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That Damned Witch : Spells and Secrets
She's a witch about to lose everything.
He's a demon with nothing to lose.
The Witch
Living in the shadows of her late mother, one of the most powerful witches in Scotland, Esme inherited two things from her - the power to enchant flowers and her beloved shop. But when her father delivers an ultimatum, she must do everything she can to save her mother's legacy. As more secrets unfold, and with a witch hunter on the loose, how much is Esme willing to risk to uncover the truth?
The Demon
When a loophole presents itself, Nox finds himself back on the streets of Edinburgh. He has a chance to end his curse and recover something that he lost a long time ago, but the clock is ticking. Soon the powers below will realise that he's gone. Nox must choose between vengeance or working with those who had cursed him centuries ago.
He's a demon with nothing to lose.
The Witch
Living in the shadows of her late mother, one of the most powerful witches in Scotland, Esme inherited two things from her - the power to enchant flowers and her beloved shop. But when her father delivers an ultimatum, she must do everything she can to save her mother's legacy. As more secrets unfold, and with a witch hunter on the loose, how much is Esme willing to risk to uncover the truth?
The Demon
When a loophole presents itself, Nox finds himself back on the streets of Edinburgh. He has a chance to end his curse and recover something that he lost a long time ago, but the clock is ticking. Soon the powers below will realise that he's gone. Nox must choose between vengeance or working with those who had cursed him centuries ago.
- GenresRomantasy
487 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2024
90 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 28, 2025
"𝐿𝒾𝒻𝑒 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓀𝓈 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝑒𝓍𝓅𝑒𝒸𝓉, 𝓌𝒽𝓎 𝓈𝒽𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓉𝒽 𝒷𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝓎 𝒹𝒾𝒻𝒻𝑒𝓇𝑒𝓃𝓉"
Sometimes you pick up a book and it just feels like the author cracked open your brain, sprinkled in everything you love (witches, demons, banter, mystery, vibes), and said, "Here, have some feelings." That was THIS right here.
Esme? A human glitter explosion with a spell book. Nox? A demon so polished he probably files his horns. Together? Pure, chaotic magic. Esme’s chaotic pink energy crashing into Nox’s grumpy, snarky attitude gave me life. The multiple POVs were really fun too and getting inside Nox’s head (and watching him struggle not to be charmed by Esme) was chef’s kiss perfection. The banter was top-tier and so cleverly written! Add in a murder mystery, family secrets, and a ticking clock, and you better believe I was locked in like my kindle owed me money.
Was it perfect? Almost. I did have to deduct a star because there’s one bit involving an animal that made me contemplate violence (fictional violence, but still). Just a heads-up if you’re soft like me. Either way, I CANNOT wait for the next in this series.
"𝓘 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓹𝓮𝓸𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓼𝓸𝓻𝓻𝔂 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓮. 𝓟𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓭𝓸𝓮𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰. 𝓘𝓽'𝓼 𝓪𝓼 𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓯𝓾𝓵 𝓪𝓼 𝓪 𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓬𝓸𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓽𝓮𝓪𝓹𝓸𝓽!"
Sometimes you pick up a book and it just feels like the author cracked open your brain, sprinkled in everything you love (witches, demons, banter, mystery, vibes), and said, "Here, have some feelings." That was THIS right here.
Esme? A human glitter explosion with a spell book. Nox? A demon so polished he probably files his horns. Together? Pure, chaotic magic. Esme’s chaotic pink energy crashing into Nox’s grumpy, snarky attitude gave me life. The multiple POVs were really fun too and getting inside Nox’s head (and watching him struggle not to be charmed by Esme) was chef’s kiss perfection. The banter was top-tier and so cleverly written! Add in a murder mystery, family secrets, and a ticking clock, and you better believe I was locked in like my kindle owed me money.
Was it perfect? Almost. I did have to deduct a star because there’s one bit involving an animal that made me contemplate violence (fictional violence, but still). Just a heads-up if you’re soft like me. Either way, I CANNOT wait for the next in this series.
"𝓘 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓹𝓮𝓸𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓼𝓸𝓻𝓻𝔂 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓮. 𝓟𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓭𝓸𝓮𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰. 𝓘𝓽'𝓼 𝓪𝓼 𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓯𝓾𝓵 𝓪𝓼 𝓪 𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓬𝓸𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓽𝓮𝓪𝓹𝓸𝓽!"
August 21, 2024
Overall Rating: 4⭐️
Format: Kindle
Favourite Quote: “he doesn’t kiss me, as though he’s frightened that if he closes his eyes I’ll disappear.“
Tropes: witches and demons, enemies to lovers, mystery, fated mates, magic
This is my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed the book, it was very fast paced but the main characters were lovable and had you laughing at points
I would say this book was maybe too fast for me but if you enjoy a fast paced book this might be for you! I loved the fmc she was great, at times maybe too trusting and that did bite her in the ass most of the time!
I enjoyed the relationship growth between FMC and MMC I thought that was interesting!!
Didn’t like Finn, sorry I just didn’t! I hope he gets a comeuppance and not a free pass!! And then the BFF she needs something happening and that crystal what’s her deal?! And the Mom?! What’s her deal and the aunt… and the other bloke?! And the FMC went from vomiting at blood to … well not FYKYK and Sarah?! Sarahhh I didn’t expect it but I did but then she just leaves? I don’t know I have questions!! Don’t start me on Nox that man Haha
For me lots of unanswered questions and at the same time lots happened and came out of nowhere unexpected, I hope book 2 has some revenge because they need it!!
Format: Kindle
Favourite Quote: “he doesn’t kiss me, as though he’s frightened that if he closes his eyes I’ll disappear.“
Tropes: witches and demons, enemies to lovers, mystery, fated mates, magic
This is my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed the book, it was very fast paced but the main characters were lovable and had you laughing at points
I would say this book was maybe too fast for me but if you enjoy a fast paced book this might be for you! I loved the fmc she was great, at times maybe too trusting and that did bite her in the ass most of the time!
I enjoyed the relationship growth between FMC and MMC I thought that was interesting!!
Didn’t like Finn, sorry I just didn’t! I hope he gets a comeuppance and not a free pass!! And then the BFF she needs something happening and that crystal what’s her deal?! And the Mom?! What’s her deal and the aunt… and the other bloke?! And the FMC went from vomiting at blood to … well not FYKYK and Sarah?! Sarahhh I didn’t expect it but I did but then she just leaves? I don’t know I have questions!! Don’t start me on Nox that man Haha
For me lots of unanswered questions and at the same time lots happened and came out of nowhere unexpected, I hope book 2 has some revenge because they need it!!
April 23, 2025
Quick and cute!
The FMC is super cute and bubbly and the MMC is grumpy and in denial which makes for fun banter. The plot goes by super fast jumping from location to location. There’s a murderer on the loose killing witches but also a curse or two looming. A fun easy read that seems to be mostly dialog. No spice whatsoever which isn’t a dealbreaker for me. Will continue to read the next books for fun between heavy books that include lots of world building as a palate cleanser.
The FMC is super cute and bubbly and the MMC is grumpy and in denial which makes for fun banter. The plot goes by super fast jumping from location to location. There’s a murderer on the loose killing witches but also a curse or two looming. A fun easy read that seems to be mostly dialog. No spice whatsoever which isn’t a dealbreaker for me. Will continue to read the next books for fun between heavy books that include lots of world building as a palate cleanser.
March 18, 2025
The FMC tragically lost her college boyfriend. She uses her powers to bring him back from the dead with a little tag-along.
The writing in this book was amazing! First off the introduction is relatable to any woman who has had to deal with men in a public place. I for one enjoyed it. To go on, I like how the author twisted in a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde theme with the MMCs while the FMC was figuring herself out. The story moved along at a medium pace with a slower pace towards the end.
It was really interesting to read the Kelpies (a trending monster in Fantasy books). They really helped move the story along and explain the MMC character and mindset.
If there was ever a time to hear the song "Loyal" by Chris Brown, the ending would be it. A lot of the twists and betrayals you don't see coming. You expect it from one creature but there is so much going on.
Between the lines analyzation:
I also thought the subliminal message of it's ok to miss things, but let the past be the past, was a nice touch intertwined within the story. I think this resinates with a lot of millennials between missing college/simple days, dealing with grief, exes, choices, and lifestyles that many people are currently struggling with today.
Finally, I feel the author writes as a woman for women. In this book alone she wrote about grief, feeling like you have to handle the world alone, infertility to the point of desperation, regrets about the past and constantly in the "what if" mindset, men not taking no the first time, being labeled for being different, not knowing who to trust, and the list goes on and on. She did a great job not only making the story easy to enjoy/play out in your mind, but she made it so you could resonate to the characters in different ways. For that I commend her.
Overall C.J did a great job and I cannot wait for the next book!
Tropes:
Indie Author
Touch her and die
Enemies to lovers
Necromancy/Macabre
Dual POV
TRIGGERS:
Harsh Parents
Infertility /Pregnancy desperation (EXTREMELY BRIEF)
Torture
Deceased animals
Murder
The writing in this book was amazing! First off the introduction is relatable to any woman who has had to deal with men in a public place. I for one enjoyed it. To go on, I like how the author twisted in a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde theme with the MMCs while the FMC was figuring herself out. The story moved along at a medium pace with a slower pace towards the end.
It was really interesting to read the Kelpies (a trending monster in Fantasy books). They really helped move the story along and explain the MMC character and mindset.
If there was ever a time to hear the song "Loyal" by Chris Brown, the ending would be it. A lot of the twists and betrayals you don't see coming. You expect it from one creature but there is so much going on.
Between the lines analyzation:
I also thought the subliminal message of it's ok to miss things, but let the past be the past, was a nice touch intertwined within the story. I think this resinates with a lot of millennials between missing college/simple days, dealing with grief, exes, choices, and lifestyles that many people are currently struggling with today.
Finally, I feel the author writes as a woman for women. In this book alone she wrote about grief, feeling like you have to handle the world alone, infertility to the point of desperation, regrets about the past and constantly in the "what if" mindset, men not taking no the first time, being labeled for being different, not knowing who to trust, and the list goes on and on. She did a great job not only making the story easy to enjoy/play out in your mind, but she made it so you could resonate to the characters in different ways. For that I commend her.
Overall C.J did a great job and I cannot wait for the next book!
Tropes:
Indie Author
Touch her and die
Enemies to lovers
Necromancy/Macabre
Dual POV
TRIGGERS:
Harsh Parents
Infertility /Pregnancy desperation (EXTREMELY BRIEF)
Torture
Deceased animals
Murder
August 9, 2024
I was in the biggest slump for a long time! Nothing was taking my fancy. So when I started reading this, I was worried as I love Cat, my pink and sparkly friend. I didn’t want my book slump to affect how I felt about her book.
BUT, I needn’t of worried. I absolutely loved this book 😍 It was giving me Hades and Persephone vibes, meshed with the Lucifer TV series.
Esme is a lost witch, she doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life. She misses her mam and doesn’t have a great relationship with her Dad. To be able to carry on running her mother’s shop, she must marry before her 30th birthday to a mundane.
Esme is pink and sparkly, bubbly and a tad messy. The total opposite of Nox. He is the well polished and meticulously tidy Demon who saw an opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. 🤭
The banter in this book did not disappoint, I was living for the explosion of personality from Esme and the dry smirks from Nox. Pair that with mysterious murders, the thrill of chasing down clues and some twists along the way, I devoured this book and thoroughly enjoyed my time in this paranormal world.
It’s part of a duet, so I’m already impatiently waiting for the next book! Sorry Cat! No pressure 😘
Read this if you love:
🌸 Witches and Demons
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🌸 Mystery / ‘whodunnit’
🖤 Forced Proximity
🌸 One bed
🖤 Banter for days!
BUT, I needn’t of worried. I absolutely loved this book 😍 It was giving me Hades and Persephone vibes, meshed with the Lucifer TV series.
Esme is a lost witch, she doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life. She misses her mam and doesn’t have a great relationship with her Dad. To be able to carry on running her mother’s shop, she must marry before her 30th birthday to a mundane.
Esme is pink and sparkly, bubbly and a tad messy. The total opposite of Nox. He is the well polished and meticulously tidy Demon who saw an opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. 🤭
The banter in this book did not disappoint, I was living for the explosion of personality from Esme and the dry smirks from Nox. Pair that with mysterious murders, the thrill of chasing down clues and some twists along the way, I devoured this book and thoroughly enjoyed my time in this paranormal world.
It’s part of a duet, so I’m already impatiently waiting for the next book! Sorry Cat! No pressure 😘
Read this if you love:
🌸 Witches and Demons
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🌸 Mystery / ‘whodunnit’
🖤 Forced Proximity
🌸 One bed
🖤 Banter for days!
December 29, 2024
What a cliffhanger!! Get my heart torn apart, pieced together, quickly torn apart again! With a little bit of coming back together right at the end!! BFF is BACK! Wow. Loved this story, great contemporary fantasy vibes! Slow burn! Who did this to you! All the good things!! — I’m HOOKED, waiting for the next one to come out next year!!
September 9, 2025
DNF at 35%
I really wanted to love this as I'm a Scottish gal who loves witches and demons.
However, the plot felt very contrived. It was full of clunky dialogue, and I wasn't invested in the characters. Tbh I found the FMC very annoying and unbelievable.
I feel like I've just trudged through a very different book to the other reviewers!
I really wanted to love this as I'm a Scottish gal who loves witches and demons.
However, the plot felt very contrived. It was full of clunky dialogue, and I wasn't invested in the characters. Tbh I found the FMC very annoying and unbelievable.
I feel like I've just trudged through a very different book to the other reviewers!
Read
February 28, 2026I really enjoyed this book! The characters were likable and relatable, the story had multiple layers (and twists!), and there were several lines that had me chuckling out loud. Also the best-executed slow burn that I’ve read in a while! I won’t include any spoilers, but I’ll just say the ending left me excited for the next book. Would highly recommend this book to any of my fellow romantasy lovers, and especially anyone who loves witches!
September 17, 2025
Rating: 2.5 stars (rounded to 3 here)
Spice: 🌶️ (no explicit scenes but several comments or references)
Format: Hardback (I can only see the ebook option here to review so wished to specify!)
Those interested in a dark fantasy set in the tales of the Scottish Witch Trials will enjoy this. There is an underpinning story of romance too. Do check trigger warnings before reading though (added some at bottom of this)
This was a book I’d been looking forward to for a long time. Perhaps the excitement I built up in my mind waiting to get ahold of this is what lead to the disappointment I found reading it.
I really enjoyed the storyline. I liked the dark modern witch-based story and the crossing over of 1600s Scottish Witch Trials with 21st Century Witches. The tension of the witch hunters and murders being committed was great and one of the best bits of the book. I also really liked Nox as a character and looked forward to his chapters most and just any interactions with him in.
However, I did find myself several times close to DNF-ing the book, especially at the start. I found it slow and difficult to get into, the writing style was not my taste. Sections were really clunky and the dialogue wasn’t always smooth. (Also… why was almost every other sentence ending with an exclamation mark? It is such an odd thing to pick up on, I know, but there were just so many I was occasionally begging for any other punctuation).
There were various aspects of the book I struggled with which undermined my intrigue in the overarching story and it was just a shame.
Will I read book 2? I might do because I’m curious to see if anything else comes out of the witch trial comparisons and the general gritty hunting but I won’t be rushing for it.
Extra: Additional notes but didn’t affect my rating or review
There were times when the story seemed to suddenly shift and not quite follow the previous line but I am giving the benefit of the doubt on this because there seemed to be a fair amount of issue with formatting in general. I don’t know if this book was initially only ebook format (may explain ebook version being on Goodreads) and therefore something hasn’t translated well to the printed form. Sentences cutting off mid line and suddenly carrying on the next line down for example. This isn’t a problem with the book or author and in no way affects your read but may explain the occasional moment where I had to stop and work out the odd weird jump in time/place/character situation.
There were also several instances of just generally incorrect writing/grammar. No book is ever perfect though but it was emphasised with the above issue unfairly making the book difficult to read in the literal sense.
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Torture, death (incl. parents, friends and animals), murder, Fire (as a tool to kill and house fires), references to treatment of women during witch trials.
sexual/adult content (suggested not explicit)
Spice: 🌶️ (no explicit scenes but several comments or references)
Format: Hardback (I can only see the ebook option here to review so wished to specify!)
Those interested in a dark fantasy set in the tales of the Scottish Witch Trials will enjoy this. There is an underpinning story of romance too. Do check trigger warnings before reading though (added some at bottom of this)
This was a book I’d been looking forward to for a long time. Perhaps the excitement I built up in my mind waiting to get ahold of this is what lead to the disappointment I found reading it.
I really enjoyed the storyline. I liked the dark modern witch-based story and the crossing over of 1600s Scottish Witch Trials with 21st Century Witches. The tension of the witch hunters and murders being committed was great and one of the best bits of the book. I also really liked Nox as a character and looked forward to his chapters most and just any interactions with him in.
However, I did find myself several times close to DNF-ing the book, especially at the start. I found it slow and difficult to get into, the writing style was not my taste. Sections were really clunky and the dialogue wasn’t always smooth. (Also… why was almost every other sentence ending with an exclamation mark? It is such an odd thing to pick up on, I know, but there were just so many I was occasionally begging for any other punctuation).
There were various aspects of the book I struggled with which undermined my intrigue in the overarching story and it was just a shame.
Will I read book 2? I might do because I’m curious to see if anything else comes out of the witch trial comparisons and the general gritty hunting but I won’t be rushing for it.
Extra: Additional notes but didn’t affect my rating or review
There were times when the story seemed to suddenly shift and not quite follow the previous line but I am giving the benefit of the doubt on this because there seemed to be a fair amount of issue with formatting in general. I don’t know if this book was initially only ebook format (may explain ebook version being on Goodreads) and therefore something hasn’t translated well to the printed form. Sentences cutting off mid line and suddenly carrying on the next line down for example. This isn’t a problem with the book or author and in no way affects your read but may explain the occasional moment where I had to stop and work out the odd weird jump in time/place/character situation.
There were also several instances of just generally incorrect writing/grammar. No book is ever perfect though but it was emphasised with the above issue unfairly making the book difficult to read in the literal sense.
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Torture, death (incl. parents, friends and animals), murder, Fire (as a tool to kill and house fires), references to treatment of women during witch trials.
sexual/adult content (suggested not explicit)
December 19, 2024
I loved this book!! I could not put it down! I stayed up way to late reading this book so many nights. The story about a witch and a demon is so cute and clever. I loved the banter between the two main characters. The fact that they didn't get along at first and then ended becoming lovers at the end was good. I loved Nox's character and how he was exactly how would expect a demon to behave. The author didn't try to make him out to be something he's not. I was surprised that he came with the boyfriend who was risen from the dead. I kind of was thinking he'd be his own separate person but I really liked how the author combined the two. They had drastically different personalities. The way she talks about the characters pasts and how you can kind of see how drastically different 'Sugars' life would have been had she married her boyfriend during/after uni. I liked how they both realized hey yeah we love each other but we aren't right for each other. Did they figure that out from the start no. It took some arguments and Nox being around more to help her realize maybe it's ok to discover who she really is. I really liked how Nox became so protective of her and was truly falling for her without realizing that she was Sarah his past lover. The plot twist with the roommate at the end though! OMG!! Totally unexpected! She did such a good job of pretending to be her friend and helping her out all while plotting behind the FMC's back without her knowing. Then when the cat like came back as a familiar! The ending made me scream in frustration and excitement at what the next book will be! Can't wait for #2
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
Bewitched!
That Damned Witch: Spells and Secrets contains triggering situations such as torture, murder, execution and adult language. There is no spice!
That Damned Witch: Spells and Secrets is a modern-day fantasy tale, set in Scotland with dark romance undertones and a splash of horror. This book is the first in the 'That Damned Witch' duet.
I rated this book 5* and this book definitely earned it. The author masterfully combined witches, witch trials and mythology to create a captivating plot. Edinburgh was the perfect setting and I adored the characters, especially Esme and Nox. The twists and turns, especially those involving Dahlia, Finn and Culum and Ink, were expertly done and kept me up until 2am binge reading!
Esme, the human definition of pink and sugar is trapped in the shadows of her late mother's formidable reputation as Scotland's most powerful witch. Inheriting her mother's shop and the magical ability to enchant flowers, Esme faces an ultimatum from her father. As she battles to save her mother's legacy, secrets begin to unravel and a witch hunter is on the prowl.
Nox, a powerful demon, in a cunning escape from the Hell, returns to Edinburgh, a place he once called home. He is torn between avenging past wrongs and joining forces with an enchanting ally, as time is quickly running out.
She's a witch about to lose everything, He's a demon with nothing to lose.
I'd highly recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasy witch books that have some truth behind them.
That Damned Witch: Spells and Secrets contains triggering situations such as torture, murder, execution and adult language. There is no spice!
That Damned Witch: Spells and Secrets is a modern-day fantasy tale, set in Scotland with dark romance undertones and a splash of horror. This book is the first in the 'That Damned Witch' duet.
I rated this book 5* and this book definitely earned it. The author masterfully combined witches, witch trials and mythology to create a captivating plot. Edinburgh was the perfect setting and I adored the characters, especially Esme and Nox. The twists and turns, especially those involving Dahlia, Finn and Culum and Ink, were expertly done and kept me up until 2am binge reading!
Esme, the human definition of pink and sugar is trapped in the shadows of her late mother's formidable reputation as Scotland's most powerful witch. Inheriting her mother's shop and the magical ability to enchant flowers, Esme faces an ultimatum from her father. As she battles to save her mother's legacy, secrets begin to unravel and a witch hunter is on the prowl.
Nox, a powerful demon, in a cunning escape from the Hell, returns to Edinburgh, a place he once called home. He is torn between avenging past wrongs and joining forces with an enchanting ally, as time is quickly running out.
She's a witch about to lose everything, He's a demon with nothing to lose.
I'd highly recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasy witch books that have some truth behind them.
December 18, 2024
Next Big Thing in Romantasy?
All right, I saw a video teaser review about this on Instagram reels and I was curious because Scottish Demon, HELL-O, pun intended! I swear the booktok and Instagram reel algorithm is SCARY GOOD.
Anyways, I didn’t really know what to expect about this book going in other than it was gonna be a romance and it sounded kind of like enemies-to-lovers trope and it definitely was (plus I’d classify it as a slow burn and closed door other than some mild kissing).
Definitely would recommend this one out of all of the recent romantasy books I have read that this is fairly close to ACOTAR standards of genuine enjoyment during the reading process, but definitely a “greener” writer (pun intended and joke about the book) as there were some technical things that could’ve been fixed, but it was a really well built story. There were a couple of formatting issues which I could see on the Kindle version, and that kind of irritated me as a Kindle exclusive reader, but it could’ve been worse.
I am very much looking forward to reading a second book and I’m so mad that I have to wait until the new year to get my hands on it with no official release date.
Also for review readers who have made it this far, just know I am not affiliated with the author nor a paid reader, so this is an HONEST review.
Looking forward to more Esme and Nox in the future❤️❤️
All right, I saw a video teaser review about this on Instagram reels and I was curious because Scottish Demon, HELL-O, pun intended! I swear the booktok and Instagram reel algorithm is SCARY GOOD.
Anyways, I didn’t really know what to expect about this book going in other than it was gonna be a romance and it sounded kind of like enemies-to-lovers trope and it definitely was (plus I’d classify it as a slow burn and closed door other than some mild kissing).
Definitely would recommend this one out of all of the recent romantasy books I have read that this is fairly close to ACOTAR standards of genuine enjoyment during the reading process, but definitely a “greener” writer (pun intended and joke about the book) as there were some technical things that could’ve been fixed, but it was a really well built story. There were a couple of formatting issues which I could see on the Kindle version, and that kind of irritated me as a Kindle exclusive reader, but it could’ve been worse.
I am very much looking forward to reading a second book and I’m so mad that I have to wait until the new year to get my hands on it with no official release date.
Also for review readers who have made it this far, just know I am not affiliated with the author nor a paid reader, so this is an HONEST review.
Looking forward to more Esme and Nox in the future❤️❤️
March 5, 2025
🌙 OH MY GODDESS 🌙
✨ What a read!!!! ✨
That Damned Witch - Cj Rose
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 stars for this spellbinding read! 🔮
Where do I even begin?
This book is like a potion of everything I love! 🧙♀️✨
This book had me hooked from page one, and I seriously could not put it down! I feel at a loss and fuming I’ve got to wait a year for book 2! ✨🌙
The sarcastic humour in this book is hilarious! It’s like Rose peeked into my soul and wrote it just for me. I mean, who doesn’t love a witch with attitude and a witty, sharp tongue? If sarcasm were a love language, this book would be the perfect gift. 😏
The witchy themes and horror movie references? *Chef’s kiss*—classic Rose vibes, and honestly, I’m living for it. It gave me some serious Charmed nostalgia, which I devoured like a Grimlock on senses. And can we talk about Nox?! MY NEW PLATONIC BOOK BOYFRIEND, people! Seriously, can I sign up for his fan club? 😍
If you’re looking for a book with sass, spellbinding scenes, witchy themes, sarcastic humor, and bad boy Nox perfection grab this one right now. You’ll thank me later. 😉
#WitchyVibes #NewFaveRead #SarcasmOnPoint #CouldNotPutItDown #RoseDoesItAgain #WitchGoals #SpellbindingReads #SarcasticAndSassy #CharmedForLife #MustRead
✨ What a read!!!! ✨
That Damned Witch - Cj Rose
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 stars for this spellbinding read! 🔮
Where do I even begin?
This book is like a potion of everything I love! 🧙♀️✨
This book had me hooked from page one, and I seriously could not put it down! I feel at a loss and fuming I’ve got to wait a year for book 2! ✨🌙
The sarcastic humour in this book is hilarious! It’s like Rose peeked into my soul and wrote it just for me. I mean, who doesn’t love a witch with attitude and a witty, sharp tongue? If sarcasm were a love language, this book would be the perfect gift. 😏
The witchy themes and horror movie references? *Chef’s kiss*—classic Rose vibes, and honestly, I’m living for it. It gave me some serious Charmed nostalgia, which I devoured like a Grimlock on senses. And can we talk about Nox?! MY NEW PLATONIC BOOK BOYFRIEND, people! Seriously, can I sign up for his fan club? 😍
If you’re looking for a book with sass, spellbinding scenes, witchy themes, sarcastic humor, and bad boy Nox perfection grab this one right now. You’ll thank me later. 😉
#WitchyVibes #NewFaveRead #SarcasmOnPoint #CouldNotPutItDown #RoseDoesItAgain #WitchGoals #SpellbindingReads #SarcasticAndSassy #CharmedForLife #MustRead
October 24, 2025
Ok so the author states this is Witch x Demon romance. It is SO much more! I felt the chill that you get from watching Vampire Diaries and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina …. Only …. She loves Taylor Swift and way too much sugar and caffeine… and PINK
Esme- given an archaic demand by her father to marry or lose her mom's shop! But then she finds a spell and rushes in to summon her dead boyfriend...But WHAT has she summoned and why? Did she really pull a Sabrina stunt? (Teenage witch style)?? That is NOT Finn!?!?! These dreams about a red book? What is dad hiding from me?
Nox- I hate body timeshares, but I have a book to find and nothing will stop me...not even Sugar! So when the opportunity to possess this girls dead boyfriend? I’m all in! She’s so PINK and loud. Although the Taylor music does grow on me as does this pink bubblegum witch who has so many secrets and intrigue…. She’s not like the other witches…..
Add in witch hunters, lying coven, secrets with a pink haired witch and a Scottish setting and demon who loves suits and BOOM * EPIC mixture!
And honestly I knew by chapter 6 that I needed to buy the second book for my shelf to complete the duology! Cause that CLIFFHANGER had me sobbing at 4AM!
Esme- given an archaic demand by her father to marry or lose her mom's shop! But then she finds a spell and rushes in to summon her dead boyfriend...But WHAT has she summoned and why? Did she really pull a Sabrina stunt? (Teenage witch style)?? That is NOT Finn!?!?! These dreams about a red book? What is dad hiding from me?
Nox- I hate body timeshares, but I have a book to find and nothing will stop me...not even Sugar! So when the opportunity to possess this girls dead boyfriend? I’m all in! She’s so PINK and loud. Although the Taylor music does grow on me as does this pink bubblegum witch who has so many secrets and intrigue…. She’s not like the other witches…..
Add in witch hunters, lying coven, secrets with a pink haired witch and a Scottish setting and demon who loves suits and BOOM * EPIC mixture!
And honestly I knew by chapter 6 that I needed to buy the second book for my shelf to complete the duology! Cause that CLIFFHANGER had me sobbing at 4AM!
May 19, 2025
I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book, but immediate thoughts:
I really liked the beginning of this book. The first 50% was pretty good. Despite it being kinda all over the place theme wise...it was a little bit of mystery, crime/suspense, a little witchy, funny and a little romantic.
I'm not really sure how to categorize this one - because it goes in so many directions.
There were definitely some parts that didn't stay consistent in regards to possession, or skips in scenes. But overall, it was good.
After that, it went a little off the rails. There are some animal deaths, lots of human deaths, and way too many twists and turns and bad guys involved. The last 1/4 of the book was constant whiplash.
If not for the first half I'd probably have rated this much lower. I liked a lot about the book, but the sheer number of threads at the end made it feel like a little much.
I really liked the beginning of this book. The first 50% was pretty good. Despite it being kinda all over the place theme wise...it was a little bit of mystery, crime/suspense, a little witchy, funny and a little romantic.
I'm not really sure how to categorize this one - because it goes in so many directions.
There were definitely some parts that didn't stay consistent in regards to possession, or skips in scenes. But overall, it was good.
After that, it went a little off the rails. There are some animal deaths, lots of human deaths, and way too many twists and turns and bad guys involved. The last 1/4 of the book was constant whiplash.
If not for the first half I'd probably have rated this much lower. I liked a lot about the book, but the sheer number of threads at the end made it feel like a little much.
March 27, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 || A hidden GEM is what this book is! If you loved Crowley and Anathema from Good Omens I am POSITIVE you will love Nox and Esmeralda from this book, as I do. I am positively in love with Nox. This book was such a VISUAL TREAT to read. I finished it in less than 2 days (would have done in 1 if I didn’t have to do other unimportant things like eat, sleep, and do some house chores). I love, LOVE, this book so much. Once I started it, I really couldn’t put it down. I was so hooked that I stayed up till 5 am reading it. (There are a few apostrophe goof ups here and there, but PLEASE move past that). I REALLY NEED you guys to also read it so that I can SHARE MY LOVE OF IT WITH SOMEONE! CJ Rose, you are so darn good!! Thank you for self-recommending this on my post. ❤️❤️❤️
October 3, 2025
Fantasy books with modern settings aren’t always my favorite, so it took me a little bit to get into this one, but once I was invested I couldn’t stop reading! It has unique characters and the plot was interesting! Esme is a sweet witch with plant magic who finds herself entangled with Nox, a grumpy demon looking for vengeance. Funny shenanigans ensue, as well as some slooow burn grumpy x sunshine tropes 😉 My biggest gripe is that the plot moved a bit fast at the end of the book, but it had lots of unexpected twists and set up book 2 for some interesting things to happen!! I’m looking forward to reading the next one when it comes out!
Side note: as an Outlander fan, I loved that this was set in Scotland (and even mentions Inverness and the theme song!)
Side note: as an Outlander fan, I loved that this was set in Scotland (and even mentions Inverness and the theme song!)
January 31, 2025
he Damned Witch is engaging, filled with unexpected twists and turns and an immersive writing style which draws you into another world. It’s one of those books where you need to read ‘just one more chapter’. - which led to some very late nights!
The main characters are complex, multi-dimensional and easy to connect with. The relationship between the witch (Esme) and the demon (Nox) is particularly well-crafted, with a unique dynamic that drives the plot.
The plot itself is filled with unpredictable shifts that keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of urban fantasy will love it (and even ones who usually aren’t, like me!)….now just need to be patient for book 2 😬🪄🪄
The main characters are complex, multi-dimensional and easy to connect with. The relationship between the witch (Esme) and the demon (Nox) is particularly well-crafted, with a unique dynamic that drives the plot.
The plot itself is filled with unpredictable shifts that keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of urban fantasy will love it (and even ones who usually aren’t, like me!)….now just need to be patient for book 2 😬🪄🪄
June 14, 2025
🩷🖤✨ I want to live in this world ✨🖤🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating
🖤 had to get as a physical trophy after devouring in one day on kindle.
🖤 One of my fav reads of 25
🖤 loved the MMC & FMC
🖤 adventure, forced prox, enemies vibes, witchy, kept me guessing.
I would and will recommend this book to anyone in a reading slump. The story telling is wonderful, the characters felt true and oh I needed a different mmc so bad and this one really did deliver.
Do I want to live in the shop? 💯
Will I be buying the next? 💯
Do I still think about the characters after the last page? 💯
🌧️ This is the perfect rainy day read, world building is super easy, but develops throughout the story which is my fav.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating
🖤 had to get as a physical trophy after devouring in one day on kindle.
🖤 One of my fav reads of 25
🖤 loved the MMC & FMC
🖤 adventure, forced prox, enemies vibes, witchy, kept me guessing.
I would and will recommend this book to anyone in a reading slump. The story telling is wonderful, the characters felt true and oh I needed a different mmc so bad and this one really did deliver.
Do I want to live in the shop? 💯
Will I be buying the next? 💯
Do I still think about the characters after the last page? 💯
🌧️ This is the perfect rainy day read, world building is super easy, but develops throughout the story which is my fav.
August 17, 2025
So when you're thinking about reading a new book and you have that moment where you hesitate, questioning if it's good enough to jump to first on the TBR? Don't do that here.
I felt like I couldn't keep up, in all the best ways. The story takes you on a journey and leaves you wanting more, with an ending that left my eyebrows in my hairline.
It's got some sweet bits, some shocks, some giggles, some 'oh ... no, that's so sad' bits.
Banter and joking from sassy characters that spend their time hunting family secrets while slow-burning their attraction and facing devious twists and turns? Who could want anything more.
Give it a read.
I felt like I couldn't keep up, in all the best ways. The story takes you on a journey and leaves you wanting more, with an ending that left my eyebrows in my hairline.
It's got some sweet bits, some shocks, some giggles, some 'oh ... no, that's so sad' bits.
Banter and joking from sassy characters that spend their time hunting family secrets while slow-burning their attraction and facing devious twists and turns? Who could want anything more.
Give it a read.
October 9, 2025
Tropes:
Grumpy and sunshine • Chaos and polished • Witches and demons • Enemies to lovers • Fated mates •
This was my first time reading this author after discovering her on Threads, and I’m so glad I gave her books a try. The pacing was great, and the story flowed naturally from start to finish. The development of the relationship felt organic—nothing rushed or forced—and it had such a sweet, genuine quality to it.
That said, there’s one character I really couldn’t stand. He held her back, and once you read it, I’m sure you’ll know exactly who I mean. Still, I loved the overall story, and I’m thrilled that book two is already out so I can dive right back into this world without waiting.
Grumpy and sunshine • Chaos and polished • Witches and demons • Enemies to lovers • Fated mates •
This was my first time reading this author after discovering her on Threads, and I’m so glad I gave her books a try. The pacing was great, and the story flowed naturally from start to finish. The development of the relationship felt organic—nothing rushed or forced—and it had such a sweet, genuine quality to it.
That said, there’s one character I really couldn’t stand. He held her back, and once you read it, I’m sure you’ll know exactly who I mean. Still, I loved the overall story, and I’m thrilled that book two is already out so I can dive right back into this world without waiting.
February 3, 2026
Overall rating - 4.5 ⭐️
I picked up this book after seeing the author recommend it on Threads and immediately added it to my TBR. Ended up reading it while recovering from surgery, and honestly? Such a pleasant surprise.
I had so much fun with this one. The banter had me kicking my feet, and I really loved both MCs. The magic + demons combo was great fun to read, and the story pulled me in way more than I expected. There’s no real spice (just some mentions), but the banter more than made up for it.
The last 5% was super fast-paced with a lot happening all at once, and now I’m left with questions (in a good way). Definitely planning to pick up the next book to see how everything unfolds.
Highly recommend for fantasy and romantasy lovers.
I picked up this book after seeing the author recommend it on Threads and immediately added it to my TBR. Ended up reading it while recovering from surgery, and honestly? Such a pleasant surprise.
I had so much fun with this one. The banter had me kicking my feet, and I really loved both MCs. The magic + demons combo was great fun to read, and the story pulled me in way more than I expected. There’s no real spice (just some mentions), but the banter more than made up for it.
The last 5% was super fast-paced with a lot happening all at once, and now I’m left with questions (in a good way). Definitely planning to pick up the next book to see how everything unfolds.
Highly recommend for fantasy and romantasy lovers.
January 12, 2025
5 stars!
I highly and enthusiastically recommend this indie masterpiece if you love Romantasy, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers stories. The character development is seriously superb. I was surprised by twists in the plot I did not see coming. It takes a lot for me to be absolutely blown away by books anymore because so much of what’s out there are the same storylines and the same tropes. But That Damned Witch not only held my rapt attention, but made me excited to read again. I’m fully committed to this series now and eagerly await the next book!
I highly and enthusiastically recommend this indie masterpiece if you love Romantasy, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers stories. The character development is seriously superb. I was surprised by twists in the plot I did not see coming. It takes a lot for me to be absolutely blown away by books anymore because so much of what’s out there are the same storylines and the same tropes. But That Damned Witch not only held my rapt attention, but made me excited to read again. I’m fully committed to this series now and eagerly await the next book!
March 17, 2025
This book was addictive and could not put it down!!
This story follows a witch(es) Esme/sarah and a human/demon Finn/Nox and the journey they both face individually and together was just chef’s kiss.
Esme/Sarah are grieving for someone who is no longer and Esme does something to rectify that and when she does someone else is there too.
When Finn is back he also has a hitch hiker who is trying to find someone in the mortal world.
It is set in Edinburgh and the knowledge is just so heart warming throughout this story that you feel like you are apart of it.
This story follows a witch(es) Esme/sarah and a human/demon Finn/Nox and the journey they both face individually and together was just chef’s kiss.
Esme/Sarah are grieving for someone who is no longer and Esme does something to rectify that and when she does someone else is there too.
When Finn is back he also has a hitch hiker who is trying to find someone in the mortal world.
It is set in Edinburgh and the knowledge is just so heart warming throughout this story that you feel like you are apart of it.
April 17, 2025
You had me at Demon
I must admit, I'm not a fan of slow-burn romances. In my opinion, few authors master the slow-burn style effectively, and I apologize if this offends any readers or authors of that genre. However, I couldn't resist a "Demon Daddy" recommendation from the Threads community. I chose it as a lighter read compared to my usual dark romances, and I was completely captivated! The plot was engaging with surprising twists and turns. I laughed and cried throughout the book, and I eagerly await the sequel.
- Enemies to Lovers
- Possession
- Mystery
I must admit, I'm not a fan of slow-burn romances. In my opinion, few authors master the slow-burn style effectively, and I apologize if this offends any readers or authors of that genre. However, I couldn't resist a "Demon Daddy" recommendation from the Threads community. I chose it as a lighter read compared to my usual dark romances, and I was completely captivated! The plot was engaging with surprising twists and turns. I laughed and cried throughout the book, and I eagerly await the sequel.
- Enemies to Lovers
- Possession
- Mystery
October 11, 2025
If you were obsessed with Damon Salvatore, prepare to fall in love with Nox and never want to look back. Esme sure was not prepared. She is such a sweet soul. CJ Rose wrote a phenomenal story of love, loss, witches, light and dark magic, and hell. It's a whole rollercoaster ride of loss, then love returns, then more loss and a psycho friend, and sacrifice. There was beautiful moments of hilarity and moments of deep grief and passionate love. If you like a candy land version of a witch with a hell commander taking on some baddies, this is all for you!
January 6, 2025
I don’t normally write reviews, however I haven’t been this hooked for a book in quite some time. I really enjoyed this and I honestly can’t wait to read the next one. I really loved the growth of the fmc and the growth of Nox as well. Finn is gonna get what’s coming to him a I swear. Also I’m so excited that bestie is coming to help in the end, can’t wait to see what she gets to do in the next book ✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2025
If you are looking for a new romantasy, I would highly recommend this book! It's a little face paced but personally, I didn't mind it. It also had a very interesting live triangle so if you're looking for something different. AND it takes place in Scotland. Looking forward to book two and seeing what happens!
🔮Witches and Demons
🖤Enemies to lovers
🕶️Mystery
🛏️Forced Proximity
🎭Bantering MCs
💍Fated Mates
🔮Witches and Demons
🖤Enemies to lovers
🕶️Mystery
🛏️Forced Proximity
🎭Bantering MCs
💍Fated Mates
April 5, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading That Dammed Witch! A romantasy book that’s relatable, with a current time period (including history flashbacks), and character growth for both Esme (FMC) and Nox (MMC) it was a refreshing read that balanced all the right tropes a slow burn, one bed, betrayal, and a demon daddy *swoon* it was just what I needed without knowing I needed it. I can’t wait to read how the story will continue with flames and flowers
July 31, 2025
I wanted to love this book, but it just did not click for me. It has many of the elements I enjoy (magic, witches, demons, oh my!), yet I found myself checking the page number to see how much more I had to read. The plot twist felt garbled amidst all the other events unfolding.
Pros: concept was interesting, twin souls/reincarnation, love across the ages
Cons: All over the place at times, a plot hole, a dad that needs a shovel to the head...
Pros: concept was interesting, twin souls/reincarnation, love across the ages
Cons: All over the place at times, a plot hole, a dad that needs a shovel to the head...
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