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Moths To Flames

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In a world where secrets and spells collide, Willow is about to face her darkest night yet. Unwilling to miss the chance to spend time with a crush, she reluctantly attends a frat Halloween party, only to witness a gruesome death that shatters the night.

Amidst the chaos, her friend Claudia claims to have unearthed a spellbook that could reverse the tragedy. But as they dabble in the dangerous realm of dark magic, each incantation goes awry, claiming more lives and casting doubt on Claudia's true intentions. As the line between good and bad blurs, Willow realizes that some secrets are better left buried.

With the shadows closing in and time running out, Willow must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the truth behind the spellbook before it consumes them all. Can she untangle the web of lies and stop the darkness from claiming their souls, or will she become its next victim?

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 16, 2024

4 people are currently reading
80 people want to read

About the author

Mikayla Buckman

4 books48 followers

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5 stars
32 (53%)
4 stars
18 (30%)
3 stars
8 (13%)
2 stars
2 (3%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Reading With  Ghosty.
173 reviews76 followers
February 28, 2024
If "The Craft" and "Pretty Little Liars" had a love child mixed with unique twists this would be that book! A very fun and gripping page turner for sure. I am amazed that this is only Mikayla's second book, the writing was that of a seasoned author, keeping you hooked and immersed. The story flowed at a good pace and everything fit together as it should. Earlier details popped back up in twists and gave off that "oh shit" moment. Some thoughts:
*Claudia, good lord I couldn't be friends with her. I'm glad she got the ending *I* think she deserved.
*Willow and Max were cute, even given the circumstances.
*I liked all of the deaths, they were unique.
*This would make an amazing TV show.
*I don't usually like the "groundhogs day" trope but it fit well into the story and is an exception.
*I wish we got more of the hooded figures. Idk what it was about them but I really enjoyed them.
*The drama was on point.
*Not everything was cut and dry, there was a certain complexity to it all that made the story so much more enjoyable.

Would definitely recommend.

Many thanks to Mikayla Buckman for a copy of the book. All opinions are of my own.

Keep them coming, you're an author to watch out for sure!
Profile Image for Norma.
20 reviews4 followers
February 28, 2024
This was a fantastic read that I couldn't put down. Mikayla's writing style is beautiful and the story has so many twists and turns that make it hard to figure out what will happen next.
Profile Image for Tori Peiler.
299 reviews57 followers
April 6, 2024
4.25⭐️! Thank you to the author for the chance to read this fun YA witchy book! You all know how much I love my witchy books. Other reviews say it reminds them of pretty little liars, and I totally agree. One of the main characters, Claudia, reminded me of Allison!

This book was full of secrets, murders, and dark magic! It’s set at Halloween time, so this would be a great book for spooky season. This was fast paced and I was super into the story! Indie authors are so overlooked, and this is my sign to read more from them.
Profile Image for Emma Thingsted.
Author 11 books43 followers
March 15, 2024
This was such a good story! Mikayla is a wonderful storyteller and she really knows how to grip the reader and keep them hooked. This was pretty little liars with witchcraft, and I absolutely loved it!
Profile Image for Hope Mosley.
81 reviews7 followers
January 30, 2024
Quick read and a fast paced story that captured my attention from start to finish! The twist and turns kept me hooked and had me rooting for every character despite who they were! If you’re looking for a book that doesn’t have a happy ending this is definitely it! I’m glad I read this book and can’t wait to read Mikayla’s other book!
Profile Image for Katherine.
102 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2024
Honestly this book would’ve been such a great fast read had work not interrupted me 🤣. This book was right up my alley. I read it as an ARC and it did not disappoint. There was plenty of spins and drama. I really did not know how it was all going to end. This is a newer author but she writes beautifully. I have literally read books by vetted authors that were painful to read and felt juvenile with the writing styles. I read this book and thought the author had been writing for years! I know there is another book she has written and it was immediately added to my TBR. Give this book a go. You will be pleasantly surprised.
Profile Image for Nadiah Zakaria.
Author 4 books121 followers
April 9, 2024
3.5 ⭐️

This book is a fast-paced horror/thriller with the right amount of witchcraft and unexpected twists! Mikayla Buckman’s characterization is top notch, painted vividly through our main character Willow’s pov.

It reminds me so much of the Fear Street novels for some reason. Sure there are parts that might come off as a horror cliché, but Buckman knows how to play the cards right to keep readers on edge. The short chapters make this book a real page turner!

Though I must say, the ending feels quite rushed. The pacing throughout the book is captivating, the ending of most chapters making you hungry for more, but towards the last act of the book, I can’t help but feel like Willow’s mastery of the Grimoire could be explored with more depth?

There’s a lot of telling rather than showing in the writing as well, but it doesn’t disrupt the flow. Perhaps it’s only a matter of preference.

I guess I have a few questions left unanswered that I can’t voice out in fear of spoiling the plot, but the ending itself is loose, leaving room for the imagination. I’m just devastated for Willow, really. Give the girl a break!

All in all, I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, witchy read with flashes of gore and alluring imagery. Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read Moths to Flames!
16 reviews
January 29, 2024
Looking for a little bit of witchcraft, some evil and of course a hero that saves the day? This book is for you.
An easy read that kept me wanting a little more. A little more horror, a little bit more gruesome, but that’s just me, I prefer to totally shocked by a book.
Mikayla Buckman has great writing skills and describes things to make you feel part of the story, whether it be describing a building, the woods, a smell or just the feelings of the characters.
Thank you Mikayla for the chance to be a participant in this ARC review. Wish you much success.
51 reviews
February 23, 2024
I truly enjoyed the story, which is set in a college setting with friends, young love with some witchcraft thrown in.
The character development is great, and the writing style is superb. I can't wait for the sequel!
Profile Image for Katie Dickerson (DeMaio).
588 reviews134 followers
October 10, 2024
A spooky, witchy book with some fantasy and supernatural elements; amazing writing; kind of a groundhogs day trope; I couldn't really connect to the characters (even tho the development was great) but it was still an immersive story with a lot of action and drama; sadly I think the audiobook narrator ruined the experience a bit- great book but wouldn’t recommend the audiobook version.
Profile Image for Nadine.
1 review
February 15, 2024
I enjoyed this book a lot! It’s a recipe for a disaster or is it? Take two friends, add a boy, mix in a death, sprinkle with a book of spells, fold in some secrets and hope it turns out well and nobody else dies.
Profile Image for Jewel Roper.
78 reviews3 followers
February 14, 2024
I loved this book. It caught my attention almost right away and had me hooked. Was fast paced and flowed real well. I loved the supernatural aspect of it. Would definitely recommend
Profile Image for leigh earman.
26 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2024
Moths to Flames had me from the first chapter. The way the characters unfold, I was able to connect, discover the ones that I would be friends with, and those I would run from. And yet each chapter made me want to know more about them. And the plot was twisty especially toward the end. It was an easy read, and hours later I am still thinking about the plot and Willow! I enjoyed it! Keep up the great writing Mikayla Buckman!
Profile Image for Lani.
129 reviews5 followers
February 3, 2024
✔️ Pretty Little Liars vibes
✔️ Dark magic
✔️ Suspense
✔️ Twists & turns

This was SO good. Moths to Flames introduces Willow, a college student navigating her first year at Oakridge. Things take a dark turn during a frat party, giving major Pretty Little Liars vibes but spookier. The unexpected twists also made me think of another movie, but I won't spoil it for anyone.

Claudia, Willow's friend, definitely reminded me of Alison—keeping secrets and being cruel.
It also felt like everyone had some secret, and at one point, I was like, "Come on, who else is hiding stuff?” lol

The final page... 🤯

Mikayla's writing feels seasoned, and I'm definitely checking out her first novel and whatever else she drops! As a YA book, it has suspense without delving into horror or gore. I received this book as an ARC, and I chose to share my thoughts voluntarily.
Profile Image for Cindi Sangenito.
5 reviews
March 4, 2024
No Spoiler Review:

This book was fun to read. From the beginning I was very interested in the characters and where the story was going. I enjoyed the twists and the supernatural/spell aspect, it gave insight without going too deep into the macabre.
If you enjoy magic/spells and plot twists set in your college heyday, then this book is for you.
Mikayla has a nice way of spinning a story that pulls you in and makes you want to finish so you know what happens. Her writing style is easy to follow without being too simplistic.
I'm excited to see what she brings up next.
Profile Image for Desiree.
274 reviews22 followers
April 26, 2024
This was a fun YA witchy thriller that’s been sold as a cross between The Craft and Pretty Little Liars. I’ve not seen The Craft, but the synopsis seems similar enough to where I can see the connection. I feel like the main draw to PLL is the similarities bewtween Claudia and Allison. I would also kind of add Final Destination as a comp title.

Why did I not give this a higher rating?

Some of the dialogue did not feel organic to me, like it was added just to get us from point A to point B. And a lot really does happen in just a few days span, it’s hard to remember the timeline. This lent itself to feeling more like a lower YA novel which led to a disconnect between me and the characters as they were all college-age. In my head I kept picturing young high schoolers, and I feel like that’s a great age for this book! I do think this would be a great introduction to thriller/horror for younger YA audience.
77 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and I was so excited to get started. It is a fast paced novel with twists that become a page turning adventure you won't want to stop.
It's a bit of magic mixed with mystery that gives off Pretty Little Liars and Charmed vibes!
It takes place in Virginia at a college campus. You follow the FMC, Willow and her friends' 1st year at Oakridge. Spell books and obsession turns this twisty novel into a beautiful creation! I screamed on the last page and kept scrolling for more!!

Mikayla is passionate about her writing, and I look forward to reading her other book.

Favorite Quote:

"Sunsets are proof that there is beauty at the end of every day."
Profile Image for Kylie Corley.
246 reviews22 followers
April 17, 2024
I clearly had no idea what I was getting into when purchasing this book. Etsy recommended it to me and I was immediately drawn to the title and cover. I bought it on a whim and I'm so glad I did. The book definitely keeps you guessing on what is actually the premise and what will eventually unfold. I will definitely read more from this author.
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,076 reviews34 followers
January 29, 2024
I just have to say that there is no way that this is only the second book Mikayla Buckman's has written. The writing style is that of an experience writer that has written numerous books. Please don't hesitate to read this one because it is a newer author, you will truly miss out.

Willow is a young college student that is going to college for the first time and her dad is dropping her off when we meet her. Willow has no idea what lies in store for her first year at college. Willow immediately meets Claudia, her roommate and she talks her into going to the bar the first night they are together. When a certain event happens, Willow doesn't know what she has kept from happening but it will play an integral part later on in the story.

Willow meets Katie, roommate to Bex. Katie and Willow end up bumping into each other and swaping notebooks by accident. What is in one of the notebooks ends up playing another integral part later on in the story as well. The way that Mikayla Buchman lays all these little hints throughout the plot is so amazing to me. They all play a part in the story and she does such a great job with all of them. I don't want to tell you all of them and they way they come to light in the story because that is the fun of reading this story!

The way that Mikayla Buchman writes, so descriptive, makes you feel like you are right there in the book with the characters. I have no problem imagining what Mikayla meant for us to envision as a reader. This is just a very well thought out book and you can tell that Mikayla Buchman has found her hobby of writing. When you have it, you just have it. That is how it is for Mikayla. I have read tons of books and I can tell you that Mikayla Buchman writes as an experienced writer. I thought I was just going to look at a chapter or so of the book when I first got it to read and NOPE! I ended up reading more than 50 pages and couldn't stop!! I didn't want to put this one down until I was done. Now that I am done, I was more from Mikayla! I love her writing style.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book and all opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, Mikayla Buchman, for an ARC of this book. I LOVED it!!Come one Mikayla, give us more please!!
Profile Image for Sonia Tomas.
108 reviews7 followers
March 19, 2024
I’m 48 years old, so my young adult years are surely gone. And young adult fiction isn’t exactly my primary choice. And all supernatural things fill me with doubt and scepticism.

But I surrender to Moths to Flames. What an intriguing and captivating journey has this been! A college where things are not what they seem, with friendships constantly put on the line and gruesome killings in every corner. You feel empathy. You feel sadness. You feel rage. And you keep on turning the pages hoping to fulfill the need to know more.

Besides endless twists and turns, Moths to Flames is utterly disturbing in its essence. The graphic writing transports us to the scenes, and you can smell the burning, hear the train roaring on its tracks, feel the wind blowing in your face. A number of events are tattooed in my memory. And that ending… unforgettable, unexpected and unforgiving!

The message is clear: do not mess with the unknown. Do not try to change what can’t be altered. Respect your surroundings. And appreciate what you have in each and every moment.

Thank you, Mikayla, for the copy you provided, and the chance to experience your rich and involving writing. These opinions are my own. So looking forward for more of your “craft”… <3
450 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2024
Creepy good!

Something witchy this way comes! What happens when a spell book gets into the hands of Willow’s roommate? You get de@th, lies, visions, and magic.

Willow (FMC) and her friends, Claudia and Anne, lives take a twisted turn when an “initiation” into their secret group goes horribly wrong. The result, it is decided to lie about being involved in Katie’s d3@th. Consumed with guilt, Willow tries to move forward. However, Claudia has a spellbook and starts dabbling in spells trying to “fix” everything. The opposite happens, every time a spell gets used, things get worse.

This was a fantastic creepy read. This author did a fantastic job keeping you in suspense. The twists and turns with the history of Willow’s family as well as the visions she has when she sees a moth keep you wanting more of the story.

The plot was fast paced, and this author’s writing style is easy to read. She does a fantastic job of showing vulnerability in a character while at the same time showing the darkness in their personality. I cannot wait to see what she has coming out next.
1,243 reviews18 followers
February 16, 2024
This is the second book I have read by this author and I absolutely loved it. If you like suspense, spells and a lot of twists and turns this book is for you. I was hooked from page one and couldn't read fast enough to find out what happened but absolutely didn't want the story to end. Willow has just started college in a new town and doesn't no anyone until she meets Claudia and Anna. Life is going smoothly until one night at a party everything goes drastically wrong. Claudia swears she can reverse what happened but if every spell leeds to more tragedies. I don't want to say too much and give anything away. There are a lot of moving parts in this book and this author wrote it brilliantly, I would have never known this was her second book. I highly recommend this book, it was so good.
Profile Image for ChanaReadsHorror.
253 reviews17 followers
June 2, 2024
This book was filled with the vibes of "The Craft" mixed with "I Know What You Did Last Summer".
We follow two friends that could be seen an opposites but are put together as college roommates.
Claudia is the outgoing type and Willow just wants to take school day by day.
Willow goes to a party where she meets up with her crush and under peer pressure from Claudia leads to a tragic event that will shatter the lives of her and her friends.
They try to fix the situation by using an old spell book that Claudia has found and things begin to get worse as Claudia's true intentions with book come to light.
Profile Image for Nichole Spencer.
211 reviews5 followers
February 16, 2024
Witchcraft. Visions. Secrets. Death. The normal words you would associate with college life!

Willow "Tree" Grayson is pulled further into trouble and darkness by a friend that isn't much of a friend. She tries to stop bad things from happening, and tries to undo them when they happen. She doesn't stick up for someone when it matters, but tries to correct her wrongs and others in order to save those she cares about.

With witchcraft there is always a cost. Willow and her friends learn that the hard way. And some things you can never change, or shouldn't.

I received a free ARC in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lauren.
19 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2024
When Willow’s friend begins dabbling with voodoo from a spell book she found horrible things start happening around campus. Willow does everything in her power to stop the negative outcomes of the spells. There was quite a lot going on in this story and it’s all connected. I really enjoyed this novel by Mikayla Buckman.
5 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2024
What a thrilling adventure... right from the beginning, it caught my attention. It is hard to believe this is only her second book. I absolutely loved it. There was just the right amount of witch craft, suspense and twists and turns that made it hard to put this book down. Great job Mikayla..... so glad I was able to read a copy of it.

I need to get a few copies for my bookstore.
2 reviews
February 14, 2024
I loved this book! It's full of suspense, betrayal, secrets, death, and a young girls desperate and selfless need to protect her friends. It's almost like Pretty Little Liars, but much more witchy. It kept me enthralled with its fast pace and I couldn't stop once I started. Only knocked off one star for some grammar issues, but I still highly recommend.
Profile Image for Kyara De Graaf.
15 reviews
February 16, 2024
If you love witchcraft, mystery and visions this is absolutely THE book for you! I had the pleasure of reading this book as an ARC and immediately loved it after just reading the first page! The twists kept me on the edge of my seat and I can’t tell you guys enough about how much I recommend this book!
Profile Image for Elise Ballard.
277 reviews15 followers
February 20, 2024
Are you a fan of PLL? Do you like fantasy, witchy, PNR books? If you said yes. I highly recommend this book to you.

Willow is my favorite. I feel like I relate to her more. I am in love with the secret society. Scarlet Sky Society + time travels = the best adventures. The story is so in-depth that you get so much out of it. 5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

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