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When Flowers Wilt
To keep her soul, she'll have to make a deal with the Devil.
The Dark Lady comes for a witch's soul on their eighteenth birthday. That's the way it's always been, but Vivian's instincts are telling her to run.
So she does.
Fleeing from home and denouncing all magic, she spends the next ten years with one foot out the door, terrified that the ruler of Hell will come knocking. But when her suppressed magic finally breaks free and the Dark Lady tracks her down, it's not to claim her soul. Covens have been disappearing under mysterious circumstances and she needs Vivian--and her magic--to stop it.
Using the Dark Lady's desperation, Vivian strikes a deal: she will help, but only if she gets to keep her soul.
As her connection to both her magic and to the alluring ruler of Hell gets stronger, Vivian uncovers the horrifying truth: there is something far more dangerous than the Devil out there, and it's coming for her.
This is a sapphic paranormal romance with dual POV.
The Dark Lady comes for a witch's soul on their eighteenth birthday. That's the way it's always been, but Vivian's instincts are telling her to run.
So she does.
Fleeing from home and denouncing all magic, she spends the next ten years with one foot out the door, terrified that the ruler of Hell will come knocking. But when her suppressed magic finally breaks free and the Dark Lady tracks her down, it's not to claim her soul. Covens have been disappearing under mysterious circumstances and she needs Vivian--and her magic--to stop it.
Using the Dark Lady's desperation, Vivian strikes a deal: she will help, but only if she gets to keep her soul.
As her connection to both her magic and to the alluring ruler of Hell gets stronger, Vivian uncovers the horrifying truth: there is something far more dangerous than the Devil out there, and it's coming for her.
This is a sapphic paranormal romance with dual POV.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2024
112 people are currently reading
999 people want to read
About the author
G.E. Masters
4 books84 followersG.E. Masters is an author of dark sapphic romance. Ever since she was a child, she was fascinated with imaginary worlds and creating complex characters in her head. Now, she's writing those stories to share. She writes all things paranormal to horror and loves morally grey characters and women's wrongs.
When she's not writing, she's at the pottery studio or at home with her two cats and dachshund.
When she's not writing, she's at the pottery studio or at home with her two cats and dachshund.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
January 19, 2026
DNF this one at 28%. I'm actually really annoyed and disappointed with the author for this one. There is a trigger warning for "sexual assult (not between main characters)" and "dubious consent"... This is NOT the case! The Dark Lady literally Nothing "dubious" about that.
July 16, 2024
HAD TO BE A CLIFFHANGER!!! I could see it coming though, the big fights were coming up close to end, so I’m glad that it didn’t end just abruptly, but part 2 is coming and I can’t wait!
A very interesting story, and didn’t have any boring moments. Moments of sadness yes, the main character and even initial villain has been through it, so you do want them to fight but can see that sometimes the fight just can’t be in there. I liked it, can’t wait for the next.
A very interesting story, and didn’t have any boring moments. Moments of sadness yes, the main character and even initial villain has been through it, so you do want them to fight but can see that sometimes the fight just can’t be in there. I liked it, can’t wait for the next.
September 2, 2025
4 Stars
A random book for me to pick. No expectations. Read a bit of hype around it previously but I wanted to form my own opinion.
I think the polarising main characters worked very well in the story. The enemies to lovers was front and centre and it proved successful in endearing the characters to me. Vivian’s (the sunshine made of pink rainbows character) antics would not have worked without Venus’s doom and gloom attitude, personality and style. The enmeshing of opposites was perfectly balanced.
The incremental release of information regarding the overarching plot was cleverly done by the author. The balance between above mentioned in conjunction with the characters’ development complimented the story telling which only spurred me on to want to finish the book in one go.
In conclusion, When Flowers Wilt by GE Masters was an enjoyable and satisfying read. Cliffhangers are annoying but needed (I guess) for anticipation building. But I honestly dread Vivian’s side of the story.
A random book for me to pick. No expectations. Read a bit of hype around it previously but I wanted to form my own opinion.
I think the polarising main characters worked very well in the story. The enemies to lovers was front and centre and it proved successful in endearing the characters to me. Vivian’s (the sunshine made of pink rainbows character) antics would not have worked without Venus’s doom and gloom attitude, personality and style. The enmeshing of opposites was perfectly balanced.
The incremental release of information regarding the overarching plot was cleverly done by the author. The balance between above mentioned in conjunction with the characters’ development complimented the story telling which only spurred me on to want to finish the book in one go.
In conclusion, When Flowers Wilt by GE Masters was an enjoyable and satisfying read. Cliffhangers are annoying but needed (I guess) for anticipation building. But I honestly dread Vivian’s side of the story.
November 6, 2024
✸ 𝒯ℴ 𝓀ℯℯ𝓅 𝒽ℯ𝓇 𝓈ℴ𝓊𝓁, 𝓈𝒽ℯ'𝓁𝓁 𝒽𝒶𝓋ℯ 𝓉ℴ 𝓂𝒶𝓀ℯ 𝒶 𝒹ℯ𝒶𝓁 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓓𝓔𝓥𝓘𝓛 ✷
Let’s start off with it being a dual pov sapphic paranormal romance 🥵 now add the fact that the devil is the 𝒟𝒶𝓇𝓀 ℒ𝒶𝒹𝓎. I haven’t read anything other then dark romance in awhile but picking up this book I was instantly sucked into the fantasy side. It’s very fast paced but continuously builds the world around you. The spice is defiantly giving 𝓢𝓟𝓘𝓒𝓔. Highly recommend but please mark sure to check the 𝓣𝓡𝓘𝓖𝓖𝓔𝓡 𝓦𝓐𝓡𝓝𝓘𝓝𝓖𝓢!
Let’s start off with it being a dual pov sapphic paranormal romance 🥵 now add the fact that the devil is the 𝒟𝒶𝓇𝓀 ℒ𝒶𝒹𝓎. I haven’t read anything other then dark romance in awhile but picking up this book I was instantly sucked into the fantasy side. It’s very fast paced but continuously builds the world around you. The spice is defiantly giving 𝓢𝓟𝓘𝓒𝓔. Highly recommend but please mark sure to check the 𝓣𝓡𝓘𝓖𝓖𝓔𝓡 𝓦𝓐𝓡𝓝𝓘𝓝𝓖𝓢!
March 29, 2025
I was very excited going into When Flowers Wilt by GE Masters, and the cover was intriguing. I liked the premise, but the execution fell flat. The writing was clean and easy to follow. The beginning scene immediately piqued my interest. Unfortunately, the main characters seemed like caricatures, and I don't think I ever believed them.
The lore mostly worked for me, though the magic as a separate entity threw me off a bit.
The "she makes me want to be a better person" concept as a redemption arc was okay for me but overall, not compelling, as I wasn't fully invested in the characters. There were some spicy scenes as well. The dubious consent and sex in exchange for forgiveness wasn't really my thing either, but there were trigger warnings, so it wasn't a surprise.
There wasn't much in the way of a supporting cast. The secondary characters were one-dimensional and not very involved.
This is a duology. There is a cliffhanger.
I read other reviewers quite enjoyed this story, so it is probably a me thing, but I don't really care to read the sequel.
#magic #paranormal #witches #devil #powerplay #dubiousconsent #oppositesattract #grumpy/sunshine #agegap #enemiestolovers #Pennsylvania #Chicago #powerdifferential #lore #morallyambiguous
I received a free ARC from the author through BookSprout. This is my honest opinion.
The lore mostly worked for me, though the magic as a separate entity threw me off a bit.
The "she makes me want to be a better person" concept as a redemption arc was okay for me but overall, not compelling, as I wasn't fully invested in the characters. There were some spicy scenes as well. The dubious consent and sex in exchange for forgiveness wasn't really my thing either, but there were trigger warnings, so it wasn't a surprise.
There wasn't much in the way of a supporting cast. The secondary characters were one-dimensional and not very involved.
This is a duology. There is a cliffhanger.
I read other reviewers quite enjoyed this story, so it is probably a me thing, but I don't really care to read the sequel.
#magic #paranormal #witches #devil #powerplay #dubiousconsent #oppositesattract #grumpy/sunshine #agegap #enemiestolovers #Pennsylvania #Chicago #powerdifferential #lore #morallyambiguous
I received a free ARC from the author through BookSprout. This is my honest opinion.
February 26, 2025
1.5 stars rounded down.
I had a difficult time with this book. I felt as though it lacked a lot of details and the story didn’t flow. The two MCs, Vivian and the Dark Lady, didn’t make me feel anything about their connection and it was majorly rushed/sudden. In some parts of the story, I honestly felt a bit awkward reading their interactions.
Overall the characters felt a bit juvenile, Vivian is supposed to be a 28 year old woman while the Dark Lady is supposed to be “immortal”, but they surely don’t act like adults. I wanted to like the story because of the plot, but it just wasn’t it for me. Everything felt very quick and it was very back and forth. The Dark Lady did some horrible things to Vivian and Vivian was so quick to throw out forgiveness when I felt as though there should’ve been more build up or time. Unfortunately I felt that this story lacked in many aspects and by the time I was getting close to finishing the book I just wanted to be done.
I had a difficult time with this book. I felt as though it lacked a lot of details and the story didn’t flow. The two MCs, Vivian and the Dark Lady, didn’t make me feel anything about their connection and it was majorly rushed/sudden. In some parts of the story, I honestly felt a bit awkward reading their interactions.
Overall the characters felt a bit juvenile, Vivian is supposed to be a 28 year old woman while the Dark Lady is supposed to be “immortal”, but they surely don’t act like adults. I wanted to like the story because of the plot, but it just wasn’t it for me. Everything felt very quick and it was very back and forth. The Dark Lady did some horrible things to Vivian and Vivian was so quick to throw out forgiveness when I felt as though there should’ve been more build up or time. Unfortunately I felt that this story lacked in many aspects and by the time I was getting close to finishing the book I just wanted to be done.
October 30, 2024
4.5 Stars :)
Vivian has never fit in with the rest of her coven. While the other witches worship the dark Vivian has always been pulled towards the light. The only person she connects with is her aunt, but even she supports Vivian giving her soul to the Devil, just as every other witch does on their 18th birthday. But when the time comes and Vivian finally comes face to face with The Dark Lady something inside her tells her to flee…so she does.
Ten years later Vivian is still on the run, never staying in one place too long. After an accident with a dead succulent though her magic gives her location away and Vivian’s nightmares come to life. But Vivian soon finds out someone has been killing covens and The Dark Lady is desperate enough to let Vivian keep her soul on the condition she helps. Vivian reluctantly agrees but as the two investigate the answer becomes much darker and ancient than she ever could have realized. Will Vivian and The Dark Lady be able to come together and defeat this evil? Or will The Dark Lady’s secrets poison whatever chance they have at saving the world? All the witchy nightmare-fueled hijinks in When Flowers Wilt.
This book was a perfect pre-Halloween read. It was such a great queer twist on the “dark romance” genre that is sweeping book lovers. The author did a great job blending the smutty scenes with strong emotional development from both main characters. Alongside easy-to-digest lore that kept me guessing while giving me just enough to be on the edge of my seat. The dual POV lent well to the story's pacing, allowing it to move without any big lulls. The writing style kept me engaged and wasn't juvenile or cheap. If you like spicy, grumpy/sunshine romances with high-stakes fantasy vibes, then you are in the right place!
The character development stood out in a way I was not expecting. Usually, books are heavily plot-led or character-led, yet this somehow managed to do both. Although they do fall into gimmicky or stereotype territory occasionally both Vivian and The Dark Lady manage to pluck at your heartstrings. From Vivan’s struggles with her autonomy to The Dark Lady’s guarded walls, you get to grow along with them. And their struggles and setbacks are grounded in reality as people can’t change overnight.
Yet despite all the character arcs, the plot never takes a backseat. You are immediately thrust into a world that is so like our own yet has deep secrets and forgotten gods. Which allowed the lore to flow seamlessly and never bog the story down with outlandish rules. The deep emotional themes and healing push the story forward and work well with the external plot. And with this unlikely pair seeming to be the key to saving the world, you never get a moment of peace. Not to mention some of the kinkiest sex scenes I have read in a long time. Although you have to read the trigger warnings before diving in, please remember to check those pre-readings, as there are some heavy and dark themes portrayed and discussed throughout.
All in all this witchy paranormal romance is a must-read. From the smutty kinky scenes to the high-stakes cliffhanger ending. Not to mention wishing you could take a tour of hell and maybe even sell your soul. If you like enemies to lovers with deep emotional themes and spell casting then you are in the right place. Happy reading!
TW: Sexually explicit scenes, anxiety, depression, death of a family member, torture, dubious consent, blood play, wing play, shadow play, bondage, mental and emotional abuse (discussed), assault (not between MCs)
Thanks so much to GE Masters for sending me a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For more sapphic reviews follow @the.lebian.library on Instagram, StoryGraph, Goodreads, and Tiktok
Vivian has never fit in with the rest of her coven. While the other witches worship the dark Vivian has always been pulled towards the light. The only person she connects with is her aunt, but even she supports Vivian giving her soul to the Devil, just as every other witch does on their 18th birthday. But when the time comes and Vivian finally comes face to face with The Dark Lady something inside her tells her to flee…so she does.
Ten years later Vivian is still on the run, never staying in one place too long. After an accident with a dead succulent though her magic gives her location away and Vivian’s nightmares come to life. But Vivian soon finds out someone has been killing covens and The Dark Lady is desperate enough to let Vivian keep her soul on the condition she helps. Vivian reluctantly agrees but as the two investigate the answer becomes much darker and ancient than she ever could have realized. Will Vivian and The Dark Lady be able to come together and defeat this evil? Or will The Dark Lady’s secrets poison whatever chance they have at saving the world? All the witchy nightmare-fueled hijinks in When Flowers Wilt.
This book was a perfect pre-Halloween read. It was such a great queer twist on the “dark romance” genre that is sweeping book lovers. The author did a great job blending the smutty scenes with strong emotional development from both main characters. Alongside easy-to-digest lore that kept me guessing while giving me just enough to be on the edge of my seat. The dual POV lent well to the story's pacing, allowing it to move without any big lulls. The writing style kept me engaged and wasn't juvenile or cheap. If you like spicy, grumpy/sunshine romances with high-stakes fantasy vibes, then you are in the right place!
The character development stood out in a way I was not expecting. Usually, books are heavily plot-led or character-led, yet this somehow managed to do both. Although they do fall into gimmicky or stereotype territory occasionally both Vivian and The Dark Lady manage to pluck at your heartstrings. From Vivan’s struggles with her autonomy to The Dark Lady’s guarded walls, you get to grow along with them. And their struggles and setbacks are grounded in reality as people can’t change overnight.
Yet despite all the character arcs, the plot never takes a backseat. You are immediately thrust into a world that is so like our own yet has deep secrets and forgotten gods. Which allowed the lore to flow seamlessly and never bog the story down with outlandish rules. The deep emotional themes and healing push the story forward and work well with the external plot. And with this unlikely pair seeming to be the key to saving the world, you never get a moment of peace. Not to mention some of the kinkiest sex scenes I have read in a long time. Although you have to read the trigger warnings before diving in, please remember to check those pre-readings, as there are some heavy and dark themes portrayed and discussed throughout.
All in all this witchy paranormal romance is a must-read. From the smutty kinky scenes to the high-stakes cliffhanger ending. Not to mention wishing you could take a tour of hell and maybe even sell your soul. If you like enemies to lovers with deep emotional themes and spell casting then you are in the right place. Happy reading!
TW: Sexually explicit scenes, anxiety, depression, death of a family member, torture, dubious consent, blood play, wing play, shadow play, bondage, mental and emotional abuse (discussed), assault (not between MCs)
Thanks so much to GE Masters for sending me a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For more sapphic reviews follow @the.lebian.library on Instagram, StoryGraph, Goodreads, and Tiktok
October 30, 2024
Well shit. Thank Hell book 2 comes out soon, and I’m STOKED it’s gonna be a duology! The pacing in this book is chefs kiss perfection: not rushed and not slow whatsoever. Something’s always happening, be it the plot moving forward or the 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 building insurmountably higher.
I loooove a good quick fantasy read that manages to not also give me whiplash. The 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗲 𝘅 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 is truly magical, the 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 is spicing, and the 𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘁 is full-bodied but easily grasped.
I dutifully waited for this book to release after following Masters on ig and being instantly convinced via the artwork she commissioned; 10/10 no notes, I’m obsessed, their story is living upto the art! This is a great sapphic fantasy read and I literally cannot wait for book 2 (might have to break my taking-a-break-from-arcs-stint to apply for that one once it’s available 🤪)
I loooove a good quick fantasy read that manages to not also give me whiplash. The 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗲 𝘅 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 is truly magical, the 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 is spicing, and the 𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘁 is full-bodied but easily grasped.
I dutifully waited for this book to release after following Masters on ig and being instantly convinced via the artwork she commissioned; 10/10 no notes, I’m obsessed, their story is living upto the art! This is a great sapphic fantasy read and I literally cannot wait for book 2 (might have to break my taking-a-break-from-arcs-stint to apply for that one once it’s available 🤪)
November 5, 2024
WHAT?! Don't leave me hanging like that! As if GE Masters could read my mind, I was just thinking a few days ago how great it would be to have a novel with the devil being a woman, and low and behold, here we are! I love the idea of showing that women can be unworldly forces of evil as much as any man. I finished this book in one sitting and cannot wait for book two.
September 5, 2024
Okay so I was a little late to the party with this ARC because I heard about very recently but I’m so glad that found out about it because this story has made it’s way into my top 3 romantasies.
When Flowers Wilt by G.E. Masters tells the story of Vivian, a young witch who is subject to her coven’s tradition of committing their souls to The Dark Lady at the age of 18. When it is time to give up her soul Vivian decides to run instead of hand her soul over peacefully.
Vivian manages to evade The Dark Lady for 10 years as the magical being tracks her down but eventually, The Dark Lady catches up to Vivian but there is a twist. She now needs Vivian’s help to find out what is happening to witches going missing around the world. Vivian agrees to help on one condition, once she is finished her soul is safe.
The world that Masters has created is so fascinating and well thought through, and the way that the book reveals it to the viewer is execptional. One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to fantasy is feeling like I'm being bombarded by a ton of worldbuilding however Masters doesn't do that. Masters instead introduces us to the world that she has created at a gradual pace that feels natural without making the reader feel like they are missing vital information.
Master’s characters are so much fun! Vivian is a hot pink 2000s movie personified (you know what I'm talking about) she’s bright and bouncy but still a powerful earth magic baddie in her hot pink pumps. 🩷 Vivian grew up feeling like an outcast among her coven so when it came time to give up her soul to the Dark Lady who her coven worships it was an obvious choice for her to run. I love how we get to see how the way she was treated growing up impacted who she becomes and how her constant running had made it impossible for her to put down roots. I feel like we see such a crazy amount of growth in Vivian’s character from an anxious teen to a grown woman. Even though her effervescent exterior may be off putting to some Masters does an amazing job at delving into her characters in a way that allows the reader to truly understand them and their motivations. Vivian is probably one of the most relatable characters I’ve read in a while which probably says more about me than I’d like.
There is so much I want to say about Venus/The Dark Lady but getting to know her is so much of the fun of the book and don’t want to give too much away . Venus is a complex and deeply flawed character and by the end of this book I absolutely loved her. I loved diving into her mythology and backstory and feel like we’ve only scratched the surface so far.
I definitely should have known better than to apply for an ARC for the first book because I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about where the story might go next! What are you still doing here? Go preorder the book now.
More fangirling on my insta: @brigid_reads_romance
When Flowers Wilt by G.E. Masters tells the story of Vivian, a young witch who is subject to her coven’s tradition of committing their souls to The Dark Lady at the age of 18. When it is time to give up her soul Vivian decides to run instead of hand her soul over peacefully.
Vivian manages to evade The Dark Lady for 10 years as the magical being tracks her down but eventually, The Dark Lady catches up to Vivian but there is a twist. She now needs Vivian’s help to find out what is happening to witches going missing around the world. Vivian agrees to help on one condition, once she is finished her soul is safe.
The world that Masters has created is so fascinating and well thought through, and the way that the book reveals it to the viewer is execptional. One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to fantasy is feeling like I'm being bombarded by a ton of worldbuilding however Masters doesn't do that. Masters instead introduces us to the world that she has created at a gradual pace that feels natural without making the reader feel like they are missing vital information.
Master’s characters are so much fun! Vivian is a hot pink 2000s movie personified (you know what I'm talking about) she’s bright and bouncy but still a powerful earth magic baddie in her hot pink pumps. 🩷 Vivian grew up feeling like an outcast among her coven so when it came time to give up her soul to the Dark Lady who her coven worships it was an obvious choice for her to run. I love how we get to see how the way she was treated growing up impacted who she becomes and how her constant running had made it impossible for her to put down roots. I feel like we see such a crazy amount of growth in Vivian’s character from an anxious teen to a grown woman. Even though her effervescent exterior may be off putting to some Masters does an amazing job at delving into her characters in a way that allows the reader to truly understand them and their motivations. Vivian is probably one of the most relatable characters I’ve read in a while which probably says more about me than I’d like.
There is so much I want to say about Venus/The Dark Lady but getting to know her is so much of the fun of the book and don’t want to give too much away . Venus is a complex and deeply flawed character and by the end of this book I absolutely loved her. I loved diving into her mythology and backstory and feel like we’ve only scratched the surface so far.
I definitely should have known better than to apply for an ARC for the first book because I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about where the story might go next! What are you still doing here? Go preorder the book now.
More fangirling on my insta: @brigid_reads_romance
September 14, 2024
I found When Flowers Wilt thoroughly enjoyable. It was well crafted and the witchy world Masters envisioned was interesting. I loved the Dark Lady, she started off as a bit one dimensional, but her character got so much deeper and more complex as the story went on. Vivian didn't get quite as much depth, but I was captivated by her nonetheless.
There were definitely some darker themes throughout the story, what with the Dark Lady being the ruler of Hell and all, but it was handled well. The relationship between the two developed at a nice pace, and there was some fun spice in the mix. It does end on a cliffhanger, but damn if I'm not looking forward to the conclusion! This gets a 4.5 rounded to 5 from me.
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
There were definitely some darker themes throughout the story, what with the Dark Lady being the ruler of Hell and all, but it was handled well. The relationship between the two developed at a nice pace, and there was some fun spice in the mix. It does end on a cliffhanger, but damn if I'm not looking forward to the conclusion! This gets a 4.5 rounded to 5 from me.
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
April 21, 2025
I’ve been slowly reading this book like a chapter a day on kindle so that way I can get the kindle bookmarks lol but it was actually a fun sapphic fantasy. Leaving it off on a cliffhanger… might have to read the second.
October 30, 2024
I need book 2!!
February 17, 2025
Wow. I don’t even know where to start. Fantasy has never really been my thing, but this book has seriously made me question that. I LOVE Venus and Vivian so much! I very clearly felt their emotions with the beautifully written words, and perfect imagery described. The visual of the Dark Lady is amazing, and she is definitely sitting at the top of my favorite characters of all time! This being a debut novel is beyond impressive and I look forward to all future releases by G. E. Masters!
With it ending in a cliffhanger, I am so thankful to be able to read the next one right away— but I am beyond nervous to see what happens next!
With it ending in a cliffhanger, I am so thankful to be able to read the next one right away— but I am beyond nervous to see what happens next!
August 26, 2024
.. .. This book .. .. I’m, I’m near speechless. Honestly starting out I didn’t know what to expect, all I knew was that it sounded interesting and I wanted to read. Interesting however doesn’t even begin to describe this book. I was entwined start to finish, I read it in UNDER 24hrs, literally couldn’t put it down. The story itself is such a beautifully unique interpretation and is executed magnificently. The writing is clean and pristine. The characters crafted marvelously. The world exquisite. And the story.. oh the story. Like I said it is such a beautifully unique one and I’m just in speechless awe. The relationship that unfurls between the FMCs is so incredibly wonderful. The build up so intense and engaging, hence my inability to put it down. Through characters and story combined the author takes us in an emotional rollercoaster of emotions, feeling all the feels along the way. They manage to portray it all so well and so powerfully that you feel all these feels with your entire being. It truly is a magnificent talent.
Warning, there is a cliffhanger ending that leaves you dangling by a pinky toe off a cliff just awaiting the rescue the next book will bring so brace yourselves!
Warning, there is a cliffhanger ending that leaves you dangling by a pinky toe off a cliff just awaiting the rescue the next book will bring so brace yourselves!
August 26, 2024
GE Master’s debut novel, When Flowers Wilt, is about a Barbie-type witch, Vivian, and the vengeful goddess of darkness, Venus, whom she begrudgingly falls head over heels for. Begrudgingly because Venus wants Vivian’s soul, and she has spent the better half of a decade hunting her. However, when they finally come face to face, they have bigger fish to fry. Plus, it’s hard for Vivian to stay angry when Venus is so damn sexy.
Although the book is fast-paced, the enemies-to-lovers progression feels natural, with several moments of give and take between the women that lead to their eventual understanding… and then several scenes of magically enhanced, unique spice. The world-building is also well done, weaving witchy lore with the contemporary setting in an engaging, followable way. The cliffhanger is a downer, but if I didn’t like the story, I suppose I wouldn’t care one way or the other. But bring on Part 2, and thank you for the opportunity to R&R Part 1!
If Chilling Adventures of Sabrina vibes mixed with a steamy paranormal investigation show sounds like your thing, you should check this story out.
Although the book is fast-paced, the enemies-to-lovers progression feels natural, with several moments of give and take between the women that lead to their eventual understanding… and then several scenes of magically enhanced, unique spice. The world-building is also well done, weaving witchy lore with the contemporary setting in an engaging, followable way. The cliffhanger is a downer, but if I didn’t like the story, I suppose I wouldn’t care one way or the other. But bring on Part 2, and thank you for the opportunity to R&R Part 1!
If Chilling Adventures of Sabrina vibes mixed with a steamy paranormal investigation show sounds like your thing, you should check this story out.
September 12, 2024
4.5⭐️. I am gutted…the cliffhanger omg.
This was so well done! The world building was perfect, yet only just touched on with promises of more to come.
The glorious clash between the MCs was palpable. A nice angsty enemies to lovers.
The character arc of Venus, or Dark Lady, was amazing and beautiful. With both POV’s, It was so exciting to get to watch her arc. I can’t wait to see how she continues to develop!
Vivian is a pretty in pink, legally blonde, bombshell. She was always the outcast of her coven and mother with only her aunt as any kind of care giver. She fled on her 18th birthday, not wanting to give her soul to the Dark Lady.
Naturally they are brought together again ten years later and phew it’s a ride! Highly recommend!!
This was so well done! The world building was perfect, yet only just touched on with promises of more to come.
The glorious clash between the MCs was palpable. A nice angsty enemies to lovers.
The character arc of Venus, or Dark Lady, was amazing and beautiful. With both POV’s, It was so exciting to get to watch her arc. I can’t wait to see how she continues to develop!
Vivian is a pretty in pink, legally blonde, bombshell. She was always the outcast of her coven and mother with only her aunt as any kind of care giver. She fled on her 18th birthday, not wanting to give her soul to the Dark Lady.
Naturally they are brought together again ten years later and phew it’s a ride! Highly recommend!!
July 18, 2024
Ok, WHAT?! You’ve got enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine vibes, a freaking SHADOW MOMMY. I could not put this down, literally read it in one sitting. So good and I cannot wait for the next one.
There was a perfect amount of spice, not purely smut, but the spicy scenes were spicing! Vivian and Venus perfectly balance each other (I’m telling you, grumpy sunshine). You get sass and sarcasm, sweet mushy moments, spice, action and adventure. It has it all.
If paranormal sapphic romance is your vibe, you NEED to read this one!
There was a perfect amount of spice, not purely smut, but the spicy scenes were spicing! Vivian and Venus perfectly balance each other (I’m telling you, grumpy sunshine). You get sass and sarcasm, sweet mushy moments, spice, action and adventure. It has it all.
If paranormal sapphic romance is your vibe, you NEED to read this one!
September 19, 2024
I am HOOKED I say! I'm not even gonna acknowledge the absolutely devastating cliff that Masters just flung me off of..and after not putting her book down from page 1...the audacity! I am not usually a patient person, however am not going to rush her on book 2- but I need answers a-to-the-sap! Witches, female dominance, female rage, growth, family trauma/drama, badassery, and oooo man the HEAT is heatin for sure. 5 stars!
Oh and wings! Did I mention a Goddess of Night with freaking wings!! *swoon*
Oh and wings! Did I mention a Goddess of Night with freaking wings!! *swoon*
January 17, 2025
Office Bookclub book for December 2024! I didn’t read the description of this so I didn’t know it was a lesbian smut. I do enjoy the plat it has and glad it’s not all about the s*x. I do think it is kind of slow though. I did not care for this. I took forever to get through this and honestly probably would have DNF’d it if it wasn’t a Bookclub read. I hated how it kept saying this bad guy was coming and everything but then instead of focusing on the task they decide they have time to have a week long s*x get away. Then have s*x whenever they want like it’s done let’s just push everything back even though people are dying. The ending wasn’t a big hype either. I was hoping for a massive fight but no.
2025 challenge: non-human antagonist
2025 challenge: non-human antagonist
May 3, 2025
So it’s my own fault that I didn’t read the trigger warnings but when I opened my kindle, it skipped past it and I didn’t think to check because I saw a review saying the book read like a YA novel with spice… yeah idk why anyone would think that. To be honest, if I knew there was dubious consent, I wouldn’t have read it. Because to me, that’s assault and Venus all but admits it. But I looked past it and enjoyed the book. I’m not sure why it is even in the story, because it didn’t really further the plot.
Overall though, I loved the book and the cliffhanger had me wanting more.
Overall though, I loved the book and the cliffhanger had me wanting more.
November 8, 2025
Enjoyed this one - something a bit different & witchy. Would recommend for a smutty witchy sapphic vibe. Pacing was a bit hit and miss in the middle but picked up drastically at the end. The cliffhanger though?? I’m so glad I can jump straight into book 2!
December 15, 2024
2.7 ⭐️ (rounded up)
July 11, 2025
3.75 ⭐
Mythical story re-tellings are the best. I enjoyed reading about the witches in a different culture and origin.
Good stuff here. The cliffhanger though? Annoying
Mythical story re-tellings are the best. I enjoyed reading about the witches in a different culture and origin.
Good stuff here. The cliffhanger though? Annoying
dnf
May 5, 2025I looooooved the latest pink Dom I read, but the badass girl here (because she likes pink and it takes a lot of plot space for my taste, when other stuff would do better with it), hmm... No.
Dnf at 60%. Didn't work for me.
Dnf at 60%. Didn't work for me.
March 28, 2025
Terrible! 😣
February 9, 2025
”But, for you, I would make it happen.”
Before starting When Flowers Wilt, I had seen a lot of people talking about it. The cover art is gorgeous and a lot of the tropes do it for me. However, I am notorious for not reading the book blurb, so did I actually know what I was getting myself into? Nope. Not at all.
Well let’s get into it…
What I liked:
- The Lore: The world building and magic system is very intriguing to me. I liked the idea that witches give their souls to The Dark Lady on their 18th birthday, and that this is a cultural expectation. We later find out more about why, the benefits, etc. as more of the book unfolds.
- The Spice: It is spicing. Not sure I need to say more.
- The Tropes: Just like the spice be spicing, the tropes be troping. I am not only here for it, but I am all over it like The Dark Lady’s shadows be all over Vivian.
What was okay:
- The Pacing: The pacing of this book was a little off at some points, but it never stalled out to the point I wanted to put the book down or had trouble getting back into the book.
- The Characters: The characters felt a little flat to me for a while. Their development felt kind of wonky, and I’m not convinced I understand who Vivian or The Dark Lady really are. For being in 1st person Dual POV, I would have expected to understand the characters better.
What I didn’t like:
- The Cliffhanger: When Flowers Wilt is the first book in a duology, and the cliffhanger leaves you feeling like you literally jumped off a cliff. Ugh. Guess that means I’ll have to read the next book… poor me.
Overall, for any qualms I have about to book, I read it quickly, and I will absolutely will be reading the next book, and I will keep an eye out for future books by G. E. Masters.
Additional details below. (If you’re into that…beware the CWs there be spoilers.)
Pace: Medium
Mix of Character and Plot-Driven
Moods: Dark, Adventurous, Mysterious
Rep: Bisexual MC, Pansexual MC
Tropes: Witch x Literal Devil, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Grumpy x Sunshine
Content Warnings (provided by author): s*xually explicit scenes, verbal and emotional child abuse (discussed), mental health issues (anxiety and depression), loss of a significant other (discussed), death of a family member, m*rder, s*xual assault (not between MCs), torture, dubious consent, blood play, wing play, shadow play, bondage, use of s*x toys, scissoring
Before starting When Flowers Wilt, I had seen a lot of people talking about it. The cover art is gorgeous and a lot of the tropes do it for me. However, I am notorious for not reading the book blurb, so did I actually know what I was getting myself into? Nope. Not at all.
Well let’s get into it…
What I liked:
- The Lore: The world building and magic system is very intriguing to me. I liked the idea that witches give their souls to The Dark Lady on their 18th birthday, and that this is a cultural expectation. We later find out more about why, the benefits, etc. as more of the book unfolds.
- The Spice: It is spicing. Not sure I need to say more.
- The Tropes: Just like the spice be spicing, the tropes be troping. I am not only here for it, but I am all over it like The Dark Lady’s shadows be all over Vivian.
What was okay:
- The Pacing: The pacing of this book was a little off at some points, but it never stalled out to the point I wanted to put the book down or had trouble getting back into the book.
- The Characters: The characters felt a little flat to me for a while. Their development felt kind of wonky, and I’m not convinced I understand who Vivian or The Dark Lady really are. For being in 1st person Dual POV, I would have expected to understand the characters better.
What I didn’t like:
- The Cliffhanger: When Flowers Wilt is the first book in a duology, and the cliffhanger leaves you feeling like you literally jumped off a cliff. Ugh. Guess that means I’ll have to read the next book… poor me.
Overall, for any qualms I have about to book, I read it quickly, and I will absolutely will be reading the next book, and I will keep an eye out for future books by G. E. Masters.
Additional details below. (If you’re into that…beware the CWs there be spoilers.)
Pace: Medium
Mix of Character and Plot-Driven
Moods: Dark, Adventurous, Mysterious
Rep: Bisexual MC, Pansexual MC
Tropes: Witch x Literal Devil, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Grumpy x Sunshine
Content Warnings (provided by author): s*xually explicit scenes, verbal and emotional child abuse (discussed), mental health issues (anxiety and depression), loss of a significant other (discussed), death of a family member, m*rder, s*xual assault (not between MCs), torture, dubious consent, blood play, wing play, shadow play, bondage, use of s*x toys, scissoring
August 30, 2024
This sweet saphic story is amazing! The way the author builds the world us and the details make it seem like a movie playing out as you read. I don’t know how else to explain it, that’s usually how I read. Since this is a FF story, if that’s not your jam, just don’t read it. If you are open to a FF romantasy, this is the book for you. It’s dark, witchy and Vivienne tells the story so well. I look forward to reading more….
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 29, 2024
I NEED BOOK TWO… like yesterday!!!
Slight spoiler: this book ends on a cliffhanger and I am NOT OKAY!!! 😭
Okay, let’s get into the review:
I really did thoroughly enjoy this book! When G.E. Masters asked for ARC readers and described the book as the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets Legally Blonde, they were not kidding and I WAS NOT disappointed! They did an amazing job building the world and I was really able to visualize the story as I was reading. Both of the main characters are lovable and develop well throughout the story. The spice was *chefs kiss*, and sprinkled here and there, but not overbearing, which I liked! I really enjoy a good storyline with spice mixed in.
The story follows Vivian, a witch with a rare elemental magic, only known to a very few. On her eighteenth birthday, instead of giving her soul to the devil, which is tradition, something within her tells her to run. For the next 10 years she tries to avoid magic. She suppresses her own magic and fears being caught by the Dark Lady, not knowing what will happen if she is caught. However, her rare and powerful magic can’t stay hidden for long and the ruler of hell finally finds her, but not to claim her soul. The Dark Lady needs Vivian’s help, in fact, as several covens have mysteriously disappeared and she believes Vivian’s magic could be the key to figuring out what’s happening. Vivian decides to make a deal with the devil: in exchange for her help, she gets to keep her soul, and the devil herself, agrees. While trying to uncover the mystery, Vivian’s connection to her magic grows, and so does her connection to the intriguing ruler of hell. Through their investigations they discover that there is a very dangerous threat… and it’s after Vivian.
Needless to say, if you like sapphic romances, grumpy verses sunshine, medium paced, some spice, mysterious happenings, and dare I say, cliffhangers (seriously… when is book two coming out?!?!) then you should definitely add “When Flowers Wilt” to your TBR!!!
***
I would also like to add that I am looking forward to an opportunity to re-read this book and reevaluate some of my insights and feelings. I will update my review with any new thoughts and insights, should they seem relevant!
Slight spoiler: this book ends on a cliffhanger and I am NOT OKAY!!! 😭
Okay, let’s get into the review:
I really did thoroughly enjoy this book! When G.E. Masters asked for ARC readers and described the book as the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets Legally Blonde, they were not kidding and I WAS NOT disappointed! They did an amazing job building the world and I was really able to visualize the story as I was reading. Both of the main characters are lovable and develop well throughout the story. The spice was *chefs kiss*, and sprinkled here and there, but not overbearing, which I liked! I really enjoy a good storyline with spice mixed in.
The story follows Vivian, a witch with a rare elemental magic, only known to a very few. On her eighteenth birthday, instead of giving her soul to the devil, which is tradition, something within her tells her to run. For the next 10 years she tries to avoid magic. She suppresses her own magic and fears being caught by the Dark Lady, not knowing what will happen if she is caught. However, her rare and powerful magic can’t stay hidden for long and the ruler of hell finally finds her, but not to claim her soul. The Dark Lady needs Vivian’s help, in fact, as several covens have mysteriously disappeared and she believes Vivian’s magic could be the key to figuring out what’s happening. Vivian decides to make a deal with the devil: in exchange for her help, she gets to keep her soul, and the devil herself, agrees. While trying to uncover the mystery, Vivian’s connection to her magic grows, and so does her connection to the intriguing ruler of hell. Through their investigations they discover that there is a very dangerous threat… and it’s after Vivian.
Needless to say, if you like sapphic romances, grumpy verses sunshine, medium paced, some spice, mysterious happenings, and dare I say, cliffhangers (seriously… when is book two coming out?!?!) then you should definitely add “When Flowers Wilt” to your TBR!!!
***
I would also like to add that I am looking forward to an opportunity to re-read this book and reevaluate some of my insights and feelings. I will update my review with any new thoughts and insights, should they seem relevant!
September 21, 2024
The plot of this book is humorous, entertaining, and ultra-steamy.
The story starts on Vivian's eighteenth birthday, witches lose their souls to the Dark Lady—but Vivian flees instead. For ten years, she hides from magic, fearing Hell’s ruler will claim her. When her suppressed powers resurface and the "Dark Lady" tracks her down, it’s not for her soul. Covens are vanishing, and the Dark Lady needs Vivian's magic to stop it. Striking a deal to keep her soul, Vivian helps, only to discover a greater threat than the Devil is hunting her.
Vivian and Venus’ relationship starts on the wrong foot, with Vivian refusing to give up her soul. I thought the story would turn dark after that but as they meet again years later, their banter and POVs had me laughing. There’s a lot that goes on during their journey that makes this book entertaining and hard to put down.
Vivian is a complex character, she holds powerful magic but she’s an unconventional witch. Unlike all witch characters I’ve read before, she’s bubbly and gives Elle Woods (Legally Blonde) vibes with a dose of bitchiness. Her snarky comments and exuberant and dramatic responses to Venus are hilarious.
The book is SPICY and smutty. There’s a scene in particular that I would like to talk about but I can’t because it would be a big spoiler. All I will share is that it was unexpected. I had not read a sex scene involving “that” before…and I’ve read a lot. My eyes went wide as I was reading it.
Book two “When Death Blooms” is coming out in October, keep an eye out for the release date!
The story starts on Vivian's eighteenth birthday, witches lose their souls to the Dark Lady—but Vivian flees instead. For ten years, she hides from magic, fearing Hell’s ruler will claim her. When her suppressed powers resurface and the "Dark Lady" tracks her down, it’s not for her soul. Covens are vanishing, and the Dark Lady needs Vivian's magic to stop it. Striking a deal to keep her soul, Vivian helps, only to discover a greater threat than the Devil is hunting her.
Vivian and Venus’ relationship starts on the wrong foot, with Vivian refusing to give up her soul. I thought the story would turn dark after that but as they meet again years later, their banter and POVs had me laughing. There’s a lot that goes on during their journey that makes this book entertaining and hard to put down.
Vivian is a complex character, she holds powerful magic but she’s an unconventional witch. Unlike all witch characters I’ve read before, she’s bubbly and gives Elle Woods (Legally Blonde) vibes with a dose of bitchiness. Her snarky comments and exuberant and dramatic responses to Venus are hilarious.
The book is SPICY and smutty. There’s a scene in particular that I would like to talk about but I can’t because it would be a big spoiler. All I will share is that it was unexpected. I had not read a sex scene involving “that” before…and I’ve read a lot. My eyes went wide as I was reading it.
Book two “When Death Blooms” is coming out in October, keep an eye out for the release date!
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