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Briarwood Witches #3
The Castle of Water and Woe
Severed hands, moving paintings and an erotic encounter in a priest hole, just another typical day for Maeve Crawford at Briarwood Castle.
With Maeve’s sister Kelly on her way from America and the fae threat looming ever closer, things at Briarwood are more desperate than ever. When the coven discover an old portrait of Maeve’s mother might hold a valuable clue to help them defeat the fae host, they travel to London to uncover its secrets.
Under the bright city lights. Maeve discovers more about the mysterious origins of her powers, and one by one her guys open up about the dark parts of themselves they’ve kept hidden. In this most desperate of times, every member of the Briarwood coven must confront their own demons in order to unleash the full potential of their magic.
The Castle of Water and Woe is the third in a brand new steamy reverse harem romance series by USA Today bestselling author Steffanie Holmes. This full-length book glitters with love, heartache, hope, grief, dark magic, fairy trickery, steamy scenes, British slang, meat pies, second chances, and the healing powers of a good cup of tea. Read on only if you believe one just isn’t enough.
Note: This book contains characters who struggle with issues that may be sensitive to some readers, including self-harm, suicide, sexual assault, and unsafe drug use.
With Maeve’s sister Kelly on her way from America and the fae threat looming ever closer, things at Briarwood are more desperate than ever. When the coven discover an old portrait of Maeve’s mother might hold a valuable clue to help them defeat the fae host, they travel to London to uncover its secrets.
Under the bright city lights. Maeve discovers more about the mysterious origins of her powers, and one by one her guys open up about the dark parts of themselves they’ve kept hidden. In this most desperate of times, every member of the Briarwood coven must confront their own demons in order to unleash the full potential of their magic.
The Castle of Water and Woe is the third in a brand new steamy reverse harem romance series by USA Today bestselling author Steffanie Holmes. This full-length book glitters with love, heartache, hope, grief, dark magic, fairy trickery, steamy scenes, British slang, meat pies, second chances, and the healing powers of a good cup of tea. Read on only if you believe one just isn’t enough.
Note: This book contains characters who struggle with issues that may be sensitive to some readers, including self-harm, suicide, sexual assault, and unsafe drug use.
372 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2024
About the author
Steffanie Holmes
104 books1,527 followersSteffanie Holmes is the author of steamy historical and paranormal romance. Her books feature clever, witty heroines, wild shifters, cunning witches and alpha males who get what they want.
Before becoming a writer, Steffanie worked as an archaeologist and museum curator. She loves to explore historical settings and ancient conceptions of love and possession. From Dark Age Europe to crumbling gothic estates, Steffanie is fascinated with how love can blossom between the most unlikely characters.
Steffanie lives in New Zealand with her husband and a horde of cantankerous cats. Learn more about Steffanie at her website: www.steffanieholmes.com. She also writes dark science fiction under the name S C Green.
Want to be informed when the next Steffanie Holmes paranormal romance story goes live? Sign up for the mailing list! http://eepurl.com/ZrowD
Before becoming a writer, Steffanie worked as an archaeologist and museum curator. She loves to explore historical settings and ancient conceptions of love and possession. From Dark Age Europe to crumbling gothic estates, Steffanie is fascinated with how love can blossom between the most unlikely characters.
Steffanie lives in New Zealand with her husband and a horde of cantankerous cats. Learn more about Steffanie at her website: www.steffanieholmes.com. She also writes dark science fiction under the name S C Green.
Want to be informed when the next Steffanie Holmes paranormal romance story goes live? Sign up for the mailing list! http://eepurl.com/ZrowD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 9, 2018
Meh
The big bombshell cliffhanger was something you could see since book one. Jane has become the absolute worst. The very real issues the guys are suffering are all being resolved with one conversation. "Ah you were a junky having sex in the streets, thanks for telling me. oh that made you all better? Sweet!" "oh you have abandonment issues? Well I did right up until this five minute talk and now.I'm cured!" And then there are things that are just illogical, "don't go doing this because it's literally depleting your magic permanently and you have an apocalyptic battle coming. Good tip. (Immeditely goes and put magic into everything)." It's like Holmes will make is plot point, like the example above or don't tell x about Mauve being alive and then ten pages later she forgets she wrote that and had the characters doing exactly that. Let me be clear, it's not written as though the characters are throwing caution to the wind, it's as though they never had the previous conversation or warning. It's what happens when you slack off.on continuity editing. Just like Mauve claiming in book 3 that she is.going to tell Flynn something she never told him, that she remembers him from being at her school, that was discussed in book 1, not a secret. Continuity is important. And then Corbin sure jumps right on into the deep end. You'll know what I mean when you get there.
The big bombshell cliffhanger was something you could see since book one. Jane has become the absolute worst. The very real issues the guys are suffering are all being resolved with one conversation. "Ah you were a junky having sex in the streets, thanks for telling me. oh that made you all better? Sweet!" "oh you have abandonment issues? Well I did right up until this five minute talk and now.I'm cured!" And then there are things that are just illogical, "don't go doing this because it's literally depleting your magic permanently and you have an apocalyptic battle coming. Good tip. (Immeditely goes and put magic into everything)." It's like Holmes will make is plot point, like the example above or don't tell x about Mauve being alive and then ten pages later she forgets she wrote that and had the characters doing exactly that. Let me be clear, it's not written as though the characters are throwing caution to the wind, it's as though they never had the previous conversation or warning. It's what happens when you slack off.on continuity editing. Just like Mauve claiming in book 3 that she is.going to tell Flynn something she never told him, that she remembers him from being at her school, that was discussed in book 1, not a secret. Continuity is important. And then Corbin sure jumps right on into the deep end. You'll know what I mean when you get there.
June 4, 2019
This one had more story, which was good. But the Kelly thing kept it from being really good. She's being an idiot with Kelly, and making the exact same mistakes we saw her make in the last book.
Separately, I don't understand why everyone in the town is now in full "burn the witches" mode. I'm hoping it's a spell or something, because it makes no damn sense.
Furthermore, Jane better be impacted by this spell. Because there is zero reason for her to make a full 180 and despise Maeve, after Maeve has risked her life - repeatedly - to help Jane. Yeah, yeah, Maeve is making dumb choices with Kelly. But she's not being evil and Jane is acting like Maeve is suddenly this fucking terrible person, rather than an overwhelmed person who is trying to protect her sister and making dumb choices.
If this isn't a spell, I hope the fae kill Jane and the whole fucking town, because those people are evil. Mob mentality like that is what led to the most evil behavior in human history, and if that's really who they are, then the fae should just come wipe the town clean.
Separately, I don't understand why everyone in the town is now in full "burn the witches" mode. I'm hoping it's a spell or something, because it makes no damn sense.
Furthermore, Jane better be impacted by this spell. Because there is zero reason for her to make a full 180 and despise Maeve, after Maeve has risked her life - repeatedly - to help Jane. Yeah, yeah, Maeve is making dumb choices with Kelly. But she's not being evil and Jane is acting like Maeve is suddenly this fucking terrible person, rather than an overwhelmed person who is trying to protect her sister and making dumb choices.
If this isn't a spell, I hope the fae kill Jane and the whole fucking town, because those people are evil. Mob mentality like that is what led to the most evil behavior in human history, and if that's really who they are, then the fae should just come wipe the town clean.
July 3, 2018
All I can say is "Wow!!" Ms. Holmes floored me in a good way. Maeve and her boys are still together doing their best to defeat the fae King Daigh who also happens to be Maeve's father. Maeve's sister Kelly has arrived in England during a very trying time for Maeve as she is unsure how to tell her sister about herself and the boys. Somehow King Daigh and his followers have circumvented the sidhe mound which Maeve thought was well and truly closed. Connor has yet to be baptized. Most of the boys are facing their pasts, 22 innocent souls die in preparation of raising the Slaugh. Maeve finally admits to her feelings for the boys which makes Kelly suspicious.
All of these points come together in ways that you least expect so that you just have to continue scrolling until you have unveiled the entire story.
I highly recommend this to any paranormal suspense lover as well as those who enjoy reverse harems. I voluntarily read an advance copy and have not been compensated in any way for this opinion.
All of these points come together in ways that you least expect so that you just have to continue scrolling until you have unveiled the entire story.
I highly recommend this to any paranormal suspense lover as well as those who enjoy reverse harems. I voluntarily read an advance copy and have not been compensated in any way for this opinion.
August 14, 2018
Wow! What an amazing book. Maeve is a perfect mix of Scientist crossed with a Witch. It’s like two sides of her personality are fighting for dominance. Loved Flynn’s irreverent commentary around London landmarks, so funny. Loved finding out more about the past of each of Maeve’s coven. An epic finish I did not expect, just wow!! Eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
July 13, 2025
Really enjoying this series. Well things are starting to get interesting. People coming back from the dead and hopefully Maeve can save the town and townspeople (even though they don’t deserve it), cause she has a good heart and 5 cute guys to help her. Just love this author’s work
September 17, 2018
I've read this book twice now with a large gap between originally reading it and now.
It was just as interesting as I remembered with some of Maeve's birth parents mysteries being solved as well as some jaunts across England. It always amuses me reading descriptions of places I've actually been and some places being in London that I'm familiar with made it more imaginable.
The tension between Maeve and her sister in this was painful to read what with all the trauma that happens to the both of them. There was several deeply emotional scenes in this and it is definitely not for the faint hearted but a great read.
It was just as interesting as I remembered with some of Maeve's birth parents mysteries being solved as well as some jaunts across England. It always amuses me reading descriptions of places I've actually been and some places being in London that I'm familiar with made it more imaginable.
The tension between Maeve and her sister in this was painful to read what with all the trauma that happens to the both of them. There was several deeply emotional scenes in this and it is definitely not for the faint hearted but a great read.
December 21, 2025
🌶️ And it just keeps getting better- even if it breaks my heart.
Okay, learning just how broken these characters are/were and seeing the slow start towards some of their healing is hard on the emotions- learning Rowan’s heartbreaking story and what comes from it had me in tears. He has some hope now, but who knows what that means really as we march towards the midpoint of the series. I still worry that if Maeve loses any of her boys that Rowan will be the lamb sacrificed on literature’s altar.
Hopefully not.
Kelly is seriously getting on my nerves, as well as Jane. I mean, I see the point behind it, but Kelly is really reminding me of her age here and how she is a far cry still from being an adult. It seems to me that she’s become far too materialistic now that she has access to money, and that girl is making some seriously stupid decisions. I get it how Maeve keeping secrets is causing a rift, but Kelly needs to remember she just tried killing herself just a week or so ago and how yeah, Maeve is rightfully hesitant to not want to push Kelly outside of her long-held beliefs/comfort zone right now.
It’s really bringing home to me though how much Kelly is not ready for emancipation yet- and without emancipation or a passport she has this rush travel Visa she can use to leave the country on her own before emancipation is even granted? And what judge (or lawyer) is going to allow a minor who was just hospitalized with a suicide attempt go off gallivanting around the world unbeholden to anyone?
Yes, Maeve is just as much of an idiot thinking that she just made this promise to be there for her baby sister, and then immediately push her away and keep lying to her is okay? Maeve is just as sheltered as Kelly is, and yet Maeve acts like what she is doing is responsible and thinking “everything is okay”… wow, delusional much?
Oh, and why is she opening up to the boys (who she’s known a few short weeks) suddenly and yet avoiding her sister, who she’s known for all her life? That Jane believes after a day or two of having met Kelly that she knows her better than Maeve does is a bit much… but then this whole group seems fairly chaotic in its makeup anyway. It just feels like there is a lot of pot calling the kettle black here as everyone starts acting contrary to how they’ve been acting up until now.
But it’s still one heck of a ride even despite the frustration and heartache and stereotypes being tossed about.
Off to book four!
Okay, learning just how broken these characters are/were and seeing the slow start towards some of their healing is hard on the emotions- learning Rowan’s heartbreaking story and what comes from it had me in tears. He has some hope now, but who knows what that means really as we march towards the midpoint of the series. I still worry that if Maeve loses any of her boys that Rowan will be the lamb sacrificed on literature’s altar.
Hopefully not.
Kelly is seriously getting on my nerves, as well as Jane. I mean, I see the point behind it, but Kelly is really reminding me of her age here and how she is a far cry still from being an adult. It seems to me that she’s become far too materialistic now that she has access to money, and that girl is making some seriously stupid decisions. I get it how Maeve keeping secrets is causing a rift, but Kelly needs to remember she just tried killing herself just a week or so ago and how yeah, Maeve is rightfully hesitant to not want to push Kelly outside of her long-held beliefs/comfort zone right now.
It’s really bringing home to me though how much Kelly is not ready for emancipation yet- and without emancipation or a passport she has this rush travel Visa she can use to leave the country on her own before emancipation is even granted? And what judge (or lawyer) is going to allow a minor who was just hospitalized with a suicide attempt go off gallivanting around the world unbeholden to anyone?
Yes, Maeve is just as much of an idiot thinking that she just made this promise to be there for her baby sister, and then immediately push her away and keep lying to her is okay? Maeve is just as sheltered as Kelly is, and yet Maeve acts like what she is doing is responsible and thinking “everything is okay”… wow, delusional much?
Oh, and why is she opening up to the boys (who she’s known a few short weeks) suddenly and yet avoiding her sister, who she’s known for all her life? That Jane believes after a day or two of having met Kelly that she knows her better than Maeve does is a bit much… but then this whole group seems fairly chaotic in its makeup anyway. It just feels like there is a lot of pot calling the kettle black here as everyone starts acting contrary to how they’ve been acting up until now.
But it’s still one heck of a ride even despite the frustration and heartache and stereotypes being tossed about.
Off to book four!
August 16, 2018
The fae are getting the upper hand, gaining advantage while the coven is clueless how to stop them... and now it's a race agains the time.
Maeve and her coven are under great stress,trying to find a way to stop the fae that does not involve horrible blood magic. Trying to understand the past and find a solution is even harder with all the emotional turmoil and complications happening in England - not only among the coven members, but additionally with Jane, who disapproves Maeve's handling of the situation with her sister, and with Kelly herself, when the rift between the sisters is widening. Opinions of the people living close to Briarwood only help to escalate the hatred and tension..
I absolutely loved this book. I have read both previous volumes and was only waiting for an opening in my reading schedule to squeeze this one in.. and I totally don't regret doing this! There was so much going on, so much happening in Maeve's life, that the book could easily reach twice its length and there would be still enough to story to be told. There were so many twists and turns, shaking it even more by switching the points of view and seeing the difference what was meant to be said or done, and what actually came out. These often small differences led to conflicts and heated situations that brought the tension level up and kept my eyes glued to the pages until I finished. I loved the way we learned more about the characters and their past, seeing them coming to terms with who they are and what they had to go through. Opening up let out the ghosts and pains, and the release explained much about how their personalities were shaped and how to understand the characters. Grouped together, they are an awesome bunch, and I can't really decide who is my favorite of them. I simply treasure them all.
I am already looking forward to the next volume, crazily impatient and curious to see the approaching confrontation between Maeve and Kelly, at least, and see how the battle between the witches and the fae develops.
Maeve and her coven are under great stress,trying to find a way to stop the fae that does not involve horrible blood magic. Trying to understand the past and find a solution is even harder with all the emotional turmoil and complications happening in England - not only among the coven members, but additionally with Jane, who disapproves Maeve's handling of the situation with her sister, and with Kelly herself, when the rift between the sisters is widening. Opinions of the people living close to Briarwood only help to escalate the hatred and tension..
I absolutely loved this book. I have read both previous volumes and was only waiting for an opening in my reading schedule to squeeze this one in.. and I totally don't regret doing this! There was so much going on, so much happening in Maeve's life, that the book could easily reach twice its length and there would be still enough to story to be told. There were so many twists and turns, shaking it even more by switching the points of view and seeing the difference what was meant to be said or done, and what actually came out. These often small differences led to conflicts and heated situations that brought the tension level up and kept my eyes glued to the pages until I finished. I loved the way we learned more about the characters and their past, seeing them coming to terms with who they are and what they had to go through. Opening up let out the ghosts and pains, and the release explained much about how their personalities were shaped and how to understand the characters. Grouped together, they are an awesome bunch, and I can't really decide who is my favorite of them. I simply treasure them all.
I am already looking forward to the next volume, crazily impatient and curious to see the approaching confrontation between Maeve and Kelly, at least, and see how the battle between the witches and the fae develops.
February 16, 2022
For a couple of weeks already I was looking at my paperback copy of this book. Every time I wanted to get started I decided at the last moment to start something else. That happens often to me, that doesn't say anything about the book. But I had some spare time left yesterday and this book looked at me and begged me to finally be read and I decided to just give in. And once I got started I asked myself why I waited this long again.
I love this group of people. I love the individuals in this group. I love what they can accomplish together and how their relationship and dynamic feels so natural. Holmes makes sure that not just Maeve is a complicated, layered, interesting and far from perfect character. She also gives a lot of background and attention to the guys. They come with their own issues, their own history and their own journeys and emotional challenges.
The fae plot starts quite spectacular at the beginning of the book, but then the threat of them trying to destruct humanity fades a little. That means that the rest of the book is not too action packed, but the book is filled with loads of information, discoveries and emotional development. We learn a lot about the history of Briarwood, of the ritual that has been performed years ago and we meet some people who were actively involved with it.
But, even though Holmes was dumping quite some info on us, it never felt like she did. Gathering all the information got us to visit some awesome places in England like London and Oxford and I loved how Holmes also introduced the conflict with Maeve's sister. Especially because Holmes didn't specifically make Maeve look nice within that conflict. It gave Maeve a nice edge. It made her seem flawed and therefore beautifully human.
I love this group of people. I love the individuals in this group. I love what they can accomplish together and how their relationship and dynamic feels so natural. Holmes makes sure that not just Maeve is a complicated, layered, interesting and far from perfect character. She also gives a lot of background and attention to the guys. They come with their own issues, their own history and their own journeys and emotional challenges.
The fae plot starts quite spectacular at the beginning of the book, but then the threat of them trying to destruct humanity fades a little. That means that the rest of the book is not too action packed, but the book is filled with loads of information, discoveries and emotional development. We learn a lot about the history of Briarwood, of the ritual that has been performed years ago and we meet some people who were actively involved with it.
But, even though Holmes was dumping quite some info on us, it never felt like she did. Gathering all the information got us to visit some awesome places in England like London and Oxford and I loved how Holmes also introduced the conflict with Maeve's sister. Especially because Holmes didn't specifically make Maeve look nice within that conflict. It gave Maeve a nice edge. It made her seem flawed and therefore beautifully human.
September 14, 2024
4.75 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
Another amazing novel by Steffaine Holmes in the Briarwood Witches series!
The Castle of Water and Woe picks up right after the events of The Castle of Fire and Fable as Maeve, Corbin, Flynn, Rowan, Arthur, and Blake all continue in their quest to discover a way to defeat the looming threat of the fae invasion. The novel also expands beyond Briarwood and Maeve's childhood home in Arizona as we are introduced to the larger witchcraft community. Their discoveries lead them to a solution at the end of the book with unintended consequences. I am excited to discover how the events at the end of the book influence the coven's next actions.
One of the biggest issues I usually have with reverse harem novels is the lack of character development of the MMC in the harem. However, this is not the case in the Briarwood Witches series. The Castle of Water and Woe takes time to focus on Corbin, Rowan, and Flynn's backstories. In addition, we learn more about how Blake adapted to the human world after being kidnapped and trapped in the fae world since childhood. Arthur is now the only character without a full backstory but the author has given hints that this will be touched on in a future book. It also does a great job of showing how this affects their relationships with each other and the FMC Maeve.
Overall, fantastic read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another amazing novel by Steffaine Holmes in the Briarwood Witches series!
The Castle of Water and Woe picks up right after the events of The Castle of Fire and Fable as Maeve, Corbin, Flynn, Rowan, Arthur, and Blake all continue in their quest to discover a way to defeat the looming threat of the fae invasion. The novel also expands beyond Briarwood and Maeve's childhood home in Arizona as we are introduced to the larger witchcraft community. Their discoveries lead them to a solution at the end of the book with unintended consequences. I am excited to discover how the events at the end of the book influence the coven's next actions.
One of the biggest issues I usually have with reverse harem novels is the lack of character development of the MMC in the harem. However, this is not the case in the Briarwood Witches series. The Castle of Water and Woe takes time to focus on Corbin, Rowan, and Flynn's backstories. In addition, we learn more about how Blake adapted to the human world after being kidnapped and trapped in the fae world since childhood. Arthur is now the only character without a full backstory but the author has given hints that this will be touched on in a future book. It also does a great job of showing how this affects their relationships with each other and the FMC Maeve.
Overall, fantastic read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2024
Less than a minute ago I finished this book.
Is it safe to breath?
Am I safe to leave the house without Maive and her five lovers and coven members?
Yet again, Steff has raised the bar.
All the traditional elements that make up a Steffanie Holmes book are all there. A great story line with many twists. The style of her writing as she steers us through the story, maintaining the secrets of her mind’s eye till the very end.... then that massive cliffhanger, and the heat of the romantic elements will burn your fingers and boil your eyes...really no holds barred stuff.
But in this book, the voyages of discovery, the pain and suffering as secrets are revealed and histories brought out in front of our eyes are not of Maive. We learn so much more about the MC's lives and reasons for their pains.
Then there is Jane and Kellie’s story unfolding before us. Where is this going and how will it end?
And Maive? Is she as strong as we think and has, she misjudged relationships? Is the pressure and demands as a priestess going to challenge and overwhelm her personal relationships?
Steff....you know how to run our emotions and make this story sing your tune.
A great read. A must read!
Enjoy!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Is it safe to breath?
Am I safe to leave the house without Maive and her five lovers and coven members?
Yet again, Steff has raised the bar.
All the traditional elements that make up a Steffanie Holmes book are all there. A great story line with many twists. The style of her writing as she steers us through the story, maintaining the secrets of her mind’s eye till the very end.... then that massive cliffhanger, and the heat of the romantic elements will burn your fingers and boil your eyes...really no holds barred stuff.
But in this book, the voyages of discovery, the pain and suffering as secrets are revealed and histories brought out in front of our eyes are not of Maive. We learn so much more about the MC's lives and reasons for their pains.
Then there is Jane and Kellie’s story unfolding before us. Where is this going and how will it end?
And Maive? Is she as strong as we think and has, she misjudged relationships? Is the pressure and demands as a priestess going to challenge and overwhelm her personal relationships?
Steff....you know how to run our emotions and make this story sing your tune.
A great read. A must read!
Enjoy!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2019
OK I'm in too deep now to stop but I'm beginning to think reverse harem may not be for me (this is my first reverse harem series). I keep thinking it would be better if various people paired off into monogamous couples or maybe thruples max and I don't like the fact that the heroine is the center of everyone's universe lol. The fact that the harem have to follow her orders particularly annoys me - why should she suddenly get to be the leader even though she has no actual qualifications or experience and Corbin is way better at it than her?
But it's not the book's fault I'm not really into the whole harem thing! Can't complain when the book contains the thing that it's labelled as.
I am enjoying all the relationship drama and in this book we get lots of Corbin / Rowan feeeeeelings yay! Corbin is my fave and Rowan just needs, like, all the hugs in the world, stat. Other bits I liked: art talk, sister drama, talks about religion and beliefs, hot orgies (I know this isn't consistent with not liking the harem thing; what can I say? Brain likes what it likes).
But it's not the book's fault I'm not really into the whole harem thing! Can't complain when the book contains the thing that it's labelled as.
I am enjoying all the relationship drama and in this book we get lots of Corbin / Rowan feeeeeelings yay! Corbin is my fave and Rowan just needs, like, all the hugs in the world, stat. Other bits I liked: art talk, sister drama, talks about religion and beliefs, hot orgies (I know this isn't consistent with not liking the harem thing; what can I say? Brain likes what it likes).
August 13, 2018
A little slow out the gate, but still a wonderful read. Magic and Mayhem abounds. Reading this story that didn't become clear until much later in the book. However it seems that no matter how hard Maeve and her marry band work it they continue to hit a brick wall. How are they going to stop the Slaugh? It was done once before but a terrible cost. Plus Maeve is trying to hide what she is from her sister. How is she going to hold it all together? She thinks she is keeping her sister safe by keeping her in the dark. Is she wrong?
So much action going on and many balls to juggle. You have to read this as I won't give more away. The one thing that is continues to be important is Maeve's love for all those in her circle. She cannot let the Fae win.
So much action going on and many balls to juggle. You have to read this as I won't give more away. The one thing that is continues to be important is Maeve's love for all those in her circle. She cannot let the Fae win.
July 31, 2024
I devoured the first two books in this series in a day.
Then I started this one. And my god. If I wasn’t already a huge fan of Stef’s writing, this series is enough to make me love her universe.
I don’t typically enjoy fantasy romance. But as a huge fan of this author, I decided to read the Briarwood Witches. And I am so glad I did! This series has everything I do enjoy about fantasy, but none of the in-depth, wordy, drawn out world building associated with the fantasy genre. I love that Stef puts her own quirky twist on it.
The sass I’ve come to expect from her writing is found all through this book. The spice is present and helps the plot in a way I hadn’t anticipated.
And even though I KNOW that the author loves her cliffies, I still hadn’t expected this one.
Then I started this one. And my god. If I wasn’t already a huge fan of Stef’s writing, this series is enough to make me love her universe.
I don’t typically enjoy fantasy romance. But as a huge fan of this author, I decided to read the Briarwood Witches. And I am so glad I did! This series has everything I do enjoy about fantasy, but none of the in-depth, wordy, drawn out world building associated with the fantasy genre. I love that Stef puts her own quirky twist on it.
The sass I’ve come to expect from her writing is found all through this book. The spice is present and helps the plot in a way I hadn’t anticipated.
And even though I KNOW that the author loves her cliffies, I still hadn’t expected this one.
August 16, 2024
This series is great. My issue is that I care about everyone and the books keep throwing problems at them. I want to hang out and have a cuppa with a chat after the events have already happened and I know everyone is safe.
For crying out loud, everyone let the babe be baptized.
The characters are open, oozing sores of angst and pain. It's difficult being in their headspace. With THIS book, I had to take frequent book breaks to read other things before returning. It is exhausting when dealing with so many characters with serious trauma plus current horror.
I want to make it to the end of the series - knowing that things have healed, they survive, and the threat is gone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For crying out loud, everyone let the babe be baptized.
The characters are open, oozing sores of angst and pain. It's difficult being in their headspace. With THIS book, I had to take frequent book breaks to read other things before returning. It is exhausting when dealing with so many characters with serious trauma plus current horror.
I want to make it to the end of the series - knowing that things have healed, they survive, and the threat is gone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2024
The more this series progresses the more the plot twists and turns keep getting better and better. Weird moving paintings, Maeve's sister turning up and more history/backstories came to light. I liked that Maeve and the guys became closer as they confronted all of their problems and anxieties with the coven. More so with all of the steamy scenarios too. I'll be honest though and say Jane & Kelly did my head in within this book.
I understood what Maeve's reason was for not telling Kelly about everything that was going on but Kelly & Jane were acting like brats. Jane should know better after Maeve and the guys helped her out.
Anyway I'm still enjoying reading this series and with that brilliant cliff-hanger ending im looking forward to book 4 now.
I understood what Maeve's reason was for not telling Kelly about everything that was going on but Kelly & Jane were acting like brats. Jane should know better after Maeve and the guys helped her out.
Anyway I'm still enjoying reading this series and with that brilliant cliff-hanger ending im looking forward to book 4 now.
July 1, 2018
The Castle of Water and Woe by Steffanie Holmes is book Three in the Briarwood Reverse Harem seres. Since this continues the story of Maeve you do need to read the previous book to fully enjoy this one. This one picks up where the last one ended. Maeve went to help her sister but while away things go more series back home. Maeve sister is coming to England to be with Maeve. Maeve is excited to be with her sister more but Maeve is worried about the danger she is coming into but also the relationships she has with the guys...how will her sister react?
This book does end with another cliffhanger setting us up for the next installment in her story.
This book does end with another cliffhanger setting us up for the next installment in her story.
August 15, 2024
Ok.....so yes the fae are trying to raise a demon army and take over the earth and humans...but Maeve is out here living the dream in this old castle with her 5 witchy men.
In this installment Maeve is trying to learn about her past, her mother, and her coven while also trying to figure out how to stop the fae. At the same time she is trying to hide her true self and her relationships from her Christian sister. The men face their dark pasts and emotions as things are developing within their relationship with Maeve. Each one bringing a different dynamic. I can not wait to continue reading their story.
In this installment Maeve is trying to learn about her past, her mother, and her coven while also trying to figure out how to stop the fae. At the same time she is trying to hide her true self and her relationships from her Christian sister. The men face their dark pasts and emotions as things are developing within their relationship with Maeve. Each one bringing a different dynamic. I can not wait to continue reading their story.
August 17, 2024
Trouble is Brewing
Something strange is going on with the townspeople and the vibe is reminiscent of the Salem witch trials. It doesn't help matters that Maeve and her sister are growing further apart and that the fae have found their way through to this realm. Trouble, chaos and personal issues are suffocating the coven which added to the drama of this story. This book is a combination of Briarwood history, background on the guys and a set up to the pending confrontations. I cannot wait to read what happens next when the next installment is released.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Something strange is going on with the townspeople and the vibe is reminiscent of the Salem witch trials. It doesn't help matters that Maeve and her sister are growing further apart and that the fae have found their way through to this realm. Trouble, chaos and personal issues are suffocating the coven which added to the drama of this story. This book is a combination of Briarwood history, background on the guys and a set up to the pending confrontations. I cannot wait to read what happens next when the next installment is released.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2024
A great continuation of Maeve and her men's story! I really love the depth and complexity of each of the men's back stories that we learned in this book. And their magic is growing the more they dig into what happened in the Coven 21 years ago. The fight with the fae and now the towns folk is heating up. Maeve's sister is thrown in the mix now, causing more stress for Maeve.
It ends on a cliffhanger that made me cry "NO!" when I turned the page and it was the end for now. I NEED to know if it's true or another Fae trick!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It ends on a cliffhanger that made me cry "NO!" when I turned the page and it was the end for now. I NEED to know if it's true or another Fae trick!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2024
The story line is great! I don’t normally read stories that have group sex, but I was able to get intrigued in this young witch and her search for her life and her heritage. It was very interesting that all of the characters were very damaged in some way and they each seemed to have just what was need to help each other. The fight against the evil fae the new young leader of the witch coven brings sadness, tragedy, love and acceptance. I really need to follow them to understand the role of her sister. I believe she will have a very unique role in this mysterious group of people.
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.
July 6, 2018
Once again Maeve and her boys are up to their witchy necks in trouble. Add to that Maeve's little sister, Kelly, has come for a visit. It is not going to be easy to hide her unusual relationship with the guys, find out what happened the last time the Fae tried to raise the Slaugh, and come up with a plan to save the world, all while sightseeing.
This series keeps getting better and better. The book ends on a cliff hanger and it is a good one. Drat it all. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
This series keeps getting better and better. The book ends on a cliff hanger and it is a good one. Drat it all. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
abandoned-series
July 24, 2021The Castle of Earth and Embers, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Castle of Fire and Fable, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Author followed !
The Castle of Fire and Fable, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Author followed !
August 17, 2024
With Maeve's sister coming to see her, how will she keep the secrets she need to? Is her sister up to accepting what's changed about Maeve? Maeve still is fighting the fae who are still determine to take over the human realm. Maeve and her guys/coven have plenty of challenges again in this book, I loved the secrets, dangers and the sizzle of this addition to this great series. Be ready for a bit of a cliffy.
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.
December 15, 2024
The fae danger factor is increasing, Kelly is coming for a visit, and things with Maeve’s gang keep getting spicier! I loved how the tension was ratchet up in this story - and, of course, I loved the steam! My heart hurt for Maeve when she fought with her sister and Jane - she’s just trying her best to save the world and be a good sister at the same time… I loved that her relationships with all her guys have gotten stronger - there were so rocky parts, but they’re strong now. I can’t wait to see what happens in ‘Wind and Whispers’.
July 2, 2018
Overall rating: 4.5**
Actually really enjoyed this storyline! There are mysteries, secrets, magical beings, emotional ups and downs, on top of melding all of this to surround some hard core, dark issues and challenges. I can’t even imagine what it takes to keep such an intense tale all cohesive! I surprised myself when I reached the conclusion. I once again lost track of time so....dinner was really simple .....oops. A great book worth a read! All my reviews are voluntary.
Actually really enjoyed this storyline! There are mysteries, secrets, magical beings, emotional ups and downs, on top of melding all of this to surround some hard core, dark issues and challenges. I can’t even imagine what it takes to keep such an intense tale all cohesive! I surprised myself when I reached the conclusion. I once again lost track of time so....dinner was really simple .....oops. A great book worth a read! All my reviews are voluntary.
July 3, 2018
I have been really enjoying this series. I really like how much character development the author has been doing and you really feel close to the characters. Maeve’s sister Kelly puts a real strain on everything as they are trying to keep everything from her.
The storyline reveals a lot of interesting history and the ending makes you want the next book in your hand as soon as possible.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
The storyline reveals a lot of interesting history and the ending makes you want the next book in your hand as soon as possible.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
July 3, 2018
Maeve and the Briarwood Coven now know what the Fae are planning, but how can they stop them. And how can Maeve hide all of their sexy witchy ways from Kelly. This story sucks you into this fantasy world while also exploring very real human emotions. The coven goes on a grand adventure in this installment but the best adventure may be them learning more about and to trust each other. Love this series.
April 3, 2022
What a twist ending!
I liked that most everyone had a healing moment during their journey to London, Oxford and other places.
Kelly being there and being so bratty in the face of all the things Maeve has to do, made me want to throttle her a bit.
I really want to know what secrets the Soho coven collect and what they know about the fae.
Minus one star for excessive swearing and blasphemy (they even have sex in a church).
I liked that most everyone had a healing moment during their journey to London, Oxford and other places.
Kelly being there and being so bratty in the face of all the things Maeve has to do, made me want to throttle her a bit.
I really want to know what secrets the Soho coven collect and what they know about the fae.
Minus one star for excessive swearing and blasphemy (they even have sex in a church).
December 25, 2024
life parallels
I love the way this author has brought in accurate sensory descriptions of troubles people have. As an augmented reality fantasy, she brings to life the issues in the characters lives/ our lives in a purposeful and empathetic way. This series has expanded into very deep character development, the plot becoming a dance between inter and intra character conflicts. Beautiful window to first person real life issues a reader is not familiar with.
I love the way this author has brought in accurate sensory descriptions of troubles people have. As an augmented reality fantasy, she brings to life the issues in the characters lives/ our lives in a purposeful and empathetic way. This series has expanded into very deep character development, the plot becoming a dance between inter and intra character conflicts. Beautiful window to first person real life issues a reader is not familiar with.
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