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Karaoke Chemistry
- GenresParanormalRomance
296 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2024
4 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Pepper
18 books208 followersSteamy romantic comedy and contemporary romance author. Hoarder of half-used notebooks. Boots enthusiast. Lover of fall. Also coffee. Lots of coffee.
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August 5, 2024dnf 41%
finally writing review for this one. i didn’t like characters, plot or writing. i really tried. but there was no chemistry between main characters. both of them were plain and not interesting. story had potential but was purely written. i lost interest in first 20% even though i was so exited to read this book. there was no hook or situation/moment that intrigued me into reading more.
Thank you so much Valerie Pepper for giving me an arc.
finally writing review for this one. i didn’t like characters, plot or writing. i really tried. but there was no chemistry between main characters. both of them were plain and not interesting. story had potential but was purely written. i lost interest in first 20% even though i was so exited to read this book. there was no hook or situation/moment that intrigued me into reading more.
Thank you so much Valerie Pepper for giving me an arc.
June 7, 2024
Love Potion No.69 left me needing MORE and Karaoke Chemistry was all that I needed! I adore this series already and am impatiently awaiting the next book.
Sacred River is my new favorite fictional small town. The witchy vibes are immaculate. The Rowan family is to die for. The magic system is so cute and quaint. I wish I could spend my time catering to Valerie Pepper’s every need so she can simply write these books non stop.
Magnolia’s story broke my heart and then mended it just as hers did. I felt so bad for her, especially as someone who also struggles with anxiety and can definitely relate to the feeling of borrowing trouble that wasn’t necessarily there to begin with. I love that she was able to overcome her blocks and become her full, true self.
I never thought at 31 I’d be into a man as old as Riggs but 🥵🥵🥵 the man is irresistible. He’s sweet and spicy and everything a book boyfriend should be. He and Magnolia are perfection together.
I loved that we got even more of the Rowan sisters, and got to see more of Quinton and Clementine, I’m so happy for them as well! The seven sisters becoming closer, especially at the end was so heartwarming and I can’t wait to see who is next!
This was an amazing follow up to Love Potion No. 69 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Valerie Pepper has captured my heart with Sacred River.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Valerie Pepper for this ARC!
Publication date 6/7/24
Sacred River is my new favorite fictional small town. The witchy vibes are immaculate. The Rowan family is to die for. The magic system is so cute and quaint. I wish I could spend my time catering to Valerie Pepper’s every need so she can simply write these books non stop.
Magnolia’s story broke my heart and then mended it just as hers did. I felt so bad for her, especially as someone who also struggles with anxiety and can definitely relate to the feeling of borrowing trouble that wasn’t necessarily there to begin with. I love that she was able to overcome her blocks and become her full, true self.
I never thought at 31 I’d be into a man as old as Riggs but 🥵🥵🥵 the man is irresistible. He’s sweet and spicy and everything a book boyfriend should be. He and Magnolia are perfection together.
I loved that we got even more of the Rowan sisters, and got to see more of Quinton and Clementine, I’m so happy for them as well! The seven sisters becoming closer, especially at the end was so heartwarming and I can’t wait to see who is next!
This was an amazing follow up to Love Potion No. 69 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Valerie Pepper has captured my heart with Sacred River.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Valerie Pepper for this ARC!
Publication date 6/7/24
June 9, 2024
**Review of "Karaoke Chemistry" by Valerie Pepper**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¼ (4.25/5 stars)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 (4/5 spice level)
"Karaoke Chemistry" by Valerie Pepper is a delightful blend of steamy romance, witchy vibes, and captivating character growth. The story centers on Magnolia, a seemingly mild-mannered chemistry teacher who secretly transforms into the karaoke sensation, Seven. Her double life becomes even more complicated when Riggs, the incredibly attractive new principal, steps into the picture, discovering her secret and the fact that witches are real.
The relationship between Riggs and Magnolia (or Seven) is wonderfully steamy and filled with palpable chemistry. Their banter is sharp and entertaining, adding a playful edge to their growing connection. Magnolia’s emotional growth and her deepening bond with her family provide a rich, heartwarming layer to the narrative.
Valerie Pepper masterfully combines several beloved tropes, such as older main characters, a bit of an age gap, witches, small-town dynamics, secret identities, and workplace romance. These elements come together seamlessly to create a story that is both enchanting and deeply satisfying.
The witchy vibes are a fantastic touch, adding an element of magic that enhances the plot without overshadowing the character development. Magnolia’s journey from the least powerful witch in her family to someone who embraces her growing magic is beautifully portrayed.
The spice level in this book is quite high, with plenty of steamy scenes that are tastefully done. While I personally could have enjoyed a bit less spice, those who love very spicy books will find this one perfect for their tastes.
Overall, "Karaoke Chemistry" is a charming, spicy romance with great character growth, witchy charm, and a delightful blend of humor and heart. It’s a must-read for fans of paranormal romance and those who enjoy stories with strong, evolving characters and a touch of magic.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¼ (4.25/5 stars)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 (4/5 spice level)
"Karaoke Chemistry" by Valerie Pepper is a delightful blend of steamy romance, witchy vibes, and captivating character growth. The story centers on Magnolia, a seemingly mild-mannered chemistry teacher who secretly transforms into the karaoke sensation, Seven. Her double life becomes even more complicated when Riggs, the incredibly attractive new principal, steps into the picture, discovering her secret and the fact that witches are real.
The relationship between Riggs and Magnolia (or Seven) is wonderfully steamy and filled with palpable chemistry. Their banter is sharp and entertaining, adding a playful edge to their growing connection. Magnolia’s emotional growth and her deepening bond with her family provide a rich, heartwarming layer to the narrative.
Valerie Pepper masterfully combines several beloved tropes, such as older main characters, a bit of an age gap, witches, small-town dynamics, secret identities, and workplace romance. These elements come together seamlessly to create a story that is both enchanting and deeply satisfying.
The witchy vibes are a fantastic touch, adding an element of magic that enhances the plot without overshadowing the character development. Magnolia’s journey from the least powerful witch in her family to someone who embraces her growing magic is beautifully portrayed.
The spice level in this book is quite high, with plenty of steamy scenes that are tastefully done. While I personally could have enjoyed a bit less spice, those who love very spicy books will find this one perfect for their tastes.
Overall, "Karaoke Chemistry" is a charming, spicy romance with great character growth, witchy charm, and a delightful blend of humor and heart. It’s a must-read for fans of paranormal romance and those who enjoy stories with strong, evolving characters and a touch of magic.
June 8, 2024
Valerie Pepper knew what she was doing when she wrote this book. She has a fun writing style and writes fun books. Karaoke Chemistry is hilarious, romantic, and sweet. Witches and rom coms bundled in one is amazing in my book. Two of my favorite things. The spice was chef kiss. I love the Chemistry between Magnolia and Riggs. This is definitely a book to kick off summer.
June 8, 2024
5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another hit by Valerie Pepper!
I loved this one so much. The characters are amazing, the banter is hilarious, the spice is perfect, and the witchy vibes is the perfect amount of fairy dust over the whole thing.
I loved the FMC and the Karaoke aspect was a blast.
You get:
• Witchy Vibes
• Karaoke Magic
• 40s Main Characters
• Hidden Identity
• Huge Meddling Family
• Dual POV
• Age Gap
Go pick this one up now! And check out the rest of her books on Amazon!
Another hit by Valerie Pepper!
I loved this one so much. The characters are amazing, the banter is hilarious, the spice is perfect, and the witchy vibes is the perfect amount of fairy dust over the whole thing.
I loved the FMC and the Karaoke aspect was a blast.
You get:
• Witchy Vibes
• Karaoke Magic
• 40s Main Characters
• Hidden Identity
• Huge Meddling Family
• Dual POV
• Age Gap
Go pick this one up now! And check out the rest of her books on Amazon!
June 15, 2024
Karaoke Chemistry by Valerie Pepper follows Magnolia, HS chemistry teacher by day, karaoke sensation called Seven by night, who also just happens to be a witch who was cursed in her teens and now anytime her loved ones hear her sing, it puts them in danger. The problem is that Magnolia NEEDS to sing so she leads a double life, singing only on karaoke Thursdays at a bar where nobody knows her true identity. There she meets Riggs, another karaoke regular, and spends every Thursday night for a year flirting with him. But when she’s introduced to the new HS principal and discovers it’s the same man, her secrets become that much harder to keep, especially when they could put him in danger too.
I loved the relationship between Riggs and Magnolia. They are both older characters 🙌🏻(she’s 40, he’s 50), which I adore, and as a result there isn’t a lot of angsty longing. Riggs especially knows what he wants and just goes for it.🔥 Personally I would have liked to see a little more of their time together before he discovers her true identity because at times their relationship, both sexual and emotional, seems to move a little too fast (granted they’ve known each other for a year but it kind of feels like the reader is tuning in a few chapters late) but overall their banter and chemistry make up for it. The spicy scenes are hot and plentiful 🥵and in truth, I’d be perfectly happy reading endless chapters about Riggs simply supporting Magnolia. He not only just learned that witches are real but also found out his new girlfriend is cursed, and still he takes it all in stride and is nothing but supportive and encouraging with her. 🥰 #dreamman
I also enjoyed the relationship between Magnolia and her mom/sisters. The scenes with her family were extra witchy and I found their relationships and history to be both funny and heartwarming/breaking. I was really into all of their special talents and loved watching Magnolia figure out and harness her own skills too.
While I wish I could have read this in October to enhance the spooky vibes, Karaoke Chemistry was still a delightful fast paced read with a lot of spice, witchiness, and plenty of fun moments (shout out to the throw back karaoke songs!). It’s out now on Kindle and KU so be sure to check it out.
I loved the relationship between Riggs and Magnolia. They are both older characters 🙌🏻(she’s 40, he’s 50), which I adore, and as a result there isn’t a lot of angsty longing. Riggs especially knows what he wants and just goes for it.🔥 Personally I would have liked to see a little more of their time together before he discovers her true identity because at times their relationship, both sexual and emotional, seems to move a little too fast (granted they’ve known each other for a year but it kind of feels like the reader is tuning in a few chapters late) but overall their banter and chemistry make up for it. The spicy scenes are hot and plentiful 🥵and in truth, I’d be perfectly happy reading endless chapters about Riggs simply supporting Magnolia. He not only just learned that witches are real but also found out his new girlfriend is cursed, and still he takes it all in stride and is nothing but supportive and encouraging with her. 🥰 #dreamman
I also enjoyed the relationship between Magnolia and her mom/sisters. The scenes with her family were extra witchy and I found their relationships and history to be both funny and heartwarming/breaking. I was really into all of their special talents and loved watching Magnolia figure out and harness her own skills too.
While I wish I could have read this in October to enhance the spooky vibes, Karaoke Chemistry was still a delightful fast paced read with a lot of spice, witchiness, and plenty of fun moments (shout out to the throw back karaoke songs!). It’s out now on Kindle and KU so be sure to check it out.
May 24, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you Happily Booked PR for the gifted arc of this book in return of my honest book review.
Being Filipino, anything with the word Karaoke catches my attention. The title and knowing the character came from a family of Witches, which sold this book to me. This book was an easy read. I enjoyed the chemistry between Magnolia, known as Seven, during karaoke nights and Riggs. I got nervous when Riggs became Magnolia's and thought about the significant conflict this would play with their romance. But I was wrong; the two working together worked well to develop their romance, and let me tell you, this two-spice level was off the roof. It came to a point where I wanted to take a break from their spice level, and I was looking for more stories about Magnolia being a witch and magic. I enjoyed Magnolia's family, her mom, and her sisters. Each sister had their special magic; all of them together were chaotic but fun. The book is not only a love story; you will discover the curse that affected Magnolia for two decades, which prevented her from singing to her family, what caused the curse, and how she and her family corrected the course. It also talks about freeing yourself, acceptance, and someone's longing to belong. If you love books about witches with lots of spice, this book is for you.
Thank you Happily Booked PR for the gifted arc of this book in return of my honest book review.
Being Filipino, anything with the word Karaoke catches my attention. The title and knowing the character came from a family of Witches, which sold this book to me. This book was an easy read. I enjoyed the chemistry between Magnolia, known as Seven, during karaoke nights and Riggs. I got nervous when Riggs became Magnolia's and thought about the significant conflict this would play with their romance. But I was wrong; the two working together worked well to develop their romance, and let me tell you, this two-spice level was off the roof. It came to a point where I wanted to take a break from their spice level, and I was looking for more stories about Magnolia being a witch and magic. I enjoyed Magnolia's family, her mom, and her sisters. Each sister had their special magic; all of them together were chaotic but fun. The book is not only a love story; you will discover the curse that affected Magnolia for two decades, which prevented her from singing to her family, what caused the curse, and how she and her family corrected the course. It also talks about freeing yourself, acceptance, and someone's longing to belong. If you love books about witches with lots of spice, this book is for you.
June 2, 2024
An easy & enchanting read.
Riggs & Seven have been flirting for the last year at a karaoke bar.
They can both sense the attraction & are building up the nerve to ask the other out on a long-anticipated date. But all of that quickly goes out the window when Riggs takes a new job as a high school principal and finds out one of his teachers is Seven, who is Magnolia. Riggs quickly learns that Seven & Magnolia are two sides to the same coin, and there is much more to this mystery woman than he could have ever anticipated.
Karaoke Chemistry is book two in The Sacred River Series,
that can be read as a standalone.
The easy chemistry between Riggs & Magnolia is evident early on in the book & helped to draw me into the story from chapter one.
I believe this was my first time reading a story with both main characters being older, and it was refreshing. There was no petty high school drama or third-act breakup, which I loved. Add in some magic & spice, and I couldn’t wait to see where this love story would take us.
Seeing Magnolia’s powers bloom, along with meeting her sisters & learning about each of their special abilities was a highlight of this book.
The outcome of the curse was a surprise “twist” that I didn’t see coming.
I am excited to read more in this series & to get to know each sister further.
Riggs & Seven have been flirting for the last year at a karaoke bar.
They can both sense the attraction & are building up the nerve to ask the other out on a long-anticipated date. But all of that quickly goes out the window when Riggs takes a new job as a high school principal and finds out one of his teachers is Seven, who is Magnolia. Riggs quickly learns that Seven & Magnolia are two sides to the same coin, and there is much more to this mystery woman than he could have ever anticipated.
Karaoke Chemistry is book two in The Sacred River Series,
that can be read as a standalone.
The easy chemistry between Riggs & Magnolia is evident early on in the book & helped to draw me into the story from chapter one.
I believe this was my first time reading a story with both main characters being older, and it was refreshing. There was no petty high school drama or third-act breakup, which I loved. Add in some magic & spice, and I couldn’t wait to see where this love story would take us.
Seeing Magnolia’s powers bloom, along with meeting her sisters & learning about each of their special abilities was a highlight of this book.
The outcome of the curse was a surprise “twist” that I didn’t see coming.
I am excited to read more in this series & to get to know each sister further.
May 21, 2024
What an addicting read! I could not out this book down! I absolutely love the concept of this story! Expect Practical Magic by the 10th degree! I am so happy we get more of the Rowan family that got introduced to us in Love Potion 69 (novella), I’m so glad that we also got to see Clementine and Quinton return to be the best side characters in the new tale!
First of all! Where can I find me a man like Riggs?! The mans is obsessed and I’m here for it! Plus his love of…eating was definitely noted! I loved everything about Riggs! I love how easily he went with the flow, now he did give himself a few well warned seconds to freak out but I think he handled everything beautifully.
The magical element of this story was perfect! I love how we got to see more of it in this book and I absolutely cannot wait for the next to see what happens! Another fantastic read by Valerie Pepper!
First of all! Where can I find me a man like Riggs?! The mans is obsessed and I’m here for it! Plus his love of…eating was definitely noted! I loved everything about Riggs! I love how easily he went with the flow, now he did give himself a few well warned seconds to freak out but I think he handled everything beautifully.
The magical element of this story was perfect! I love how we got to see more of it in this book and I absolutely cannot wait for the next to see what happens! Another fantastic read by Valerie Pepper!
June 18, 2024
I read the first book in this series back in January, as part of a Valentine’s Day series of novellas and I just loved it. When I got this one, I liked the blurb but didn’t make the connection right away. I legit squealed when I realized it was book 2 of the Sacred River series. What a beautiful coming of age story, and yeah, that’s totally the vibe I got, even though the FMC is older. Seven’s relationship with Riggs, and Magnolia’s relationship with Riggs are so beautiful, and I love watching the two become one. The Curse is perfection, and waiting to see if the sisters can reverse it was so worth it! I love their love, their adventures, and the way Riggs is so perfect for Mags! I perfect spicy love story!
May 29, 2024
This book was everything and more. The romance, GOOD. Spice, AMAZING. there were sweet moments and hilarious moments. I ate this book up in one day. This story was magical, the way these two characters connected and interacted with one another.
I caught myself singing along with Riggs and Magnolia. Valerie Pepper did such an phenomenal job with this story.
I caught myself singing along with Riggs and Magnolia. Valerie Pepper did such an phenomenal job with this story.
May 24, 2024
This is the second book in Valerie Pepper’s Sacred River series about a family of 7 sisters who are witches in a small town.
Lots of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ but also lots of really great plot and character development. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more!
If you love workplace romance, witchy vibes, secret identities, age gap, small town romance, and Dual POV, you definitely should read this book!
Lots of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ but also lots of really great plot and character development. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more!
If you love workplace romance, witchy vibes, secret identities, age gap, small town romance, and Dual POV, you definitely should read this book!
June 24, 2024
I think I may have rated this a bit higher, but I’m not a huge fan of magical realism/witchy books/magic. But, I am a fan of Valerie Pepper and her writing, so I had to read this.
I think if you do like these tropes, you’ll eat this book up. Bonus: Valerie’s spice is always SPICY! 🌶️
I think if you do like these tropes, you’ll eat this book up. Bonus: Valerie’s spice is always SPICY! 🌶️
June 20, 2024
This was such a cute read! It felt like I fell directly into the world of Practical Magic (iykyk) and I was here for it! It had the perfect amount of witchy vibes combined with reality. It also had a good dose of sisterly love (and bickering), that made you feel all warm and fuzzy. Of course, Riggs is probably the real star of the show. A 50 year old new principal, who is a king of karaoke, loves Magnolia more than life itself, and is a certified silver fox. Yummy.
The spice may not have been extremely steamy (though enjoyable), but there was lots of it. So that's always a win!
Thanks Happily Booked for the ARC copy!
The spice may not have been extremely steamy (though enjoyable), but there was lots of it. So that's always a win!
Thanks Happily Booked for the ARC copy!
June 20, 2024
I loved this book! Riggs and Magnolias story was amazing. I loved how they flirted with each other through song!! Riggs was such a perfect book boyfriend I love how he accepted Magnolia for exactly who she was. The whole Rowan family was fantastic and I need each of the sisters to get a story! I enjoyed reading about Magnolia coming into her own and looking within herself to do so! This book was so good and so easy to get sucked into. And the spicy scenes were sooooo good 🥵🥵🥵
September 22, 2024
“How did I not know you were a teacher?” — “Of chemistry. Ironic, don’t you think?” — “Why is that ironic?” — “Because we have… Chemistry.”
“Magic or no magic. Sparks or no sparks. I will do whatever it takes, will be whoever you need, as long as you let me love you.”
TROPES:
• witchy romcom
• secret identities (teacher x principal by day, karaoke singers by night)
• age gap
• no third act breakup
• small town romance
• workplace romance
This was a such a fun, fast-paced, witchy romcom! I was hooked from the first chapter! Honestly, I'm speechless... I loved seeing more of Quinton and Clementine and more of their sisters and mom. I loved when Riggs called Magnolia "my little witch." Riggs is definitely going on my never-ending list of book boyfriends and I've convinced my mom to start reading the series!
Thank you, Valerie Pepper for the ARC 🤍
“Magic or no magic. Sparks or no sparks. I will do whatever it takes, will be whoever you need, as long as you let me love you.”
TROPES:
• witchy romcom
• secret identities (teacher x principal by day, karaoke singers by night)
• age gap
• no third act breakup
• small town romance
• workplace romance
This was a such a fun, fast-paced, witchy romcom! I was hooked from the first chapter! Honestly, I'm speechless... I loved seeing more of Quinton and Clementine and more of their sisters and mom. I loved when Riggs called Magnolia "my little witch." Riggs is definitely going on my never-ending list of book boyfriends and I've convinced my mom to start reading the series!
Thank you, Valerie Pepper for the ARC 🤍
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June 22, 2024“I’ve never been proud of being a witch. I’ve simply been one”
SUMMARY
“Karaoke Chemistry” by Valerie Pepper is an urban fantasy book about a witch who damages someone she loves whenever she sings.
For most of her life, Magnolia has lived as a quiet chemistry teacher at Ridgewood High and the least powerful witch in her family. But every Thursday she goes to a karaoke bar as Seven, a confident woman with the most melodious voice, and no one knows her real identity, not even the guy she has hots for- Riggs.
Then Riggs gets the job as the principal where Magnolia is the chemistry teacher and he is surprised that she works there because apparently Riggs likes her too. He becomes confused when he gets to know that her name is Magnolia and that witches are real.
REVIEW
THE BOOK
AHHH I did not have any idea that it has like meddling witchy tea-making sisters. Cuzz if I did I would have signed up for it so much earlier. It was such a light-hearted read. It was funny. There was a lot of fluff all in all. I loved it.
Magnolia She is a chemistry teacher cum witch who loves to sing and has an amazing voice but cannot cuz of a curse so to like to fulfill her heart she goes to the club as an alternate personality like you know cloth change and everything. Like when she is seven, she is badass. I was soo sad to hear about the curse and the ending god the perfect ending there could ever be unexpected but for the best. When someone reads the ending, they will totally relate to it because I sure did. And then her sisters, so they are like 7 sisters and their mother who lives together. The sisters and soo fun especially Clementine. And the side characters like Clementine and Quinton are soo cutee. IDK why whenever I think of Magnolia Mirabel from Encanto comes to my mind lol.
Riggs, the dashing new principal of Ridgewood High where Magnolia is a teacher, but that’s not where he knows her from. He was sooo surprised that she was seven like the girl he kind of had a crush on from the karaoke club. He was sweet, caring, and pretty understanding too all the witchy things. And he was mature and all. And his pops were fun too.
So they together were whimsical, like with a hint of spice (a lot of spice).
Mrs. Hayes and Ava and the other characters added a kind of richness to the book. I loved them; they were soo funny.
THE WRITING STYLE
Soo the pacing was good, according to me, as from the start both knew that they liked each other and had known each other, so it was good.
And the character development of Magnolia revolving around the crush was soo good.
The characters were over 40, which worked really well for it. I mean, I think I liked the book Cuzz it had characters over 40.
The witchy vibe of this book is totally fantastic and mixing it with science was like such a good mix.
FAVOURITE QUOTES
“I think the term is derivative. We’re so much more than mere witches. We’re guardians. Guides. Interpreters. Givers. Creators. We’re the physical manifestation of nature’s incredible gifts, and if more people would just open themselves up to the possibility of wonder, then I think they’d be able to bring some magic into their own lives.”
~ This is suchh a beautiful quote and a really good like definition of them
“Rowan woman kisses or touches someone, then that’s it. Poof. That’s your person. So, sure hope you like them.”
“I think you are absolutely capable of becoming who you’re meant to be. Because you’re already her.”
“what’s really going on is that I have fallen for this woman so hard it’s taken my breath away“
I received an ARC of this book at no cost from the author and Happily Booked PR. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 4, 2024
Spoiler free review:
This is the first book I've read of Valerie Pepper's and found it an enjoyable read! There were times where I felt like I was missing something and then realized there was a novella before this one that might have answered some of those questions for me. The characters were fairly well flushed out and the plot was enjoyable. I did find the pace to be a little bit rushed in certain spots, but overall, the story kept my attention and overall this is a solid romance read. And the spice? Mmmmm, yes. It was delicious. A solid 3/5 🌶️ on my spice meter.
Here is the spoiler-tastic review:
I received this book as an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
This is the first book I've read of Valerie Pepper's and found it an enjoyable read! There were times where I felt like I was missing something and then realized there was a novella before this one that might have answered some of those questions for me. The characters were fairly well flushed out and the plot was enjoyable. I did find the pace to be a little bit rushed in certain spots, but overall, the story kept my attention and overall this is a solid romance read. And the spice? Mmmmm, yes. It was delicious. A solid 3/5 🌶️ on my spice meter.
Here is the spoiler-tastic review:
I received this book as an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
June 3, 2024
🎤 Witches
🤍 Secret identities
🎤 Age gap
🤍 Small town
🎤 Workplace romance
🤍 Magical tea
🎤 Meddling sisters
🤍 Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: ️🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
After reading Love Potion No. 69, I was itching for more of the Rowan sisters and their love interests. I kept thinking the entire time that I wished it was a full length novel because I loved it that much, and low and behold, Valerie had secret plans to make the Rowen sisters into a full series! Karaoke Chemistry was everything I wanted it to be and more. It's a super cute and spicy romantic comedy with heartfelt family dynamics and a super dreamy MMC. It was giving me Practical Magic vibes the entire read, and I LOVED it.
Magnolia has been living a double life. One as Magnolia - a quiet, nerdy chemistry teacher at the local high school who keeps a low profile and feels very disconnected from her family. And one as Seven - a confident, vibrant, karaoke powerhouse who's caught the eye of silver fox, Riggs. They've been playfully flirting every week for a year, and Riggs is ready to make his move. He's making his plans when he discovers that "Seven" is Magnolia, and she's a teacher at the school where he is starting his new job as principal. Uh oh. 😏
Magnolia has kept everyone at arms length for the majority of her life, and letting anyone in, including her family, has never been easy for her even though she is desperately searching for those deeper connections. Riggs is sweet and sexy and head over heels in love with Magnolia (even if he doesn't know it at first) and has absolutely zero issues showing her just how much he wants her. He makes her feel safe and secure and wildly sexy and attractive. Riggs is the best of all the worlds. He's secure enough in himself to pursue her even with the weird "witchy" things that happen when she's around, and once he makes his intentions known, he moves quick, taking her to bed and blowing her mind. Her pleasure is his number one priority, and man oh man does he deliver!
Riggs and Magnolia are SUPER adorable and are a great example of finding love where and when you least expect it - even if that happens later on in life. This small town witchy romance series has betwitched me. I am absolutely in LOVE with the characters, the book and this series. Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🤍 Secret identities
🎤 Age gap
🤍 Small town
🎤 Workplace romance
🤍 Magical tea
🎤 Meddling sisters
🤍 Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: ️🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
After reading Love Potion No. 69, I was itching for more of the Rowan sisters and their love interests. I kept thinking the entire time that I wished it was a full length novel because I loved it that much, and low and behold, Valerie had secret plans to make the Rowen sisters into a full series! Karaoke Chemistry was everything I wanted it to be and more. It's a super cute and spicy romantic comedy with heartfelt family dynamics and a super dreamy MMC. It was giving me Practical Magic vibes the entire read, and I LOVED it.
Magnolia has been living a double life. One as Magnolia - a quiet, nerdy chemistry teacher at the local high school who keeps a low profile and feels very disconnected from her family. And one as Seven - a confident, vibrant, karaoke powerhouse who's caught the eye of silver fox, Riggs. They've been playfully flirting every week for a year, and Riggs is ready to make his move. He's making his plans when he discovers that "Seven" is Magnolia, and she's a teacher at the school where he is starting his new job as principal. Uh oh. 😏
Magnolia has kept everyone at arms length for the majority of her life, and letting anyone in, including her family, has never been easy for her even though she is desperately searching for those deeper connections. Riggs is sweet and sexy and head over heels in love with Magnolia (even if he doesn't know it at first) and has absolutely zero issues showing her just how much he wants her. He makes her feel safe and secure and wildly sexy and attractive. Riggs is the best of all the worlds. He's secure enough in himself to pursue her even with the weird "witchy" things that happen when she's around, and once he makes his intentions known, he moves quick, taking her to bed and blowing her mind. Her pleasure is his number one priority, and man oh man does he deliver!
Riggs and Magnolia are SUPER adorable and are a great example of finding love where and when you least expect it - even if that happens later on in life. This small town witchy romance series has betwitched me. I am absolutely in LOVE with the characters, the book and this series. Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2024
I was super sad to see - on the very first page turn - that this was a book 2 of a series that I've only just discovered.
I dislike reading series' out of order - but I definitely didn't have time to get and read both the missing book one and this one.....so I went in anyway....
After around the first few chapters, I absolutely knew that I was going to love this series and heading off to buy book 1 even though I'll be reading them out of order!
I loved the writing style which was light, fun and sexy - but also had a decent overall storyline and so much potential for lots more to come across the whole series.
Chemistry teacher Magnolia comes from a family of witches but for decades, she's kept her powers muted and off limits as every time she sang around her sisters and loved ones, somebody got hurt.
Singing was her lifeblood though and so to combat making herself ill, she'd sing karaoke as her alter-ego, Seven.
When Riggs and Seven meet, he's besotted from the start, but can they be together without her hurting him too? ...
I adored all of our characters!
Magnolia and Riggs especially, but also all the of the Rowan family (and Riggs' dad) too!
There was so much chemistry (excuse the pun) between the pair and it was obvious where this friendship was going to go - and when it did, we're treated to some well written hot and spicy scenes.
I loved that it was quickly established that Magnolia was a witch and that Riggs didn't freak out - in fact he embraced everything about her and her family.
There are a lot of scenes which involve visiting the family here and so lots of spoilers for book 1 - I can't say what, obviously, but I'd recommend reading these in order to avoid this.
These scenes also give us insight into all of the sisters' personalities and abilities and I loved all the natural witchiness.
With seven sisters in all, I can already see that we're in for a wild ride through at least this many books in the series.
This was such a good read which perfectly combined a great romance story with an intriguing witchy plotline - two of my favourite genres!
I am totally obsessed already and am heading off to read book one to tide me over until the next in the series is ready.....I can't wait!
I dislike reading series' out of order - but I definitely didn't have time to get and read both the missing book one and this one.....so I went in anyway....
After around the first few chapters, I absolutely knew that I was going to love this series and heading off to buy book 1 even though I'll be reading them out of order!
I loved the writing style which was light, fun and sexy - but also had a decent overall storyline and so much potential for lots more to come across the whole series.
Chemistry teacher Magnolia comes from a family of witches but for decades, she's kept her powers muted and off limits as every time she sang around her sisters and loved ones, somebody got hurt.
Singing was her lifeblood though and so to combat making herself ill, she'd sing karaoke as her alter-ego, Seven.
When Riggs and Seven meet, he's besotted from the start, but can they be together without her hurting him too? ...
I adored all of our characters!
Magnolia and Riggs especially, but also all the of the Rowan family (and Riggs' dad) too!
There was so much chemistry (excuse the pun) between the pair and it was obvious where this friendship was going to go - and when it did, we're treated to some well written hot and spicy scenes.
I loved that it was quickly established that Magnolia was a witch and that Riggs didn't freak out - in fact he embraced everything about her and her family.
There are a lot of scenes which involve visiting the family here and so lots of spoilers for book 1 - I can't say what, obviously, but I'd recommend reading these in order to avoid this.
These scenes also give us insight into all of the sisters' personalities and abilities and I loved all the natural witchiness.
With seven sisters in all, I can already see that we're in for a wild ride through at least this many books in the series.
This was such a good read which perfectly combined a great romance story with an intriguing witchy plotline - two of my favourite genres!
I am totally obsessed already and am heading off to read book one to tide me over until the next in the series is ready.....I can't wait!
June 8, 2024
Can a witchy rom-com with spice be any more perfect?
We have Magnolia (aka Seven as her alter ego), a 40y woman, who is also a witch. She is a Chemistry teacher and she was also cursed! She needs to sing to fell good, and at the same time the curse makes her loved ones getting hurt if they hear her sing. So here enters Seven, in a Karaoke bar, for several years.
Riggs is a teacher that now landed a job as a school principal in a new town, and quickly realises that the woman he has heard sing and flirted in the past year and the one he has a major crush (Seven) is also Magnolia and works in his school.
Although at first they believe it may not be for the best they work towards each other and fall helplessly with one another. They just need to break that curse. And together with her family, they sure have an adventure, and learn that sometimes we are our worst enemies!
I really liked both main characters, but Riggs surely got a special place!
OMG, can he be more amazing? He is so sweet taking care of her and her needs, and being trully carefull with her feelings. That line when he was learning her secret, and kept supporting her.. 🫠
“I’ll give you whatever you want, Magnolia. And I want you to know how honored I am that you’ve trusted me with your truths. Your tears. I don’t take any of it for granted. Not any of it.” 🫠🫠
I believe that the right word to describe Riggs toward Mags is Devotion. Total and complete devotion! And he he is not afraid to admit it and even show it!
"I will do whatever it takes, will be whoever you need, as long as you let me love you.”
"You are a treasure. A wonder. An absolute force of a woman. And it is my undying honor to be yours.”
How can a woman stay on her feet with these lines? It's a dream man, surely..
And Magnolia realises how lucky she is and understands that she will want and love him 'till eternity.
I also liked her sisters and their family relationship. And even though they were not always envolved and super close, they really cared and fought for one another. It was sweet.
I'm gonna follow this series and binge them from the moment they come out! It's that amazing!
We have Magnolia (aka Seven as her alter ego), a 40y woman, who is also a witch. She is a Chemistry teacher and she was also cursed! She needs to sing to fell good, and at the same time the curse makes her loved ones getting hurt if they hear her sing. So here enters Seven, in a Karaoke bar, for several years.
Riggs is a teacher that now landed a job as a school principal in a new town, and quickly realises that the woman he has heard sing and flirted in the past year and the one he has a major crush (Seven) is also Magnolia and works in his school.
Although at first they believe it may not be for the best they work towards each other and fall helplessly with one another. They just need to break that curse. And together with her family, they sure have an adventure, and learn that sometimes we are our worst enemies!
I really liked both main characters, but Riggs surely got a special place!
OMG, can he be more amazing? He is so sweet taking care of her and her needs, and being trully carefull with her feelings. That line when he was learning her secret, and kept supporting her.. 🫠
“I’ll give you whatever you want, Magnolia. And I want you to know how honored I am that you’ve trusted me with your truths. Your tears. I don’t take any of it for granted. Not any of it.” 🫠🫠
I believe that the right word to describe Riggs toward Mags is Devotion. Total and complete devotion! And he he is not afraid to admit it and even show it!
"I will do whatever it takes, will be whoever you need, as long as you let me love you.”
"You are a treasure. A wonder. An absolute force of a woman. And it is my undying honor to be yours.”
How can a woman stay on her feet with these lines? It's a dream man, surely..
And Magnolia realises how lucky she is and understands that she will want and love him 'till eternity.
I also liked her sisters and their family relationship. And even though they were not always envolved and super close, they really cared and fought for one another. It was sweet.
I'm gonna follow this series and binge them from the moment they come out! It's that amazing!
May 22, 2024
Have you ever wanted to pretend you were someone more exciting than who you are? Well that's exactly what Magnolia does.
We start off at a karoke bar and her flirting with this older guy. When their paths cross outside the bar she absolutely FREAKS! She demands he tell absolutely no one about her singing but won't explain why. He learns how to make his way to her heart and boy are there sparks. 🥵 the spicy is amazing and holy cow does he know how to take care of his girl.
There is a curse and Magnolia is so terrified of it I feared she would block everyone out of her life. But with Riggs she is even stronger than she already is. Who could even think to stop 7 witches when they all work together but what happens when the curse isn't what they thought it was? I love how this story focuses on family and being inclusive. That everyone should be included and feel love. The biggest lesson of all is don't trust the sisters when they give you something to drink haha just joking or am I? Always love yourself and don't doubt who you are because that doubt could be what actually ruins your life. So believe in yourself, sing those songs even if you suck and never ever give up on yourself.
I also cannot get over how adorable Riggs is. He may be 50 but his adorable going from a confident man to a small kid doubting that she likes him was so cute haha. I also loved how close he was to his dad and how awesome is dad is. I hope one of the future stories has werewolves because I want to see his reaction hahaha
I truly hope we get even more stories about these witches because they each are such a character haha.
Thank you again for letting me read! I enjoyed it so much and I cannot wait to read it again!
This is a standalone series but only a small Novella and this story have been release so far. You can easily read them on their own 😍
#books
#booktrovert
#romance
#Witches
#HeFallsHard
#CircleOfTrust
#booklover
#reading
#FinishInOneDay
#bookmarks
#bookstagram
#bookworm
#bookaddict
#ItCouldHaveBeenDrugs
#sisterlove
#DontDrinkTheTea
We start off at a karoke bar and her flirting with this older guy. When their paths cross outside the bar she absolutely FREAKS! She demands he tell absolutely no one about her singing but won't explain why. He learns how to make his way to her heart and boy are there sparks. 🥵 the spicy is amazing and holy cow does he know how to take care of his girl.
There is a curse and Magnolia is so terrified of it I feared she would block everyone out of her life. But with Riggs she is even stronger than she already is. Who could even think to stop 7 witches when they all work together but what happens when the curse isn't what they thought it was? I love how this story focuses on family and being inclusive. That everyone should be included and feel love. The biggest lesson of all is don't trust the sisters when they give you something to drink haha just joking or am I? Always love yourself and don't doubt who you are because that doubt could be what actually ruins your life. So believe in yourself, sing those songs even if you suck and never ever give up on yourself.
I also cannot get over how adorable Riggs is. He may be 50 but his adorable going from a confident man to a small kid doubting that she likes him was so cute haha. I also loved how close he was to his dad and how awesome is dad is. I hope one of the future stories has werewolves because I want to see his reaction hahaha
I truly hope we get even more stories about these witches because they each are such a character haha.
Thank you again for letting me read! I enjoyed it so much and I cannot wait to read it again!
This is a standalone series but only a small Novella and this story have been release so far. You can easily read them on their own 😍
#books
#booktrovert
#romance
#Witches
#HeFallsHard
#CircleOfTrust
#booklover
#reading
#FinishInOneDay
#bookmarks
#bookstagram
#bookworm
#bookaddict
#ItCouldHaveBeenDrugs
#sisterlove
#DontDrinkTheTea
August 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
A rom-com with characters in their 40s, witchy vibes, a super sweet magic system, and a super quaint small town all within the same book? Yes, please!!! No thinking, just yes please!
This is exactly what Valerie delivers in this book. This reader is “later in life” and although I adore reading about 20 and 30 year olds, I adore when an author shines a light on your 40s are just as exciting, if not more, than the past two decades. And although this book released earlier this year it is a great read as we head into fall. Think Practical Magic and The Good Witch vibes for this book.
Magnolia and Riggs leap off the pages as their characters meet, develop, and evolve together. Magnolia starts off shy, quiet, low profile, and a bit estranged from her family. That is until she gets a microphone in her hand! She transforms on stage into Seven; confident, cool chick, who can belt out tunes.
This is what catches Riggs eyes. He’s known Seven for a year now and is ready to make his move. But when he discovers who Seven really is, a bit of complication enters the story. He decides how he feels about her is too big to not act on. Through his constant support, unrelenting ability to make her feel sexy, and being head of heels for her; he beings to help Magnolia and Seven morph into one whole being that is the true Magnolia.
Valerie writes an amazing story about love later in life. She reminds people that getting older doesn’t end the desire to feel sexy and wanted. There is no age limit for finding love and expressing that love. Love is magical when you truly embrace it.
As always review trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
🎤 Witches
🧪Secret identities
🎤Age gap
🧪Silver fox
🎤Workplace romance
🧪Magical tea
🎤Meddling sisters
🧪Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
🧪Small town
🎤 Rickrolls & Britneys
🧪Main characters over 40
A rom-com with characters in their 40s, witchy vibes, a super sweet magic system, and a super quaint small town all within the same book? Yes, please!!! No thinking, just yes please!
This is exactly what Valerie delivers in this book. This reader is “later in life” and although I adore reading about 20 and 30 year olds, I adore when an author shines a light on your 40s are just as exciting, if not more, than the past two decades. And although this book released earlier this year it is a great read as we head into fall. Think Practical Magic and The Good Witch vibes for this book.
Magnolia and Riggs leap off the pages as their characters meet, develop, and evolve together. Magnolia starts off shy, quiet, low profile, and a bit estranged from her family. That is until she gets a microphone in her hand! She transforms on stage into Seven; confident, cool chick, who can belt out tunes.
This is what catches Riggs eyes. He’s known Seven for a year now and is ready to make his move. But when he discovers who Seven really is, a bit of complication enters the story. He decides how he feels about her is too big to not act on. Through his constant support, unrelenting ability to make her feel sexy, and being head of heels for her; he beings to help Magnolia and Seven morph into one whole being that is the true Magnolia.
Valerie writes an amazing story about love later in life. She reminds people that getting older doesn’t end the desire to feel sexy and wanted. There is no age limit for finding love and expressing that love. Love is magical when you truly embrace it.
As always review trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
🎤 Witches
🧪Secret identities
🎤Age gap
🧪Silver fox
🎤Workplace romance
🧪Magical tea
🎤Meddling sisters
🧪Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
🧪Small town
🎤 Rickrolls & Britneys
🧪Main characters over 40
June 7, 2024
I loved everything about this book, I could not put it down! It was such a feel good, fun read.
I immediately liked Magnolia and Riggs! Their chemistry was off the charts! And they got together in no time!
When Magnolia is not teaching high school chemistry she is at a karaoke bar outside of town and goes by Seven. She is completely different, almost as if she’s living two separate lives.
Magnolia and Riggs meet at karaoke and have been flirting for a year. Riggs wanted to get settled into his new job but then he was finally going to ask Magnolia out on a date. Turns out, Riggs is the new high school principal…Magnolia’s boss. At first Magnolia is overwhelmed because Riggs found out her secret and she tries to avoid him. But Riggs is a persistent man and quickly wears Magnolia down.
While Magnolia and Riggs are exploring their relationship Magnolia is also dealing with a curse that has kept her at arms length from her family to avoid everyone getting hurt. When she finally lets her family in they all help her to get rid of the curse!
Without giving too much away I thought the meaning of the curse was a great message.
Magnolia and Riggs relationship was so cute, easy going and so so spicy! I loved that they were older (Magnolia in her 30s while Riggs was in his 50s).
Also Riggs calls Magnolia “my little witch” which I thought was adorable.
If you are looking for a fun, spicy small town, witchy romance this is for you!
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Dual POV
🎤 Secret Identity
🎤 Workplace romance
🎤 Age gap
🎤 Witches and magic
🎤 Found family
“𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓪𝓵𝔀𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽 𝓪𝓼 𝓵𝓸𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭. 𝓘. 𝓐𝓶. 𝓨𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼."
Thank you to Valerie Pepper, Hayling Book Storm and Happily Booked PR for the arc!
I immediately liked Magnolia and Riggs! Their chemistry was off the charts! And they got together in no time!
When Magnolia is not teaching high school chemistry she is at a karaoke bar outside of town and goes by Seven. She is completely different, almost as if she’s living two separate lives.
Magnolia and Riggs meet at karaoke and have been flirting for a year. Riggs wanted to get settled into his new job but then he was finally going to ask Magnolia out on a date. Turns out, Riggs is the new high school principal…Magnolia’s boss. At first Magnolia is overwhelmed because Riggs found out her secret and she tries to avoid him. But Riggs is a persistent man and quickly wears Magnolia down.
While Magnolia and Riggs are exploring their relationship Magnolia is also dealing with a curse that has kept her at arms length from her family to avoid everyone getting hurt. When she finally lets her family in they all help her to get rid of the curse!
Without giving too much away I thought the meaning of the curse was a great message.
Magnolia and Riggs relationship was so cute, easy going and so so spicy! I loved that they were older (Magnolia in her 30s while Riggs was in his 50s).
Also Riggs calls Magnolia “my little witch” which I thought was adorable.
If you are looking for a fun, spicy small town, witchy romance this is for you!
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Dual POV
🎤 Secret Identity
🎤 Workplace romance
🎤 Age gap
🎤 Witches and magic
🎤 Found family
“𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓪𝓵𝔀𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽 𝓪𝓼 𝓵𝓸𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭. 𝓘. 𝓐𝓶. 𝓨𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼."
Thank you to Valerie Pepper, Hayling Book Storm and Happily Booked PR for the arc!
May 27, 2024
A fun, spicy, witchy romcom with a dash of a reminder that family is everything
This book was SO fun. I immediately found myself entranced with Magnolia and Riggs and their story. Even better? There was no angst for them to get together because WHEW Riggs is not a patient man and I love him for it.
Magnolia is our FMC who is living a double life. Never quite accepting either part of herself. Until she starts falling for Riggs.
Riggs is our "new to town" MMC. And he gets quite the surprise that the mysterious karaoke bar singer that he's been flirting with for a year is actually a chemistry teacher at the school where he just started as a principal. Riggs is self-assured, calm, well adjusted and a bit possessive. All of the makings of a perfect MMC.
What I loved about this book is that yes, we focus on the love story, and then it evolves past that. We don't have to wait the whole book for the couple together, rather, we get to see the plot evolve and focus a bit around Magnolia coming into her own and embracing who she really is.
This book was special in how it handled regrowing broken relationships and handling bumps in the road with friendship, family, and unconditional love.
There is a magic system in this book, and it's really unique! The idea that a family of witches just outwardly and casually exist in an otherwise normal town seems so simple but takes a life of its own.
This is a great read if you're looking for a cozy read with a healthy dash of self-empowerment (and a very healthy dash of spice).
Overall: recommend!
This book was SO fun. I immediately found myself entranced with Magnolia and Riggs and their story. Even better? There was no angst for them to get together because WHEW Riggs is not a patient man and I love him for it.
Magnolia is our FMC who is living a double life. Never quite accepting either part of herself. Until she starts falling for Riggs.
Riggs is our "new to town" MMC. And he gets quite the surprise that the mysterious karaoke bar singer that he's been flirting with for a year is actually a chemistry teacher at the school where he just started as a principal. Riggs is self-assured, calm, well adjusted and a bit possessive. All of the makings of a perfect MMC.
What I loved about this book is that yes, we focus on the love story, and then it evolves past that. We don't have to wait the whole book for the couple together, rather, we get to see the plot evolve and focus a bit around Magnolia coming into her own and embracing who she really is.
This book was special in how it handled regrowing broken relationships and handling bumps in the road with friendship, family, and unconditional love.
There is a magic system in this book, and it's really unique! The idea that a family of witches just outwardly and casually exist in an otherwise normal town seems so simple but takes a life of its own.
This is a great read if you're looking for a cozy read with a healthy dash of self-empowerment (and a very healthy dash of spice).
Overall: recommend!
June 4, 2024
Karaoke Chemistry by Valerie Pepper is a cute paranormal rom-com! Magnolia has an alter ego that allows her to live her life without fear, that is until her secret life and real life collide with the one person who has the chance to ruin it all.
This story has fun and flirty chemistry between Magonila and Riggs; after all this time flirting at karaoke, Riggs is now the new principal where Magonial teaches high school chemistry, and the want for each other can no longer contain itself. I loved that despite the main issues of Magonila "being cursed," Riggs handles her with care and wants to work through everything together!
As much as I enjoyed this book, I had some issues that I felt like the main issue of being cursed felt very juvenile for the age of the main characters, and sometimes the book read as if Magonila was still acting the same way as she did when she was 16. I also wanted more magic throughout the book, but I understand that it was part of the storyline.
This book was fun, with flirty banter and no third-act breakup, which I loved! I also loved the best friend's supportive side characters, and the family's reconnecting was so heartwarming. Overall, I had a good time reading this book. I would recommend if you love an older man, some magic, low angst, and heartwarming story
Thank you, Happily Booked PR, for the advanced copy of this book in return for an honest book review.
TROPES:
🎤 Witches
🩵Secret identities
🎤Age gap
🩵Small town
🎤Workplace romance
🩵 Magical tea
🎤Meddling sisters
🩵 Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
🩵Dual POV
🎤 Rickrolls & Britneys
🩵 Main characters over 40
This story has fun and flirty chemistry between Magonila and Riggs; after all this time flirting at karaoke, Riggs is now the new principal where Magonial teaches high school chemistry, and the want for each other can no longer contain itself. I loved that despite the main issues of Magonila "being cursed," Riggs handles her with care and wants to work through everything together!
As much as I enjoyed this book, I had some issues that I felt like the main issue of being cursed felt very juvenile for the age of the main characters, and sometimes the book read as if Magonila was still acting the same way as she did when she was 16. I also wanted more magic throughout the book, but I understand that it was part of the storyline.
This book was fun, with flirty banter and no third-act breakup, which I loved! I also loved the best friend's supportive side characters, and the family's reconnecting was so heartwarming. Overall, I had a good time reading this book. I would recommend if you love an older man, some magic, low angst, and heartwarming story
Thank you, Happily Booked PR, for the advanced copy of this book in return for an honest book review.
TROPES:
🎤 Witches
🩵Secret identities
🎤Age gap
🩵Small town
🎤Workplace romance
🩵 Magical tea
🎤Meddling sisters
🩵 Low angst
🎤 No third act breakup
🩵Dual POV
🎤 Rickrolls & Britneys
🩵 Main characters over 40
June 7, 2024
“Then our eyes meet. And even though it’s not possible, he seems to see everything, all my secrets and fears, and accept them. Accept me. And that might be the most dangerous thing of all”
I had a great time with Karaoke Chemistry. This novel is the perfect balance between romance, modern fantasy/magical realism, lightness and steam. The magical parts and worldbuilding were really nice, with a plot that left room for surprises all along (nothing happened like I believed it would, I loved the sensation!).
Let’s talk about Riggs first. How incredible (almost too much ^^) that character is. Charismatic, supportive (how much!!!), charming… I really liked him, especially how he’s Magnolia’s champion in any circumstances.
Magnolia’s character is amazing. She has a lot of insecurities, a curse above her head, and try to clean her mess up. I adored her evolution through the pages, how endearing she is, and her whole journey, helping her to reconcile the two very different parts of herself..
Even if the story is really light-hearted, there are more themes weaved all along: memory, how dangerous it can be to forget, family, (self)-confidence, acceptance.
Karaoke Chemistry was truly a nice read, a coming of age story with 40+YO characters (kudos for that too), fun messages passed via karaoke song… and in the end a great metaphor for the middle-age crisis.
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
I had a great time with Karaoke Chemistry. This novel is the perfect balance between romance, modern fantasy/magical realism, lightness and steam. The magical parts and worldbuilding were really nice, with a plot that left room for surprises all along (nothing happened like I believed it would, I loved the sensation!).
Let’s talk about Riggs first. How incredible (almost too much ^^) that character is. Charismatic, supportive (how much!!!), charming… I really liked him, especially how he’s Magnolia’s champion in any circumstances.
Magnolia’s character is amazing. She has a lot of insecurities, a curse above her head, and try to clean her mess up. I adored her evolution through the pages, how endearing she is, and her whole journey, helping her to reconcile the two very different parts of herself..
Even if the story is really light-hearted, there are more themes weaved all along: memory, how dangerous it can be to forget, family, (self)-confidence, acceptance.
Karaoke Chemistry was truly a nice read, a coming of age story with 40+YO characters (kudos for that too), fun messages passed via karaoke song… and in the end a great metaphor for the middle-age crisis.
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
June 18, 2024
Magnolia is the chemistry teacher at the high school in her small town of Sacred River. What no one knows is that she sneaks away to another town where she is a karoke star known as Seven. Well, no one except Riggs, who happens to be the brand new principal of her high school. Magnolia tells Riggs to keep her secret. He agrees. Then, he learns that witches are real. That Magnolia is a witch, and every time she sings, someone she loves gets hurt. Also, the deeper Riggs and Magnolia's feelings for each other get, the stronger her once nonexistent powers grow.
After getting a glimpse of Sacred River and the Rowan sisters in Love Potion No. 69 I couldn't wait for the other books in this series to release. Karoke Chemistry was so much fun! Magnolia and Riggs have such a great connection. When they first meet at karoke, they have great banter and an electric pull to each other. I love that they are both older characters, and that being so, Riggs knows he wants Magnolia and goes for her. He's doesn't even back away when he finds out she's a witch. Magnolia's story and what she's going through is very heartbreaking. I love how Riggs is there to support her. This book had a lot more witchy elements, and we see more of the entire Rowan in this one. The spicy scenes are 🥵. Not to mention, there are plenty of them, and Riggs sure knows how to please his woman. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
After getting a glimpse of Sacred River and the Rowan sisters in Love Potion No. 69 I couldn't wait for the other books in this series to release. Karoke Chemistry was so much fun! Magnolia and Riggs have such a great connection. When they first meet at karoke, they have great banter and an electric pull to each other. I love that they are both older characters, and that being so, Riggs knows he wants Magnolia and goes for her. He's doesn't even back away when he finds out she's a witch. Magnolia's story and what she's going through is very heartbreaking. I love how Riggs is there to support her. This book had a lot more witchy elements, and we see more of the entire Rowan in this one. The spicy scenes are 🥵. Not to mention, there are plenty of them, and Riggs sure knows how to please his woman. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
August 29, 2024
After discovering this was a book 2 and quickly catching up with Love Potion no. 69 I thoroughly enjoyed this witchy romance! This does again have a slightly higher than average smut percentage but not to the extent of the other one and it doesn't overshadow the story at all. It's also unsurprising since due to the witchy nature the romance storyline itself is quite fast-paced so there's then plenty of time for lots of smut during the rest of the storyline haha.
I loved getting to see more of Magnolia and her experience with the magic within the Rowan family (and we got to see more of some of the other sisters too, I'm looking forward to seeing which sister gets her love story next). I love the fact that the books are witchy but also kind of subtle with it. No one's out there casting big spells around having full-on battles with dark witches or anything. They're just mixing different herbs into teas to make people tell the truth and asking the universe for favours. It's very cute and cosy witchy vibes, I love it.
Magnolia and Riggs were both great characters on their own and together. Magnolia's two sides were great, not in a two completely different people way but her calm quiet chemistry teacher side and confident karaoke singer where nobody knows who she is side were both lovely and a mix of who she is. And Riggs was a really nice person and great boyfriend. I also loved the way they used the karaoke songs to sing to each other about how they were feeling, I thought that was really cool!
I loved getting to see more of Magnolia and her experience with the magic within the Rowan family (and we got to see more of some of the other sisters too, I'm looking forward to seeing which sister gets her love story next). I love the fact that the books are witchy but also kind of subtle with it. No one's out there casting big spells around having full-on battles with dark witches or anything. They're just mixing different herbs into teas to make people tell the truth and asking the universe for favours. It's very cute and cosy witchy vibes, I love it.
Magnolia and Riggs were both great characters on their own and together. Magnolia's two sides were great, not in a two completely different people way but her calm quiet chemistry teacher side and confident karaoke singer where nobody knows who she is side were both lovely and a mix of who she is. And Riggs was a really nice person and great boyfriend. I also loved the way they used the karaoke songs to sing to each other about how they were feeling, I thought that was really cool!
May 24, 2024
It comes as no surprise that Valerie killed it once again! After reading Love Potion No. 69, I knew I absolutely needed more of Sacred River and of these amazing characters! Valerie is the QUEEN of small town romance, I swear. Add in the witchy vibes and karaoke and it makes everything perfect! I loved how simple the magic system is and I’m absolutely obsessed with the Rowan family!
Magnolia and Riggs are perfection. First of all, I love that they are older characters over 40. It’s definitely nice for a change! Magnolia is the sweetest and I truly loved watching her grow throughout her story. She deserves all that is good in the world. Now Riggs, SIR. A man who is 50 and knows what he wants and that just happens to be Magnolia. God this man. I need one just like him for myself. Just sayin! 🤷🏻♀️ The chemistry between these two was amazing and those spicy scenes were incredible, which came as no surprise from Valerie since her spicy scenes are always amazing!
I absolutely loved Valerie’s Guided to Love series and now I’ve already fallen in love with this series as well! I can’t wait for more!
Read if you love:
🩵Witchy Vibes
🎤Secret Identities
🩵Age Gap- Main Characters over 40
🎤Small Town Romance
🩵Dual POV
🎤No 3rd Act Breakup
🩵Amazing Karaoke Song Choices
Thanks so much to Valerie for letting me be on her Influencer team and for the ARC for an honest review!
Magnolia and Riggs are perfection. First of all, I love that they are older characters over 40. It’s definitely nice for a change! Magnolia is the sweetest and I truly loved watching her grow throughout her story. She deserves all that is good in the world. Now Riggs, SIR. A man who is 50 and knows what he wants and that just happens to be Magnolia. God this man. I need one just like him for myself. Just sayin! 🤷🏻♀️ The chemistry between these two was amazing and those spicy scenes were incredible, which came as no surprise from Valerie since her spicy scenes are always amazing!
I absolutely loved Valerie’s Guided to Love series and now I’ve already fallen in love with this series as well! I can’t wait for more!
Read if you love:
🩵Witchy Vibes
🎤Secret Identities
🩵Age Gap- Main Characters over 40
🎤Small Town Romance
🩵Dual POV
🎤No 3rd Act Breakup
🩵Amazing Karaoke Song Choices
Thanks so much to Valerie for letting me be on her Influencer team and for the ARC for an honest review!
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