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The Witch's Brew #1
The Trouble with Spells
I swear I didn’t mean to bind my secret high school crush to me, it just happened.
I made a promise to my family that there would be no spell casting while they were away. It was well known in the Turner household that my spells tended to go a bit, shall we say, wonky. Like turning my ex-boyfriend into a frog when I’d been trying to conjure breakfast in bed. Complete accident, though my sister claimed he was better in frog form. She wasn’t wrong. So, for the next two weeks I would look after our family store, hang out with my cat, Hex, and enjoy having the house to myself for once. Peace and quiet and no hinky spell work business.
Then he blew into my store–literally. Michael Endicott the third. Or fourth? Maybe fifth? It didn’t matter. What did matter was that I was staring at my high school crush–who clearly did not remember me. Unfortunately, he still made me forget how to form words into a complete sentence. Seems a vengeful one-night stand had placed a bad luck spell on Michael, and he needed help. My help. I mean, what could go wrong? It was just an easy reversal spell. No problem. Only somehow instead of reversing the spell, I managed to bind us together.
The Trouble With Spells is an MM paranormal romance between Callum, a witch vexed with wonky magic and Michael, a nonbeliever human. Tropes include opposites attract, forced proximity, only one bed, tarot card readings, and an obligatory black cat.
TW & CW’s: While this book is mostly light and fluffy, it does contain brief instances that might be triggering to a reader. A severe allergic reaction resulting in a brief hospital stay, car accident, kidnapping, attempted murder and discussion of murder things.
I made a promise to my family that there would be no spell casting while they were away. It was well known in the Turner household that my spells tended to go a bit, shall we say, wonky. Like turning my ex-boyfriend into a frog when I’d been trying to conjure breakfast in bed. Complete accident, though my sister claimed he was better in frog form. She wasn’t wrong. So, for the next two weeks I would look after our family store, hang out with my cat, Hex, and enjoy having the house to myself for once. Peace and quiet and no hinky spell work business.
Then he blew into my store–literally. Michael Endicott the third. Or fourth? Maybe fifth? It didn’t matter. What did matter was that I was staring at my high school crush–who clearly did not remember me. Unfortunately, he still made me forget how to form words into a complete sentence. Seems a vengeful one-night stand had placed a bad luck spell on Michael, and he needed help. My help. I mean, what could go wrong? It was just an easy reversal spell. No problem. Only somehow instead of reversing the spell, I managed to bind us together.
The Trouble With Spells is an MM paranormal romance between Callum, a witch vexed with wonky magic and Michael, a nonbeliever human. Tropes include opposites attract, forced proximity, only one bed, tarot card readings, and an obligatory black cat.
TW & CW’s: While this book is mostly light and fluffy, it does contain brief instances that might be triggering to a reader. A severe allergic reaction resulting in a brief hospital stay, car accident, kidnapping, attempted murder and discussion of murder things.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2024
31 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Raiven Matthews
14 books172 followersRaiven Matthews lives in the Mid-West, with her very spoiled cat, Declan. An avid reader from a young age, she discovered MM romance while reading fan fiction, and never looked back. Her days are fueled by lots of coffee and cuss words, and often plots her books on her commute to her RL job. She has always believed in happily-ever-after, but she was always the girl with follow-up questions. What happened when Cinderella put on that shoe and rode off to the castle? What came after Beast turned into a handsome prince? While she loves when her characters fall in love, she also believes in sprinkling in a big dose of reality, and real-life situations, (even if she is writing omegaverse mpreg) to get there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 21, 2024
Read in a buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
This was a very cute, light and overall fluffy romance.
This author's first deviation from mpreg (so if you're not into mpreg, you can give this author a try!) and overall it was cute and fun, and little to no angst.
Callum is the only born male witch in who knows how long, and he's surrounded by women. His father died when he was in high school, so all he's got now is his older sister, his mom and his grandma.
Except, he isn't so good with spells, so he isn't going with all of them on a sort of...coven witchy retreat where they do who knows what.
Left to his own devices, he's surprised when his high school crush, Michael comes barreling into his shop, hoping to get a spell lifted off of him that he thinks a twink he slept with the other night might have cast on him.
Because Michael has had, overall, a pretty easy life. He was a super popular jock in high school, and now he's a prosecuting attorney who has never lost a case. He also sleeps with men but never sleeps with them, ya know? And he offends a twink after they've fucked by kicking him out, and this guy - who isn't a born witch, he just dabbles online - puts a small spell on him because of it.
Only the next day, everything seems to go wrong for Michael, and he even loses every case that day, when he's never lost one in his law career for years before then. So, he goes back to his hometown of Salem, 40 minutes away from Boston, and into Callum's shop.
Only, when Callum tries to get rid of the spell put on Michael, it goes awry, and he accidentally puts a bonding spell on them instead, where Michael can't go more than 10 feet away from Callum without absolute searing pain in his head.
So, for the next almost two weeks while they wait for Callum's sister to come back to reverse the spell - and also get rid of his binding spell to boot - they get closer, and fall for each other in that time.
This was very cute and entertaining and I enjoyed Callum and Michael together. They do happen very fast, and this is a very quick read, but I didn't mind it too much. For how quick they got together and fell for each other, it kind of worked. Maybe more time could have passed before they declared love for each other, but it wasn't too big of a deal, in the end.
Also the reason bad things are happening to Michael is a twist, but it did feel...maybe a bit out of place? A tonal shift for a chapter or two, for sure. It kind of made sense in the end, so again I wasn't too bothered, but it also felt a tad...out of nowhere. Coming from left field, I should say. And perhaps a bit much for the ton of the rest of this book, which was quite light and angst free up until that point.
So this certainly wasn't perfect and it could have perhaps been longer - or let more time pass before they said their 'i love you's' - but overall it was enjoyable and sweet and fun. Nothing too outstanding about it, but a solid story with good characters.
So I definitely recommend this, especially if you're not into mpreg but want to try this author out.
I very much adore this author and can't wait for more from her, whether it be another non-mpreg one or keeping with the mpreg.
Onto the next! 😘
This was a very cute, light and overall fluffy romance.
This author's first deviation from mpreg (so if you're not into mpreg, you can give this author a try!) and overall it was cute and fun, and little to no angst.
Callum is the only born male witch in who knows how long, and he's surrounded by women. His father died when he was in high school, so all he's got now is his older sister, his mom and his grandma.
Except, he isn't so good with spells, so he isn't going with all of them on a sort of...coven witchy retreat where they do who knows what.
Left to his own devices, he's surprised when his high school crush, Michael comes barreling into his shop, hoping to get a spell lifted off of him that he thinks a twink he slept with the other night might have cast on him.
Because Michael has had, overall, a pretty easy life. He was a super popular jock in high school, and now he's a prosecuting attorney who has never lost a case. He also sleeps with men but never sleeps with them, ya know? And he offends a twink after they've fucked by kicking him out, and this guy - who isn't a born witch, he just dabbles online - puts a small spell on him because of it.
Only the next day, everything seems to go wrong for Michael, and he even loses every case that day, when he's never lost one in his law career for years before then. So, he goes back to his hometown of Salem, 40 minutes away from Boston, and into Callum's shop.
Only, when Callum tries to get rid of the spell put on Michael, it goes awry, and he accidentally puts a bonding spell on them instead, where Michael can't go more than 10 feet away from Callum without absolute searing pain in his head.
So, for the next almost two weeks while they wait for Callum's sister to come back to reverse the spell - and also get rid of his binding spell to boot - they get closer, and fall for each other in that time.
This was very cute and entertaining and I enjoyed Callum and Michael together. They do happen very fast, and this is a very quick read, but I didn't mind it too much. For how quick they got together and fell for each other, it kind of worked. Maybe more time could have passed before they declared love for each other, but it wasn't too big of a deal, in the end.
Also the reason bad things are happening to Michael is a twist, but it did feel...maybe a bit out of place? A tonal shift for a chapter or two, for sure. It kind of made sense in the end, so again I wasn't too bothered, but it also felt a tad...out of nowhere. Coming from left field, I should say. And perhaps a bit much for the ton of the rest of this book, which was quite light and angst free up until that point.
So this certainly wasn't perfect and it could have perhaps been longer - or let more time pass before they said their 'i love you's' - but overall it was enjoyable and sweet and fun. Nothing too outstanding about it, but a solid story with good characters.
So I definitely recommend this, especially if you're not into mpreg but want to try this author out.
I very much adore this author and can't wait for more from her, whether it be another non-mpreg one or keeping with the mpreg.
Onto the next! 😘
October 7, 2024
"For the first time, I wanted all the things. The dating, the soft, teasing jokes that were just between the two of us. The hand holding-fuck yes, ALL the hand holding. The first kiss that we would both remember for the rest of our lives."
Well wasn't this just the sweetest witchy romance! Callum with his shy blushes and Michael just totally swooning over it every time it appeared on his cheeks. These two were just too cute! I don't think either of them expected their romance to blossom so quickly. I mean, Callum may have had a childhood crush on Michael mooning over him from afar, but Michael didn't even recognize him when they came face to face as adults. To be fair, it had been quite a long time since their school days and Michael rarely visited his hometown since leaving right after graduating. The point is, this wasn't a love at first sight situation, but their falling did follow soon after.
I liked the fact that Callum was a witch, yet his strength lay in tarot readings and not casting like a lot of other witch books. Each witch in his family had their own strengths and I also liked how they all seemed to practice witchcraft differently. It made things interesting, especially when we got to hear about the unfortunate outcomes of some of Callum's spellcasting. Michael himself got a front row seat to one of Callum's spells gone wrong, however I think that one turned out the way it was meant to in the end.
I do have to mention how much I enjoyed the scene where Michael meets Callum's family. His Gran is a scream and her commentary had me laughing out loud. It made Callum's meeting of Michael's parents look like a walk in the park! If you're looking for a fluffy, spellbinding *wink wink* romance, then The Trouble With Spells is the book for you.
Well wasn't this just the sweetest witchy romance! Callum with his shy blushes and Michael just totally swooning over it every time it appeared on his cheeks. These two were just too cute! I don't think either of them expected their romance to blossom so quickly. I mean, Callum may have had a childhood crush on Michael mooning over him from afar, but Michael didn't even recognize him when they came face to face as adults. To be fair, it had been quite a long time since their school days and Michael rarely visited his hometown since leaving right after graduating. The point is, this wasn't a love at first sight situation, but their falling did follow soon after.
I liked the fact that Callum was a witch, yet his strength lay in tarot readings and not casting like a lot of other witch books. Each witch in his family had their own strengths and I also liked how they all seemed to practice witchcraft differently. It made things interesting, especially when we got to hear about the unfortunate outcomes of some of Callum's spellcasting. Michael himself got a front row seat to one of Callum's spells gone wrong, however I think that one turned out the way it was meant to in the end.
I do have to mention how much I enjoyed the scene where Michael meets Callum's family. His Gran is a scream and her commentary had me laughing out loud. It made Callum's meeting of Michael's parents look like a walk in the park! If you're looking for a fluffy, spellbinding *wink wink* romance, then The Trouble With Spells is the book for you.
October 12, 2024
The Trouble With Spells is part of multi author series Cauldrons and Kisses. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Callum a witch with trouble casting spells and Michael a human with problems of his own. I loved the accidental bonding that happens. This was just another cute sweet low angst story in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
October 18, 2024
Callum & Michael are everything I needed and wanted for this witchy series! You have a norm who grew up in Salem, who doesn't get the 'witch' lifestyle, who is the perfect match for a witch. Perfect, beautiful irony, and yeah, Callum is a precious soul who needs to be cherished by all, just not with spells. When Michael returns to Salem after some bad luck, he learns he needs to make real changes in his life to actually be happy. These two chemistry are adorably sweet and perfect just thst right breath of fresh air in a low angst fun story.
November 2, 2024
I really liked this - it’s the first book that I’ve read from this author that isn’t omegaverse, but it was still a good read. I kind of wished there was a little bit of enemies to lovers at the beginning as I feel that would’ve fit quite well with the two characters being so different, but it was still a good, easy read.
October 18, 2024
The Trouble With Spells by Raiven Matthews is part of the Cauldron and Kisses series by various authors. It is the story of a witch who bumbled spells and the man who sought him out to help him get rid of a curse and they find their way to love. Michael Endicott was the golden boy of everything he did. He was great at all sports in high school in Salem, Massachusetts, had good grades, became a prosecuting attorney in Boston and had never lost a case in the 2 years he had been practicing law. That is until a one night stand that he immediately kicked out muttered something that sounded like a curse. The next day everything went wrong and even though he didn’t believe in witches or curses he began to wonder what had happened. His best friend, Derek, mentioned that he often came across as arrogant and cocky but he thought he was just helping people. Then his bosses gave his cases away for the next two weeks and told him to take a vacation and that sealed the deal. He returned home to Salem after he remembered a girl named Daphne that said she was a witch and wanted to seek her out to see if she could help him. When he blew into the Witch’s Brew, a family owned occult shop, during a storm he met Callum Turner. Callum came from a family of witches including his Gran, mother, and sister Daphne. His specialty was reading tarot cards and sensing auras but he wasn’t great at spells, usually botching them so unexpected things happened, as his latest ex found out when he became a frog. His family had gone to a coven meeting and wouldn’t be able to contact him so he was told in no uncertain terms that he was not to cast any spells. Michael was two years older than Callum and didn’t really remember him but he had been Callum’s crush ever since high school. He explained his dilemma and that he really didn’t believe in witches but he was desperate to get rid of whatever was causing his bad luck. Callum read him and sensed that who ever put the spell on him was a beginner and it wasn’t very strong, but he didn’t want to do anything about it because he was afraid it would go wrong. But he couldn’t deny Michael so he did his best and of course something did happen that ended up binding them together for 2 weeks until Daphne would get home and break the spell. During that time they got to know each other, went on a tour of Salem with Callum’s best friend Macy leading it, had an uncomfortable dinner with Michael’s parents, and just spent time together. The more they were with each other they more they liked what they saw with each revealing their true selves, which is something Micheal had never done with any of his “dates”. He felt seen by Callum and wanted to be with him as much as Callum wanted to be with Michael. This led to a kiss and then to some hot love scenes. They then went back to Boston to see if they could find the man who cursed Michael and when they did they found out the way to break it. This was followed by a kidnapping due to a case Michael was working on, the breaking of the spell, and them declaring their love. When Callum’s family came home there was a very funny scene as Daphne put the final touches on breaking the spell Callum had put on Michael and also leading them to want to be together and making that happen. I really enjoyed this story. It had very funny moments throughout as they bumbled their way to finding some way to break the curse and spell and learn about each other. Callum was sweet and caring but just couldn’t get his spells right. Michael took a real look at himself and how he came across to others and decided to make some changes which helped break the spell but also led him to love Callum. Their friends and family also helped them when times got tough but also added some fun to what was going on. And the real reasons behind the curse come to light at the end. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like opposites attract stories that involve a somewhat inept witch, a man that doesn’t believe in witchcraft but quickly changes his mind, a little suspense along the way, and the two men falling in love.
October 20, 2024
I've been very eager to read this book ever since I read the description. It just sounded so good! I mean, a witch who can't cast spells paired with a man who doesn't believe in magic? Sign me up!
I'll start off with what I thought of the writing itself. I thought the story flowed smoothly, it has excellent pacing, and the world building was terrific! I've never been to Salem myself but I loved all the details describing the scenery that was surrounding the characters. Especially when Michael and Callum were on the historical tour, that was quite cool to read about.
As for the characters themselves, they are both lovely. Well... Michael was a bit of a jerk in the beginning, he was very cocky and egotistical and that came back to hire him. Overtime though he realized his behavior and made a decision and an effort to change it, to do better and to treat people better. It was nice seeing his character grow and evolve throughout the course of the story. I adored Callum, he's so sweet and awkward, and just adorable!
The side characters were also terrific! Two of my favorite side characters are Daphne and Derek. Daphne is just so sassy, quirky, and bold that you can't help but love her. She also brings a lot of humor to the story when she's around. Derek is a genuine nice guy who cares for Michael's well being. I wish him the best of luck with Daphne cause I think he might need it.
The relationship that developed between Callum and Michael developed naturally and took things slow. Which I enjoyed a lot! They took the time to get to know one another; what they liked and disliked, what they were allergic to, what type of movies they enjoyed, what they had in common, etc. I loved that they developed such a strong connection and that it was such a prominent aspect of their relationship and of the story.
All in all this is an absolutely terrific story fill with mischief, shenanigans, magic going haywire, and of course, love.
I'll start off with what I thought of the writing itself. I thought the story flowed smoothly, it has excellent pacing, and the world building was terrific! I've never been to Salem myself but I loved all the details describing the scenery that was surrounding the characters. Especially when Michael and Callum were on the historical tour, that was quite cool to read about.
As for the characters themselves, they are both lovely. Well... Michael was a bit of a jerk in the beginning, he was very cocky and egotistical and that came back to hire him. Overtime though he realized his behavior and made a decision and an effort to change it, to do better and to treat people better. It was nice seeing his character grow and evolve throughout the course of the story. I adored Callum, he's so sweet and awkward, and just adorable!
The side characters were also terrific! Two of my favorite side characters are Daphne and Derek. Daphne is just so sassy, quirky, and bold that you can't help but love her. She also brings a lot of humor to the story when she's around. Derek is a genuine nice guy who cares for Michael's well being. I wish him the best of luck with Daphne cause I think he might need it.
The relationship that developed between Callum and Michael developed naturally and took things slow. Which I enjoyed a lot! They took the time to get to know one another; what they liked and disliked, what they were allergic to, what type of movies they enjoyed, what they had in common, etc. I loved that they developed such a strong connection and that it was such a prominent aspect of their relationship and of the story.
All in all this is an absolutely terrific story fill with mischief, shenanigans, magic going haywire, and of course, love.
October 21, 2024
The Trouble with Spells by Raiven Matthews is part of Cauldrons & Kisses; a multi-author series of MM magical standalone stories. Each low angst read will feature a witch finding love.
« witch x human »
« opposites attract »
« forced proximity »
« only one bed »
« tarot card readings »
« a witch who can’t do spells »
« low angst »
This is just the swooniest cozy witchy MM romance! Callum and Michael went to high school together, but Michael was 2 years older and these two definitely traveled in different circles. Callum had a crush on Michael, but Callum was basically invisible. Fast forward to the present, Callum’s high school crush walks into his occult shop in despite need to have a curse/spell broken after a one-nightstand gone wrong. Callum isn’t great at spells, but he can’t help but wanting to help Michael. In his attempt to break the spell, he accidentally binds them together preventing them separating any more than 10 feet.
I loved how in high school Callum was invisible to Michael, but now he is immediately captivated by him. I adored these two together and how this situation humbled Michael, and he became less and less arrogant. Although this was a quick read, I still found that Callum and Michael took their time and didn’t rush things, and their relationship developed fairly naturally. Although this story is somewhat on the insta-love side, it seemed to fit and work for this story and couple.
This story was so cute and cozy, but also so funny. The scene where Michael meet Callum at one of the worst times was next level hilarious. His family is definitely full of interesting characters! Lol
[I received an ARC of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.]
« witch x human »
« opposites attract »
« forced proximity »
« only one bed »
« tarot card readings »
« a witch who can’t do spells »
« low angst »
This is just the swooniest cozy witchy MM romance! Callum and Michael went to high school together, but Michael was 2 years older and these two definitely traveled in different circles. Callum had a crush on Michael, but Callum was basically invisible. Fast forward to the present, Callum’s high school crush walks into his occult shop in despite need to have a curse/spell broken after a one-nightstand gone wrong. Callum isn’t great at spells, but he can’t help but wanting to help Michael. In his attempt to break the spell, he accidentally binds them together preventing them separating any more than 10 feet.
"This man–this witch–had me spellbound and this was one spell I didn’t want anyone to break.”
I loved how in high school Callum was invisible to Michael, but now he is immediately captivated by him. I adored these two together and how this situation humbled Michael, and he became less and less arrogant. Although this was a quick read, I still found that Callum and Michael took their time and didn’t rush things, and their relationship developed fairly naturally. Although this story is somewhat on the insta-love side, it seemed to fit and work for this story and couple.
This story was so cute and cozy, but also so funny. The scene where Michael meet Callum at one of the worst times was next level hilarious. His family is definitely full of interesting characters! Lol
[I received an ARC of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.]
October 15, 2024
A male witch who's bad at spells and a cocky lawyer cross paths... what could go wrong? A lot, actually.
Their story is the epitome of opposites attract and it's done SO WELL.
Callum is adorable, nerdy, fantastic at reading tarot and auras, and is so sweet. Michael is kind of cocky but he doesn't know it yet. When they finally come together, it's like finding the missing piece to a puzzle. Callum needed someone to come in to shake things up a little bit, just a tiny bit, to find love in unexpected ways. I mean, he has Hex. Hex loves all the cuddles and pats though, so there's that. But he was alright, if not a little bored.
Michael? He needed someone to shake things up BIG TIME. He needed someone to finally SEE him for who he was, even when he couldn't see it himself. He'd spent so long under the golden rays of popularity and status that no one stopped to ask him to drop the mask, so long that he even forgot there was one. Callum can see his aura and it finally allows Michael to stop, take a moment to breathe, and just BE. Be himself, laugh and smile, cuddle and love.
They compliment the other SO WELL and I love their dynamic. I love their families, Hex (duh), and meddling old grannies. I love the goofy moments and the ensuing hilarity (bedroom scene, iykyk).
But most of all I love that deep down this was a love story of trust and putting yourself before another. Through everything, they let their guards down and saw each other for who they truly were, and allowed trust in to build the foundation that their love will grow. It was a great story and I cannot wait to see what else will come from this hilarious family and friends... and Hex. Definitely more of Hex please. 🐈⬛️
Their story is the epitome of opposites attract and it's done SO WELL.
Callum is adorable, nerdy, fantastic at reading tarot and auras, and is so sweet. Michael is kind of cocky but he doesn't know it yet. When they finally come together, it's like finding the missing piece to a puzzle. Callum needed someone to come in to shake things up a little bit, just a tiny bit, to find love in unexpected ways. I mean, he has Hex. Hex loves all the cuddles and pats though, so there's that. But he was alright, if not a little bored.
Michael? He needed someone to shake things up BIG TIME. He needed someone to finally SEE him for who he was, even when he couldn't see it himself. He'd spent so long under the golden rays of popularity and status that no one stopped to ask him to drop the mask, so long that he even forgot there was one. Callum can see his aura and it finally allows Michael to stop, take a moment to breathe, and just BE. Be himself, laugh and smile, cuddle and love.
They compliment the other SO WELL and I love their dynamic. I love their families, Hex (duh), and meddling old grannies. I love the goofy moments and the ensuing hilarity (bedroom scene, iykyk).
But most of all I love that deep down this was a love story of trust and putting yourself before another. Through everything, they let their guards down and saw each other for who they truly were, and allowed trust in to build the foundation that their love will grow. It was a great story and I cannot wait to see what else will come from this hilarious family and friends... and Hex. Definitely more of Hex please. 🐈⬛️
November 20, 2024
'The Trouble with Spells' by Raiven Matthews
Mixed feelings about this book, although the basic premise was interesting, and I did like the character of Callum and his kinda wonky witchy ways.
Michael's character was a bit oh, I don't know...arrogant dick? I really didn't like him at all in the beginning, but he did improve by quite a lot as the storyline unfolded, although it did seem a bit suspect that he basically seemed to do a 180° on the empathy and caring about people scale during the tale, and I found it a tad unbelievable that what seemed to be his basic character could go from callus and arrogant to sweet boyfriend material in the span of a few days.
The storyline was pretty well written although there were some gaps in it, especially near the end...like one minute Michael has just pulled Callum into a new house he just bought and supposedly they are alone, but the next minute...it's suddenly a different day? and Michael's friend Derek (the cop) is standing there with them as Callum's sister barges in waving her smudging sage around...yada, yada, yada...
I did not care for Callum's sister at all; she was rude, crass, flaunting her knowledge of some of his secrets out loud in front of others and continually putting him down as a "bad spell-caster"; maybe he was, but I didn't like the way she treated him, like he was a family joke or something.
So, some parts of this book I liked but there were several others that just annoyed me, which is reflected in my rating.
Mixed feelings about this book, although the basic premise was interesting, and I did like the character of Callum and his kinda wonky witchy ways.
Michael's character was a bit oh, I don't know...arrogant dick? I really didn't like him at all in the beginning, but he did improve by quite a lot as the storyline unfolded, although it did seem a bit suspect that he basically seemed to do a 180° on the empathy and caring about people scale during the tale, and I found it a tad unbelievable that what seemed to be his basic character could go from callus and arrogant to sweet boyfriend material in the span of a few days.
The storyline was pretty well written although there were some gaps in it, especially near the end...like one minute Michael has just pulled Callum into a new house he just bought and supposedly they are alone, but the next minute...it's suddenly a different day? and Michael's friend Derek (the cop) is standing there with them as Callum's sister barges in waving her smudging sage around...yada, yada, yada...
I did not care for Callum's sister at all; she was rude, crass, flaunting her knowledge of some of his secrets out loud in front of others and continually putting him down as a "bad spell-caster"; maybe he was, but I didn't like the way she treated him, like he was a family joke or something.
So, some parts of this book I liked but there were several others that just annoyed me, which is reflected in my rating.
October 27, 2024
This book is part of the multi-author Cauldrons and Kisses series. Each book is a standalone read. This is the story of Callum and Michael. Callum is the first male witch born into his family for years. While he embraces his magic, his strength lies in reading auras and tarot card readings. He is not successful anytime he attempts to cast a spell. Working at his family store, he is the only one around when Michael comes in. He was Callum's high school crush. He also doesn't believe in magic but believes himself to be cursed. Thankfully he wasn't, he just has a spell cast on him. Callum's sister can take that off in minutes when she returns from a two week retreat. But Michael is desperate and isn't willing to wait that long. Wanting to help, Callum tries to remove the spell. And just like in the past, it doesn't go as anticipated. He has accidentally binded them together. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed it. Callum is so nice and thoughtful. He even manages to smooth out some of Michaels rough edges. Now they seem to be growing closer but is it due to the spell or are they actually attracted to each other. You will enjoy finding out.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 9, 2024
This book was as cute and fluffy as Hex, the black cat of the story!
Callum is born witch from the old families of Salem, MA. He can see aura's, see ghost and read Tarot cards. He's just not so good with spells. In fact his spells have a tendency to "go wonky".
So when the women in his family go away for a witchy vacation, in the woods of Maine, he promises not to do any spells. A promise he fully intends to keep, right up until Michael blows into the family store with a spell or a curse or some kind of bad juju put upon him by an angry twink.
In the span of 1 day Michael has gone from golden boy, who can do no wrong, a title he has held since high school, to a lawyer who has lost every case, nearly getting hit by a car, and having his building catch on fire. He's so desperate that he back in his hometown and looking for help.
What's a witch to do when his high school crush needs help! Try that's what. So Callum does just that...what could go wrong with one little bitty spell. Well, you could wind up bound to your high school crush. But neither he nor Michael are too upset by their predicament as they are drawn together and so cute.
This story is low angst, nearly insta-love and enough "awww" factor to warm your heart on a chilly fall day.
Callum is born witch from the old families of Salem, MA. He can see aura's, see ghost and read Tarot cards. He's just not so good with spells. In fact his spells have a tendency to "go wonky".
So when the women in his family go away for a witchy vacation, in the woods of Maine, he promises not to do any spells. A promise he fully intends to keep, right up until Michael blows into the family store with a spell or a curse or some kind of bad juju put upon him by an angry twink.
In the span of 1 day Michael has gone from golden boy, who can do no wrong, a title he has held since high school, to a lawyer who has lost every case, nearly getting hit by a car, and having his building catch on fire. He's so desperate that he back in his hometown and looking for help.
What's a witch to do when his high school crush needs help! Try that's what. So Callum does just that...what could go wrong with one little bitty spell. Well, you could wind up bound to your high school crush. But neither he nor Michael are too upset by their predicament as they are drawn together and so cute.
This story is low angst, nearly insta-love and enough "awww" factor to warm your heart on a chilly fall day.
October 20, 2024
Since the time Callum turned his ex into a frog his family has made him promise not to do any spells without them. He's doing okay with that promise until the day Michael blows into his store. Michael is in need of a witch to break a spell placed on him. When he comes across Callum's family store with all things witchy he's hoping this is the answer to his prayers. Unfortunately Callum in his desire to help, blows the spell trying to remove the current spell on Michael. Now they have to constantly be in each others company. Michael is having trouble at work and home. Callum is doing okay if he just doesn't cast any spells. Will the two completely different people be able to survive constantly being in each other's space.
This was a funny fantasy/romance. Callum's family are a hoot and don't know the meaning of personal space. Michael's family are loving and are trying to guilt him into coming back home. Accidents abound and Callum isn't too sure it's Michael's curse that's the cause. Throw in some trouble with a mob boss and a surly twink and we have some low key drama too. Callum and Michael have really good chemistry. The world building is good. Definitely recommend this book and author.
This was a funny fantasy/romance. Callum's family are a hoot and don't know the meaning of personal space. Michael's family are loving and are trying to guilt him into coming back home. Accidents abound and Callum isn't too sure it's Michael's curse that's the cause. Throw in some trouble with a mob boss and a surly twink and we have some low key drama too. Callum and Michael have really good chemistry. The world building is good. Definitely recommend this book and author.
October 31, 2024
Leading up to this book, I was really curious about the writing and the world building, since this is the first story by Raiven Matthews written outside of her Sweet Alps omegaverse. I was happy to find that Raiven's writing style is consistent whether she is creating stories in Sweet Alps, the North Pole, or in this case, Salem. Admittedly, I'm not sure if I wanted a different "voice" from Raiven--given that this is a different series--but I think as a reader, I am happy with the result. It is nice to know that the author has the same "artistic voice" in each book, versus not knowing what to expect every time I pick up a new series. I received a complimentary copy of The Trouble with Spells, and this is my honest and unbiased review.
This was a really cute, low angst story. It is a quick read, and honestly, I would put this in the category of books that cleanse your pallet and/or generally make you feel good. Misfired magic leads to forced proximity, and the silly and sweet development of Callum and Michael's relationship ensues. As with all of Raiven's books, you also get funky and wonderful family members--who just add even more hilarity and squishy goodness to the story. Overall, I was really happy to read this book, and I recommend giving it a try.
This was a really cute, low angst story. It is a quick read, and honestly, I would put this in the category of books that cleanse your pallet and/or generally make you feel good. Misfired magic leads to forced proximity, and the silly and sweet development of Callum and Michael's relationship ensues. As with all of Raiven's books, you also get funky and wonderful family members--who just add even more hilarity and squishy goodness to the story. Overall, I was really happy to read this book, and I recommend giving it a try.
October 30, 2024
This was very cute, and it was nice to read something different. I've read all of Matthews' Sweet Alps omegaverse, so this was a different way to see their writing in effect, but I did enjoy it.
There were a lot of characteristics of the Sweet Alps universe, in a sense, because Matthews style is consistent even though this is a different subgenre. For me, that's a plus. I hate when the writer's style or (thank you to Toni, my kitten, for this contribution - 8u777777799i768>) voice changes drastically when they shift the genre or series. Coming off of the latest Sweet Alps book, which was, aptly, sweet but with serious topics, this was very low angst.
I appreciated the forced proximity via magic, and it doesn't hurt that Michael and Callum are both likable and easy to "follow around." In past reader experience, I've always thought Matthews was good at creating a balance between the characters in the relationship, and Michael and Callum are another example of that.
For a sweet read with lots of giggle and misfired magic, this is an easy choice.
There were a lot of characteristics of the Sweet Alps universe, in a sense, because Matthews style is consistent even though this is a different subgenre. For me, that's a plus. I hate when the writer's style or (thank you to Toni, my kitten, for this contribution - 8u777777799i768>) voice changes drastically when they shift the genre or series. Coming off of the latest Sweet Alps book, which was, aptly, sweet but with serious topics, this was very low angst.
I appreciated the forced proximity via magic, and it doesn't hurt that Michael and Callum are both likable and easy to "follow around." In past reader experience, I've always thought Matthews was good at creating a balance between the characters in the relationship, and Michael and Callum are another example of that.
For a sweet read with lots of giggle and misfired magic, this is an easy choice.
October 25, 2024
This is a perfect fall read with it being set in Salem, Callum (a witch) with his rescued black cat, and Michael (a nonbeliever turned). Michael is a bit of a workaholic who is a hit it and quit it kind of a guy. He has a day of bad luck and returns home to Salem on some unrequested time off. Michael is Callum's high school crush and Callum is stunned when Michael stumbles into his family's shop. There were a lot of sweet moments and I loved how Michael, while apprehensive, allowed himself to believe in magic when it was presented in front of him. Callum likes his quiet life at home and it's terribly forward. I liked how Michael shook him out of his comfort zone. I think there could've been a tad more character exploration which is why is a 4 star read, but it kept me engaged the entire time and I did fall hard for these two. Plus both families are awesome and there were great side characters!
November 3, 2024
When a spell goes wrong. Callum is a witch good at somethings but never get him cast a spell. Promising his family he would not. He kept his word until his high school crush walked into the shop. Michael, the crush in question thinks he has been cursed by his latest hook up and Callum forgets his promise.
I really liked Callum and Michael and yes folk may have thought Michael cocky but he was good at his job. Callum was a sweetheart and I love an opposite attracts story. This story has you wondering whether it is the wonky spell or fate playing its part with them getting together. I'm more for fate.
I was not expecting the scenes when Michael's world collides with them and it made the story even more interesting.
This story had me laughing through out and is a great book to wind down to after a heavy week at work. All the characters were loveable even Daph who had me in stitches near the end.
A fun, quick read
I really liked Callum and Michael and yes folk may have thought Michael cocky but he was good at his job. Callum was a sweetheart and I love an opposite attracts story. This story has you wondering whether it is the wonky spell or fate playing its part with them getting together. I'm more for fate.
I was not expecting the scenes when Michael's world collides with them and it made the story even more interesting.
This story had me laughing through out and is a great book to wind down to after a heavy week at work. All the characters were loveable even Daph who had me in stitches near the end.
A fun, quick read
October 27, 2024
Callum made a promise to his family that there would be no spell casting while they were away. It was well known in the Turner household that his spells tended to go a bit, shall we say, wonky. Then he blew into his store. Michael Endicott the third. Or fourth? Maybe fifth? It didn’t matter. What did matter was that he was staring at his high school crush - who clearly did not remember him. Seems a vengeful one-night stand had placed a bad luck spell on Michael, and he needed help. It was just an easy reversal spell. No problem. Only somehow instead of reversing the spell, Callum managed to bind them together.
I enjoyed this story with the two men who were stuck together and managed to fall in love. Callum was funny and his family were nuts too. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I enjoyed this story with the two men who were stuck together and managed to fall in love. Callum was funny and his family were nuts too. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
October 24, 2024
Oh my dear, Callum what did you do? I know you did what was right at the time. But binding your crush to you was not quite the right thing. But either way, we do adore you and the way you coax Micheal into see the things that he missed in his home town and he worked to become successful in his own right. The connection that develops is sweet and I loved the chemistry that started as a slow burn. The ending is something that I didn’t see coming we do wind up with a happy ending. I was stuck binging the book when things took an interesting turn. I will be curious to see if we see any more from this world or if it will truly be a stand-alone book. Do love this book and the others in the series. a
October 15, 2024
This is just the book for this spooky season. I absolutely enjoyed reading this witchy romance. Michael's self reflection was the highlight but him being bonded to Callum was entertaining. I really love forced proximity because the couple can't help but get to know each other and grow to love. Absolutely love the side characters...Callum's family...hilarious. Michael's mom and dad...love them...so many fun and loveable people in their lives made this romance very enjoyable. Hardly no angst...humorous...sweet heat and a lot romantic moments and a cat named Hex...what more can you ask for in a romance. LOVED it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 26, 2024
Witchery brewing
This was a really cute and sweet romance.
Michael was very likable in the beginning, but the author did a wonderful job with his redemption arc.
Callum is so sweet and cute.
His bad luck with spells puts him and Michael in a forced proximity situation.
It's honestly the best thing that ever happened to either one of them.
Michael finally has a chance to actually step back and figure out what his priorities are, and Callum is able to gain confidence from Michael.
There's lots of laughter and magical mishaps with one actual incidence of danger that's resolved quickly.
I loved Callum's family, Hex is adorable, and the epiloge was really sweet.
This was a really cute and sweet romance.
Michael was very likable in the beginning, but the author did a wonderful job with his redemption arc.
Callum is so sweet and cute.
His bad luck with spells puts him and Michael in a forced proximity situation.
It's honestly the best thing that ever happened to either one of them.
Michael finally has a chance to actually step back and figure out what his priorities are, and Callum is able to gain confidence from Michael.
There's lots of laughter and magical mishaps with one actual incidence of danger that's resolved quickly.
I loved Callum's family, Hex is adorable, and the epiloge was really sweet.
October 31, 2024
This was a really cute and fun Halloween read. I got through it pretty fast, and the story was mostly light although there are a couple possible triggers to be aware of. Callum is so sweet and awkward I couldn’t help loving him. I didn’t love Michael quite as much but he was still a fun character. I’m always a sucker for pets in stories, and Hex was no exception.
I’ve really enjoyed Matthews’ backlist, and this was a great book for her to branch out from her Omegaverse series. It is technically part of a series, but 100% works as a stand alone.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
I’ve really enjoyed Matthews’ backlist, and this was a great book for her to branch out from her Omegaverse series. It is technically part of a series, but 100% works as a stand alone.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review
October 5, 2024
Where do I start? Callum is a witch who has trouble casting spells, and Micheal is his high school crush who comes to him for help breaking a curse. Callum accidentally ends up binding Micheal to him, which means he can't be further than 10 feet away without being in pain.
Both men are sassy, and they soon realise that being bound together isn't such a bad thing. There is a twist towards the end that helps to tie everything together, and of course, there is an HEA for our couple.
I really enjoyed this book, I just wish it had been longer and not a standalone.
Both men are sassy, and they soon realise that being bound together isn't such a bad thing. There is a twist towards the end that helps to tie everything together, and of course, there is an HEA for our couple.
I really enjoyed this book, I just wish it had been longer and not a standalone.
October 17, 2024
Michael, a prosecutor, was cursed by a hook-up so he goes to see Callum, a witch. Callum is not great at spell casting and he messes up. Instead of just removing the curse, he binds Michael to him. It's a fun, sassy romp pf a story with spells, witchery and real life bad guys. Both Michael and Callum's families are wonderful and fun. It's an "insta-attraction with a slow burn but sizzling when it heats up" kind of book and a light-hearted bit of Hocus-Pocus. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
November 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, The Trouble With Spells by Raiven Matthew’s. This was great for the season. I loved the family’s, the tarot readings, the wonky spells, the black cat named Hex, and the best friends. Callum and Michael were great characters. They both grow and change through out the book and become even better. This is definitely fated mates without saying it is. (If you understand what I mean 😀). It’s funny, cute, swoon worthy, and has some danger. I definitely recommend. I really enjoyed myself
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
June 30, 2025
inconsistencies, no fucking sense—i repeat, NO fucking sense. liked the vibes tho and some minor details but overall, this book is a mess. the pacing is shit, instalove doesnt work, instalust certainly doesnt serve the plot (wouldve been better if there was some buildup but NO, instead you get padding scenes that lead nowhere and shit ton of internal monologue that disappears after the 4th chapter or so), flat characters and events with no logic. thats it. thats the book
the second star is for... i dont know. the fact that callum can read auras, i guess
the second star is for... i dont know. the fact that callum can read auras, i guess
October 29, 2024
The Trouble with Spells by Raiven Matthews was an absolutely fantastic read for me. Callum and Michael journey to HEA was filled many different emotions that I experienced while reading. I absolutely loved the addition of Callum’s family and his cat Hex they made the read even more interesting. Raiven Matthews is always an automatic read for me and this book joins all of my other favorite books.
March 31, 2025
This was such an easy, comfortable, sweet, and adorable read! Every chapter just either has you laughing or smiling. Great main and side characters, a charming setting, and an adorable cat. Absolutely loved it.
Plot: 👌👌👌👌
Characters: 👌👌👌👌
Spice: 🌶️
POV: DUAL. 1ST PERSON.
OW/OM Drama: H hooked up with someone before meeting MC, but it was off-screen, of course.
HEA: YES
Tropes/Themes/Tags:
- bound together
- instalove
Plot: 👌👌👌👌
Characters: 👌👌👌👌
Spice: 🌶️
POV: DUAL. 1ST PERSON.
OW/OM Drama: H hooked up with someone before meeting MC, but it was off-screen, of course.
HEA: YES
Tropes/Themes/Tags:
- bound together
- instalove
October 8, 2024
This book is so funny and so much to read. I love seeing Callum spell mishaps with Michael and poor Michael did not see it coming. Micheal and Callum works so well for each other. I love how they help each other when rough moments come up and are there for each other.
I would highly recommend this book if you like low aganst, funny and mysterious books.
I would highly recommend this book if you like low aganst, funny and mysterious books.
October 23, 2024
Thank you Raiven Matthews. This book had me smiling and laughing and generally took me from a gray mood to one of happiness. I love when stories transport us from the everyday to the excitement of something new and different. Callum had me laughing and Michael had me shaking my head. They and this story were the remedy for a rough day.
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