What do you think?
Rate this book
The Witches of Star Island #1
The Hedge Witch
A Beltane spell reveals a prophecy that will change their lives…
Laurel Bay is the third of five witchy sisters living a sweet life on Star Island; she runs a tarot reading business, depends on her sisters to pay her bills, and spends her free time jumping into the Hedge World, a realm few witches can access. But when a great love from a past life comes to her, Laurel is blinded by her need to find him-she throws all caution to the wind and ends up stalked by a vengeful witch she can't remember.
Owen Davies is stuck. His powers as a son of a witch are minimal, he's surrounded by morally gray water witches, and he's aching to find his soulmate-so much so that he has a storage unit full of furniture he's built for the mystery woman. Then a fateful vacation lands him in Laurel's garden and their paths are finally intertwined.
With witches after Laurel's powers and buried secrets unearthed, circumstances begin to mirror their heartbreaking past life. But this time around, Laurel and Owen refuse to be separated-not by time, not by a witch, not by death.
Laurel Bay is the third of five witchy sisters living a sweet life on Star Island; she runs a tarot reading business, depends on her sisters to pay her bills, and spends her free time jumping into the Hedge World, a realm few witches can access. But when a great love from a past life comes to her, Laurel is blinded by her need to find him-she throws all caution to the wind and ends up stalked by a vengeful witch she can't remember.
Owen Davies is stuck. His powers as a son of a witch are minimal, he's surrounded by morally gray water witches, and he's aching to find his soulmate-so much so that he has a storage unit full of furniture he's built for the mystery woman. Then a fateful vacation lands him in Laurel's garden and their paths are finally intertwined.
With witches after Laurel's powers and buried secrets unearthed, circumstances begin to mirror their heartbreaking past life. But this time around, Laurel and Owen refuse to be separated-not by time, not by a witch, not by death.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2024
107 people are currently reading
5360 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
July 4, 2024
The Hedge Witch by Colleen Delaney was definitely one of my favorite reads this month! It's has such an interesting plot and is different than most witchy books I've read. I loved the Bay sister's and their unique personalities, and of course, their cool names.
The idea of soul mates and Laurel and Owen finding each other in past lives and the present life is sweet. I really wanted them to get to know each other better, but hopefully, that's in the next book? It ended on a cliffhanger, so I'm guessing it's going to be a series. I'll be curious to see if the next book focuses on the continuation of this story or if it will focus on another Sister's story. Lavender and Sage sound interesting! Side note: I kind of wanted to punch Laurel for going to the Bachelorette party, c'mon!
Thank you, NetGalley and City Owl Press, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. I'm excited for the next book!
The idea of soul mates and Laurel and Owen finding each other in past lives and the present life is sweet. I really wanted them to get to know each other better, but hopefully, that's in the next book? It ended on a cliffhanger, so I'm guessing it's going to be a series. I'll be curious to see if the next book focuses on the continuation of this story or if it will focus on another Sister's story. Lavender and Sage sound interesting! Side note: I kind of wanted to punch Laurel for going to the Bachelorette party, c'mon!
Thank you, NetGalley and City Owl Press, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. I'm excited for the next book!
May 15, 2024
A witch specialising in tarot readings, a hot soulmate, meddling sisters, an evil witch out for revenge, The Hedge Witch has it all and then some more.
As I really enjoy witchy books I jumped straight into it and just couldn't put it down. Colleen Delaney created a vivid and fascinating story that is sure to appeal to anyone who enjoys books filled with magic and romance but with some spice and grit thrown into the mix.
Laurel and Owen's story seems to be an introduction to more books featuring the Bay sisters and I'm hoping to read more from Colleen Delaney soon.
Overall, The Hedge Witch is a very enjoyable read and I'm happy to recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for my copy of the book.
As I really enjoy witchy books I jumped straight into it and just couldn't put it down. Colleen Delaney created a vivid and fascinating story that is sure to appeal to anyone who enjoys books filled with magic and romance but with some spice and grit thrown into the mix.
Laurel and Owen's story seems to be an introduction to more books featuring the Bay sisters and I'm hoping to read more from Colleen Delaney soon.
Overall, The Hedge Witch is a very enjoyable read and I'm happy to recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for my copy of the book.
May 14, 2024
Thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher for my first ARC! While this was a cute read, I unfortunately don’t think it was really for me.
The story itself was cute, and I’m an absolute sucker for when an author sets up a multi-series of interwoven characters, but overall, the story fell a little flat for me. I thought the “soulmate” story line was pushed too hard and I didn’t get the time to explore the characters before they came together
Also, I appreciate the sisters being queued up for their own books, but I thought they weren’t well fleshed out. Rosemary seemed a bit of a caricature, and I don’t remember Sage at all.
That’s not to say this was bad, I just don’t think it was for me personally
The story itself was cute, and I’m an absolute sucker for when an author sets up a multi-series of interwoven characters, but overall, the story fell a little flat for me. I thought the “soulmate” story line was pushed too hard and I didn’t get the time to explore the characters before they came together
Also, I appreciate the sisters being queued up for their own books, but I thought they weren’t well fleshed out. Rosemary seemed a bit of a caricature, and I don’t remember Sage at all.
That’s not to say this was bad, I just don’t think it was for me personally
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2024
Received a free copy from NG
Loved this book! Whole new type of plot and story for those who read fantasy. Author uses the concept of dreams, past lives, and destiny to put a new spin on witches. The flashbacks were a cool way to intertwine the story. The author did a great job flipping back and forth between worlds. Usually when authors do this it does get really hard to distinguish what and where the character is at. The intentional writing was pretty good too. There was not a lot of filler in the book. Conversations and scenes had a point.
Loved this book! Whole new type of plot and story for those who read fantasy. Author uses the concept of dreams, past lives, and destiny to put a new spin on witches. The flashbacks were a cool way to intertwine the story. The author did a great job flipping back and forth between worlds. Usually when authors do this it does get really hard to distinguish what and where the character is at. The intentional writing was pretty good too. There was not a lot of filler in the book. Conversations and scenes had a point.
June 10, 2024
This is the first book in a brand new witchy series - The Witches Of Star Island - and I am so here for it.
I feel like I've read lots of the current books in this genre - so I jumped at the chance to read this one.
This book focussed on Lauren, the middle of five sisters.
But I loved all the sisters and their relationships with each other.
There was a fair amount of world building, but this didn't overshadow the storyline at all - and gave us enough insight into the different kinds of witches and warlocks to start to become invested in the series as a whole.
Owen was so sweet!
The idea of the past lives and his search for his soulmate was dreamy and it was lovely to see the pair finally meet up and to watch their relationship develop over the course of the book.
I wasn't sure from the front cover whether this might be more a YA read - but there were a few steamy scenes which were a nice surprise.
This was perfectly paced and lacked with magical goodness.
I'm excited to see where this series will take us and can't wait to see what's in store for us in book 2
I feel like I've read lots of the current books in this genre - so I jumped at the chance to read this one.
This book focussed on Lauren, the middle of five sisters.
But I loved all the sisters and their relationships with each other.
There was a fair amount of world building, but this didn't overshadow the storyline at all - and gave us enough insight into the different kinds of witches and warlocks to start to become invested in the series as a whole.
Owen was so sweet!
The idea of the past lives and his search for his soulmate was dreamy and it was lovely to see the pair finally meet up and to watch their relationship develop over the course of the book.
I wasn't sure from the front cover whether this might be more a YA read - but there were a few steamy scenes which were a nice surprise.
This was perfectly paced and lacked with magical goodness.
I'm excited to see where this series will take us and can't wait to see what's in store for us in book 2
May 9, 2024
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Laurel Bay is one of the five Bay sisters with the power of divination and healing. However, her healing powers being latent, she embraced divination and made her living by reading tarot cards for bachelorette parties. She can occasionally mind jump and read people's thoughts and she can visit the Hedge World, accessible only by Hedge Witches. One day, on her visit to the Hedge World, she finds her soulmate with home she was united in her past life in medieval France, Onfroi, the memory of him invokes strong yearning.
Owen is a sonofawitch, from the powerful Davis line of water witches and warlocks. However, he is not a gifted with any powerful magic, unlike his many cousins. But when he dreams of his soulmate in his past life and is adviced by one of his cousins to visit Star Island, he is certain he is going to find his Amée.
Trigger Warning~ description of death in past lives, death of loved ones, torture, blood, and violence.
I don't think I have read a book of this kind before. The world building is fantastic and the characters are presented beautifully. Each sister had their own personality, a backstory and quirks that differentiated them from each other. Each of them had their own speciality and have embraced it to make a living out of that.
The sisters, except Verbana, the youngest, all love together since the death of their parents.
I loved the way the magic was described from both Laurel and Owen's perspective, through their relationship with the magic. The whole narration was in third person perspective but alternative chapters in Laurel and Owen's point of views. The author has done a great job with writing the lifestyle of the sisters. It was very detailed and informative.
Their connection was beautiful and instantaneous. I love the concept of soulmate, and it is wonderfully explained in this book. Now, I'm eager to read the rest of the Bay witches stories and how they meet their soulmates.
I'm guessing the next book will be about Rosemary, given the epilogue of this book, and I'm very much interested in reading it. This book is worth reading if you like soulmate kinda romance with past life mystery, fights among good and evil, and amazing family and friends.
Laurel Bay is one of the five Bay sisters with the power of divination and healing. However, her healing powers being latent, she embraced divination and made her living by reading tarot cards for bachelorette parties. She can occasionally mind jump and read people's thoughts and she can visit the Hedge World, accessible only by Hedge Witches. One day, on her visit to the Hedge World, she finds her soulmate with home she was united in her past life in medieval France, Onfroi, the memory of him invokes strong yearning.
Owen is a sonofawitch, from the powerful Davis line of water witches and warlocks. However, he is not a gifted with any powerful magic, unlike his many cousins. But when he dreams of his soulmate in his past life and is adviced by one of his cousins to visit Star Island, he is certain he is going to find his Amée.
Trigger Warning~ description of death in past lives, death of loved ones, torture, blood, and violence.
I don't think I have read a book of this kind before. The world building is fantastic and the characters are presented beautifully. Each sister had their own personality, a backstory and quirks that differentiated them from each other. Each of them had their own speciality and have embraced it to make a living out of that.
The sisters, except Verbana, the youngest, all love together since the death of their parents.
I loved the way the magic was described from both Laurel and Owen's perspective, through their relationship with the magic. The whole narration was in third person perspective but alternative chapters in Laurel and Owen's point of views. The author has done a great job with writing the lifestyle of the sisters. It was very detailed and informative.
Their connection was beautiful and instantaneous. I love the concept of soulmate, and it is wonderfully explained in this book. Now, I'm eager to read the rest of the Bay witches stories and how they meet their soulmates.
I'm guessing the next book will be about Rosemary, given the epilogue of this book, and I'm very much interested in reading it. This book is worth reading if you like soulmate kinda romance with past life mystery, fights among good and evil, and amazing family and friends.
May 16, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Hedge Witch by Colleen Delaney.
Witchy book? Yes, please!!! I love any books about witches and this one did not disappoint!
This book is well written and the story is fantastic it has all I have thought about when I wasn't reading it.
Laurel Bay a Hedge Witch is one of the Bays sisters and is a pretty badass witch but she doesn't know it! Her delicious-sounding soulmate Owen tries his best to protect the woman he loves against another witch who seeks vengeance! Each Bay sister had their own personality, a backstory, and quirks that set them apart from each other. Can't wait for The Witches of Star Island Series!! Keep them coming!!
** Trigger caution to some readers: description of deaths, death of loved ones, torture, blood, and violence.
Witchy book? Yes, please!!! I love any books about witches and this one did not disappoint!
This book is well written and the story is fantastic it has all I have thought about when I wasn't reading it.
Laurel Bay a Hedge Witch is one of the Bays sisters and is a pretty badass witch but she doesn't know it! Her delicious-sounding soulmate Owen tries his best to protect the woman he loves against another witch who seeks vengeance! Each Bay sister had their own personality, a backstory, and quirks that set them apart from each other. Can't wait for The Witches of Star Island Series!! Keep them coming!!
** Trigger caution to some readers: description of deaths, death of loved ones, torture, blood, and violence.
June 9, 2024
Thank you to City Owl Press and NetGalley for an eARC copy of The Hedge Witch by Colleen Delaney.
If you like Practical Magic and Charmed, you will certainly love The Hedge Witch. The first book in a series, The Hedge Witch introduces us to the Bay Family and starts with the story of Laurel, a Hedge Witch. Following Laurel's journey to learning about and meeting her soulmate, to the multi-generational curse on her family and the lengths they would go to stop it in their tracks. It was certainly a cozy-read, but despite this being a series, I wish the book was a bit longer and gave more world building. I do enjoy when books get straight into it, but I also like growing with the series, even if it starts off slow. It also could have been polished a bit more, there were sections that I felt weren't written by an adult. But, past that it was a fun and fast read.
If you like Practical Magic and Charmed, you will certainly love The Hedge Witch. The first book in a series, The Hedge Witch introduces us to the Bay Family and starts with the story of Laurel, a Hedge Witch. Following Laurel's journey to learning about and meeting her soulmate, to the multi-generational curse on her family and the lengths they would go to stop it in their tracks. It was certainly a cozy-read, but despite this being a series, I wish the book was a bit longer and gave more world building. I do enjoy when books get straight into it, but I also like growing with the series, even if it starts off slow. It also could have been polished a bit more, there were sections that I felt weren't written by an adult. But, past that it was a fun and fast read.
June 2, 2024
This book was cute & cozy! It reminds me of Practical Magic, with a very earthen, family-oriented magic system. I didn't think I'd enjoy the soulmates trope as much as I did - so that was a pleasant surprise.
While I enjoyed it and thought it was fun, the writing could use some polishing - some sections felt juvenile and irrelevant to the story, while other sections weren't wholly fleshed out (we had a lot of moments where we thought we would learn more about Laurel's sisters, but instead we got almost nothing about them).
Overall this was a fun time! Fingers crossed that there's a next book in the series, because that cliffhanger!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Colleen Delaney, and City Owl Press for a review copy.
While I enjoyed it and thought it was fun, the writing could use some polishing - some sections felt juvenile and irrelevant to the story, while other sections weren't wholly fleshed out (we had a lot of moments where we thought we would learn more about Laurel's sisters, but instead we got almost nothing about them).
Overall this was a fun time! Fingers crossed that there's a next book in the series, because that cliffhanger!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Colleen Delaney, and City Owl Press for a review copy.
June 6, 2024
3.5 stars
I was given a copy of this to read by Netgalley.
It took me some time to get into but once I was in it I sped through it. I really enjoyed the sisters and family in the book more than I loved the main character. IT was a cute, quick, quirky romance that I could see myself really enjoying under a blanket during the Autumn months.
I don't love spice in books, but it was really easy to speed past that without ruining any of the plot so that was fine in this book.
I also loved how the ending made me really want to pick up the next book to see what happens next!
This book gives witchy, fantasy, cosy but still quite high stakes.
I was given a copy of this to read by Netgalley.
It took me some time to get into but once I was in it I sped through it. I really enjoyed the sisters and family in the book more than I loved the main character. IT was a cute, quick, quirky romance that I could see myself really enjoying under a blanket during the Autumn months.
I don't love spice in books, but it was really easy to speed past that without ruining any of the plot so that was fine in this book.
I also loved how the ending made me really want to pick up the next book to see what happens next!
This book gives witchy, fantasy, cosy but still quite high stakes.
May 20, 2024
I’m hooked. I’m a definite fan now. There are so many threads woven together to create the tapestry of the Bay witches that I’m a little desperate to know the rest of the story. I really like Owen and Laurel. I liked that even though they were trying so hard to find one another, they still took some time to get to know one another once they finally did get together. And it felt very realistic that even though they took that time they still didn’t always get it right. I’m very interested to know more about this world and magic the author has created, and I already can’t wait to read the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
May 28, 2024
This book gave me all the witchy vibes! It reminded me of practical magic crossed with charmed!
From plants, herbs, tarot cards, spells, curses, and evil witches!
This is the first book in The Witches of Star Island series, and I was not disappointed.
I loved the bonds between the sisters, and I love how magic passes down the female bloodline.
I really enjoyed the story of Laurel and Owen's past lives together and how they re found each other.
This book was well written and easy to read.
Im excited for the next one!
From plants, herbs, tarot cards, spells, curses, and evil witches!
This is the first book in The Witches of Star Island series, and I was not disappointed.
I loved the bonds between the sisters, and I love how magic passes down the female bloodline.
I really enjoyed the story of Laurel and Owen's past lives together and how they re found each other.
This book was well written and easy to read.
Im excited for the next one!
November 20, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed this one well enough. It had some of my favorite things to make a good story: witches, magic, dual timelines, soul mates, some romance/spicy scenes,curses and family bonds. This was a cute small town vibes, witchy book. I liked all the characters and their powers and thought they were all well developed. I enjoyed the present POV and the past life POVs. I will most likely continue on with the series at a later time to see how this story plays out. Yeah I would recommend this book if you are looking for a nice witchy small town romance.
May 21, 2024
A magical witchy read!
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this book so much. Family relationships, soulmate relationships, past lives, and incredibly well done magical elements keep you turning the pages of this one. I sincerely hope the author writes the stories of the rest of the Bay sisters, because I cannot wait to see how their stories progress! 5 stars!
Thank you to goodreads and the publisher for my copy!
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this book so much. Family relationships, soulmate relationships, past lives, and incredibly well done magical elements keep you turning the pages of this one. I sincerely hope the author writes the stories of the rest of the Bay sisters, because I cannot wait to see how their stories progress! 5 stars!
Thank you to goodreads and the publisher for my copy!
June 9, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC read! If you're looking for a magical, yet vengeful, with a side of romance and some this is it! The Hedge Witch is filled with such a fascinating and vivid storyline of Laurel and Owen. Laurel is the 3/5 witchy sisters who depends on her sisters for a lot! Until someone from her past returns and she is set on finding this man (aka Owens), that she will do anything to find. Owen a son of a witch, decedent of the powerful Davis line of water witches and warlocks. However, he is not gifted with any powerful magic. Colleen does a great job with the format of the story including the flashbacks and back and forth between worlds. I loved the way the magic was described from both Laurel and Owen's perspective, and through their relationship with magic.
#TheHedgeWitch #NetGalley
#TheHedgeWitch #NetGalley
May 13, 2024
Ooooo I wanna be a cozy modern witch with a certified soulmate so bad. Some of the third act tension felt a little silly,but they often do with romances. Real life ones too. I’m so curious about this world, I’d definitely continue the series. :)
May 11, 2024
Happy Book Release Day To Colleen Delaney
As a genuine admirer of books infused with magic and fantasy, this delightful tale captivated my imagination from start to finish.
The premise of this book follows one of five witchy sisters. Laurel Bay, a tarot-reading witch living with her sisters on Star Island. She craves for a past love and unwittingly attracts the attention of a vengeful witch. She has a unique ability to access the Hedge World, a realm few witches can reach.
Owen Davies is a young man with minimal magical abilities, longing to find his soulmate. He crosses paths with Laurel, and their destinies become intertwined. Together, they confront challenges from other witches and unearth secrets from their past lives. Owen is depicted as determined and persistent, committed to standing by Laurel's side despite the obstacles they face.
The author's vivid descriptions of landscapes create a captivating experience, making you feel like you're truly there transporting me away to a realm teeming with mystical creatures and wonders. With a clear and straightforward writing style, the narrative flows smoothly, ensuring it's effortless to follow along with the story. We can see how effortlessly the author blends elements of folklore and mysticism, offering readers a glimpse into the ancient traditions of herbal magic, divination, and spellcraft. This is a dual POV we see through the eyes of the FMC and MMC, we are shown a world where the mundane and the magical coexist in perfect harmony.
As the MMC embarks on her quest for knowledge and self-discovery, we witness her growth and transformation, rooting for her every step of the way.
It's a tale that reminds us of the magic that we possess within us all, waiting to be awakened by the call of destiny.
I wished that Laurel and Owen's journey to find their soulmates had unfolded more gradually, as it felt too quick and effortless. A slower pace would have allowed for a deeper exploration of their characters and their connection, making their eventual union feel more earned and meaningful.
Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of City Owl Press, and the author Colleen Delaney for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.
As a genuine admirer of books infused with magic and fantasy, this delightful tale captivated my imagination from start to finish.
The premise of this book follows one of five witchy sisters. Laurel Bay, a tarot-reading witch living with her sisters on Star Island. She craves for a past love and unwittingly attracts the attention of a vengeful witch. She has a unique ability to access the Hedge World, a realm few witches can reach.
Owen Davies is a young man with minimal magical abilities, longing to find his soulmate. He crosses paths with Laurel, and their destinies become intertwined. Together, they confront challenges from other witches and unearth secrets from their past lives. Owen is depicted as determined and persistent, committed to standing by Laurel's side despite the obstacles they face.
The author's vivid descriptions of landscapes create a captivating experience, making you feel like you're truly there transporting me away to a realm teeming with mystical creatures and wonders. With a clear and straightforward writing style, the narrative flows smoothly, ensuring it's effortless to follow along with the story. We can see how effortlessly the author blends elements of folklore and mysticism, offering readers a glimpse into the ancient traditions of herbal magic, divination, and spellcraft. This is a dual POV we see through the eyes of the FMC and MMC, we are shown a world where the mundane and the magical coexist in perfect harmony.
As the MMC embarks on her quest for knowledge and self-discovery, we witness her growth and transformation, rooting for her every step of the way.
It's a tale that reminds us of the magic that we possess within us all, waiting to be awakened by the call of destiny.
I wished that Laurel and Owen's journey to find their soulmates had unfolded more gradually, as it felt too quick and effortless. A slower pace would have allowed for a deeper exploration of their characters and their connection, making their eventual union feel more earned and meaningful.
Thank you to Netgalley the Publisher, of City Owl Press, and the author Colleen Delaney for providing and allowing me to review this book. Which, I'm giving my honest and sincere review.
May 25, 2024
The Bay sisters live on Star Island, population approximately 800 to include the hearth and home specialty witches.
Laurel is a Hedge witch, Lavender a Kitchen witch, Rosemary a Garden Witch, Sage a Harvest witch and Verbena a House witch.🌟
During Beltane, a spell reveals a family legacy. For Laurel, she discovers a great love from her past while wandering the Hedge World. She cannot get enough and continues to search for her love in the Hedge World only to cross paths with a strange woman who says she has been searching for Laurel. Before returning to her waking self, the strange woman makes contact with Laurel and she finds she has been marked with a fiery red symbol.‼️
While Laurel searches for her love in the Hedge World, Owen arrives to Star Island for a vacation. Owen, the son of a witch, has been searching for his soulmate for years. He has dreamed of the mystery woman, awaiting the day he finally meets her. Book your ticket to Star Island to find out if these two souls will connect!
This incredibly descriptive book by Colleen Delaney is the first book in The Witches of Star Island series which was published on 5/14/24. I was super excited when I read the description for this book and I was not disappointed (well only a little because I have to wait to find out what happens next!). I loved the sisters and reading about their particular speciality. 💖
The intertwined past lives with the present was such a sweet display of love and connection. The bond of the sisters and need to protect your mate was touching. I enjoyed the entire witchy vibe of the book and cannot wait to learn more about the sisters and their fated mates! I really appreciated how I felt a part of the book as I read it, like being enveloped in a warm cozy blanket… the description and emotions made it feel like home.🏡
Thank you to the author, Colleen Delaney, NetGalley and the publisher, City Owl Press for the opportunity to read this book.
#TheHedgeWitch #NetGalley #bookblogger #bookaholic #bibliophile #booklover #books #bookstagram #book #reading #bookworm #bookstagrammer #read #bookish #booknerd #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #instabook #bookshelf #readersofinstagram #booksbooksbooks #reader #author #instabooks
Laurel is a Hedge witch, Lavender a Kitchen witch, Rosemary a Garden Witch, Sage a Harvest witch and Verbena a House witch.🌟
During Beltane, a spell reveals a family legacy. For Laurel, she discovers a great love from her past while wandering the Hedge World. She cannot get enough and continues to search for her love in the Hedge World only to cross paths with a strange woman who says she has been searching for Laurel. Before returning to her waking self, the strange woman makes contact with Laurel and she finds she has been marked with a fiery red symbol.‼️
While Laurel searches for her love in the Hedge World, Owen arrives to Star Island for a vacation. Owen, the son of a witch, has been searching for his soulmate for years. He has dreamed of the mystery woman, awaiting the day he finally meets her. Book your ticket to Star Island to find out if these two souls will connect!
This incredibly descriptive book by Colleen Delaney is the first book in The Witches of Star Island series which was published on 5/14/24. I was super excited when I read the description for this book and I was not disappointed (well only a little because I have to wait to find out what happens next!). I loved the sisters and reading about their particular speciality. 💖
The intertwined past lives with the present was such a sweet display of love and connection. The bond of the sisters and need to protect your mate was touching. I enjoyed the entire witchy vibe of the book and cannot wait to learn more about the sisters and their fated mates! I really appreciated how I felt a part of the book as I read it, like being enveloped in a warm cozy blanket… the description and emotions made it feel like home.🏡
Thank you to the author, Colleen Delaney, NetGalley and the publisher, City Owl Press for the opportunity to read this book.
#TheHedgeWitch #NetGalley #bookblogger #bookaholic #bibliophile #booklover #books #bookstagram #book #reading #bookworm #bookstagrammer #read #bookish #booknerd #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #instabook #bookshelf #readersofinstagram #booksbooksbooks #reader #author #instabooks
May 30, 2024
3.5stars--THE HEDGE WITCH is the first instalment in Colleen Delaney’s contemporary, adult THE WITCHES OF STAR ISLAND paranormal romance series focusing on sisters and witches: Laurel, Lavender, Sage, Verbena and Rosemary Bay who work and live on Star Island. This is twenty-nine year old hedge witch Laurel Bay, and thirty-one year old carpenter, Owen Davies story line.
Told from omniscient dual third person perspective (Laurel and Owen) using present day and ‘memories’ from the past THE HEDGE WITCH follows in the wake of a series of dreamlike visions. Laurel Bay is a hedge witch, able to ‘jump the hedge’, traveling to another time where she will identify as Amee, meeting her soulmate Onfroi but on one such travel Laurel will find herself targeted by a sorceress, a witch from the past, who wants to absorb our heroine’s powers. Meanwhile, Owen Davies, the son of a water witch, suspects the woman in his dreams is his fated soulmate. A trip to Star Island would bring Owen face to face with his future, in the guise of Amee aka Laurel Bay but the past refuses to let go, taking aim at Laurel Bay.
The world building follows two timelines and intersecting paths. A curse in the past has followed Laurel to the present, and the descendant has taken aim at our story line heroine.
The relationship between Laurel and Owen is one of fated soulmates who met hundreds of years earlier , and continue to meet in the Hedge World but the real world is about to come face to face with the past, and Owen is determined to save the woman with whom he has fallen in love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
We are introduced to Laurel’s sister: Sage, Lavender, Verbena and Rosemary, as well as Owen’s mother, Bartender Luke Karnes and witch Morana Stoch aka Flavia.
THE HEDGE WITCH is a story of magic and mayhem, secrets and lies, power and control, insta-love and fate. The premise is entertaining but there was more telling than showing; the romance is subtle; the characters are interesting but a little dry.
copy supplied for review
Told from omniscient dual third person perspective (Laurel and Owen) using present day and ‘memories’ from the past THE HEDGE WITCH follows in the wake of a series of dreamlike visions. Laurel Bay is a hedge witch, able to ‘jump the hedge’, traveling to another time where she will identify as Amee, meeting her soulmate Onfroi but on one such travel Laurel will find herself targeted by a sorceress, a witch from the past, who wants to absorb our heroine’s powers. Meanwhile, Owen Davies, the son of a water witch, suspects the woman in his dreams is his fated soulmate. A trip to Star Island would bring Owen face to face with his future, in the guise of Amee aka Laurel Bay but the past refuses to let go, taking aim at Laurel Bay.
The world building follows two timelines and intersecting paths. A curse in the past has followed Laurel to the present, and the descendant has taken aim at our story line heroine.
The relationship between Laurel and Owen is one of fated soulmates who met hundreds of years earlier , and continue to meet in the Hedge World but the real world is about to come face to face with the past, and Owen is determined to save the woman with whom he has fallen in love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
We are introduced to Laurel’s sister: Sage, Lavender, Verbena and Rosemary, as well as Owen’s mother, Bartender Luke Karnes and witch Morana Stoch aka Flavia.
THE HEDGE WITCH is a story of magic and mayhem, secrets and lies, power and control, insta-love and fate. The premise is entertaining but there was more telling than showing; the romance is subtle; the characters are interesting but a little dry.
copy supplied for review
July 12, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
The Hedge Witch is my favorite book by this author! It encompasses magic, romance, centuries old curses, and sisterhood. It is Practical Magic meets Charmed all rolled into one novel. It’s definitely worth a read if you like stories about magic and witches!
The novel consists of 5 witchy sisters (Laurel, Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, and Verbena) who all live together in a cottage on Star Island. Each “cottage witch” harnesses their own special powers which adds an element of magical realism and cosy vibes to the story. When Laurel’s life is threatened, the sisters band together with the assistance of Laurel’s soulmate (Owen) in an attempt to protect Laurel from another evil witch whose main goal is to seek revenge.
The author does an amazing job of transporting the reader through various timelines. This is not always easily done but the author mastered this seamlessly. She writes vivid descriptions of a cosy cottage that portrays small town vibes and draws you into the story. When the reader is briefly transported back into the Middle Ages, you can’t help but feel like you are apart of that time period. This book draws you in and feels like true escapism.
Some negatives that are worth mentioning include the writing style. Parts of the book felt a bit too simplistic for me, almost like writing you would find in a YA book. There were a bit too many insignificant details that would have been best left out to allow the reader to draw their own conclusions. One of the plots involved the main character’s search for her soulmate. I felt like the crude sexual remarks and scenes detracted from a true sense of a deep soulmate connection. In my opinion, that relationship was developed much too quickly and felt purely physical without a whole lot of emotional depth.
Finally, this book ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to read the next book to see what is in store for the 5 witchy sisters!
The Hedge Witch is my favorite book by this author! It encompasses magic, romance, centuries old curses, and sisterhood. It is Practical Magic meets Charmed all rolled into one novel. It’s definitely worth a read if you like stories about magic and witches!
The novel consists of 5 witchy sisters (Laurel, Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, and Verbena) who all live together in a cottage on Star Island. Each “cottage witch” harnesses their own special powers which adds an element of magical realism and cosy vibes to the story. When Laurel’s life is threatened, the sisters band together with the assistance of Laurel’s soulmate (Owen) in an attempt to protect Laurel from another evil witch whose main goal is to seek revenge.
The author does an amazing job of transporting the reader through various timelines. This is not always easily done but the author mastered this seamlessly. She writes vivid descriptions of a cosy cottage that portrays small town vibes and draws you into the story. When the reader is briefly transported back into the Middle Ages, you can’t help but feel like you are apart of that time period. This book draws you in and feels like true escapism.
Some negatives that are worth mentioning include the writing style. Parts of the book felt a bit too simplistic for me, almost like writing you would find in a YA book. There were a bit too many insignificant details that would have been best left out to allow the reader to draw their own conclusions. One of the plots involved the main character’s search for her soulmate. I felt like the crude sexual remarks and scenes detracted from a true sense of a deep soulmate connection. In my opinion, that relationship was developed much too quickly and felt purely physical without a whole lot of emotional depth.
Finally, this book ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to read the next book to see what is in store for the 5 witchy sisters!
May 27, 2024
🔮 Book Review: The Hedge Witch 🔮
A little Practical Magic, a pinch of Charmed, and a dash of small-town, feel-good.
The Bay sisters are witches, all with different magical affinities. There’s a prophecy that each sister is soon to meet their soulmate, and Laurel is up first. Loved this set up!
Laurel is a tarot reader, and hedge witch, able to slip into the hedge world. She’s not sure of her power, as she’s the only hedge which she really knows so we meet Laurel in a state of uncertainty when it comes to her magic. A great set up for #NewAdult fiction. There are family curses, historic curses, and some angry past lives coming to wreak havoc.
Laurel meets her soulmate, Owen: cue insta-love. I would have liked a bit more tension here, particularly the “I’m a witch” reveal. Especially, since Own comes from a witch family and the book is told in dual POVs of Laurel and Owen. Their relationship felt forced and I didn’t really believe the romance and I found myself skimming over the romance to get to the magical problems. A slower pace, more tension, and additional scenes could have made their connection more definitive for me.
This book series is set up to continue with each sister having their own book and finding their soulmates, so I am looking forward to see the different POVs of the sisters. Particularly, Lavender’s story. The other sisters, outside of Laurel, seem to have a more solid footing in the world. They have a more defined schedule, responsibilities, and they seemed to really support the home whereas Laurel didn’t seem to contribute too much so she was not favorite character.
I really did love the setting and the world building around the witches. The different witch groups, and even the online message boards were a cute touch and reminded me a bit of the Ex-Hex by Erin Sterling and A Letter to Three Witches by Elizabeth Bass.
Spice: 🌶️ /5
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Cover: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
#fallbooks #witchybooks #cozywitchcraft #soulmates #practicalmagic #sisterwitches #thehedgewitch #tbr #familycurses #fiction #contemporarywitches #lbtcrew #contemporaryfictionbooks #colleendelaney #reviews #bookreviews #lovebookstours #magic
A little Practical Magic, a pinch of Charmed, and a dash of small-town, feel-good.
The Bay sisters are witches, all with different magical affinities. There’s a prophecy that each sister is soon to meet their soulmate, and Laurel is up first. Loved this set up!
Laurel is a tarot reader, and hedge witch, able to slip into the hedge world. She’s not sure of her power, as she’s the only hedge which she really knows so we meet Laurel in a state of uncertainty when it comes to her magic. A great set up for #NewAdult fiction. There are family curses, historic curses, and some angry past lives coming to wreak havoc.
Laurel meets her soulmate, Owen: cue insta-love. I would have liked a bit more tension here, particularly the “I’m a witch” reveal. Especially, since Own comes from a witch family and the book is told in dual POVs of Laurel and Owen. Their relationship felt forced and I didn’t really believe the romance and I found myself skimming over the romance to get to the magical problems. A slower pace, more tension, and additional scenes could have made their connection more definitive for me.
This book series is set up to continue with each sister having their own book and finding their soulmates, so I am looking forward to see the different POVs of the sisters. Particularly, Lavender’s story. The other sisters, outside of Laurel, seem to have a more solid footing in the world. They have a more defined schedule, responsibilities, and they seemed to really support the home whereas Laurel didn’t seem to contribute too much so she was not favorite character.
I really did love the setting and the world building around the witches. The different witch groups, and even the online message boards were a cute touch and reminded me a bit of the Ex-Hex by Erin Sterling and A Letter to Three Witches by Elizabeth Bass.
Spice: 🌶️ /5
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Cover: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
#fallbooks #witchybooks #cozywitchcraft #soulmates #practicalmagic #sisterwitches #thehedgewitch #tbr #familycurses #fiction #contemporarywitches #lbtcrew #contemporaryfictionbooks #colleendelaney #reviews #bookreviews #lovebookstours #magic
June 24, 2024
The Hedge Witch is a story about 5 magical sisters living on Star Island where they are soon to meet their fated soulmates. One of the sisters, Laurel, finds her soulmate but also runs into trouble from another mysterious witch.
Overall, the story was enjoyable. It took 1/3 of the book to get rolling as the initial start was a little repetitive and not much happened, but once it did I was hooked and wanted to know more about the mystery and the sisters’ powers and dynamics. I enjoyed the island setting and magical world building. However, it was hard keeping the 5 sisters straight as they all had floral/herbal names and most of the characters felt one dimensional throughout the story. The author definitely sets up for more books, so maybe this was a deliberate choice.
One of the main plot devices, the soulmate/fated mates, was a little cheesy at first. I do wish we had a little more backstory on WHY witches need soulmates and how that works as it would help it feel more plausible. As the story progresses, you get into it though and root for the love story and those characters. Laurel and Owen feel demisexual coded, which was great.
The ending left a little to be desired - the third act conflict between the couple felt unnecessary and unnatural. The climax of the story was short and you see some growth of the two main characters, but it was missing depth and felt a little too easy. It leaves you partially on a cliffhanger, so you’d want to pick up book 2 to continue the story.
Overall, this was a fun quick read, and if you like the fated mates trope and a magical mystery this would be a good choice.
Thank you to Library Thing and City Owl Press for the free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, the story was enjoyable. It took 1/3 of the book to get rolling as the initial start was a little repetitive and not much happened, but once it did I was hooked and wanted to know more about the mystery and the sisters’ powers and dynamics. I enjoyed the island setting and magical world building. However, it was hard keeping the 5 sisters straight as they all had floral/herbal names and most of the characters felt one dimensional throughout the story. The author definitely sets up for more books, so maybe this was a deliberate choice.
One of the main plot devices, the soulmate/fated mates, was a little cheesy at first. I do wish we had a little more backstory on WHY witches need soulmates and how that works as it would help it feel more plausible. As the story progresses, you get into it though and root for the love story and those characters. Laurel and Owen feel demisexual coded, which was great.
The ending left a little to be desired - the third act conflict between the couple felt unnecessary and unnatural. The climax of the story was short and you see some growth of the two main characters, but it was missing depth and felt a little too easy. It leaves you partially on a cliffhanger, so you’d want to pick up book 2 to continue the story.
Overall, this was a fun quick read, and if you like the fated mates trope and a magical mystery this would be a good choice.
Thank you to Library Thing and City Owl Press for the free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2024
Trigger Warnings: Death, death of loved ones, torture, blood, violence
Laurel Bay is the middle of five witchy sisters living on Star Island. She runs a tarot reading business to help contribute to bills, and spends her free time jumping into the Hedge World when she’s strong enough. But when Laurel has a vision from her past about her soulmate, she throws caution to the wind to find him.
Owen Davies is a sonofawitch - a descendant of morally gray water witches, his powers are very minimal. He’s aching to find his soulmate, so much so that he has a storage unit filled with furniture he’s made and blueprints for their house he’ll build. Then, a fateful vacation lands him in Laurel’s garden and their paths are finally intertwined.
But witches are after Laurel’s powers and buried secrets become unearthed, revealing Laurel and Owen’s heartbreaking past. But this time around, the soulmates refuse to be separated.
I’m starting off by saying that I’m not a romance reader, yet alone a paranormal romance reader, but I do love witches and the premise of this book sounded fun so I wanted to read it.
Some of the writing was well thought out and flushed out, while a few other parts could have been edited down some I thought.
The romance of soulmates felt real and wasn’t cheesy like I thought it may have been - it was actually heartbreaking when you find out about their past lives.
Overall, this book is going to appeal to anyone who enjoys books with witches, soulmates, and a little bit of spice (and even though who don’t care too much for spice, those parts are easily skimable and won’t ruin the plot)
*Thank you City Owl Press and LibraryThing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Laurel Bay is the middle of five witchy sisters living on Star Island. She runs a tarot reading business to help contribute to bills, and spends her free time jumping into the Hedge World when she’s strong enough. But when Laurel has a vision from her past about her soulmate, she throws caution to the wind to find him.
Owen Davies is a sonofawitch - a descendant of morally gray water witches, his powers are very minimal. He’s aching to find his soulmate, so much so that he has a storage unit filled with furniture he’s made and blueprints for their house he’ll build. Then, a fateful vacation lands him in Laurel’s garden and their paths are finally intertwined.
But witches are after Laurel’s powers and buried secrets become unearthed, revealing Laurel and Owen’s heartbreaking past. But this time around, the soulmates refuse to be separated.
I’m starting off by saying that I’m not a romance reader, yet alone a paranormal romance reader, but I do love witches and the premise of this book sounded fun so I wanted to read it.
Some of the writing was well thought out and flushed out, while a few other parts could have been edited down some I thought.
The romance of soulmates felt real and wasn’t cheesy like I thought it may have been - it was actually heartbreaking when you find out about their past lives.
Overall, this book is going to appeal to anyone who enjoys books with witches, soulmates, and a little bit of spice (and even though who don’t care too much for spice, those parts are easily skimable and won’t ruin the plot)
*Thank you City Owl Press and LibraryThing for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
May 17, 2024
The Hedge Witch was fantastic! I loved the witchness of it all. Colleen Delaney has woven an incredible tale about soulmates, family, and best of all magic. If you liked Practical Magic you will enjoy the heck out of this book.
This book focuses on Laurel Bay as she finds her soulmate, Owen Davies, who is an absolute dream and I mean that both figuratively and literally. I love Laurel's witchiness, she's very in your face about it. She wears all black, has a unique familiar and oh yeah, Tarot Reading is how she makes a living. She's hiding in plain sight because no one really believes she has actual magic, it's sort of genius. There are five Bay sisters, all of whom are witches with magical abilities. They practice magic, live together, and support one another. There was a great feeling of togetherness.
The romance between Laurel and Owen was sweet and a little spicy. They have an unexpected history that just adds to the draw of the story. And then, just when I thought this plot was gonna be mostly romance with the witchy stuff being extra, things take a turn. A few dark events take place, some key information is uncovered, and plus, there was a prophecy that was spoken at the beginning. There is always a prophecy but I think this one might be a little different than most. I love it when a plot comes together. Colleen was smooth, I'll give her that.
What a magical read. I was completely submerged in Colleen's world and I didn't want to leave. Plus, that ending gave me the chills. If you're looking for a good witchy read then this is the one. Best of all Hedge Witch is just the first book in a series. There are more Bay sisters to come and I for one can't wait.
This book focuses on Laurel Bay as she finds her soulmate, Owen Davies, who is an absolute dream and I mean that both figuratively and literally. I love Laurel's witchiness, she's very in your face about it. She wears all black, has a unique familiar and oh yeah, Tarot Reading is how she makes a living. She's hiding in plain sight because no one really believes she has actual magic, it's sort of genius. There are five Bay sisters, all of whom are witches with magical abilities. They practice magic, live together, and support one another. There was a great feeling of togetherness.
The romance between Laurel and Owen was sweet and a little spicy. They have an unexpected history that just adds to the draw of the story. And then, just when I thought this plot was gonna be mostly romance with the witchy stuff being extra, things take a turn. A few dark events take place, some key information is uncovered, and plus, there was a prophecy that was spoken at the beginning. There is always a prophecy but I think this one might be a little different than most. I love it when a plot comes together. Colleen was smooth, I'll give her that.
What a magical read. I was completely submerged in Colleen's world and I didn't want to leave. Plus, that ending gave me the chills. If you're looking for a good witchy read then this is the one. Best of all Hedge Witch is just the first book in a series. There are more Bay sisters to come and I for one can't wait.
May 29, 2024
My Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Laurel, the third sister of the Bay sisters, is a hedge witch. This means she can 'jump the hedge' and explore an ethereal realm that only few witches can visit. It is in this hedge world that she meets her soulmate from a different lifetime. Her desperate search for her real world soulmate results in her being branded and followed by a dark witch who wants to steal her power and exact vengeance on her. Will her search end in a happily ever after, or will her happiness be short-lived as she faces her arch nemesis?
This book was a mix of paranormal romance and cozy mysteries. It had the chilled vibe of a cozy mystery with a lot of slow burn romance thrown in and some crazy witchy stuff going on in the background. It had a balanced mix of light-hearted comedy and some intense moments. I especially loved how the author dealt with the idea of soulmates and actually managed to still keep the romance a slow burn. And once the MCs decided to take it to the next level, the spice flowed abundantly!
I loved the chemistry between Owen and Lauren, and the heartwarming bond between the Bay sisters. I even liked the closeness that Owen shared with his mom. Another aspect of the story which was refreshing was the contemporary setting. Still some medeaval witchy scenes were brought in under the pretext of previous lives of the MCs.
Overall, I absolutely devoured this book and am looking forward to the stories that the other Bay sisters get. Highly recommending to all with a little romance in their hearts.
Thanks to lovebookstours , cityowlbooks and the author for having me on this tour. The above thoughts are my honest and free opinions.
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Laurel, the third sister of the Bay sisters, is a hedge witch. This means she can 'jump the hedge' and explore an ethereal realm that only few witches can visit. It is in this hedge world that she meets her soulmate from a different lifetime. Her desperate search for her real world soulmate results in her being branded and followed by a dark witch who wants to steal her power and exact vengeance on her. Will her search end in a happily ever after, or will her happiness be short-lived as she faces her arch nemesis?
This book was a mix of paranormal romance and cozy mysteries. It had the chilled vibe of a cozy mystery with a lot of slow burn romance thrown in and some crazy witchy stuff going on in the background. It had a balanced mix of light-hearted comedy and some intense moments. I especially loved how the author dealt with the idea of soulmates and actually managed to still keep the romance a slow burn. And once the MCs decided to take it to the next level, the spice flowed abundantly!
I loved the chemistry between Owen and Lauren, and the heartwarming bond between the Bay sisters. I even liked the closeness that Owen shared with his mom. Another aspect of the story which was refreshing was the contemporary setting. Still some medeaval witchy scenes were brought in under the pretext of previous lives of the MCs.
Overall, I absolutely devoured this book and am looking forward to the stories that the other Bay sisters get. Highly recommending to all with a little romance in their hearts.
Thanks to lovebookstours , cityowlbooks and the author for having me on this tour. The above thoughts are my honest and free opinions.
May 17, 2024
A magical sisterhood
"They were witches by their blood, the product of generations of power, built and cut down, burned, yet surviving still. They were mastery and dominance, subtlety, and silence."
What an intro! In the first chapter we meet the Bay sisters, witches from an old and powerful magical family who now reside on Star Island. This book is Laurel's story, but her sisters Rosemary, Sage, Lavender and Verbana are featured throughout. They are a cosy little sisterhood with hearth and home specialties that seem to complement each other. Laurel is able to traverse another realm, the Hedge World, and it's here she finds remnants of a past life where she was Amee, and the love she had with Onfroi. Then begins a series of events that will fulfill the Beltane prophecy about the Bay sisters.
"My soulmate showed up in the Hedge World. Shit's about to hit the fan."
Indeed it does. As the story unfolds Laurel meets Onfroi, who is now Owen in his present life, and together they face the threat of a family curse, while getting to know each other in a lovely romance. There was tension and action and many intertwining stories from past lives.
The story ended on quite a tense moment and it's clear there is much more story to come both for Laurel and her sisters. I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment to learn more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"They were witches by their blood, the product of generations of power, built and cut down, burned, yet surviving still. They were mastery and dominance, subtlety, and silence."
What an intro! In the first chapter we meet the Bay sisters, witches from an old and powerful magical family who now reside on Star Island. This book is Laurel's story, but her sisters Rosemary, Sage, Lavender and Verbana are featured throughout. They are a cosy little sisterhood with hearth and home specialties that seem to complement each other. Laurel is able to traverse another realm, the Hedge World, and it's here she finds remnants of a past life where she was Amee, and the love she had with Onfroi. Then begins a series of events that will fulfill the Beltane prophecy about the Bay sisters.
"My soulmate showed up in the Hedge World. Shit's about to hit the fan."
Indeed it does. As the story unfolds Laurel meets Onfroi, who is now Owen in his present life, and together they face the threat of a family curse, while getting to know each other in a lovely romance. There was tension and action and many intertwining stories from past lives.
The story ended on quite a tense moment and it's clear there is much more story to come both for Laurel and her sisters. I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment to learn more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2024
This is my first book by Colleen Delaney, and I have to say I'm a fan. I am a sucker for fated mates/soulmate books, and a book about soulmates, witches, and sisterhood—what more could a girl ask for?
The story revolves around Laurel Bay, one of the five Bay sisters gifted with the powers of divination and latent healing. Laurel makes her living reading tarot cards for bachelorette parties, occasionally mind-jumping and reading people's thoughts. She also possesses the rare ability to visit the Hedge World, a realm accessible only by Hedge Witches. The story really kicks into gear when Laurel unexpectedly encounters her soulmate, Owen, in the Hedge World. As for the sisters, each of the Bay sisters has a unique personality, backstory, and quirks, making them stand out as individuals while forming a cohesive and engaging family unit. Although the third act's tension may feel somewhat exaggerated, it works. The end of the book sets up the next sister, Rosemary, and her soulmate, and I can't wait to read it! This book turned out to be the perfect rainy day cozy read, and I am already looking forward to reading it around Halloween.
Non-spoilerish Trigger warnings : death, torture, blood, and violence
Thank you to City Owl Press, Netgalley, and Colleen Delaney for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
. Tropes : Soulmates, Past lives/Reincarnation, Witches, Family/sisterhood
The story revolves around Laurel Bay, one of the five Bay sisters gifted with the powers of divination and latent healing. Laurel makes her living reading tarot cards for bachelorette parties, occasionally mind-jumping and reading people's thoughts. She also possesses the rare ability to visit the Hedge World, a realm accessible only by Hedge Witches. The story really kicks into gear when Laurel unexpectedly encounters her soulmate, Owen, in the Hedge World. As for the sisters, each of the Bay sisters has a unique personality, backstory, and quirks, making them stand out as individuals while forming a cohesive and engaging family unit. Although the third act's tension may feel somewhat exaggerated, it works. The end of the book sets up the next sister, Rosemary, and her soulmate, and I can't wait to read it! This book turned out to be the perfect rainy day cozy read, and I am already looking forward to reading it around Halloween.
Non-spoilerish Trigger warnings : death, torture, blood, and violence
Thank you to City Owl Press, Netgalley, and Colleen Delaney for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
. Tropes : Soulmates, Past lives/Reincarnation, Witches, Family/sisterhood
May 29, 2024
The witchy Bay sisters receive a prophecy during their Beltane ritual that each of their heart will be claimed by Samhain. The first to fall is tarot reading hedge witch, Laurel Bay. Finding her long awaited soulmate is not what she expected. Learning the details of their past life together even less so. Her soulmate is not all that comes back from her past life, however, and it threatens all she holds dear. Will Laurel and her soulmate Owen’s new life together survive the threat, or are they doomed to repeat their past life’s violent end?
This book was definitely a slow burn for me. I do think that is partially due to the set up required for the story line of the series, as well as Laurel and Owen’s immediate white hot connection feeling slightly forced to me, despite knowing their soulmate status (or maybe the trope of “I love you immediately even if I know absolutely NOTHING about you” drives me crazy). That said, I enjoyed seeing the sisters band together to protect their own. The Bay sisters are no damsels in distress, thankyouverymuch. Despite the slow burn, I loved the sisters and want to get more of their story!
I’ve rated The Hedge Witch 3.5 stars, with a 3/5 spice level. I do recommend giving it a try yourself, especially if you’re looking to start a new, promising, witchy series!
A special thanks to Netgalley and City Owl Press for my free copy of The Hedge Witch by Colleen Delaney in exchange for my honest review.
This book was definitely a slow burn for me. I do think that is partially due to the set up required for the story line of the series, as well as Laurel and Owen’s immediate white hot connection feeling slightly forced to me, despite knowing their soulmate status (or maybe the trope of “I love you immediately even if I know absolutely NOTHING about you” drives me crazy). That said, I enjoyed seeing the sisters band together to protect their own. The Bay sisters are no damsels in distress, thankyouverymuch. Despite the slow burn, I loved the sisters and want to get more of their story!
I’ve rated The Hedge Witch 3.5 stars, with a 3/5 spice level. I do recommend giving it a try yourself, especially if you’re looking to start a new, promising, witchy series!
A special thanks to Netgalley and City Owl Press for my free copy of The Hedge Witch by Colleen Delaney in exchange for my honest review.
May 31, 2024
I absolutely loved reading this book, it was fast paced and magical. We follow the bay sisters, who are all witches with different magical abilities, but we concentrate on laurel, the hedge witch, she is quite happy doing her tarot reading and occasionally jumping into the hedge world, a place few witches can go, but apart from that she is quite happy to leave the majority of the magic to her sisters.
That is until laurel meets her soulmate Owen in the hedge world, one she can't seem to get out of her mind, she meets him from a past life.
Owen, a sonofawitch, starts dreaming about laurel, again a past life laurel and knows he has to meet her. Through various means and many situations, they try to get together again.
This is a fast paced read and there are a lot of different things happening throughout, however I didn't find it hard to follow. I loved laurel and Owen's story, finding each other in another lifetime, it was so romantic. This is clearly the first of a series and I really hope we get the chance to learn more from the other sisters and get to see how they get affected by the ongoing situation with the book. Even though it was fast paced, the descriptions about the sisters and their home, made me feel so cosy, definitely made me think it was a little like the charmed TV series, which I also loved.
Overall this was a fantastic, witchy read, definitely one for fans of witches, soulmates and anything
That is until laurel meets her soulmate Owen in the hedge world, one she can't seem to get out of her mind, she meets him from a past life.
Owen, a sonofawitch, starts dreaming about laurel, again a past life laurel and knows he has to meet her. Through various means and many situations, they try to get together again.
This is a fast paced read and there are a lot of different things happening throughout, however I didn't find it hard to follow. I loved laurel and Owen's story, finding each other in another lifetime, it was so romantic. This is clearly the first of a series and I really hope we get the chance to learn more from the other sisters and get to see how they get affected by the ongoing situation with the book. Even though it was fast paced, the descriptions about the sisters and their home, made me feel so cosy, definitely made me think it was a little like the charmed TV series, which I also loved.
Overall this was a fantastic, witchy read, definitely one for fans of witches, soulmates and anything
June 3, 2024
This book is the start of a series of books, one of which I think I will be exploring when the next one comes out. Think of it as a softer version of the TV show Charmed. The five Bay sisters live together (and close to each other) in a small town on Star Island. All four sisters have their own unique witchcraft strengths and real world occupations, however Laurel tends to breeze through life happily using her skills for tarot readings, and visiting the other-worldly Hedge world where she meets Onfroi, her potential soulmate. A recent encounter. A few states away, carpenter Owen, also a sonofawitch (yep!) is seeking his soulmate who he thinks he found in a dream, called Amee. His witchy cousin implores him to holiday in a place called Solaris, which is on Star island.
There is a lot to cover in this book, including past Iives of the Bay witches and other witches, the history of curses that last centres, and witches and warlocks who are hunting down Laurel and her family to break a particular curse, or Laurel’s family line of witches. It also starts to pave the way for the Beltane prophecy to be explored more as Laurel and Owen start their spicy connection.
I am hoping that in the next books, there is more of a deeper walk into the magical history of the Bay sisters and their magical past, their individual magical traits and what happened to their parents. For this first book – it’s a fun introduction that ends on a great cliffhanger!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews