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The Velvet Teahouse Witches #1
A Sip of Magic
A war is brewing between a witch and her new, grumpy but gorgeous, warlock neighbor. Serena never expected to receive a dark omen in her cup of tea right after moving to the quaint, seaside town of Pembrooke, Oregon. Even so, she's not about to let a little death threat stop her from fulfilling her opening a teahouse that serves brews spiked with a little healing magic. Even if it is strictly forbidden. After all, healing people is the only thing this wandering free spirit has ever really been good at. Soon a unique haven arises, offering the townspeople a touch of the extraordinary, and lonely witches a safe spot to find each other. Enter Jared, the grumpy but sexy attorney from across the street. The snag? He also sits on the strict Magic Council, and he's going to do whatever it takes—sabotage included—to shut down her magical establishment and run her out of town. Worse still, he seems to be hiding dark secrets of his own. Yet even as war breaks out between them, the warlock's eyes burn with heat and hers burn right back. But when something even darker begins stalking Serena, she can't be sure who to trust. Will Serena cut and run as she's always done, or stand her ground to protect her newfound community, friendships, and a shot at real love? This feel-good, cozy, magical romance will leave you yearning for a warm corner in The Velvet Teahouse and the taste of its magic-infused brews. (Grumpy-Sunshine Paranormal Romance, Heat 3)
338 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2023
276 people are currently reading
931 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 19, 2025
WOW! Y’all…go pick up this book!! It was the perfect mix of a story with a strong plot, a great storyline, and just the right balance of whimsical and cozy vibes, yet it also surprised me with some dark and twisty scenes that I didn’t expect to read from this type of book.
I went in expecting a cozy, feel-good fall read, but those unexpected darker moments in the middle and end added such an exciting and eerie edge that made it perfect for spooky season.🧙🏽🖤
I’d highly recommend this book to anyone looking for that just right blend of cozy fall magic with a little Halloween thrill. The author’s writing style was beautiful!! you could see every scene play out like a movie in your head.
And I have to say, I really appreciated how the spicy scenes were done. They weren’t cringe or over the top; instead, they were written in a more romantic and elegant way. No cheesy words, nothing that made me roll my eyes….just beautifully written & tastefully done.
I thought the idea of the main character having a tea shop where she uses her magical powers to heal others was a cute and smart way make this story come alive!
Overall, go pick up this book!!🫖🪄✨
I went in expecting a cozy, feel-good fall read, but those unexpected darker moments in the middle and end added such an exciting and eerie edge that made it perfect for spooky season.🧙🏽🖤
I’d highly recommend this book to anyone looking for that just right blend of cozy fall magic with a little Halloween thrill. The author’s writing style was beautiful!! you could see every scene play out like a movie in your head.
And I have to say, I really appreciated how the spicy scenes were done. They weren’t cringe or over the top; instead, they were written in a more romantic and elegant way. No cheesy words, nothing that made me roll my eyes….just beautifully written & tastefully done.
I thought the idea of the main character having a tea shop where she uses her magical powers to heal others was a cute and smart way make this story come alive!
Overall, go pick up this book!!🫖🪄✨
March 1, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book begins as a total cozy read! This is the story of Serena, a witch who not only reads tea leaves (a tassomancer), but also knows what tea will help people’s ailments (a healer). She recently purchased a small tea shop and is very excited with this new endeavor. But will everything change with a Lens, Jared, across the street watching Serena’s every move? And what is the crow omen warning her about?
This gives Practical Magic meets Gilmore Girls vibes. I loved the enemies to lovers trope. And the idea of a council keeping witches in check to not expose the magic to humans. I also loved the curveball of the Inkers, a group hunting witches that pose quite the threat. I absolutely loved Serena’s wolf, Kita (I myself have a Malamute/Husky and could highly relate to having that sort of animal around). The little thrills in the book kept things interesting, while the town itself felt like an idyllic place to live, with both its quaint shops and the townspeople. This book does have a little spice, maybe one to two peppers worth. Overall, I loved it and look forward to the next in the series!
This book begins as a total cozy read! This is the story of Serena, a witch who not only reads tea leaves (a tassomancer), but also knows what tea will help people’s ailments (a healer). She recently purchased a small tea shop and is very excited with this new endeavor. But will everything change with a Lens, Jared, across the street watching Serena’s every move? And what is the crow omen warning her about?
This gives Practical Magic meets Gilmore Girls vibes. I loved the enemies to lovers trope. And the idea of a council keeping witches in check to not expose the magic to humans. I also loved the curveball of the Inkers, a group hunting witches that pose quite the threat. I absolutely loved Serena’s wolf, Kita (I myself have a Malamute/Husky and could highly relate to having that sort of animal around). The little thrills in the book kept things interesting, while the town itself felt like an idyllic place to live, with both its quaint shops and the townspeople. This book does have a little spice, maybe one to two peppers worth. Overall, I loved it and look forward to the next in the series!
Read
March 6, 2024🫖 A Sip of Magic by Kate Swansea 🫖
✨ Grumpy/Sunshine
🫖 Natural healing
✨ Bucking the system
🫖 Women supporting women
✨ Family dynamics 💕
In a story that features fantasy in the modern day world, we are brought to a small town where magic is kept on the down low because of humanity’s fear of the unknown. There is a system of checks and balances expected to be maintained, and for new comer Serena, a witch, she is facing pushback from warlock across the street, Jared.
This overall cozy (because tea — there is some spice!! It’s like a chai tea spicy, not jalapeño level spicy haha) read features Serena coming to find her place in the world, and finding a place that accepts her. The best part of this storyline is the commentary on fear and fear mongering, and how people can work to overcome prejudice and establish community.
It’s a great fantasy read that isn’t too fantasy element heavy. There is quite a bit of reference to Greek mythology as well; it was a lovely, light read.
Spice: 🌶️ (like, with the seeds removed level spice)
Recommend: Yes!
Pairs well with a nice cup of tea, lightly sweetened with honey. 💕
✨ Grumpy/Sunshine
🫖 Natural healing
✨ Bucking the system
🫖 Women supporting women
✨ Family dynamics 💕
In a story that features fantasy in the modern day world, we are brought to a small town where magic is kept on the down low because of humanity’s fear of the unknown. There is a system of checks and balances expected to be maintained, and for new comer Serena, a witch, she is facing pushback from warlock across the street, Jared.
This overall cozy (because tea — there is some spice!! It’s like a chai tea spicy, not jalapeño level spicy haha) read features Serena coming to find her place in the world, and finding a place that accepts her. The best part of this storyline is the commentary on fear and fear mongering, and how people can work to overcome prejudice and establish community.
It’s a great fantasy read that isn’t too fantasy element heavy. There is quite a bit of reference to Greek mythology as well; it was a lovely, light read.
Spice: 🌶️ (like, with the seeds removed level spice)
Recommend: Yes!
Pairs well with a nice cup of tea, lightly sweetened with honey. 💕
January 14, 2024
Such a cute book!
Enter Serena, our nomadic FMC. She finally wants something a bit more and decides it time to open a storefront in Pembrook to brew her herbal teas.
Here comes Jared, a lawyer and member of the council, advising her to closeup shop as the town isn’t too keen on newcomers.
As time goes on, her teashop is fairly successful but it also brought on unwanted attention from certain townsfolk. During this time her and Jared become closer than ever before and being to strengthen their connection.
Trials, tribulations ensue.
There is some spice but very mild. I would say about a level 1.
Was a good read and I truly enjoyed it and the characters.
Would recommend for fans of
Enemies to lovers
Small town romance
Paranormal romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Enter Serena, our nomadic FMC. She finally wants something a bit more and decides it time to open a storefront in Pembrook to brew her herbal teas.
Here comes Jared, a lawyer and member of the council, advising her to closeup shop as the town isn’t too keen on newcomers.
As time goes on, her teashop is fairly successful but it also brought on unwanted attention from certain townsfolk. During this time her and Jared become closer than ever before and being to strengthen their connection.
Trials, tribulations ensue.
There is some spice but very mild. I would say about a level 1.
Was a good read and I truly enjoyed it and the characters.
Would recommend for fans of
Enemies to lovers
Small town romance
Paranormal romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2024
Cozy Witchy vibes!!!
This book was perfectly everything I needed it to me. It had all the witchy vibes. I loved it and plan to continue in with the series. The mystery was enough to keep me coming back for more. Plus the enemies to lovers vibe Jared and Serena were giving off was perfect too.
This book was perfectly everything I needed it to me. It had all the witchy vibes. I loved it and plan to continue in with the series. The mystery was enough to keep me coming back for more. Plus the enemies to lovers vibe Jared and Serena were giving off was perfect too.
October 1, 2024
4.5 stars!!!
October 26, 2024
Cute, light, witchy, romantasy read! Wish I lived in their cozy town!
November 1, 2024
Super cute story.
January 27, 2025
Cute! Easy read. It took me a little bit to get into it but I liked it :)
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October 29, 2025DNF at 53% just lost interest
September 19, 2024
I really enjoyed it at first but the conflict at the end of the book did not match all the buildup from the beginning.
December 28, 2023
A Sip of Magic was a cute romance filled with fantasy and fun. The main female character was spunky and filled with life. I always appreciate a strong female character who knows what she wants out of life. Serena did have a lot of growth to experience as well throughout the story.
While I loved the main female character, I didn't always love the main male character. I thought he could be immature and should have had more evolution throughout the book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story for anyone who likes fantasy and romance with a touch of adventure.
While I loved the main female character, I didn't always love the main male character. I thought he could be immature and should have had more evolution throughout the book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story for anyone who likes fantasy and romance with a touch of adventure.
March 4, 2024
This book is part of The Velvet Teahouse Witches series and the main characters are witch Serena Albright and sexy attorney Jared Westergard. Serena has just moved to seaside town of Pembrooke, Oregon, to finally take the plunge and open her own magical teahouse, so she can help people. Unfortunately, she comes across opposition from Jared, a warlock, whose law offices are just across the street from her shop, even before she has moved in. He finds out what she is going to be doing with her teas and tells her he will report her to the Pacific Northwest Magic Council, which he is a part of, a LENS as they are called. He protects the town from those dangers that could come if magical beings make their magic use obvious to humans. He lost his own wife to a hunter who saw her use her magic to save a man in a car accident and the town doesn’t allow witches to even form covens, nor has it even had a festival since that time. She is a free spirit and he worries that her spells in her tea will bring too much attention to the town and he tries various ways to stop her stop opening or being successful. He wants her to leave town before she brings danger back to his town. On her first day in town, signing her lease for the shop and apartment above, her teacup gave her the omen of five crows, showing danger could be coming for her! She wonders if she and her wolf Kita should just keep on moving, like she has for the last ten years, but she can’t run from abandonment forever! Jared had shut down pretty much, not having been in town to save his wife from the hunters, the Brotherhood, and no one was ever arrested for her murder. He was left with a small child, Zoe, to raise with the help of his mother Judith.
Now Serena is messing up his view on life in Pembrooke and keeping the town free of visible magic. He doesn’t want anyone else hurt and there are plenty of magic users in the town, hidden from sight working in normal jobs. Serena refuses to hide away and makes a number of friends, mainly other witches, and continues to help people with her brews. But word of her magical teas is spreading wide and far, to the very ears of those who wish her harm! Another Council member questions why Jared has not reported her to the Council yet, about her obvious spell work, but he keeps on delaying as he finds he is falling for her, as is his daughter. The omen of the crows gets ever closer, as someone paints a crow on the wall of her building and a small group of cloaked figures does some sort of ritual outside her front door late one night. Jared spots someone he told to leave town, out by a disused distillery and tries to see what he was up to, but can’t find any trace of him suddenly. Something much darker is stalking Serena and it seems the time to leave has come, before she or anyone she has come to care about, gets hurt. She may well be too late, as she is taken and Jared rallies others to come to their assistance. A special and experimental tea could be just what is needed! A fun exploration in to magic and finding a place to call home, with a touch of love and real friendships. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Now Serena is messing up his view on life in Pembrooke and keeping the town free of visible magic. He doesn’t want anyone else hurt and there are plenty of magic users in the town, hidden from sight working in normal jobs. Serena refuses to hide away and makes a number of friends, mainly other witches, and continues to help people with her brews. But word of her magical teas is spreading wide and far, to the very ears of those who wish her harm! Another Council member questions why Jared has not reported her to the Council yet, about her obvious spell work, but he keeps on delaying as he finds he is falling for her, as is his daughter. The omen of the crows gets ever closer, as someone paints a crow on the wall of her building and a small group of cloaked figures does some sort of ritual outside her front door late one night. Jared spots someone he told to leave town, out by a disused distillery and tries to see what he was up to, but can’t find any trace of him suddenly. Something much darker is stalking Serena and it seems the time to leave has come, before she or anyone she has come to care about, gets hurt. She may well be too late, as she is taken and Jared rallies others to come to their assistance. A special and experimental tea could be just what is needed! A fun exploration in to magic and finding a place to call home, with a touch of love and real friendships. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
January 11, 2024
Serena and Jared’s Story . . .
The day she arrived in Pembrooke, Serena Albright was upset at the message from her magic-imbued tea leaves. The image kept shifting since she hadn’t quite emptied the liquid in the cup. Should she finish the tea and let the image settle? Serena was in town to purchase the old café and turn it into a teahouse. She brews teas and herbal remedies, so this would be perfect for her. She urged her landlady Clara, whose allergies were horrible and causing her to sneeze constantly, to drink her tea, which would help her since Serena added a little healing magic in her brews. And it seemed to work quickly for Clara – despite the fact adding healing magic is not permitted by the Magic Council.
Serena is delighted that there are other witches in town and becomes friends with them. But Jared Westergard, a warlock on the Magic Council, is strict about imposing Council rules, so he and Serena are at odds. But when Jared’s daughter gets sick and nothing is helping, Serena checks her clothing to see if she could have gotten certain plant fibers that would harm her. With her expertise with herbs and plants, she knows what to look for. Jared even knows where to find what she is looking for now as a cure! Working together, they start to appreciate each other and are getting along comfortably.
When Serena’s life is threatened, it turns out a group of witch hunters is going after her. She is considering leaving so no one else in town gets hurt by this. But the Brotherhood grabs her before she finishes packing. Will Jared try to save her? There are so many things going on in this story but it definitely holds the reader’s attention! Grab your copy and enjoy!
The day she arrived in Pembrooke, Serena Albright was upset at the message from her magic-imbued tea leaves. The image kept shifting since she hadn’t quite emptied the liquid in the cup. Should she finish the tea and let the image settle? Serena was in town to purchase the old café and turn it into a teahouse. She brews teas and herbal remedies, so this would be perfect for her. She urged her landlady Clara, whose allergies were horrible and causing her to sneeze constantly, to drink her tea, which would help her since Serena added a little healing magic in her brews. And it seemed to work quickly for Clara – despite the fact adding healing magic is not permitted by the Magic Council.
Serena is delighted that there are other witches in town and becomes friends with them. But Jared Westergard, a warlock on the Magic Council, is strict about imposing Council rules, so he and Serena are at odds. But when Jared’s daughter gets sick and nothing is helping, Serena checks her clothing to see if she could have gotten certain plant fibers that would harm her. With her expertise with herbs and plants, she knows what to look for. Jared even knows where to find what she is looking for now as a cure! Working together, they start to appreciate each other and are getting along comfortably.
When Serena’s life is threatened, it turns out a group of witch hunters is going after her. She is considering leaving so no one else in town gets hurt by this. But the Brotherhood grabs her before she finishes packing. Will Jared try to save her? There are so many things going on in this story but it definitely holds the reader’s attention! Grab your copy and enjoy!
January 7, 2024
What a fun book! Serena, a somewhat nomadic witch, moves to Pembroke, OR to open a storefront tea house. She has herbal teas, touched with a bit of magic, to help whatever might be ailing someone. Jared is an attorney with an office across the street from her. Their first few encounters have them at odds and a mutual disliking for each other. He is part of the Lens council that help keep witches in check while living among humans. It doesn't take long for Serena to learn there are several witches in town; all with different specialties. Many become her friends, as the rest of the town embraces her and her healing teas. Jared's daughter becomes ill and when the hospital can't seem to help her, he turns to Serena for help. Through this they develop a friendship.
There are several incidents and threats towards Serena. It is discovered that there is a brotherhood of witch hunters that are after her. She decides it is best to leave Pembroke because she doesn't want any of her friends to get hurt. Jared unsuccessfully tries to discourage her from leaving. As she is finishing packing, she is taken from the tea shop by members of the brotherhood. Will Jared get to her in time? Will they get their happily ever after? You'll have to read the book to find out.
If you enjoy books about witches, a little magic, some suspense and a little romance, this book is for you. There is a cast of delightful side characters, as well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. 4.5 stars for me.
I received an advance reader copy for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
There are several incidents and threats towards Serena. It is discovered that there is a brotherhood of witch hunters that are after her. She decides it is best to leave Pembroke because she doesn't want any of her friends to get hurt. Jared unsuccessfully tries to discourage her from leaving. As she is finishing packing, she is taken from the tea shop by members of the brotherhood. Will Jared get to her in time? Will they get their happily ever after? You'll have to read the book to find out.
If you enjoy books about witches, a little magic, some suspense and a little romance, this book is for you. There is a cast of delightful side characters, as well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. 4.5 stars for me.
I received an advance reader copy for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 14, 2023
A sip of magic
This is a light-hearted fun read full of twists and turns and adventure, but most of all romance. Its set in the contemporary world on the coast of Oregon and is rich with the flavour of the landscape there and the fictional town of Pembrooke. There is a rich array of characters, almost but not quite too many. And as the story is about love we have a sassy woman and a man with a troubled past. Will they get together, of course, that is destiny but the journey is full of growth for both of them at every twist and turn.
She opens a teahouse in his town and he is not happy with this when he discovers what she is selling is magical teas that heal. He happens to be the representative of the Magical Council who have very strict notions and laws about what can and can’t be done and are zealous in ensuring mundanes do not discover magic exists. Then there is also those mundanes who believe it does exist and are super unhappy about this and not beyond a bit of torture and murder. So if you are into a magical romance with a spice of drama then this is the book for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a light-hearted fun read full of twists and turns and adventure, but most of all romance. Its set in the contemporary world on the coast of Oregon and is rich with the flavour of the landscape there and the fictional town of Pembrooke. There is a rich array of characters, almost but not quite too many. And as the story is about love we have a sassy woman and a man with a troubled past. Will they get together, of course, that is destiny but the journey is full of growth for both of them at every twist and turn.
She opens a teahouse in his town and he is not happy with this when he discovers what she is selling is magical teas that heal. He happens to be the representative of the Magical Council who have very strict notions and laws about what can and can’t be done and are zealous in ensuring mundanes do not discover magic exists. Then there is also those mundanes who believe it does exist and are super unhappy about this and not beyond a bit of torture and murder. So if you are into a magical romance with a spice of drama then this is the book for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2024
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from booksirens for giving my two cents. We meet tea master Serena, with her pet wolf Kita, who has just moved to Prembrooke to open a tea shop. She hopes this move will be good for her. She has always been on the move and longs for a place to call home. Serena is excited but also worried. Crows keep showing up for her and its a bad omen. Then we meet Jared, a Lens, grumpy windowed father who is determined to close the tea shop down. He follows rules by the Councol book and he will keep magic a secret. These two seem to have a love hate relationship trying to out-do one another. Jared gets a bit more frustrated when hos mother and daughter visit the teahouse anf like Serena. Serena is making friends in town, serving up delicious tea to customers and starting a coven with her new friends. Jared is starting to see a new side to Serena esp when his daughter gets ill and she steps up to help the little girl. Maybe she isn't so bad after all. There is smtg sinister that looms in the distance that threatens the Witch community. Will Serena run away before anyone gets hurt or will she stay and fight for her new home?
November 18, 2023
One of the things I enjoy about participating in ARCs is discovering new-to-me authors. And this is an author I’ll be coming back to.
This is my first Kate Swansea novel, and it was such an enjoyable read. I felt the pacing and character development was well done. I appreciated her writing style as well. Her style is lyrical, and she uses phrases to help paint “mental pictures,” which helps the overall flow of the story. It never felt choppy or rushed, or that she was writing to third graders.
I appreciated the world she built, and how the magic system works. The push/pull between Jacob and Serena was enjoyable. I’m not sure I’d call it enemies to lovers as much as I’d categorize them as grumpy-sunshine. This was a romance with a bit of mystery woven inside.
I enjoyed the way she set up this series, and I look forward to the next adventures. These could go in a couple of different directions, but I really hope we learn more about Jacob’s mysterious friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first Kate Swansea novel, and it was such an enjoyable read. I felt the pacing and character development was well done. I appreciated her writing style as well. Her style is lyrical, and she uses phrases to help paint “mental pictures,” which helps the overall flow of the story. It never felt choppy or rushed, or that she was writing to third graders.
I appreciated the world she built, and how the magic system works. The push/pull between Jacob and Serena was enjoyable. I’m not sure I’d call it enemies to lovers as much as I’d categorize them as grumpy-sunshine. This was a romance with a bit of mystery woven inside.
I enjoyed the way she set up this series, and I look forward to the next adventures. These could go in a couple of different directions, but I really hope we learn more about Jacob’s mysterious friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2023
Thanks to BookSirens for the Advanced copy of this book for free, I am leaving this review voluntarily!
I enjoyed it, it was fun and quirky without being too different or outlandish. The romance was fun and I’d be super interested in reading more of this series. I think this is a nice lighthearted novel to pick up on a stormy day and read with a nice pot of tea, just to fit the theme. Definitely more of a sunshine/grumpy vibe than an enemy to lovers sort of deal. Which I don’t think is necessarily a bad thing for this story.
I have a couple of pet peeves with the way the writing flowed in some parts and the way characters were introduced in bulk so it was hard to keep up with who’s who. The use of weird names for genitals in the explicit scenes was a a major ick for me, but they didn’t really take away from the quality of the book in terms of strength in the story and the characters.
For my first Kate Swansea novel I’m very impressed.
I’ll have a more in depth review and plot summary on my blog www.chaoticopinionsofacelestialbeing.com
I enjoyed it, it was fun and quirky without being too different or outlandish. The romance was fun and I’d be super interested in reading more of this series. I think this is a nice lighthearted novel to pick up on a stormy day and read with a nice pot of tea, just to fit the theme. Definitely more of a sunshine/grumpy vibe than an enemy to lovers sort of deal. Which I don’t think is necessarily a bad thing for this story.
I have a couple of pet peeves with the way the writing flowed in some parts and the way characters were introduced in bulk so it was hard to keep up with who’s who. The use of weird names for genitals in the explicit scenes was a a major ick for me, but they didn’t really take away from the quality of the book in terms of strength in the story and the characters.
For my first Kate Swansea novel I’m very impressed.
I’ll have a more in depth review and plot summary on my blog www.chaoticopinionsofacelestialbeing.com
July 11, 2024
Magical, cute and quirky, balanced with just the right amount of tender moments and hot scenes
This book is magical, cute and quirky. Its balanced with just the right amount of tender moments and hot scenes. Too often I find in other midlife women's magical series they are written with the main character a sex starved middle-aged woman who finds the perfect mate, followed by hot and heavy love scenes at nauseam. While I'm not opposed to hot and heavy, more than two (or three at most) in a single book is too many. This book did not venture into the redundant area.
There main characters were solid and well developed, had many layers, and were relatable. They felt like they my friends at times. There were a lot of peripheral characters in this book, and the author did a good job at describing them all with enough detail on their backgrounds and back stories I never got lost on who was who. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
This book is magical, cute and quirky. Its balanced with just the right amount of tender moments and hot scenes. Too often I find in other midlife women's magical series they are written with the main character a sex starved middle-aged woman who finds the perfect mate, followed by hot and heavy love scenes at nauseam. While I'm not opposed to hot and heavy, more than two (or three at most) in a single book is too many. This book did not venture into the redundant area.
There main characters were solid and well developed, had many layers, and were relatable. They felt like they my friends at times. There were a lot of peripheral characters in this book, and the author did a good job at describing them all with enough detail on their backgrounds and back stories I never got lost on who was who. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 18, 2024
Received an advance reader copy from Book Siren and am voluntarily leaving my own personal review.
I absolutely loved this book!
Serena, the new sweet witch in town & Jared a warlock & the towns grouchy lawyer meet & instantly clash due to Jared’s strict rules on magic. Serena begins to heal people with her homemade brewed tea’s and starts to bond with the townspeople. Her tea’s become well known throughout town and other neighboring areas. She catches the attention of a notorious group of men known as witch hunters called the Brotherhood. Jared must ultimately decide how best to handle the situation as danger approaches and his feelings toward Serena grow.
The characters are strong and continue to build with another. The storyline & relationships grow and evolve with each chapter, leading to an emotional and scary climatic ending.
I highly recommend reading this book for a light and easy read. Very enjoyable and not too over the top.
I absolutely loved this book!
Serena, the new sweet witch in town & Jared a warlock & the towns grouchy lawyer meet & instantly clash due to Jared’s strict rules on magic. Serena begins to heal people with her homemade brewed tea’s and starts to bond with the townspeople. Her tea’s become well known throughout town and other neighboring areas. She catches the attention of a notorious group of men known as witch hunters called the Brotherhood. Jared must ultimately decide how best to handle the situation as danger approaches and his feelings toward Serena grow.
The characters are strong and continue to build with another. The storyline & relationships grow and evolve with each chapter, leading to an emotional and scary climatic ending.
I highly recommend reading this book for a light and easy read. Very enjoyable and not too over the top.
April 23, 2024
"Stop defending what you have, and go after what you want."
If I were to choose one quote from this book to describe both Jared and Serena without using spoilers, this would be it. Both of them have to stop staying frozen in their pasts to go after what they want, and to choose a future for themselves as individuals and as a team.
There is magic, magical romance, a budding story, world-building that makes you want to jump through a portal into this town - and so many wonderful characters that hopefully we will get to hear more about in future books.
This was a cozy, romantic, and exciting read all in one. I could have read it in one sitting if I didn't actually have to be a functioning human (shame, isn't it?).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If I were to choose one quote from this book to describe both Jared and Serena without using spoilers, this would be it. Both of them have to stop staying frozen in their pasts to go after what they want, and to choose a future for themselves as individuals and as a team.
There is magic, magical romance, a budding story, world-building that makes you want to jump through a portal into this town - and so many wonderful characters that hopefully we will get to hear more about in future books.
This was a cozy, romantic, and exciting read all in one. I could have read it in one sitting if I didn't actually have to be a functioning human (shame, isn't it?).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2024
This is definitely up there as one of my favorite cozy witchy romances. I absolutely adored the magical realism element of the FMC, Serena, brewing up teas with a hint of magic to cure illnesses. It was such a good setup for enemies-to-lovers, and the romance (and spice) was excellent! Serena and the MMC Jared had such good chemistry - even their banter when they first meet and hate each other was great! There was such a strong found family element to this book. It's slow-paced and cozy for the first 75% of the book, until the action and drama ramp up in the last quarter. I LOVED the way they found a solution to the conflict without violence.
An absolute must-read for cozy witchy romance lovers! I loved this so much that I want to order a physical copy.
An absolute must-read for cozy witchy romance lovers! I loved this so much that I want to order a physical copy.
December 28, 2023
Not my favorite. I almost DNF’ed multiple times. I felt pretty confused for most of the book. I think the author jumped right into the plot without really setting the scene. I also came upon my ultimate pet peeve: inconsistencies. There was a whole paragraph where the author flip-flopped between Zoe and Zara, and that is just so sloppy to me. However, I would read another book in this series because the book did have a cozy, feel-good vibe to it, despite the dark plot. Also, the blurb I read said 3 for heat in this book. I’m not sure I’d go that high.
I received an advance review copy of A Sip Of Magic from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy of A Sip Of Magic from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 26, 2024
Was this book perfect? No. But did I enjoy it? Definitely!✨ It was a cozy, witchy romance that suited my mood at the moment.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, though the second half felt a bit too cheesy, and the conflict was somewhat random??? 🤨
I liked Serena and how she had this magical way of making people feel better with her teas. I found myself wishing I could visit her teahouse and have her pick out the perfect tea for me. 🫖🍵
Jared was a okaaaaayish, but at times he came across as a bit immature. 🙂↔️
While it wasn’t without flaws, it was still a fun and comforting read.
4/5⭐️
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, though the second half felt a bit too cheesy, and the conflict was somewhat random??? 🤨
I liked Serena and how she had this magical way of making people feel better with her teas. I found myself wishing I could visit her teahouse and have her pick out the perfect tea for me. 🫖🍵
Jared was a okaaaaayish, but at times he came across as a bit immature. 🙂↔️
While it wasn’t without flaws, it was still a fun and comforting read.
4/5⭐️
July 1, 2025
2.75
I finished this and just sat there like… okay. So that was a book.
It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t enough. Like I wanted to feel something!! I wanted the yearning, the devastation, the witchy ache of it all. And instead I got… Serena being emotionally unavailable for 100 pages straight!? Girl had a literal green flag willing to leave his whole life behind for her and she said “no” like WHAT are you doing !????
It’s not even that the story was empty—it had something, but it kept pulling back every time it got close to doing damage. Like I see where it wanted to go. I just wish it had taken me with it.
I finished this and just sat there like… okay. So that was a book.
It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t enough. Like I wanted to feel something!! I wanted the yearning, the devastation, the witchy ache of it all. And instead I got… Serena being emotionally unavailable for 100 pages straight!? Girl had a literal green flag willing to leave his whole life behind for her and she said “no” like WHAT are you doing !????
It’s not even that the story was empty—it had something, but it kept pulling back every time it got close to doing damage. Like I see where it wanted to go. I just wish it had taken me with it.
April 30, 2024
3.75/5
This is a cute and refreshing read. The characters are likable, the world is cozy, and it’s a fun element of magic that’s woven into a small town off the coast of Oregon. However, the story reads like someone is narrating what happens after the fact. It made me feel like I am on the outside looking in rather than coming along with the characters for their story. I don’t feel like I made a deep connection with the characters, it felt surface level. With that being said I did really like the characters and Serena and Jared’s story was cute.
This is a cute and refreshing read. The characters are likable, the world is cozy, and it’s a fun element of magic that’s woven into a small town off the coast of Oregon. However, the story reads like someone is narrating what happens after the fact. It made me feel like I am on the outside looking in rather than coming along with the characters for their story. I don’t feel like I made a deep connection with the characters, it felt surface level. With that being said I did really like the characters and Serena and Jared’s story was cute.
December 30, 2023
When I saw a book about a witch with magical tea, and a book that had a beautiful cover to boot, I knew I had to jump on the opportunity. A Sip of Magic follows Serena as she navigates her move to Pembrooke and the colourful variety of characters who live there. This includes the handsome single dad across the street, who is a lawyer and just so happens to be a warlock as well. With bad omens hanging above her head, Serena navigates what it means to put down roots and rely on a community of people. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the dynamics between them, especially the enemies to lovers romance that unfolds between Serena and Jared. While I wanted this book to be a five-star read for me, I found the book dragged on a bit and there were a lot of editing/formatting issues. These took away from my enjoyment of the book, but they didn’t stop The Velvet Teahouse Witches from making me wish that Pembrooke were real so I could join in on the fun and magic!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 16, 2024
tea and magic(magical teas)
I didn’t know what to expect from this story,but was pleasantly surprised.The witch making and selling tea was different.I drink a lot of the teas that are mentioned in the story.The love story was happy! The whole town and his whole family was so welcoming and wonderful!! I recommend this author and her book to anyone who needs a little pick me up of tea and a good book.
I didn’t know what to expect from this story,but was pleasantly surprised.The witch making and selling tea was different.I drink a lot of the teas that are mentioned in the story.The love story was happy! The whole town and his whole family was so welcoming and wonderful!! I recommend this author and her book to anyone who needs a little pick me up of tea and a good book.
September 25, 2024
Finding your People
Serena is a nomad witch with the power to heal ailments with the perfect cup of tea. She’s loved from town to town practically her whole life. But once she reaches Pembrooke, OR, things quickly start changing. This books has the cozy witchy vibes I love with the added touch of suspense. Throw in a cult of crazies on a mission, and this was a great book to read! I hope you all enjoy this as much as I did!!
Serena is a nomad witch with the power to heal ailments with the perfect cup of tea. She’s loved from town to town practically her whole life. But once she reaches Pembrooke, OR, things quickly start changing. This books has the cozy witchy vibes I love with the added touch of suspense. Throw in a cult of crazies on a mission, and this was a great book to read! I hope you all enjoy this as much as I did!!
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