing to not like about this book.

[Serlina Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book caught my attention from the title and theme.

I very much like a best friend romance and this story gave it to me on a wonderful platter. I was entertained, and though I found the MFC to be bit dumb/naive - believing the good in everyone, I still felt she could at least not be manipulated so easily. I found the story nicely written and flowed easily. Imagery was lovely, & though i'm not a fantasy fanatic, this pulled at me.

It was unique with the both imagery and realism as I felt the characters did spendid in paranormal world. It a beautiful love story, slow burn and full of spice once met. Totally enjoyed the journey of the steamy love.

Received as an ARC for an honest view.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enchanted Kisses is . . enchanting! (I’m sure I’m not the first to say that!) Tara Gallina does a fantastic job of dropping us right into a heartwarming story full of fantasy and romance. I'm not one to give spoilers, but I'd love to say that the characters are what drew me into this story. Caiden and Lilly are a great match, and they are so relatable. I appreciated Lilly's strength as a lead female character, the attention to details when it came to setting and world-building, and the character development. Well-done!

[Asiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book.Although I'm not a big fantasy book reader,this book was easy to visualise.The book was truly enchanting(just like the title said).

The characters were just lovely.Lily was really sweet and kind,her love for Caiden was so pure that she was ready to make all sorts of sacrifices for him.All throughout the book pure love was showcasted among the characters.The plot twists kept me on my toes.The friendship,the romance and the spice were all there.

However,I did feel kind of sad for Dagan and hope to know his story.

[Jordan Wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a hardcore Vampire Diaries fan, I was so excited to sink my teeth (😏 pun intended) into this book.

I am a sucker for friends to lovers, so I really enjoyed the relationship that blossomed between the two MC’s, but I wish the situationship between the FMC and the brother was explored more as well, as I felt that story could have been super fun as well.

All in all, it was a cute read that I enjoyed

[Ashlyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has such a pretty cover and has been on my TBR for years. Well, I finally decided to read it. I think I would have liked this book had I read it a few years ago. I feel like my taste in this type of plot/storyline has changed, and this one wasn't for me at the moment. However, if I would have read it when I was younger, I could definitely see myself enjoying this story more than what I did. This gave me JLA vibes in a way, which I love. I think if the plot sounds interesting to you, you'll probably like it more than I did. Again, I think I just read this one several years too late.

[Mybookmemories · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read! The storyline was engaging and made me want to keep reading the book. The world building was done really well and I felt fully immersed into the world. I loved the main character and her perseverance and found her really inspiring. I will definitely be checking out this authors other books!

[Janelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It was a mix between friends to lovers & fated love. I love that the reader is given the real world and other realms to explore and that it is full of magic & mythology.

Gallina does a great job of setting the scene, creating relatable but fantasy characters. And oh the spice. I love when a book has good spice.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a darling and slow burn read. A mix of ACOTAR and Vampire Diaries. The love story between Caiden and Lily was a heartbreaking, beautiful story that, of course, ended in happiness. Lily learns that if she truly tries, she can learn how powerful she really is and that true love requires sacrifice.

[Devons book corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This magical read was a hard one to put down. It's well written, magical, mysterious, and one you won't soon forget. It's the perfect combination of fantasy and paranormal, along with unique characters. Lily and Caiden have an undeniable chemistry and attraction to each other, and you can see that right away. Overall, a very enchanting story.

[booksy.tx.ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t read many romantacy books. But I want to start. I then this was a good one for that. The realms and everything that came with these new worlds were easy to follow. I would have liked to have learned more about Dagan. (Maybe another book opportunity) Lilly seemed a little easy to manipulate but also kinda made sense. Everything that is happening is completely new and she don’t have a lot of time to adjust. I like it. Would try another from this author.

Come read with me!

https://instagram.com/booksy.tx.ana?i...

[S · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first time I am reading this author and it won’t be the last. The story was captivating plot and intriguing characters. I was totally invested in the story. I enjoyed both Lily and Caiden’s character and their connection. Definitely would be reading more books by this author