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Celestial Haven #2
Midnight with the Hexed
There’s a new witch on the block.
For Oakley Brooks, Celestial Haven’s newest resident can only spell one disaster.
With her magic replenished and gift reclaimed, she shifts her focus to relaunching her business and preparing for the coven’s highly anticipated Moonlit Masquerade.
But another disappearance threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb. With the neighborhood under more scrutiny than ever, Lynx and Saros get caught in the crossfire, forcing the pair to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret.
As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
And sometimes resurrecting the truth leads to deadly consequences.
Midnight with the Hexed is the second part of a supernatural MMF why choose paranormal romance duet set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. For readers looking for Practical Magic and Wednesday vibes with a splash of spice and a dash of mystery.
For Oakley Brooks, Celestial Haven’s newest resident can only spell one disaster.
With her magic replenished and gift reclaimed, she shifts her focus to relaunching her business and preparing for the coven’s highly anticipated Moonlit Masquerade.
But another disappearance threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb. With the neighborhood under more scrutiny than ever, Lynx and Saros get caught in the crossfire, forcing the pair to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret.
As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
And sometimes resurrecting the truth leads to deadly consequences.
Midnight with the Hexed is the second part of a supernatural MMF why choose paranormal romance duet set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. For readers looking for Practical Magic and Wednesday vibes with a splash of spice and a dash of mystery.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2023
35 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
About the author
L.R. Friedman
14 books255 followersAuthor L.R. Friedman loves curling up with a cup of coffee while diving into her fantasy and paranormal romance worlds. She currently lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
When she's not writing, you'll find her enjoying tacos, dark chocolate, and the occasional glass of whiskey.
The girl that grew up trying to find a magical realm hidden in her closet, L.R. Friedman hopes to transport readers to beautiful, sexy, dark and magical places through her stories.
When she's not writing, you'll find her enjoying tacos, dark chocolate, and the occasional glass of whiskey.
The girl that grew up trying to find a magical realm hidden in her closet, L.R. Friedman hopes to transport readers to beautiful, sexy, dark and magical places through her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 14, 2023
ARC Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's another 5 star review for LR Friedman. This book was spicy 🥵🥵🥵. So proceed with caution.
I loved seeing Oakley become more confident in motherhood and the opening of her shop. Aspen is still as adorable as ever but Oakley and the guys in this one 🥵. It's spicy, it's really spicy. I liked that we got to see a bit more of Hazel and some of her secrets. I'm really excited to learn more about this eccentric sister.
Wicked in the Pines was more Oakley and Lynx but in Midnight with the Hexed we get to see more of our broody Saros and Atlas. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore Lynx but Saros is just something else entirely. Him actually opening up to Oakley and doing anything to protect those he loved. Absolutely love it. I'm still warming up to Atlas but I did like that he's learning to accept Oakley's wishes.
In this book we got to meet the heads of the other supernaturals in Celestial Haven and I can't wait for us to get to see more of this world.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's another 5 star review for LR Friedman. This book was spicy 🥵🥵🥵. So proceed with caution.
I loved seeing Oakley become more confident in motherhood and the opening of her shop. Aspen is still as adorable as ever but Oakley and the guys in this one 🥵. It's spicy, it's really spicy. I liked that we got to see a bit more of Hazel and some of her secrets. I'm really excited to learn more about this eccentric sister.
Wicked in the Pines was more Oakley and Lynx but in Midnight with the Hexed we get to see more of our broody Saros and Atlas. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore Lynx but Saros is just something else entirely. Him actually opening up to Oakley and doing anything to protect those he loved. Absolutely love it. I'm still warming up to Atlas but I did like that he's learning to accept Oakley's wishes.
In this book we got to meet the heads of the other supernaturals in Celestial Haven and I can't wait for us to get to see more of this world.
October 14, 2023
This is the perfect spooky season read! Witchy vibes, mystery, and 3 sexy love interests! Spicy yet cozy with all sorts of emotion, Midnight with the Hexed is a perfect conclusion to the Celestial Haven duology.
I love L.R. Friedman’s writing! Everything flows and the story building is wonderful. The characters growth and relationships are everything. I still cannot get over the creatively unique setting of Celestial Haven! I neeeed more. I love the twists the story takes and the ending was perfectly wrapped up. Honestly I will read anything @lrfriedmanauthor writes! Thank you for having me on your ARC team 🖤💜
I love L.R. Friedman’s writing! Everything flows and the story building is wonderful. The characters growth and relationships are everything. I still cannot get over the creatively unique setting of Celestial Haven! I neeeed more. I love the twists the story takes and the ending was perfectly wrapped up. Honestly I will read anything @lrfriedmanauthor writes! Thank you for having me on your ARC team 🖤💜
October 10, 2023
We pick up right where we left off in Wicked in the Pines. Oakley's life seems to be getting back on track. Hazel is found safe, her magic is replenished, she's restarting her business back up, she has both Lynx and Saros, and Aspen is healthy and happy so what more could she want in life? But when there is another disappearance that threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb her ex-Atlas is forced to move to Starry Night Lane and become her neighbor. Atlas wants Oakley and their son Aspen back in his life and he won't stop at anything to get them back but what he doesn't know is Oakley is keeping a secret about why they can't be together. As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
I love the entire duet but I loved this book the most! It's full of emotion it had me laughing, crying, and everything in between. Yes, it's spicy but it has such a cozy feeling to it. It's the perfect fall read. I love all the characters and the growth is astounding. The twists and turns in this book made it difficult to put it down. The little glimpses of the side characters have me so excited for the rest of the series!
I love the entire duet but I loved this book the most! It's full of emotion it had me laughing, crying, and everything in between. Yes, it's spicy but it has such a cozy feeling to it. It's the perfect fall read. I love all the characters and the growth is astounding. The twists and turns in this book made it difficult to put it down. The little glimpses of the side characters have me so excited for the rest of the series!
October 29, 2024
Outstanding writing. These characters feel so real to me they're like friends now. This author is going in my favorites pile.
October 20, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:
~Why Choose
~Spicy
~Angst
~ Found Family
Review:
Well, the spice certainly kicked up in this one! Here we have another series that I will be rereading at least once a year ( Wicked In The Pines and Midnight With The Hexed ).
Give me a good why choose and I am a happy girlie. This one delivered 1,000 percent.
It was angsty…yes I cried… but all is well when it ends with a HEA!
If there was ever a fictional world I could visit besides Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, I would love to also visit Celestial Haven.
I look forward to reading more by this author!
*I received a free copy of this book, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:
~Why Choose
~Spicy
~Angst
~ Found Family
Review:
Well, the spice certainly kicked up in this one! Here we have another series that I will be rereading at least once a year ( Wicked In The Pines and Midnight With The Hexed ).
Give me a good why choose and I am a happy girlie. This one delivered 1,000 percent.
It was angsty…yes I cried… but all is well when it ends with a HEA!
If there was ever a fictional world I could visit besides Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, I would love to also visit Celestial Haven.
I look forward to reading more by this author!
*I received a free copy of this book, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review*
October 6, 2023
LR wasn’t kidding when she warned the spice level kicks up in this follow-up to Wicked in the Pines! The book picks up right where we left our characters- Oakley trying to navigate her relationship with the three different men in her life while trying to also juggle her relationship with her healing sister. We have more romance, more angst, more emotions, and more 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚! The short answer here is that I LOVED IT. This duet may be my favorite thing that Lauren has ever written! I felt so many emotions for so many characters. The “why choose” aspect of the romance was handled beautifully, and the ending was absolute perfection in my eyes. Everything I wanted for all of these characters I have grown to absolutely adore.
On top of the amazing romance, there is still the mystery of the town disappearances to solve. LR has woven a cozy mystery into the paranormal streets of this neighborhood and I have to say, the ending result was not what I expected! She kept me guessing the entire story through.
Suffice it to say, I cannot wait to get back into the world of Celestial Haven when we get more books in the future. Definitely recommend for your fall/Halloween tbr!
On top of the amazing romance, there is still the mystery of the town disappearances to solve. LR has woven a cozy mystery into the paranormal streets of this neighborhood and I have to say, the ending result was not what I expected! She kept me guessing the entire story through.
Suffice it to say, I cannot wait to get back into the world of Celestial Haven when we get more books in the future. Definitely recommend for your fall/Halloween tbr!
October 11, 2023
The perfect conclusion to Oakley's story! The stage being set in Wicked in the Pines, this book was able to dive deeper into Oakley's journey to find her place with both herself and her relationships. I loved the idea that even though life doesn't always turn out the way you thought it would, that you can find where you're meant to be. It was meaningful to see Oakley journey through that, but also getting to know Atlas, Soros ,and Lynx's stories was meaningful as well.
And oh man the SPICE! This may have been one of the spiciest books I've read in awhile, if ever! It was so well written and every scene gave a different level of heat. I loved all the characters and I was glad that with this being a why choose I could root for my favorite while still knowing other love interests wouldn't be left out.
I can't wait for future Celestial Haven books! I'm intrigued by Hazel's story and can't wait to see how things turn out.
Wicked in the Pines is out September 26th and Midnight with the Hexed will follow shortly after in October, so prepare yourself for the perfect spooky season binge reads!
Thank you L.R. Friedman for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
And oh man the SPICE! This may have been one of the spiciest books I've read in awhile, if ever! It was so well written and every scene gave a different level of heat. I loved all the characters and I was glad that with this being a why choose I could root for my favorite while still knowing other love interests wouldn't be left out.
I can't wait for future Celestial Haven books! I'm intrigued by Hazel's story and can't wait to see how things turn out.
Wicked in the Pines is out September 26th and Midnight with the Hexed will follow shortly after in October, so prepare yourself for the perfect spooky season binge reads!
Thank you L.R. Friedman for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
September 17, 2024
Book 2 in the Celestial Haven duet was the perfect ending to Oakley’s story! I loved getting to see more of Oakley, Lynx and Saros together. I was certainly not disappointed with their scenes.
Book two brought us some much needed answers and twists that I definitely didn’t anticipate. I loved getting more of Atlas and his story. Everything came together with perfect pacing. Saros was my favorite, the damaged and tortured soul.
Once again, the postpartum rep was so realistic and beautiful. Highly recommend this series and author!
Book two brought us some much needed answers and twists that I definitely didn’t anticipate. I loved getting more of Atlas and his story. Everything came together with perfect pacing. Saros was my favorite, the damaged and tortured soul.
Once again, the postpartum rep was so realistic and beautiful. Highly recommend this series and author!
August 8, 2023
OOOOOOOH WEEEEEE! This sequel is EVERYTHING! The relationships, the spice, the twists, the MAGIC!! Everything LR is known for and she never lets us down!
I absolutely ADORED the entire book, and the way it ended!? 🥹 We learn so much about the characters, the growth is astounding and the relationships brought literal tears to my eyes. And THE SPICE 🥵 lawd have mercy.
Why choose, poly, bi-rep, sapphic side character, on page MM/MF/MMF/MMFM scenes, HEA.
I absolutely ADORED the entire book, and the way it ended!? 🥹 We learn so much about the characters, the growth is astounding and the relationships brought literal tears to my eyes. And THE SPICE 🥵 lawd have mercy.
Why choose, poly, bi-rep, sapphic side character, on page MM/MF/MMF/MMFM scenes, HEA.
October 27, 2023
We pick up right after Wicked in the Pines. This is another 5 star review in this series.
The romance, spice and tension between the guys and Oakley is growing. We also learn more about the guys and magic. I absolutely adore all the characters and this is a perfect conclusion to Oakleys story.
The romance, spice and tension between the guys and Oakley is growing. We also learn more about the guys and magic. I absolutely adore all the characters and this is a perfect conclusion to Oakleys story.
July 18, 2024
I think this is a me problem. This book has a romance plot and a story plot. Most of the book is revolving around the romance plot while sometimes bringing in the story plot. Which isn’t the issue. For me if the plot is going to be mainly romance than it should be good romance.
They all insta love her. There’s no angst. Slow burn. Nothing.
I need the banter, the back and forth. We all know how romance novels will end. A happy ending. It’s the journey that makes it fun and interesting. If from the very beginning they love her and do everything for her it’s just not fun.
The spice that was in the book was weird. It was explicit in its language and describing what happened. But shallow or very surface level, short. Like watching a movie but the whole movie you have to hit the skip forward 10s button.
I did like the witchy vibes and the autumnal vibes. Those were great but not enough to redeem the absolute bore of the story. It had potential.
They all insta love her. There’s no angst. Slow burn. Nothing.
I need the banter, the back and forth. We all know how romance novels will end. A happy ending. It’s the journey that makes it fun and interesting. If from the very beginning they love her and do everything for her it’s just not fun.
The spice that was in the book was weird. It was explicit in its language and describing what happened. But shallow or very surface level, short. Like watching a movie but the whole movie you have to hit the skip forward 10s button.
I did like the witchy vibes and the autumnal vibes. Those were great but not enough to redeem the absolute bore of the story. It had potential.
October 17, 2023
I read Midnight with the Hexed by L.R. Friedman as part of the Review Tour hosted by the author and Bound By Mischief Author Services. I read and reviewed book 1, Wicked in the Pines last week. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted books! This duology was so good!
WARNING: SPOILERS FROM BOOK 1 FROM HERE ON
Midnight with the Hexed picks up right where Wicked in the Pines leaves off. Oakley has her magic back. Hazel is home safe and sound. There is a budding relationship between Oakley, Lynx, and Saros. And, Atlas has just moved into the neighborhood.
In the afterword, the author says that Book 1 “focused on Oakley’s personal journey of finding herself within the messy, chaotic, and beautiful world of new motherhood.” And, for this book, “we got much more of her relationship dynamics and really owning her newly rediscovered confidence.” I absolutely love Oakley’s journey!
L.R. takes a common situation (how new moms struggle with body image, their own identity, and how to be an individual while having a tiny human totally dependent on them) and brings it to light in a very real way. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that is so honest about this subject. I remember those days and the struggle of my own postpartum identity. If I’d had a story like this maybe I wouldn’t have felt so alone. So, thank you, L.R., for writing this story that could truly help postpartum women feel sexy, worthy, and seen.
This book was sexier than the first and had more explicit scenes. Oakley, who I love, has really started to thrive in her newly found confidence. Even though her relationship(s) have her mind reeling with uncertainty, she is looking forward to finding out how it will play out.
Atlas moving into the neighborhood threw them all for a loop. He certainly can’t take “no” for an answer. I really don’t care for him much, and I think this is partly why. He seems to be a narcissistic ass to me.
The mystery is good and totally went somewhere I wasn’t expecting. In Book 1, the authorities that be (SNO-OPS) were trying to force Saros into using his gift to move the investigation along. So, the SNO-OPS decided to take things into their own hands. And that’s where things got messy. In those chapters, my emotions went from anger, to heartbroken, to anger again so fast that I had to take a breath. Things started happening so fast, I was on the edge of my seat.
This story is written with perfect pacing and, to me, equally character and plot driven. I love urban fantasy because a whole new world can be created within what is already familiar. Celestial Haven could be a community in any town.
The spice is HOTTT! As these characters explore their relationship, Oakley has come to realize what it is she really wants. And, now, after everything they’ve been through, she is not afraid to let it be know. There are a few kinks depicted, and depicted well, I might add. Just know that these scenes leave nothing to the imagination.
The ending was so good. It was heartwarming and perfect for a paranormal romance. The only thing is that there are quite a few questions left unanswered. But, the author explains these will be coming in future books set in this world. I can’t wait for the next installment!
I highly recommend Midnight with the Hexed , after reading Wicked in the Pines, to fans of paranormal romance, super spicy romance, why choose, MMF spicy romance, unique magical gifts, mystery, and witchy reads.
WARNING: SPOILERS FROM BOOK 1 FROM HERE ON
Midnight with the Hexed picks up right where Wicked in the Pines leaves off. Oakley has her magic back. Hazel is home safe and sound. There is a budding relationship between Oakley, Lynx, and Saros. And, Atlas has just moved into the neighborhood.
In the afterword, the author says that Book 1 “focused on Oakley’s personal journey of finding herself within the messy, chaotic, and beautiful world of new motherhood.” And, for this book, “we got much more of her relationship dynamics and really owning her newly rediscovered confidence.” I absolutely love Oakley’s journey!
L.R. takes a common situation (how new moms struggle with body image, their own identity, and how to be an individual while having a tiny human totally dependent on them) and brings it to light in a very real way. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that is so honest about this subject. I remember those days and the struggle of my own postpartum identity. If I’d had a story like this maybe I wouldn’t have felt so alone. So, thank you, L.R., for writing this story that could truly help postpartum women feel sexy, worthy, and seen.
This book was sexier than the first and had more explicit scenes. Oakley, who I love, has really started to thrive in her newly found confidence. Even though her relationship(s) have her mind reeling with uncertainty, she is looking forward to finding out how it will play out.
Atlas moving into the neighborhood threw them all for a loop. He certainly can’t take “no” for an answer. I really don’t care for him much, and I think this is partly why. He seems to be a narcissistic ass to me.
The mystery is good and totally went somewhere I wasn’t expecting. In Book 1, the authorities that be (SNO-OPS) were trying to force Saros into using his gift to move the investigation along. So, the SNO-OPS decided to take things into their own hands. And that’s where things got messy. In those chapters, my emotions went from anger, to heartbroken, to anger again so fast that I had to take a breath. Things started happening so fast, I was on the edge of my seat.
This story is written with perfect pacing and, to me, equally character and plot driven. I love urban fantasy because a whole new world can be created within what is already familiar. Celestial Haven could be a community in any town.
The spice is HOTTT! As these characters explore their relationship, Oakley has come to realize what it is she really wants. And, now, after everything they’ve been through, she is not afraid to let it be know. There are a few kinks depicted, and depicted well, I might add. Just know that these scenes leave nothing to the imagination.
The ending was so good. It was heartwarming and perfect for a paranormal romance. The only thing is that there are quite a few questions left unanswered. But, the author explains these will be coming in future books set in this world. I can’t wait for the next installment!
I highly recommend Midnight with the Hexed , after reading Wicked in the Pines, to fans of paranormal romance, super spicy romance, why choose, MMF spicy romance, unique magical gifts, mystery, and witchy reads.
October 6, 2023
✨Midnight With the Hexed Review✨
🪄Spoilers ahead…
To start, this book is one of my top reads of 2023. Lauren can write anything and nail it every time.
Midnight is the second book in Celestial Haven and my absolute favorite! The spice is off the charts and you get to explore more of the magical beings. 😍 Then the secrets that finally come out, my mind was blown.
Oakley is coming out of her shell starting her shop back up, and exploring her relationship with Saros and Lynx. Then add Atlas, Aspens father, into the mix and the chemistry is explosive. Lauren did an amazing job building the tension between Oakley and Atlas. I was sweating it out with them. The way Atlas speaks is so dirty, can I have him? Saros is definitely daddy with everyone else being managed by him. Lol He was the one I was routing for to finally have his time with Oakley. I was not disappointed. When they have their moment it’s beautiful and passionate. Though none of this would be possible without empathic Lynx. He’s the glue bringing everyone together. He helps them all get their needs met and have that happily ever after. It’s a good thing this is a why choose because I could never.
This story has one of the most beautiful HEA’s. Oakley gets everything she deserves. When I reached the end I was sobbing. All I can say is go read this book starting with Wicked. As for me I will be patiently awaiting the next story in Celestial Haven.
Read if you love:
✨postpartum rep
✨body positivity
✨why choose MMF
✨magic
✨paranormal world
✨dark secrets
✨good witch
✨beautiful HEA
Quotes:
“Sexuality comes in all different flavors.”
“Show us that beautiful Desire and we’ll fill you for eternity.”
“I would have all of her, and she’d have all of me.”
“Watch how wickedly you swallow my 🍆, Midnight.”
“You each have a piece of my heart, and I’m selfish enough to want to keep you all.”
“There will always be enough Desire and love running through me for some to belong to you. As long as you’re okay with it also belonging to someone else.”
“You love watching them 🍆 me, don’t you?”
“You’ll take my 🍆nice and slow,” he whispered, nipping along my throat. “We’ve waited too long not to savor this.”
“Fate isn’t promised and neither is tomorrow.”
“I’m in your blood. Your bones. Your 💥marrow. Just as you are in mine.”
🪄Spoilers ahead…
To start, this book is one of my top reads of 2023. Lauren can write anything and nail it every time.
Midnight is the second book in Celestial Haven and my absolute favorite! The spice is off the charts and you get to explore more of the magical beings. 😍 Then the secrets that finally come out, my mind was blown.
Oakley is coming out of her shell starting her shop back up, and exploring her relationship with Saros and Lynx. Then add Atlas, Aspens father, into the mix and the chemistry is explosive. Lauren did an amazing job building the tension between Oakley and Atlas. I was sweating it out with them. The way Atlas speaks is so dirty, can I have him? Saros is definitely daddy with everyone else being managed by him. Lol He was the one I was routing for to finally have his time with Oakley. I was not disappointed. When they have their moment it’s beautiful and passionate. Though none of this would be possible without empathic Lynx. He’s the glue bringing everyone together. He helps them all get their needs met and have that happily ever after. It’s a good thing this is a why choose because I could never.
This story has one of the most beautiful HEA’s. Oakley gets everything she deserves. When I reached the end I was sobbing. All I can say is go read this book starting with Wicked. As for me I will be patiently awaiting the next story in Celestial Haven.
Read if you love:
✨postpartum rep
✨body positivity
✨why choose MMF
✨magic
✨paranormal world
✨dark secrets
✨good witch
✨beautiful HEA
Quotes:
“Sexuality comes in all different flavors.”
“Show us that beautiful Desire and we’ll fill you for eternity.”
“I would have all of her, and she’d have all of me.”
“Watch how wickedly you swallow my 🍆, Midnight.”
“You each have a piece of my heart, and I’m selfish enough to want to keep you all.”
“There will always be enough Desire and love running through me for some to belong to you. As long as you’re okay with it also belonging to someone else.”
“You love watching them 🍆 me, don’t you?”
“You’ll take my 🍆nice and slow,” he whispered, nipping along my throat. “We’ve waited too long not to savor this.”
“Fate isn’t promised and neither is tomorrow.”
“I’m in your blood. Your bones. Your 💥marrow. Just as you are in mine.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2023
✨𝑀𝒾𝒹𝓃𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒲𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝐻𝑒𝓍𝑒𝒹 – 𝒞𝑒𝓁𝑒𝓈𝓉𝒾𝒶𝓁 𝐻𝒶𝓋𝑒𝓃 #𝟤 – 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
Author: L.R. Friedman
Couple: Oakley with Atlas, Lynx & Saros
Tropes: why choose, RH, fantasy romance, single mother, witchy vibes, magical romance, found family, small town, hidden prophecy
Review: Another spellbinding read in the Celestial Haven world! Oakley finally gets her HEA in this book and what a journey it is! I loved everything about the finale of her story and was ecstatic that Atlas comes to play in this book!
Atlas and Oakley are by far my favorite pairing (even though I enjoy Lynx and Savros as well). The bond they share and the way L.R. Friedman writes the parental bonds with Aspen tug at my heartstrings every time! I enjoyed seeing Atlas more and learning about his powers as well as delving more into his family line. The prophecy that drove Oakley away was also explained and the closure they both get was revealed at the perfect time. For me though, Atlas’ perseverance and unwavering love for Oakley was my favorite and of course I enjoyed seeing how he learned to share her.
Lynx and Savros grow a lot in this book and the bond they share if further explored as well. I appreciated how they were different but also that their relationship to one another was preserved. I found the tension they had with Atlas to be hilarious and I loved seeing how they worked under him but also were not afraid to still love Oakley. I did not have a favorite between the two since to me, you could not have one without the other. I did appreciate how Savros’ past and POV was explained further though since I felt that was integral to this book.
This book is spicy! We get all sorts of spice and heat between all of them and I enjoyed it all. Oakley’s powers are further examined in this book and I liked how they bled into the romantic moments to add heat to the book. Even though we get more spice and chemistry, the parts that I loved the most were the raw and honest bonds Oakley had with each one. I also loved how they all adored Aspen and spoiled him.
Rating: 10/10, happy dance for Atlas and his HEA!
Author: L.R. Friedman
Couple: Oakley with Atlas, Lynx & Saros
Tropes: why choose, RH, fantasy romance, single mother, witchy vibes, magical romance, found family, small town, hidden prophecy
Review: Another spellbinding read in the Celestial Haven world! Oakley finally gets her HEA in this book and what a journey it is! I loved everything about the finale of her story and was ecstatic that Atlas comes to play in this book!
Atlas and Oakley are by far my favorite pairing (even though I enjoy Lynx and Savros as well). The bond they share and the way L.R. Friedman writes the parental bonds with Aspen tug at my heartstrings every time! I enjoyed seeing Atlas more and learning about his powers as well as delving more into his family line. The prophecy that drove Oakley away was also explained and the closure they both get was revealed at the perfect time. For me though, Atlas’ perseverance and unwavering love for Oakley was my favorite and of course I enjoyed seeing how he learned to share her.
Lynx and Savros grow a lot in this book and the bond they share if further explored as well. I appreciated how they were different but also that their relationship to one another was preserved. I found the tension they had with Atlas to be hilarious and I loved seeing how they worked under him but also were not afraid to still love Oakley. I did not have a favorite between the two since to me, you could not have one without the other. I did appreciate how Savros’ past and POV was explained further though since I felt that was integral to this book.
This book is spicy! We get all sorts of spice and heat between all of them and I enjoyed it all. Oakley’s powers are further examined in this book and I liked how they bled into the romantic moments to add heat to the book. Even though we get more spice and chemistry, the parts that I loved the most were the raw and honest bonds Oakley had with each one. I also loved how they all adored Aspen and spoiled him.
Rating: 10/10, happy dance for Atlas and his HEA!
October 11, 2023
I’m so so incredibly grateful to this wonderful author for letting me read an ARC of this paranormal romance book!!
“I want to taste that Desire of yours straight from the source.”
“It’s not that I don’t want you. I want you so much it’s physically painful to resist being near you. Because I know when I touch or kiss you I will see glimpses, whether you want me to or not. And worst of all, I can’t give you those things you want—things you deserve.”
This book … this crazy, hot, spicy, romantic, complicated, paranormal, action packed, with an amazing HEA book … I had the time of my life reading it!!!!
With everything happening in book one, I already had great expectations for this one. Especially considering that this time around I was looking forward to know more about Lynx and Saros and Atlas too. And this amazing author delivered exactly what I wanted. And more of it!!! After all the tribulations and stress I went through with Saros’ trauma, Lynx’ entertaining fun times and emotions and Atlas’ possessive and undying faith and love for Oakley and Aspen … I think I truly found my favourite man!!! Don’t get me wrong. I loved all three of them. And the spicy times they delivered … so so good!! I loved that we got to experience more about the personal and intimate relationship between Lynx and Saros and their love and devotion to Oakley. But more than anything I loved everything that happened with Atlas. He was so everything I wanted and more. And I’m so so glad I got to read him like this!! It was such a wild ride and such a fun one at that!!!
Add to it such a great happy ending but most of all … such an amazing intro to what could happen in the future!!! I am so so interested and intrigued and curious and afraid of what is waiting for us in this world!!!
“I’m in your blood. Your bones. Your fucking marrow. Just as you are in mine.”
“The words felt like a hex. There was no enchantment behind them, but they were no less powerful.”
“Fate isn’t promised and neither is tomorrow.”
“I want to taste that Desire of yours straight from the source.”
“It’s not that I don’t want you. I want you so much it’s physically painful to resist being near you. Because I know when I touch or kiss you I will see glimpses, whether you want me to or not. And worst of all, I can’t give you those things you want—things you deserve.”
This book … this crazy, hot, spicy, romantic, complicated, paranormal, action packed, with an amazing HEA book … I had the time of my life reading it!!!!
With everything happening in book one, I already had great expectations for this one. Especially considering that this time around I was looking forward to know more about Lynx and Saros and Atlas too. And this amazing author delivered exactly what I wanted. And more of it!!! After all the tribulations and stress I went through with Saros’ trauma, Lynx’ entertaining fun times and emotions and Atlas’ possessive and undying faith and love for Oakley and Aspen … I think I truly found my favourite man!!! Don’t get me wrong. I loved all three of them. And the spicy times they delivered … so so good!! I loved that we got to experience more about the personal and intimate relationship between Lynx and Saros and their love and devotion to Oakley. But more than anything I loved everything that happened with Atlas. He was so everything I wanted and more. And I’m so so glad I got to read him like this!! It was such a wild ride and such a fun one at that!!!
Add to it such a great happy ending but most of all … such an amazing intro to what could happen in the future!!! I am so so interested and intrigued and curious and afraid of what is waiting for us in this world!!!
“I’m in your blood. Your bones. Your fucking marrow. Just as you are in mine.”
“The words felt like a hex. There was no enchantment behind them, but they were no less powerful.”
“Fate isn’t promised and neither is tomorrow.”
October 14, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed is the 2nd book in the Celestial Haven duet, written by L.R. Friedman. I enjoyed the first book so much and was ecstatic to start the second one. I also discovered there will be more in the Celestial Haven series, each storyline having a duet or a standalone! Sign me up! I can’t wait.
Book two picks up with the first left off, back in Celestial Haven. We rejoin Oakley and the men in her life, Lynx, Atlas, and Saros. As mentioned in the afterword of this book: “Wicked in the Pines focused on Oakley’s personal journey of finding herself within the messy, chaotic, and beautiful world of new motherhood. For Midnight with the Hexed, we got much more of her relationship dynamics and really owning her newly rediscovered confidence.” And oh, what confidence does she have! With the admiration of the men around her, she has come out of her shell and regained the fire she used to have, plus some. In this book, Oakley explores her relationships with the three men in her life. When she decides that she can, in fact, have it all, she takes it. Why choose one when you can have all three?
The mystery of what happened to Hazel and the others who have disappeared also continues in this multi-pov book. We get to meet new characters that are supernatural but are not witches. When put in harm’s way, life-changing measures are taken that will change their lives forever. Is Oakley at risk of her unique ability being found out?
Just like the first book, this was deliciously written and completely addictive. The spice in this book is next level with this why choose MMFM storyline. I loved the magic system and the gifts bestowed on each witch by the goddess. I love the suspenseful mystery that continued in this book. I can’t wait to continue to explore the Celestial Haven community in the upcoming books!
Thank you to L.R. Friedman for gifting me an eARC of Midnight with the Hexed. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Book two picks up with the first left off, back in Celestial Haven. We rejoin Oakley and the men in her life, Lynx, Atlas, and Saros. As mentioned in the afterword of this book: “Wicked in the Pines focused on Oakley’s personal journey of finding herself within the messy, chaotic, and beautiful world of new motherhood. For Midnight with the Hexed, we got much more of her relationship dynamics and really owning her newly rediscovered confidence.” And oh, what confidence does she have! With the admiration of the men around her, she has come out of her shell and regained the fire she used to have, plus some. In this book, Oakley explores her relationships with the three men in her life. When she decides that she can, in fact, have it all, she takes it. Why choose one when you can have all three?
The mystery of what happened to Hazel and the others who have disappeared also continues in this multi-pov book. We get to meet new characters that are supernatural but are not witches. When put in harm’s way, life-changing measures are taken that will change their lives forever. Is Oakley at risk of her unique ability being found out?
Just like the first book, this was deliciously written and completely addictive. The spice in this book is next level with this why choose MMFM storyline. I loved the magic system and the gifts bestowed on each witch by the goddess. I love the suspenseful mystery that continued in this book. I can’t wait to continue to explore the Celestial Haven community in the upcoming books!
Thank you to L.R. Friedman for gifting me an eARC of Midnight with the Hexed. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 5, 2023
Midnight With The Hexed is the sequel to Wicked In The Pines, part of Friedman's Celestial Haven series. It is a deliciously spicy, paranormal romance featuring Oakley Brooks, Atlas Thorne, Lynx Caven and Saros Colt. In case you didn't realize, this is a why choose situation, and Oakley is one very lucky witch!
This book picks up where Wicked In The Pines left off, so please be sure to read them in order. The case regarding the vanishing residents remains open however The Wellses are in custody following their confession of murdering Acacia Mirabel. Lynx and Saros are trying to figure out the connection to the missing witches, but neither Aurora nor Fitz are willing to talk. They want to solve this mystery, but they are keen to get back home to Starry Night Lane and see Oakley.
Aurora is trying to wrap her head around the fact that Atlas is now her neighbour. She walked away from their relationship, and even moved, to try to create distance between them. Resistance is so much harder with his proximity. No matter what her heart wants, she loves him too much to be with him. Can she navigate her new relationship with Lynx and Saros without letting Atlas know... When Atlas catches her and Saros in a very passionate moment, she needs to put on her big girl underwear and have a difficult conversation.
I loved this book. I love this duet! The story, the characters, the intrigue, the passion, the spice... all of it is just *chef's kiss*! I highly encourage you to read it. In fact, just do yourself a favour and read everything Friedman writes. She has a gift, and I have yet to be disappointed.
Brilliant news - while this is a duet, it sounds like there might be another duet forthcoming in the Celestial Haven series, the next one being about Oakley's sister Hazel. I can't wait!
Now for my #NewToMeWord...
Skyclad - naked! I feel like I might have heard this word before but I wasn't sure so I looked it up.
This book picks up where Wicked In The Pines left off, so please be sure to read them in order. The case regarding the vanishing residents remains open however The Wellses are in custody following their confession of murdering Acacia Mirabel. Lynx and Saros are trying to figure out the connection to the missing witches, but neither Aurora nor Fitz are willing to talk. They want to solve this mystery, but they are keen to get back home to Starry Night Lane and see Oakley.
Aurora is trying to wrap her head around the fact that Atlas is now her neighbour. She walked away from their relationship, and even moved, to try to create distance between them. Resistance is so much harder with his proximity. No matter what her heart wants, she loves him too much to be with him. Can she navigate her new relationship with Lynx and Saros without letting Atlas know... When Atlas catches her and Saros in a very passionate moment, she needs to put on her big girl underwear and have a difficult conversation.
I loved this book. I love this duet! The story, the characters, the intrigue, the passion, the spice... all of it is just *chef's kiss*! I highly encourage you to read it. In fact, just do yourself a favour and read everything Friedman writes. She has a gift, and I have yet to be disappointed.
Brilliant news - while this is a duet, it sounds like there might be another duet forthcoming in the Celestial Haven series, the next one being about Oakley's sister Hazel. I can't wait!
Now for my #NewToMeWord...
Skyclad - naked! I feel like I might have heard this word before but I wasn't sure so I looked it up.
October 15, 2023
🔮𝙼𝙸𝙳𝙽𝙸𝙶𝙷𝚃 𝚆𝙸𝚃𝙷 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙷𝙴𝚇𝙴𝙳
🔮𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
🔮𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙲𝙴𝙻𝙴𝚂𝚃𝙸𝙰𝙻 𝙷𝙰𝚅𝙴𝙽 𝙳𝚄𝙴𝚃
★☆★
Thank you so so so much to L.R. Friedman for the opportunity to read 𝐌𝐈𝐃𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐗𝐄𝐃 as an eARC!
This is Book 2 of the Celestial Haven Duet and picks up right where we left off in Oakley’s story in Wicked in the Pines! The emotions I went through while reading this book were all over the place, I was laughing and crying and I just love this story so much🥹💜 I absolutely loved this sequel from the bottom of my heart!
Oakley remains an amazing FMC! This book really focuses on Oakley as she is trying to navigate her relationships with the men in her life as she’s tending to her relationship with her sister. I also just love her as a mom and her relationship with Aspen just makes my heart so happy. Seeing her be more comfortable and confident in her own skin made me so happy for her! We get to find out so much more about all of the characters and their growth throughout this duet is just stunning to see. Each character is so unique and LR did such an amazing job with helping you connect with each for different reasons.
And let me just say.. the spice in this book sky rockets in comparison to Book 1. The way I was blushing and swooning, goodness gracious I’m blushing right now just thinking about the spice in this book😏 The tension and angst is done so well and I craved the scenes with Oakley, Lynx, and Saros because their chemistry is crazy amazing.
Not only did I love the characters, the plot is amazing as well. The twists and turns, the magic, the world-building… this book has everything! I loved it all. The pacing of the book is amazing and I love the mystery that was sprinkled in with the disappearances. The ending of this book was perfection.
I cannot wait to dive more into this world that LR has created! She has really created something so magical and special and I’m so thankful to have been apart of her team for this series!
🔮𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
🔮𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙲𝙴𝙻𝙴𝚂𝚃𝙸𝙰𝙻 𝙷𝙰𝚅𝙴𝙽 𝙳𝚄𝙴𝚃
★☆★
Thank you so so so much to L.R. Friedman for the opportunity to read 𝐌𝐈𝐃𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐗𝐄𝐃 as an eARC!
This is Book 2 of the Celestial Haven Duet and picks up right where we left off in Oakley’s story in Wicked in the Pines! The emotions I went through while reading this book were all over the place, I was laughing and crying and I just love this story so much🥹💜 I absolutely loved this sequel from the bottom of my heart!
Oakley remains an amazing FMC! This book really focuses on Oakley as she is trying to navigate her relationships with the men in her life as she’s tending to her relationship with her sister. I also just love her as a mom and her relationship with Aspen just makes my heart so happy. Seeing her be more comfortable and confident in her own skin made me so happy for her! We get to find out so much more about all of the characters and their growth throughout this duet is just stunning to see. Each character is so unique and LR did such an amazing job with helping you connect with each for different reasons.
And let me just say.. the spice in this book sky rockets in comparison to Book 1. The way I was blushing and swooning, goodness gracious I’m blushing right now just thinking about the spice in this book😏 The tension and angst is done so well and I craved the scenes with Oakley, Lynx, and Saros because their chemistry is crazy amazing.
Not only did I love the characters, the plot is amazing as well. The twists and turns, the magic, the world-building… this book has everything! I loved it all. The pacing of the book is amazing and I love the mystery that was sprinkled in with the disappearances. The ending of this book was perfection.
I cannot wait to dive more into this world that LR has created! She has really created something so magical and special and I’m so thankful to have been apart of her team for this series!
September 30, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed is the delightful conclusion of a supernatural why choose paranormal romance duet set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. This book picks up following the events in Wicked in the Pines.
Oakley is still navigating her challenging romantic situation and must finally learn to embrace herself fully and decide what she wants for her life and her family.
Meanwhile, the mysterious disappearances continue with no leads to a resolution, leaving residents of Celestial Haven vulnerable.
Tropes/themes:
🕯️ Adult paranormal romance
🕯️ Multi POV
🕯️ Why choose
🕯️ Found family
🕯️ Scalding 🌶️ + group fun
“…but I've realized that sometimes the real dream is the one we can't see for ourselves”
“Eyes on us, Midnight”
“I know this is terrifying, but living without you was worse”
“That’s my good witch”
This series is simply magic and the perfect spooky season binge! 💫🎃
I am completely bespelled, bewitched, and besotted by this duology. The author crafts a wondrous witchy world I want to live in. L.R., what spell did you weave into these pages? 🪄
If you’re newer to paranormal romance or why choose, this is a great introductory series.
I absolutely adored each character and how their relationships develop and evolve throughout both books. My heart was put through some heartache but I’m so happy with how the story comes together at the end and cannot wait for the next series of books in this world.
Until then, you can find me at Luna’s, sipping on my midnight mocha and nibbling on pumpkin cupcakes.
I received a free e-ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you L.R. Friedman for the incredible opportunity!**
Midnight with the Hexed will be available September 30th (and free in Kindle Unlimited)!
Wicked in the Pines review
Oakley is still navigating her challenging romantic situation and must finally learn to embrace herself fully and decide what she wants for her life and her family.
Meanwhile, the mysterious disappearances continue with no leads to a resolution, leaving residents of Celestial Haven vulnerable.
Tropes/themes:
🕯️ Adult paranormal romance
🕯️ Multi POV
🕯️ Why choose
🕯️ Found family
🕯️ Scalding 🌶️ + group fun
“…but I've realized that sometimes the real dream is the one we can't see for ourselves”
“Eyes on us, Midnight”
“I know this is terrifying, but living without you was worse”
“That’s my good witch”
This series is simply magic and the perfect spooky season binge! 💫🎃
I am completely bespelled, bewitched, and besotted by this duology. The author crafts a wondrous witchy world I want to live in. L.R., what spell did you weave into these pages? 🪄
If you’re newer to paranormal romance or why choose, this is a great introductory series.
I absolutely adored each character and how their relationships develop and evolve throughout both books. My heart was put through some heartache but I’m so happy with how the story comes together at the end and cannot wait for the next series of books in this world.
Until then, you can find me at Luna’s, sipping on my midnight mocha and nibbling on pumpkin cupcakes.
I received a free e-ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you L.R. Friedman for the incredible opportunity!**
Midnight with the Hexed will be available September 30th (and free in Kindle Unlimited)!
Wicked in the Pines review
October 1, 2023
his picks up pretty much directly after WITP. Oakley, our FMC, is dealing with new relationship (with Saros and Lynx) and an old relationship (Atlas) all whilst juggling being a new mum and relaunching her business. She’s so fierce and knows what she wants. She continues to fight tooth and nail to provide a good life for her baby and keep her home life under control.
Atlas is determined not to let her go, even though it’s for his own good. His persuit of her is pretty damn hot! Note: We get a MASKED BALL!!!!! Lynx continues to be the wonderful supportive guy he is. And Saros is, well, Saros. Mysterious, slightly domineering but also unsure. However, we get so much more of him!!!!! You really get to understand them all in this one. I loved all the main characters in this book - it is very relationship focussed and I liked seeing how they figure out how to be comfortable in their new relationship. And all the angst that goes with it. Oh and did I mention the spice really ramps up in this one? The first was such a slow burn!!!!! This goes book really delivers on what the first promises… Plus its multi-POV!!!! We get ALL the details!!
Plus they’re trying to figure out why and how all the people keep going missing… trust me you are not ready for the twist in this!!!!! It blew me away!!!! I loved how there were so many hints but you can’t understand until you get all the pieces.
Plus Hazel is a total mystery. The total supportive sister but is struggling with the events of the last book. I’m so glad hers is next!!
I truly enjoyed this spooky why choose mystery duet - perfect for spooky season!
Atlas is determined not to let her go, even though it’s for his own good. His persuit of her is pretty damn hot! Note: We get a MASKED BALL!!!!! Lynx continues to be the wonderful supportive guy he is. And Saros is, well, Saros. Mysterious, slightly domineering but also unsure. However, we get so much more of him!!!!! You really get to understand them all in this one. I loved all the main characters in this book - it is very relationship focussed and I liked seeing how they figure out how to be comfortable in their new relationship. And all the angst that goes with it. Oh and did I mention the spice really ramps up in this one? The first was such a slow burn!!!!! This goes book really delivers on what the first promises… Plus its multi-POV!!!! We get ALL the details!!
Plus they’re trying to figure out why and how all the people keep going missing… trust me you are not ready for the twist in this!!!!! It blew me away!!!! I loved how there were so many hints but you can’t understand until you get all the pieces.
Plus Hazel is a total mystery. The total supportive sister but is struggling with the events of the last book. I’m so glad hers is next!!
I truly enjoyed this spooky why choose mystery duet - perfect for spooky season!
October 13, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed - L.R. Friedman
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Midnight with the Hexed is the second to Wicked in the Pines. If you haven’t read Wicked in the Pines yet…
1) What are you even doing?
2) This review MAY contain some spoilers, proceed with caution
Oakley’s gift is replenished and she’s ready to figure out her new life with her TWO new boyfriends (GET IT GIRL). She’s also looking to relaunch her business and prepare for the Moonlight Masquerade. All while still taking care of the cutest witching in the land. 🥰
Right as people seem to think things are winding down, there’s another disappearance on Starry Night Lane. Lynx and Saros are the top investigators on the case and Oakley’s ex (Archon Atlas) is their boss, meaning they have to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret. The disappearances are putting pressure on the supernatural government and things aren’t adding up. There are snakes in the grass and they are looking for a fight. 🐍👀
As Oakley grapples with her past and prepares for the future, she will have to decide if she will follow her heart or risk living with an eternity of regret.
THIS WAS SO GOOD, YA’LL! There’s SPICE, there’s MYSTERY, there’s SUSPENSE. I WAS HOOKED! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I also loved Wicked in the Pines so I knew Friedman would do it for us again. I love the dynamics between Oakley, Lynx, and Saros. THEY ALL DESERVE THE WORLD AND I WILL HEAR NOTHING LESS. The ending had me in shambles. I was snotnosed crying like a baby over a man I barely liked at the beginning of the book. 😭😭😭
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a paranormal MMF why choose romance that will give you all the fall feels! 🍂🖤✨
Thank you Author for another awesome story and for allowing me to read this ARC! You rock! 🫶🏻
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Midnight with the Hexed is the second to Wicked in the Pines. If you haven’t read Wicked in the Pines yet…
1) What are you even doing?
2) This review MAY contain some spoilers, proceed with caution
Oakley’s gift is replenished and she’s ready to figure out her new life with her TWO new boyfriends (GET IT GIRL). She’s also looking to relaunch her business and prepare for the Moonlight Masquerade. All while still taking care of the cutest witching in the land. 🥰
Right as people seem to think things are winding down, there’s another disappearance on Starry Night Lane. Lynx and Saros are the top investigators on the case and Oakley’s ex (Archon Atlas) is their boss, meaning they have to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret. The disappearances are putting pressure on the supernatural government and things aren’t adding up. There are snakes in the grass and they are looking for a fight. 🐍👀
As Oakley grapples with her past and prepares for the future, she will have to decide if she will follow her heart or risk living with an eternity of regret.
THIS WAS SO GOOD, YA’LL! There’s SPICE, there’s MYSTERY, there’s SUSPENSE. I WAS HOOKED! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I also loved Wicked in the Pines so I knew Friedman would do it for us again. I love the dynamics between Oakley, Lynx, and Saros. THEY ALL DESERVE THE WORLD AND I WILL HEAR NOTHING LESS. The ending had me in shambles. I was snotnosed crying like a baby over a man I barely liked at the beginning of the book. 😭😭😭
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a paranormal MMF why choose romance that will give you all the fall feels! 🍂🖤✨
Thank you Author for another awesome story and for allowing me to read this ARC! You rock! 🫶🏻
October 20, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed - L.R Friedman
"Midnight with the Hexed" by L.R. Friedman is a spellbinding sequel that seamlessly picks up where its predecessor left off. Friedman's writing is a symphony of fluidity and her world-building of Celestial Haven is nothing short of enchanting.
The character development and relationships are the beating heart of this tale, leaving readers invested in every twist and turn. The balance of emotion, from laughter to tears, creates a cosy yet exhilarating atmosphere. The spicy elements add an extra layer of warmth, perfect for a fall read. The weaving of a mystery into the paranormal tapestry of Celestial Haven is masterfully done, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
With glimpses of side characters that promise more intrigue to come, this book sets the stage for an exciting series.
The resolution of Oakley's journey is satisfying, though bittersweet, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what Hazel's story will bring in future instalments.
"Midnight with the Hexed" is a brilliant conclusion to a captivating duet, showcasing Friedman's exceptional storytelling prowess. One can only hope for more from the talented @lrfriedmanauthor.
Magical World ∘ MMFM ∘ Vampires ∘ Why Choose? ∘ Unaliving ∘ Kidnapping
Happy Reading,
Alie
Rating: 💜💜💜💜
Aesthetic: 🧙🏼♀️🔮🌕👶🏻💀🕯🌲👨🏻❤️💋👨🏾🧛🏻♂️💍🔎
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
January 20, 2024
This was the perfect ending to this witchy duet.
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Atlas coming back into the picture simply because we didn’t get much of him in book one but I’m happy to say that I fell head over broomstick for him. I think seeing how absolutely in love with Oakley he is still after everything put him immediately on my “like” list. This poly romance full of witches is one that is full of surprises, residual and new feelings, and kinks that are unlocked. Oakley our FMC is trying to balance motherhood with embracing her own identity after having a baby. And of course there are the guys that are just so yummy. Lynx is the emotional support and the one who will make you melt first, Saros is the gruff one who longs for Oakley but is scared of the consequences of what that could bring, and then there’s Atlas who is begging for a second chance with the mother of his child. The ending had my heart in my throat there for a minute and my pulse racing but of course there’s an HEA so don’t worry. I so enjoyed this duet and I can’t wait to see what LR Friedman comes out with next!
What to expect:
-MMFM
-second chance
-accidental voyeurism/exhibitionism
-sexy time over video chat
-a hex
-mystery & suspense
-witches & magic
-MM/MF/MMF/MMFM scenes
-praise
TWs: on page murder, violence, blood, kidnapping
4⭐️ 4🔥
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Atlas coming back into the picture simply because we didn’t get much of him in book one but I’m happy to say that I fell head over broomstick for him. I think seeing how absolutely in love with Oakley he is still after everything put him immediately on my “like” list. This poly romance full of witches is one that is full of surprises, residual and new feelings, and kinks that are unlocked. Oakley our FMC is trying to balance motherhood with embracing her own identity after having a baby. And of course there are the guys that are just so yummy. Lynx is the emotional support and the one who will make you melt first, Saros is the gruff one who longs for Oakley but is scared of the consequences of what that could bring, and then there’s Atlas who is begging for a second chance with the mother of his child. The ending had my heart in my throat there for a minute and my pulse racing but of course there’s an HEA so don’t worry. I so enjoyed this duet and I can’t wait to see what LR Friedman comes out with next!
What to expect:
-MMFM
-second chance
-accidental voyeurism/exhibitionism
-sexy time over video chat
-a hex
-mystery & suspense
-witches & magic
-MM/MF/MMF/MMFM scenes
-praise
TWs: on page murder, violence, blood, kidnapping
4⭐️ 4🔥
October 11, 2023
This was such a great ending for this duet! It wraps up Oakley’s story nicely. Although I’m sad to see this chapter closed, it was a wonderful ending to a fantastic pair of books.
We get to dig more into the mystery of what’s going on with the missing witches, and I was excited to finally meet some of the other supernaturals in the story! There were some intense scenes as we unravel the mystery of those missing and the murder of Acacia.
I was pleasantly surprised with Atlas and his role in this book. We get to see a lot from his perspective and learn more about his relationship with Oakley and the mystery surrounding Hazel’s vision.
The spice was definitely dialed up several notches in this book. It doesn’t take long before we get more sexy scenes from our favorite trio, and L.R. doesn’t leave any detail out! I loved the spicy bits and especially loved Oakley taking control and going for what she wanted with Lynx and Saros.
There were parts that made me cry, parts that made me smile, and plenty of parts that made me blush. This has probably the best epilogue I’ve ever read. I was sad it ended but happy with the way that it did!
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. 4.5 stars.
We get to dig more into the mystery of what’s going on with the missing witches, and I was excited to finally meet some of the other supernaturals in the story! There were some intense scenes as we unravel the mystery of those missing and the murder of Acacia.
I was pleasantly surprised with Atlas and his role in this book. We get to see a lot from his perspective and learn more about his relationship with Oakley and the mystery surrounding Hazel’s vision.
The spice was definitely dialed up several notches in this book. It doesn’t take long before we get more sexy scenes from our favorite trio, and L.R. doesn’t leave any detail out! I loved the spicy bits and especially loved Oakley taking control and going for what she wanted with Lynx and Saros.
There were parts that made me cry, parts that made me smile, and plenty of parts that made me blush. This has probably the best epilogue I’ve ever read. I was sad it ended but happy with the way that it did!
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. 4.5 stars.
October 27, 2023
Midnight with the Hexed by LR Friedman
Book 2 of 2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Reverse Harem/Witches/Paranormal/Multi POV
Tropes:
- Why Choose?
-More Kidnapping + Murder
- Spooky Season Read
- SpicY 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
-Vampires
Wooooh y’all. The author note did not lie. She said book 2 in this duet would contain a LOT more spicy and it did not disappoint!
I also felt like book 2 was a lot more fast paced. You have developed relationships with these characters. There’s some “oh fuck” moments because I was literally screaming. The dark and moody morally grey character comes(literally) out to play, and just a very enticing plot.
Baby Aspen wasn’t in this book that much and I think that’s so okay because it was really about Oakley admitting to herself what she really wanted and finding herself again after experiencing motherhood.
This book got me hot and bothered, made me CRY, held my attention on the disappearances and what the hell was going on in celestial haven, then got me hot and bothered all over again.
I was sad to have a few loose ends for other things in the story and THEN she said there will be more duets for our favorite spooky suburban town from the other characters and now I am so excited!
Book 2 of 2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Reverse Harem/Witches/Paranormal/Multi POV
Tropes:
- Why Choose?
-More Kidnapping + Murder
- Spooky Season Read
- SpicY 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
-Vampires
Wooooh y’all. The author note did not lie. She said book 2 in this duet would contain a LOT more spicy and it did not disappoint!
I also felt like book 2 was a lot more fast paced. You have developed relationships with these characters. There’s some “oh fuck” moments because I was literally screaming. The dark and moody morally grey character comes(literally) out to play, and just a very enticing plot.
Baby Aspen wasn’t in this book that much and I think that’s so okay because it was really about Oakley admitting to herself what she really wanted and finding herself again after experiencing motherhood.
This book got me hot and bothered, made me CRY, held my attention on the disappearances and what the hell was going on in celestial haven, then got me hot and bothered all over again.
I was sad to have a few loose ends for other things in the story and THEN she said there will be more duets for our favorite spooky suburban town from the other characters and now I am so excited!
September 29, 2023
I had high hopes going into this sequel as I absolutely loved the first book in the Celestial Haven series.
I enjoyed being back with the characters that I had loved. Oakley is a great role model - she’s nailing motherhood, her career and she’s such a loving and passionate character. I still love that LR Friedman gives accurate representation of motherhood in this book.
Lynx is mischievous and adorable. Saris is mysterious and brooding. I liked that we got to see more of Lynx and Saros together and their relationship is so damn sweet.
We also got to see more of Atlas in this book and he definitely grew on me. The relationship between him and Oakley is so passionate.
The steamy scenes are well written and L R Friedman definitely knows how to write good chemistry.
The mystery and plot around the missing witches continued and although it started strong I didn’t feel we got any real conclusion to the mystery but I think this is the last of the series so i would have liked to see this wrapped up more.
This was an enjoyable read but didn’t quite live up to the standard of the first book in the series.
I enjoyed being back with the characters that I had loved. Oakley is a great role model - she’s nailing motherhood, her career and she’s such a loving and passionate character. I still love that LR Friedman gives accurate representation of motherhood in this book.
Lynx is mischievous and adorable. Saris is mysterious and brooding. I liked that we got to see more of Lynx and Saros together and their relationship is so damn sweet.
We also got to see more of Atlas in this book and he definitely grew on me. The relationship between him and Oakley is so passionate.
The steamy scenes are well written and L R Friedman definitely knows how to write good chemistry.
The mystery and plot around the missing witches continued and although it started strong I didn’t feel we got any real conclusion to the mystery but I think this is the last of the series so i would have liked to see this wrapped up more.
This was an enjoyable read but didn’t quite live up to the standard of the first book in the series.
October 14, 2023
The Celestial Haven Duet is the perfect read for this time of year! And Midnight with the Hexed was just as good as Wicked in the Pines, however honestly I loved Midnight so much more!
The mystery becomes more prominent in this book too, and can I just say I’m screaming I was right about what was going on - at least for what was causing it😂😂 there were some twists and turns I hadn’t expected, and they definitely kept me turning the page! 🖤
We also get more of Atlas and Saros 🫠 but also with Hazel to!! I absolutely adore the relationship between Hazel and our girl Oakley 🖤 these two sisters remind me so much of my sister and I and I enjoyed that while reading!
Midnight with the Hexed is 5 stars hands down! And the spice! Oh the spice 🥵🥵
I loved how much the men showed Oakley just how perfect she is no matter what she thinks, and the lingerie 👀 all I can say is I need some lynx constellation lingerie to wear to see if I get that same reaction 😂😂 Jk!
But on a serious note I adore this book so much! And I cannot wait for the next stand-alone, or duet, set in this world!🥹 I need to know who Hazel has been talking to and what her last tarot card was 👀👀
The mystery becomes more prominent in this book too, and can I just say I’m screaming I was right about what was going on - at least for what was causing it😂😂 there were some twists and turns I hadn’t expected, and they definitely kept me turning the page! 🖤
We also get more of Atlas and Saros 🫠 but also with Hazel to!! I absolutely adore the relationship between Hazel and our girl Oakley 🖤 these two sisters remind me so much of my sister and I and I enjoyed that while reading!
Midnight with the Hexed is 5 stars hands down! And the spice! Oh the spice 🥵🥵
I loved how much the men showed Oakley just how perfect she is no matter what she thinks, and the lingerie 👀 all I can say is I need some lynx constellation lingerie to wear to see if I get that same reaction 😂😂 Jk!
But on a serious note I adore this book so much! And I cannot wait for the next stand-alone, or duet, set in this world!🥹 I need to know who Hazel has been talking to and what her last tarot card was 👀👀
November 26, 2023
I’m writing this at 1am after just finishing the book 2 minutes ago, and am in a puddle of tears. Oakley’s story is so much more beautiful than I could have imagined— as she goes from this single mother in a new community to someone who relies on that community for every little thing. The trust between characters is gorgeous, and needless to say the absolute selflessness (looking at you chapter 25).
So many chapters just left me with my jaw on the floor, as every question from book one was answered rapidly, just reveal after reveal after reveal. The humor was top notch and so strategically placed, having me once again genuinely giggle with its witty-ness. ALSO THE SPICE OOOOOOOF 🥵🥵🥵 had me have to take a pause when reading with family members around lmaoooo. But the spice was also so personal, and made me tear up reading about the emotional needs of a character being fulfilled— whether that be jumping over a hurdle of fear or tearing down the walls for more vulnerability.
LR’s work is perfect as always, making me feel every emotion possible over the span of binge reading in a few hours.
So many chapters just left me with my jaw on the floor, as every question from book one was answered rapidly, just reveal after reveal after reveal. The humor was top notch and so strategically placed, having me once again genuinely giggle with its witty-ness. ALSO THE SPICE OOOOOOOF 🥵🥵🥵 had me have to take a pause when reading with family members around lmaoooo. But the spice was also so personal, and made me tear up reading about the emotional needs of a character being fulfilled— whether that be jumping over a hurdle of fear or tearing down the walls for more vulnerability.
LR’s work is perfect as always, making me feel every emotion possible over the span of binge reading in a few hours.
October 1, 2023
This is the second book of the Celestial Haven duet, so reading Wicked in the Pines first is a must.
I enjoyed Midnight with the Hexed as much, if not more, than Wicked in the Pines. L.R. Friedman really checked all the boxes with this one and she wrapped up most of the lingering questions I had from Wicked in the Pines. I say most because Hazel's story is still being written...literally, so we as readers still don't know why she was taken or who her love interest(s) are/will be (there are hints, but I'm not sold on that storyline).'
Also - there is a couple little surprise elements in this book that I was not expecting because of how these tropes have been presented by the author. And I'm absolutely not mad about it! You'll have to read to find out because I'm not about to spoil it for anyone.
Where Wicked in the Pines is a slow burn, Midnight with the Hexed definitely dials it up in comparison. We get one-on-one AND group scenes, and there is a certain Masked Ball that had a spiiiiicy scene which had me reaching for the Windex to clean all my windows (you'll see what I mean).
What a great way to end this duet. I HIGHLY recommend this series - it's a great introduction to why choose and paranormal romance. Add it to your TBR today!
I enjoyed Midnight with the Hexed as much, if not more, than Wicked in the Pines. L.R. Friedman really checked all the boxes with this one and she wrapped up most of the lingering questions I had from Wicked in the Pines. I say most because Hazel's story is still being written...literally, so we as readers still don't know why she was taken or who her love interest(s) are/will be (there are hints, but I'm not sold on that storyline).'
Also - there is a couple little surprise elements in this book that I was not expecting because of how these tropes have been presented by the author. And I'm absolutely not mad about it! You'll have to read to find out because I'm not about to spoil it for anyone.
Where Wicked in the Pines is a slow burn, Midnight with the Hexed definitely dials it up in comparison. We get one-on-one AND group scenes, and there is a certain Masked Ball that had a spiiiiicy scene which had me reaching for the Windex to clean all my windows (you'll see what I mean).
What a great way to end this duet. I HIGHLY recommend this series - it's a great introduction to why choose and paranormal romance. Add it to your TBR today!
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