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Elderberry Falls #3
The Minotaur and the Mage
A city girl who's inherited a small-town magical storefront, the minotaur single dad next door, and a rivalry that'll drive them both wild.
I thought I had it all figured out—a thriving career in the music industry, a promotion on the horizon, and enough work to keep me distracted from my love life (or lack thereof). Then, boom! I inherit a storefront in a strange magical town from a witch grandmother I never knew existed.
And, oh yeah, turns out that I'm a witch too.
But I know how to manage I'll sell the building, use the money to buy my partnership at my company, and forget about these newly awakened powers. It'll be simple.
Except the baker next door—the distractingly handsome minotaur baker—is a major pain in my rear. Rian's turned the town against me and the chain business who wants to buy my building. He's even dug up an archaic law requiring property owners to inhabit their property full-time before they can sell it!
Guess I'm moving to Elderberry Falls after all . . .
I thought I had it all figured out—a thriving career in the music industry, a promotion on the horizon, and enough work to keep me distracted from my love life (or lack thereof). Then, boom! I inherit a storefront in a strange magical town from a witch grandmother I never knew existed.
And, oh yeah, turns out that I'm a witch too.
But I know how to manage I'll sell the building, use the money to buy my partnership at my company, and forget about these newly awakened powers. It'll be simple.
Except the baker next door—the distractingly handsome minotaur baker—is a major pain in my rear. Rian's turned the town against me and the chain business who wants to buy my building. He's even dug up an archaic law requiring property owners to inhabit their property full-time before they can sell it!
Guess I'm moving to Elderberry Falls after all . . .
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2025
239 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Cora Crane
3 books143 followersHi there! I'm Cora, a debut sweet monster romance writer (THE ORC AND THE INNKEEPER available now!). My childhood was spent with my nose endlessly tucked into a book, usually a high fantasy of some sort or another. So perhaps it's not a surprise that I'm now spending my days dreaming up cozy fantasy towns and magical monsters!
When I'm not working on my next story, you can usually find me with a coffee in hand, either in a big mug while I re-read my favorite fantasy books for the millionth time, or in my trusty to-go mug as I go for a walk (preferably near water!)
Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy my stories as much as I love writing them.
Sign up for my newsletter for behind the scenes exclusives, early access to new books, and more! http://subscribepage.io/cora
Other places to find me:
Follow me on Instagram: @coracraneauthor or on TikTok: @cora_crane
Visit my website: www.coracraneauthor.com
When I'm not working on my next story, you can usually find me with a coffee in hand, either in a big mug while I re-read my favorite fantasy books for the millionth time, or in my trusty to-go mug as I go for a walk (preferably near water!)
Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy my stories as much as I love writing them.
Sign up for my newsletter for behind the scenes exclusives, early access to new books, and more! http://subscribepage.io/cora
Other places to find me:
Follow me on Instagram: @coracraneauthor or on TikTok: @cora_crane
Visit my website: www.coracraneauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
November 29, 2024
Can I PLEASE move to Elderberry Falls now?
Rian and Natalie's tale was so lovely! This series is pure, cozy read with just the right amount smex to give it some bite.
I loved seeing the characters from Book 2 in the series in this novel and just lost track of time as this story ambled along to a very satisfying ending. Pure bliss.
I received an advance review copy for free from booksirens.com, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rian and Natalie's tale was so lovely! This series is pure, cozy read with just the right amount smex to give it some bite.
I loved seeing the characters from Book 2 in the series in this novel and just lost track of time as this story ambled along to a very satisfying ending. Pure bliss.
I received an advance review copy for free from booksirens.com, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2025
Dicen que a la tercera va la vencida, y a la tercera me he dado cuenta que no voy a seguir con esta saga. Creo que me ha gustado incluso menos que la primera entrega, los personajes por separado me encantan, pero juntos y el argumento ha sido un no para mí.
No sé si seré tan masoquista para el siguiente libro, pero me puede la historia de un cierto personaje y quiero conocerla.
PD: Querida Mary creo que los minotauros son todo tuyos. Yo me quedo con las gárgolas.
No sé si seré tan masoquista para el siguiente libro, pero me puede la historia de un cierto personaje y quiero conocerla.
PD: Querida Mary creo que los minotauros son todo tuyos. Yo me quedo con las gárgolas.
December 1, 2024
The Minotaur and the Mage is a welcome return to Elderberry Falls.
Guys, this was such a cozy read and the perfect thing to break me out of my book slump. The Minotaur and the Mage picks up exactly where the Songbird and the Gargoyle left off. Ecco’s manager, Natalie, inherits a prime piece of real estate in everyone’s favorite magical town courtesy of a relative she didn’t know she had. Naturally, it’s right next door to the attractive single father Minotaur that she can’t seem to stay away from. At first Natalie sees this as a bargaining chip and easy way to gain the funds to achieve partner at her company. However in an effort to keep her from a quick sale to a corporate chain, Rian, the attractive baker next door unearths an old town ordinance that requires her to inhabit the property full time for 60 days before she can sell. In this time, Natalie discovers herself own magic, the secret in her ancestry, and realizes that maybe the dream she’s been chasing isn’t where her heart is really leading her. The characters are well developed, Rian is so lovable. The spice is mild in comparison to the other books but used in such an impactful way to move the story forward. All together this was another great addition to the series. I’m hoping Cora focuses on Finnian for the next book, but regardless I’m excited to see what other magic she has in store. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
Guys, this was such a cozy read and the perfect thing to break me out of my book slump. The Minotaur and the Mage picks up exactly where the Songbird and the Gargoyle left off. Ecco’s manager, Natalie, inherits a prime piece of real estate in everyone’s favorite magical town courtesy of a relative she didn’t know she had. Naturally, it’s right next door to the attractive single father Minotaur that she can’t seem to stay away from. At first Natalie sees this as a bargaining chip and easy way to gain the funds to achieve partner at her company. However in an effort to keep her from a quick sale to a corporate chain, Rian, the attractive baker next door unearths an old town ordinance that requires her to inhabit the property full time for 60 days before she can sell. In this time, Natalie discovers herself own magic, the secret in her ancestry, and realizes that maybe the dream she’s been chasing isn’t where her heart is really leading her. The characters are well developed, Rian is so lovable. The spice is mild in comparison to the other books but used in such an impactful way to move the story forward. All together this was another great addition to the series. I’m hoping Cora focuses on Finnian for the next book, but regardless I’m excited to see what other magic she has in store. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
May 6, 2025
It was alright, wasn't my favorite of them mainly because it tried to bite off more than it could chew
March 1, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I am in love with this world. I can see why the people are so proud and protective of their magical little town. I would be too! It's such a charming place and reminds me a lot of my Grandmother’s neighborhood. I can't wait to come back!
Natalie and Rian are an engaging, flawed couple and I love it. They both have pride and stubbornness but for entirely different reasons --but completely understandable ones. You get frustrated for them but can't truly get angry because of course they're acting this way given what they're dealing with!
The only real flaw I see is the pacing feels bit off. The beginning is excellent but once the main couple decides “let's try this relationship thing”it kicks forward a bit too fast to feel realistic. Feels like there could have been a chapter or two to smooth it out.
If you're looking for spice, you won't be disappointed. There's plenty here and placed in very prominent points. It truly serves the story,
Oh and Rian has a daughter and the extra flavor that brings to this story is pure gold. This is a story about relationships—-old ones, new ones, with ourselves, with friends…Elderberry Falls has that effect and I am so here for the spell it casts.
I am in love with this world. I can see why the people are so proud and protective of their magical little town. I would be too! It's such a charming place and reminds me a lot of my Grandmother’s neighborhood. I can't wait to come back!
Natalie and Rian are an engaging, flawed couple and I love it. They both have pride and stubbornness but for entirely different reasons --but completely understandable ones. You get frustrated for them but can't truly get angry because of course they're acting this way given what they're dealing with!
The only real flaw I see is the pacing feels bit off. The beginning is excellent but once the main couple decides “let's try this relationship thing”it kicks forward a bit too fast to feel realistic. Feels like there could have been a chapter or two to smooth it out.
If you're looking for spice, you won't be disappointed. There's plenty here and placed in very prominent points. It truly serves the story,
Oh and Rian has a daughter and the extra flavor that brings to this story is pure gold. This is a story about relationships—-old ones, new ones, with ourselves, with friends…Elderberry Falls has that effect and I am so here for the spell it casts.
December 5, 2024
4.5 stars. Natalie, the female publicist lead, has been intrigued by visiting the magical realm to assist a client (previous story in series) but she’s shocked to find herself receiving an inheritance from the grandmother her late father insisted was long dead rather than recently so. Determined to sell the property to fund her corporate partnership dreams, she’s peeved when Rian, the male minotaur baker lead, causes the town council to invoke an ancient law requiring property owners to reside in town for 60 days before selling. She might be attracted to him but she doesn’t appreciate him interfering in her business.
Rian is a single dad with a daughter, Jessa, entering her tween years who suddenly isn’t interested in their traditional family activities. With his attention split in many directions, he doesn’t need the hassle of a neighbour trying to bring in a chain bakery.
Two months is a long time, however, and as Natalie spends time in town, she begins to suspect that she has inherited some magical abilities, as well as enjoying the community that she’s never had in her life. Then there are her interactions with Rian and Jessa, and the joy they’re bringing her…
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, slow burn, minotaur/mage, fantasy, enemies-to-lovers romance. I enjoyed Natalie’s dawning awareness that there is more to life than career success. I enjoyed Rian’s careful exploration of a second love and his love and care for his daughter. I enjoyed that Jessa had a genuinely developed personality and real contribution to the story. I enjoyed the relationship development, and the character development it encouraged. I enjoyed the supportive and integrated secondary characters. I don’t really care for the awkwardness that existed between the characters throughout most of the story but it suited the plot and I enjoyed how it was resolved. I’m enjoying this world and looking forward to more stories in it.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Rian is a single dad with a daughter, Jessa, entering her tween years who suddenly isn’t interested in their traditional family activities. With his attention split in many directions, he doesn’t need the hassle of a neighbour trying to bring in a chain bakery.
Two months is a long time, however, and as Natalie spends time in town, she begins to suspect that she has inherited some magical abilities, as well as enjoying the community that she’s never had in her life. Then there are her interactions with Rian and Jessa, and the joy they’re bringing her…
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, slow burn, minotaur/mage, fantasy, enemies-to-lovers romance. I enjoyed Natalie’s dawning awareness that there is more to life than career success. I enjoyed Rian’s careful exploration of a second love and his love and care for his daughter. I enjoyed that Jessa had a genuinely developed personality and real contribution to the story. I enjoyed the relationship development, and the character development it encouraged. I enjoyed the supportive and integrated secondary characters. I don’t really care for the awkwardness that existed between the characters throughout most of the story but it suited the plot and I enjoyed how it was resolved. I’m enjoying this world and looking forward to more stories in it.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
January 24, 2025
Elderberry Falls is like coming home.
I absolutely loved the third book of the Elderberry Falls series, The Minotaur and the Mage. Reading these books is like coming home. Even though these are Monster Romances, they’re so sweet, so cozy and filled with so much love. It’s like putting on an episode of Gilmore Girls except with magic. It’s so wonderful and gives you all the warm, fuzzy feelings.
Natalie, a human who discovers she has magical powers when she comes to Elderberry Falls, slowly falls in love with a Minotaur, named Rian. Not only is he single but, he’s a single dad as well trying to navigate his tween daughter, Jessa growing up. It was really sweet to read their slow burning connection on the pages and watch it turn into a full blown romance.
Like always Cora Crane gives us a super sweet HEA. But, there are so many wonderful aspects to her books. So, if you love a good happily ever after, found family, and magic? Did I mention there is a magical notebook where our main characters share their deepest thoughts with each other while remaining anonymous? Ah! Then, this book/series is for you! I highly recommend it.
Also, the spice? There’s not a lot of it but, what is there… is SO good. Happy reading!
I absolutely loved the third book of the Elderberry Falls series, The Minotaur and the Mage. Reading these books is like coming home. Even though these are Monster Romances, they’re so sweet, so cozy and filled with so much love. It’s like putting on an episode of Gilmore Girls except with magic. It’s so wonderful and gives you all the warm, fuzzy feelings.
Natalie, a human who discovers she has magical powers when she comes to Elderberry Falls, slowly falls in love with a Minotaur, named Rian. Not only is he single but, he’s a single dad as well trying to navigate his tween daughter, Jessa growing up. It was really sweet to read their slow burning connection on the pages and watch it turn into a full blown romance.
Like always Cora Crane gives us a super sweet HEA. But, there are so many wonderful aspects to her books. So, if you love a good happily ever after, found family, and magic? Did I mention there is a magical notebook where our main characters share their deepest thoughts with each other while remaining anonymous? Ah! Then, this book/series is for you! I highly recommend it.
Also, the spice? There’s not a lot of it but, what is there… is SO good. Happy reading!
November 27, 2024
I don’t know what Cora put in this book, but I couldn’t put it down!
Rian is a minotaur, single father of a teenage daughter and a bakery owner.
Nathalie inherited the shop next door. Nathalie thinks she’s human, she’s managing artists in the big city. And she’s in the process of becoming a partner in the company.
When she gets the keys of the shop she inherited from someone she doesn’t even know, her plan is to sell it as soon as possible and continue with her life.
Rian disagrees with this and tries to block Nathalie’s plans.
I expected a super smutty monster romance. It does have some (really good) spice. But that’s not the main subject of the story.
What you do get in this book is amazing tension. Fun main and side characters. Serious subjects. Really good side stories. Character development. Small town romance.
And some monsters and magic powers.
I received this book as an ARC through Booksirens. But this is my honest opinion. I would 100% recommend this book!
Rian is a minotaur, single father of a teenage daughter and a bakery owner.
Nathalie inherited the shop next door. Nathalie thinks she’s human, she’s managing artists in the big city. And she’s in the process of becoming a partner in the company.
When she gets the keys of the shop she inherited from someone she doesn’t even know, her plan is to sell it as soon as possible and continue with her life.
Rian disagrees with this and tries to block Nathalie’s plans.
I expected a super smutty monster romance. It does have some (really good) spice. But that’s not the main subject of the story.
What you do get in this book is amazing tension. Fun main and side characters. Serious subjects. Really good side stories. Character development. Small town romance.
And some monsters and magic powers.
I received this book as an ARC through Booksirens. But this is my honest opinion. I would 100% recommend this book!
December 2, 2024
Gosh I need to move to this adorable little town stat!!
A rundown inherited herb shop? SOLD!
A grumpy and protective, baking Minotaur neighbour? SOLD!
Magic at every turn?? Double sold!!!
This was absolutely gorgeous, I loved everything about this!! From the quirky characters, the unique nature of the plot and even down to the simple fact that the town hosts a cooking competition every year… how sweet! And it even has a sprinkle of “monster” spice for that cherry on the top! I find sometimes I don’t enjoy spice in cozy fantasies because quite often the writing isn’t mature enough to include it, but I found this one was the perfect mix.
Even the relationship between the family as whole was unique in this type of world, there’s breeding kinks (with a bit of a twist) and a single dad dynamic.
So amazing! Thank you so much to Booksirens and the author for the chance to read this book early!! This was great.
A rundown inherited herb shop? SOLD!
A grumpy and protective, baking Minotaur neighbour? SOLD!
Magic at every turn?? Double sold!!!
This was absolutely gorgeous, I loved everything about this!! From the quirky characters, the unique nature of the plot and even down to the simple fact that the town hosts a cooking competition every year… how sweet! And it even has a sprinkle of “monster” spice for that cherry on the top! I find sometimes I don’t enjoy spice in cozy fantasies because quite often the writing isn’t mature enough to include it, but I found this one was the perfect mix.
Even the relationship between the family as whole was unique in this type of world, there’s breeding kinks (with a bit of a twist) and a single dad dynamic.
So amazing! Thank you so much to Booksirens and the author for the chance to read this book early!! This was great.
December 19, 2024
Coming back to Elderberry Falls is like coming home. I'll be totally honest, I wasn't paying complete attention and snagged this one as a review copy from BookSirens just based on the title and cover art. When I realized it was an Elderberry Falls book, I was thrilled! I very much enjoyed Mariah and Thorak's book, despite the bully romance, which isn't my fave. This one though! Natalie and Rian's story is wonderful and such a sweet path to learning each other and themselves. They both went through such amazing growth, Natalie especially. Now I have to backtrack for Ecco and Graeme's story, and I cannot wait to return to this world in the future!
January 6, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I love Elderberry Falls and was looking forward to revisiting this cozy and magical world. I really like Cora Crane’s writing and the way each story is great under the romance element. For me, this one was a little more monstery than I think I prefer, however that is absolutely a personal taste matter and not reflective of the writing or the world building and character development.
These books are very inviting and easy to digest and I love the magical atmosphere that is so present in each and every book in this series.
I love Elderberry Falls and was looking forward to revisiting this cozy and magical world. I really like Cora Crane’s writing and the way each story is great under the romance element. For me, this one was a little more monstery than I think I prefer, however that is absolutely a personal taste matter and not reflective of the writing or the world building and character development.
These books are very inviting and easy to digest and I love the magical atmosphere that is so present in each and every book in this series.
March 11, 2025
This was my favourite book in the series. I like how it wasn’t instantaneous. The characters grew a lot. It made me feel warm and fuzzy. Can’t wait till the next book comes out
November 1, 2025
Loved it!! First time for a dildo with a knot for me! It is actually a genius idea for interspecies couples.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2026
It's cute, but nothing special tbh
May 18, 2025
This was a wonderful story. The depth of story and characters was top notch. This is my pick of the series so far
December 16, 2024
4.25 🌟 2🌶️
Every book that come in this series is sweet but this one was just the sweetest. I think this hit those feels a tad bit more than it predecessors which I think is what you want when you read those single parent cozy romances.
I was worried going into this how I was going to feel about Natalie but she was written as such a well rounded character. I really appreciated how her character showed actual complexities of modern day wants while still being a cozy read.
And Rian was just the biggest cinnamon roll having to deal with a daughter in her tween years.
Overall if you are a fan of
small town romance
Single parent father
city girl moves to small town
cozy romance
slow burn
Knots 😈😈
Then keep on keeping on with this series!!!!
Every book that come in this series is sweet but this one was just the sweetest. I think this hit those feels a tad bit more than it predecessors which I think is what you want when you read those single parent cozy romances.
I was worried going into this how I was going to feel about Natalie but she was written as such a well rounded character. I really appreciated how her character showed actual complexities of modern day wants while still being a cozy read.
And Rian was just the biggest cinnamon roll having to deal with a daughter in her tween years.
Overall if you are a fan of
small town romance
Single parent father
city girl moves to small town
cozy romance
slow burn
Knots 😈😈
Then keep on keeping on with this series!!!!
December 5, 2024
You know when you read a REALLY good book and it just goes by so quickly you regret how fast you can read?... That was this book! I wish I read slower! LOL. I loved this Hallmark meets Spicy Monster Romance book! It gives all the feels but all the spicy interludes too that tests your ability to keep a straight face in public. :) I'm lucky enough that I got to be an ARC reader for "The Minotaur and the Mage" but also know that I did pre-order this book as well so this is my honest feedback and I'm not receiving anything in return that I hadn't already purchased.
Now on to the review and perhaps spoilers so be aware!
If you have been reading the Elderberry Falls series this is book #3 following Echo's talent manager, Natalie, and the handsome single-dad minotaur barker, Rian. Natalie is thrown into the magical charm of Elderberry Falls trying to figure out her place in the community and her career while Rian is trying to naviagate having to raise a tween daugher and having feelings for someone since the loss of his wife.
Now I haven't done a lot of single dad reads (maybe 3 in total) but I thought this story really did justice to the conflicting feelings of Rian, having a daughter at the center of his world, and not just rushing into bed with someone for some sexy scenes for the reader. The spice level (I'd put it at a 3 out of 5) is less than I would rate Cora's "The Orc & the Innkeeper" (I'd put that at like a 4.5) but again I think with the plot and characters it makes sense this isn't a "let's rip each others clothes off in the parking lot" as he's a dad with a kid who knows what sex is. But maybe that's just me as a parent knowing how that wouldn't be realistic (as much as any Monster Romance can be lol).
On the other side, I appreciate the character building for Natalie. She's not just a ladder-climbing career woman making a fuss because it's inconvenient for her job. But the story plays up her family dynamics, her past trauma, and her personal struggles. I appreciate too that as much as these kinds of stories love a good 'indecision character' (and Natalie does have her moments) both of these characters don't waste time with a bunch of miscommunications that leaves the reader screaming at their kindle telling them to talk it out already. Again I appreciate you Cora for having two adult characters who can communicate clearly with one another!
I love this feel good story. It was the perfect travel read and had the right amount of spice for the plot. I'm just sad I read it so fast and have to wait until another release date! Here's hoping the next installment is coming soon!
Now on to the review and perhaps spoilers so be aware!
If you have been reading the Elderberry Falls series this is book #3 following Echo's talent manager, Natalie, and the handsome single-dad minotaur barker, Rian. Natalie is thrown into the magical charm of Elderberry Falls trying to figure out her place in the community and her career while Rian is trying to naviagate having to raise a tween daugher and having feelings for someone since the loss of his wife.
Now I haven't done a lot of single dad reads (maybe 3 in total) but I thought this story really did justice to the conflicting feelings of Rian, having a daughter at the center of his world, and not just rushing into bed with someone for some sexy scenes for the reader. The spice level (I'd put it at a 3 out of 5) is less than I would rate Cora's "The Orc & the Innkeeper" (I'd put that at like a 4.5) but again I think with the plot and characters it makes sense this isn't a "let's rip each others clothes off in the parking lot" as he's a dad with a kid who knows what sex is. But maybe that's just me as a parent knowing how that wouldn't be realistic (as much as any Monster Romance can be lol).
On the other side, I appreciate the character building for Natalie. She's not just a ladder-climbing career woman making a fuss because it's inconvenient for her job. But the story plays up her family dynamics, her past trauma, and her personal struggles. I appreciate too that as much as these kinds of stories love a good 'indecision character' (and Natalie does have her moments) both of these characters don't waste time with a bunch of miscommunications that leaves the reader screaming at their kindle telling them to talk it out already. Again I appreciate you Cora for having two adult characters who can communicate clearly with one another!
I love this feel good story. It was the perfect travel read and had the right amount of spice for the plot. I'm just sad I read it so fast and have to wait until another release date! Here's hoping the next installment is coming soon!
February 6, 2025
I am forever grateful to one of my reading buddies for introducing me to this series last year as I absolutely fell in love with it from the first book. Now I've always had a thing for orcs and gargoyles but now I can add minotaurs to that list too. Once again I'm transported to the magical town of Elderberry Falls, which in itself always feels like a warm hug, inviting and friendly, making me wish I could live there myself. This is another adorablely cute, cozy romance with a pinch of spice that made my little heart sing.
When Natalie, a city girl with a thriving career in the music industry inherits a storefront in the magical town of Elderberry Falls, from a grandmother she never knew existed. All she wants to do is make a quick sale and return to her well ordered life. Unfortunately for her, things are not going to be that simple.
For when Rian, the cute but infuriatingly bull-headed minotaur baker next door finds out her plans, he comes up with a way to stop her attempt to sell. Getting the town council to invoke an archaic law requiring her to stay at the property for sixty days, Natalie is now faced with staying in a town where she is not wanted.
Oh yes, and there's that tiny problem of discovering she has magic of her own.
Natalie is a bit of a complex character, having a tragic backstory that most don't have in these fluffy cozy tales, she's jaded and closed off, she thinks having a well ordered life and career is enough until fate intervenes. So watching her deal with these new twists that have entered her life was great to see, and her discovery of her magic helps her to shatter those walls she's erected. For a character I wasn't immediately drawn to I ended up loving her.
And Rian who is no stranger to tragedy himself, is struggling running a business with raising a tween daughter all alone. I literally wanted to hug him at times watching him trying to navigate the complexities of parenting all by himself and thinking he was getting everything wrong. He's an adorablely sweet gentle giant with everybody's best interests at heart. And I don't know why, but I find it such an attractive trait that a man can bake but I do (it's a weakness of mine). So yeah I totally adore him.
There's also cameo's of characters from the previous two books, which I always love to see as it makes the town more real for me, along with the fact you get glimpes of what they are up to in the present.
I'm now eagerly awaiting book 4 which I think is out sometime in November, I just can't get enough of this magical little town. So if your looking for a cozy romance, with found family, low stakes and a bit of spice this book is for you. Highly recommend 😁
When Natalie, a city girl with a thriving career in the music industry inherits a storefront in the magical town of Elderberry Falls, from a grandmother she never knew existed. All she wants to do is make a quick sale and return to her well ordered life. Unfortunately for her, things are not going to be that simple.
For when Rian, the cute but infuriatingly bull-headed minotaur baker next door finds out her plans, he comes up with a way to stop her attempt to sell. Getting the town council to invoke an archaic law requiring her to stay at the property for sixty days, Natalie is now faced with staying in a town where she is not wanted.
Oh yes, and there's that tiny problem of discovering she has magic of her own.
Natalie is a bit of a complex character, having a tragic backstory that most don't have in these fluffy cozy tales, she's jaded and closed off, she thinks having a well ordered life and career is enough until fate intervenes. So watching her deal with these new twists that have entered her life was great to see, and her discovery of her magic helps her to shatter those walls she's erected. For a character I wasn't immediately drawn to I ended up loving her.
And Rian who is no stranger to tragedy himself, is struggling running a business with raising a tween daughter all alone. I literally wanted to hug him at times watching him trying to navigate the complexities of parenting all by himself and thinking he was getting everything wrong. He's an adorablely sweet gentle giant with everybody's best interests at heart. And I don't know why, but I find it such an attractive trait that a man can bake but I do (it's a weakness of mine). So yeah I totally adore him.
There's also cameo's of characters from the previous two books, which I always love to see as it makes the town more real for me, along with the fact you get glimpes of what they are up to in the present.
I'm now eagerly awaiting book 4 which I think is out sometime in November, I just can't get enough of this magical little town. So if your looking for a cozy romance, with found family, low stakes and a bit of spice this book is for you. Highly recommend 😁
December 2, 2024
Cora Crane is getting better with every book! I already loved all the prior books in this series, but as the series goes on, the town and the writing just get better!
Here are some of the specific things I really loved about this book:
1. I love monster romance, and I have a special place in my heart for minotaurs! They’re my absolutely favorite “monster” because they are strong, loyal, passionate, and primal yet sweet. They are the perfect partner and definitely one I would want if I lived in a world with monsters 😊
2. I loved watching Natalie go from a stiff and single-track mind FMC who wanted nothing to do with magic, to a loving and warm FMC (still strong and fierce though!) who wanted to use her magic to help others. I especially loved getting insight into her magic lessons with Velda, her step-grandma.
3. I loved watching Rian’s struggles as a single father of a teenaged daughter, Jessa. Their relationship definitely had it’s highs and lows and just felt so relatable. Jessa was the perfect embodiment of a pre-teen/teenaged girl, especially one who didn’t have a female role model in her life. You could tell that Rian was just doing his best, and his pep talks to himself about their relationship were very insightful, but at the end of the day he needed some help that Natalie could provide.
4. I loved the baking competition that ran in the background of the book. It helped to introduce us to more folks in the town, as well as some of the town traditions, which is always fun!
5. I enjoyed the secret/anonymous pen pal relationship Rian and Natalie had at first, and I thought the use of the enchanted notebook was really clever in facilitating it.
6. I loved how we got to revisit our old friends from books 1 and 2, and how big a part Ecco played. I just love Ecco so much 😊
7. I loved the take on neither of the MCs wanting to have any children (or additional children in Rian’s case). The backstory behind it and the conviction by both of them was super refreshing in a romance story, especially with the breeding kink we saw play out in the sheets.
8. As usual, there was a good amount of spice and it was great!
Here are my predictions for the next books:
1. Grimbak (troll musician who is one of Natalie’s clients) and Rowan (elf bookseller and food pantry volunteer) – Either Second Chance Romance or One Night Stand / Unexpected Pregnancy Trope
2. Gruna (orc and Thorak’s (MMC from book 1) sister) and Finn (fae town lawyer and Thorak’s best friend) – Brother’s Best Friend Trope
Thank you to Cora Crane for the opportunity to read a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
Here are some of the specific things I really loved about this book:
1. I love monster romance, and I have a special place in my heart for minotaurs! They’re my absolutely favorite “monster” because they are strong, loyal, passionate, and primal yet sweet. They are the perfect partner and definitely one I would want if I lived in a world with monsters 😊
2. I loved watching Natalie go from a stiff and single-track mind FMC who wanted nothing to do with magic, to a loving and warm FMC (still strong and fierce though!) who wanted to use her magic to help others. I especially loved getting insight into her magic lessons with Velda, her step-grandma.
3. I loved watching Rian’s struggles as a single father of a teenaged daughter, Jessa. Their relationship definitely had it’s highs and lows and just felt so relatable. Jessa was the perfect embodiment of a pre-teen/teenaged girl, especially one who didn’t have a female role model in her life. You could tell that Rian was just doing his best, and his pep talks to himself about their relationship were very insightful, but at the end of the day he needed some help that Natalie could provide.
4. I loved the baking competition that ran in the background of the book. It helped to introduce us to more folks in the town, as well as some of the town traditions, which is always fun!
5. I enjoyed the secret/anonymous pen pal relationship Rian and Natalie had at first, and I thought the use of the enchanted notebook was really clever in facilitating it.
6. I loved how we got to revisit our old friends from books 1 and 2, and how big a part Ecco played. I just love Ecco so much 😊
7. I loved the take on neither of the MCs wanting to have any children (or additional children in Rian’s case). The backstory behind it and the conviction by both of them was super refreshing in a romance story, especially with the breeding kink we saw play out in the sheets.
8. As usual, there was a good amount of spice and it was great!
Here are my predictions for the next books:
1. Grimbak (troll musician who is one of Natalie’s clients) and Rowan (elf bookseller and food pantry volunteer) – Either Second Chance Romance or One Night Stand / Unexpected Pregnancy Trope
2. Gruna (orc and Thorak’s (MMC from book 1) sister) and Finn (fae town lawyer and Thorak’s best friend) – Brother’s Best Friend Trope
Thank you to Cora Crane for the opportunity to read a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
December 2, 2024
Can I PLEASE move to Elderberry Falls now? 🥹✨
Rian and Natalie’s story in The Minotaur and the Mage was everything I hoped for and more. This series has always been a cozy, magical escape, and this third installment added just the right touch of smexy spice to give it an edge! 🌿💖 I completely lost track of time as the story meandered through the charming streets of Elderberry Falls, introducing us to new faces and bringing back beloved characters from Book 2. Watching Natalie navigate her newfound powers as a witch and her budding relationship with Rian, the gruff (but totally swoon-worthy 😍) minotaur baker, was pure joy!
The story followed Natalie, a city girl used to the fast-paced world of the music industry, who suddenly inherits a magical storefront from a grandmother she never even knew existed. 🎶🪄 Determined to sell the shop and return to her corporate life, she finds herself thwarted by a centuries-old town law—and Rian, her frustratingly handsome next-door neighbor. 😤🍞 As she settles into Elderberry Falls, her plans to leave begin to unravel as she uncovers family secrets, builds unexpected friendships, and realizes her own magical potential. And Rian? His grumpy, protective demeanor hides a heart of gold (not to mention the most adorable relationship with his daughter 🥹). Watching them go from rivals to reluctant allies to lovers was everything I needed!
This book had so many delightful tropes that made my heart sing:
🏙️➡️ City girl meets small town
👨👧❤️ Single dad romance
🍞📜 Business rivals
✍️💌 Pen pals / secret identity
🕵️♀️🔮 Family secrets
🌶️🔥 Slow-burn with spice
🧁🍯 Grumpy x sunshine
💌🌸 Forced proximity
🛠️👩🎤 Small-town meddling
🐾🐮 Monster romance
🌲🏡 Found family vibes
Fans of cozy fantasy, small-town romance, magical adventures, and sweet-yet-spicy monster love stories will absolutely adore this book. It’s a standalone, but seeing characters from earlier books added so much warmth, like catching up with old friends! 🥰
Elderberry Falls continues to be the coziest fictional town I wish I could move to. Every little detail—from the bustling marketplace to the enchanting storefronts—felt alive. Cora Crane has created a world where I wanted to linger forever, and the HEA left me with the happiest sigh. 🪴🌈
Thank you, Cora Crane and BookSirens, for the opportunity to read this ARC! 🥂📚 This series is an absolute gem, and The Minotaur and the Mage is now one of my favorite comfort reads. If you’re craving a warm hug of a book with just the right touch of spice, pick this one up! 💕
Rian and Natalie’s story in The Minotaur and the Mage was everything I hoped for and more. This series has always been a cozy, magical escape, and this third installment added just the right touch of smexy spice to give it an edge! 🌿💖 I completely lost track of time as the story meandered through the charming streets of Elderberry Falls, introducing us to new faces and bringing back beloved characters from Book 2. Watching Natalie navigate her newfound powers as a witch and her budding relationship with Rian, the gruff (but totally swoon-worthy 😍) minotaur baker, was pure joy!
The story followed Natalie, a city girl used to the fast-paced world of the music industry, who suddenly inherits a magical storefront from a grandmother she never even knew existed. 🎶🪄 Determined to sell the shop and return to her corporate life, she finds herself thwarted by a centuries-old town law—and Rian, her frustratingly handsome next-door neighbor. 😤🍞 As she settles into Elderberry Falls, her plans to leave begin to unravel as she uncovers family secrets, builds unexpected friendships, and realizes her own magical potential. And Rian? His grumpy, protective demeanor hides a heart of gold (not to mention the most adorable relationship with his daughter 🥹). Watching them go from rivals to reluctant allies to lovers was everything I needed!
This book had so many delightful tropes that made my heart sing:
🏙️➡️ City girl meets small town
👨👧❤️ Single dad romance
🍞📜 Business rivals
✍️💌 Pen pals / secret identity
🕵️♀️🔮 Family secrets
🌶️🔥 Slow-burn with spice
🧁🍯 Grumpy x sunshine
💌🌸 Forced proximity
🛠️👩🎤 Small-town meddling
🐾🐮 Monster romance
🌲🏡 Found family vibes
Fans of cozy fantasy, small-town romance, magical adventures, and sweet-yet-spicy monster love stories will absolutely adore this book. It’s a standalone, but seeing characters from earlier books added so much warmth, like catching up with old friends! 🥰
Elderberry Falls continues to be the coziest fictional town I wish I could move to. Every little detail—from the bustling marketplace to the enchanting storefronts—felt alive. Cora Crane has created a world where I wanted to linger forever, and the HEA left me with the happiest sigh. 🪴🌈
Thank you, Cora Crane and BookSirens, for the opportunity to read this ARC! 🥂📚 This series is an absolute gem, and The Minotaur and the Mage is now one of my favorite comfort reads. If you’re craving a warm hug of a book with just the right touch of spice, pick this one up! 💕
December 28, 2024
Gleeful Goblin Review: This world delights me so very much. It's this great mix of spicy fantasy and cozy small town romance I just can't get enough of. This story in particular is kind of like a Hallmark movie where a woman leaves the big city job for a small town and hunky man sweeps her off her feet and tries to convince her to leave said city and job. Except in this instance I feel it's way more interesting and cheeky in a fun way. I feel like the author did a great job setting the scene so to speak with how our FMC feels, planting the seeds of her own unconscious dissatisfaction in her life, but her overall stubbornness and resistance to letting her guard down.
“Natalie!” Ecco calls, waving me over. “You remember Rian, right?” I approach the counter, trying to ignore the way my pulse quickens as Rian’s deep brown gaze meets mine—a side effect of the stress, I figure, since I normally don’t get nervous meeting new people. He smiles warmly, wiping his hands on his apron. “Of course,” he says, his deep voice seeming to reverberate through my bones. “Nice to see you again.” “Thanks,” I manage. “I hear your muffins are the stuff of legend.” Rian chuckles, a rich, welcoming sound. “I don’t know about legends, but I like to think they’re pretty darn good. Here, let me grab you one fresh from the oven.” As he turns to retrieve a muffin, I watch the muscles flex in his arms, the way his broad back tapers to a trim waist. Stop staring, I scold myself. I must have low blood sugar. Ecco, oblivious to my inner thoughts, leans against the counter and grins at Rian. “Make it two, big guy. And throw in a couple of those cinnamon rolls while you’re at it.” Rian laughs, the sound warm and affectionate. “Anything for you, Ecco. You and Graeme keep me in business, with that sweet tooth of yours.” I watch their easy banter, feeling a pang of something that might be envy. Ecco is more comfortable in her world than I am in mine; even at the coffee shops and restaurants I frequent regularly, I’m not on a first name basis with anyone. But I want that, I remind myself. I like that. It feels good, the anonymity."
Our MMC is a minotaur, widower, single father who bakes like the divine. He has the biggest squishy heart, you just can't help but call a little bit in love with him right alongside Natalie. There's healing/resolution that happens, secrets coming to light and being set right with family in this story, and feels like a warm hug to read. 5/5 Stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Natalie!” Ecco calls, waving me over. “You remember Rian, right?” I approach the counter, trying to ignore the way my pulse quickens as Rian’s deep brown gaze meets mine—a side effect of the stress, I figure, since I normally don’t get nervous meeting new people. He smiles warmly, wiping his hands on his apron. “Of course,” he says, his deep voice seeming to reverberate through my bones. “Nice to see you again.” “Thanks,” I manage. “I hear your muffins are the stuff of legend.” Rian chuckles, a rich, welcoming sound. “I don’t know about legends, but I like to think they’re pretty darn good. Here, let me grab you one fresh from the oven.” As he turns to retrieve a muffin, I watch the muscles flex in his arms, the way his broad back tapers to a trim waist. Stop staring, I scold myself. I must have low blood sugar. Ecco, oblivious to my inner thoughts, leans against the counter and grins at Rian. “Make it two, big guy. And throw in a couple of those cinnamon rolls while you’re at it.” Rian laughs, the sound warm and affectionate. “Anything for you, Ecco. You and Graeme keep me in business, with that sweet tooth of yours.” I watch their easy banter, feeling a pang of something that might be envy. Ecco is more comfortable in her world than I am in mine; even at the coffee shops and restaurants I frequent regularly, I’m not on a first name basis with anyone. But I want that, I remind myself. I like that. It feels good, the anonymity."
Our MMC is a minotaur, widower, single father who bakes like the divine. He has the biggest squishy heart, you just can't help but call a little bit in love with him right alongside Natalie. There's healing/resolution that happens, secrets coming to light and being set right with family in this story, and feels like a warm hug to read. 5/5 Stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
The Minotaur and the Mage by Cora Crane
Elderberry Falls book 3
Thank you to Tantor Media and Cora for this review copy!
Dual narration by Rose Dioro and Jack Calihan
Rose and Jack continue to bring Elderberry Falls to life in the best way. The emotion they give to these characters is wonderful and I really enjoy the voices they use for the main characters and the side characters!
Cozy monster romance
Dual POV, cozy small town, magical note writing, single minotaur dad who is a total cinnamon roll (and makes them too), career minded human FMC (or is she?), no third act break up, silly small town antics, parenting a tween woes, baking competition, magical baking, monster spice
Natalie has been left a surprise property in the cozy magical town, Elderberry Falls. She doesn't do small towns and needs to get this property sold so she can buy in to her talent management agency and be a partner. Rian, the minotaur who owns the bakery next door, finds out she is planing to sell to a chain bakery and immediately takes steps to work against this plan, with the town being behind him. This leads to Natalie being forced to live in her property for 60 days. While Natalie comes to terms with a heritage that was hidden from her all her life, Rian struggles with his daughter growing away from him as she wants to spend more time with her friends. Both of them take solace in writing to each other in through magical journals, though Natalie doesn't know it is Rian she is writing to.
Cora continues to deliver such fun cute reads in this series! I want to move here immediately!! I don't seek out single dad romances, but I really enjoyed this one! I felt for Rian trying to keep his strong relationship with his daughter even as she is growing up and beginning to spend more time away from him. Also enjoyed Natalie reevaluating her goals, but not completely throwing away her career - rather going in a new direction that made her happy. Looking forward to revisiting this awesome town in book 4!!
Elderberry Falls book 3
Thank you to Tantor Media and Cora for this review copy!
Dual narration by Rose Dioro and Jack Calihan
Rose and Jack continue to bring Elderberry Falls to life in the best way. The emotion they give to these characters is wonderful and I really enjoy the voices they use for the main characters and the side characters!
Cozy monster romance
Dual POV, cozy small town, magical note writing, single minotaur dad who is a total cinnamon roll (and makes them too), career minded human FMC (or is she?), no third act break up, silly small town antics, parenting a tween woes, baking competition, magical baking, monster spice
Natalie has been left a surprise property in the cozy magical town, Elderberry Falls. She doesn't do small towns and needs to get this property sold so she can buy in to her talent management agency and be a partner. Rian, the minotaur who owns the bakery next door, finds out she is planing to sell to a chain bakery and immediately takes steps to work against this plan, with the town being behind him. This leads to Natalie being forced to live in her property for 60 days. While Natalie comes to terms with a heritage that was hidden from her all her life, Rian struggles with his daughter growing away from him as she wants to spend more time with her friends. Both of them take solace in writing to each other in through magical journals, though Natalie doesn't know it is Rian she is writing to.
Cora continues to deliver such fun cute reads in this series! I want to move here immediately!! I don't seek out single dad romances, but I really enjoyed this one! I felt for Rian trying to keep his strong relationship with his daughter even as she is growing up and beginning to spend more time away from him. Also enjoyed Natalie reevaluating her goals, but not completely throwing away her career - rather going in a new direction that made her happy. Looking forward to revisiting this awesome town in book 4!!
November 27, 2024
*****I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an ARC of The Minotaur and the Mage, and I’m thrilled to say this book completely captivated me. From the very first chapter, I was pulled back into the enchanting world of Elderberry Falls, a town so richly imagined that it feels like a character in its own right. Just like in the first book, I fell in love with the setting all over again, and I didn’t want to leave by the time I turned the final page.
Natalie’s story was particularly moving. Her journey of self-discovery, healing, and learning to embrace both herself and the magic of this little town was beautifully written. Watching her fall in love with Elderberry Falls felt as natural as the changing of the seasons, and it made her growth feel so authentic.
I’ll admit that I don’t usually gravitate toward single dad romances, but this story exceeded all my expectations. The relationship between the two leads was handled with such care, and their honesty and vulnerability with one another elevated the romance to something truly special. There’s a sense of mutual respect and understanding that makes their connection all the more meaningful.
But I have to give a special shoutout to Trasher, the bubble dragon, who completely stole my heart. Every scene with Trasher brought a smile to my face, and I found myself eagerly anticipating his delightful presence.
Cora Crane has once again proven her talent for creating stories that are equal parts heartfelt, magical, and utterly unforgettable. If you’ve ever wanted to escape to a charming, otherworldly town filled with vibrant characters, The Minotaur and the Mage is the book for you. Fans of the series will adore this installment, and new readers will find themselves enchanted by Elderberry Falls and its lovable inhabitants.
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an ARC of The Minotaur and the Mage, and I’m thrilled to say this book completely captivated me. From the very first chapter, I was pulled back into the enchanting world of Elderberry Falls, a town so richly imagined that it feels like a character in its own right. Just like in the first book, I fell in love with the setting all over again, and I didn’t want to leave by the time I turned the final page.
Natalie’s story was particularly moving. Her journey of self-discovery, healing, and learning to embrace both herself and the magic of this little town was beautifully written. Watching her fall in love with Elderberry Falls felt as natural as the changing of the seasons, and it made her growth feel so authentic.
I’ll admit that I don’t usually gravitate toward single dad romances, but this story exceeded all my expectations. The relationship between the two leads was handled with such care, and their honesty and vulnerability with one another elevated the romance to something truly special. There’s a sense of mutual respect and understanding that makes their connection all the more meaningful.
But I have to give a special shoutout to Trasher, the bubble dragon, who completely stole my heart. Every scene with Trasher brought a smile to my face, and I found myself eagerly anticipating his delightful presence.
Cora Crane has once again proven her talent for creating stories that are equal parts heartfelt, magical, and utterly unforgettable. If you’ve ever wanted to escape to a charming, otherworldly town filled with vibrant characters, The Minotaur and the Mage is the book for you. Fans of the series will adore this installment, and new readers will find themselves enchanted by Elderberry Falls and its lovable inhabitants.
December 7, 2024
Natalie knows what she wants: a partnership in her company and security for herself and her mother. When she inherits a shopfront in Elderberry Falls from a previously unknown grandmother, she sees an opportunity to finance her partnership buy-in. Unfortunately, her new neighbor, Minotaur Rian is against the sale and gets the town to enforce an archaic law to prevent the sale. Now Natalie has to stay in Elderberry Falls for sixty days and confront both her past and her future.
Natalie is a driven, capable character. Her perseverance and what she has overcome in her past make her an extremely engaging character. Unfortunately, I liked Rian a bit less. He's a single father with a tween daughter. His initial response to Natalie's proposed sale is purely business motivated, as she plans to sell to a well known bakery chain, which would put his own bakery next door at risk. While I understand his motivation, the fact that he knowingly uses a magical journal to influence Natalie just pushed him into a somewhat manipulative view. While he has other positive characteristics, I feel like Natalie could do better than him.
Interestingly this book has an interesting theme of loss interwoven throughout the tale. There's loss of family, spouses, opportunity, childhood, and dreams affecting multiple characters. It was intriguing to see the characters deal with loss in realistic ways without drowning in grief. Particularly the loss of a dream played an exceptionally poignant plot point.
The Minotaur and the Mage was an interesting cozy monster romance with a motivated main character female and a single father minotaur love interest. Themes of loss and healing give the book more texture and depth. An enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Natalie is a driven, capable character. Her perseverance and what she has overcome in her past make her an extremely engaging character. Unfortunately, I liked Rian a bit less. He's a single father with a tween daughter. His initial response to Natalie's proposed sale is purely business motivated, as she plans to sell to a well known bakery chain, which would put his own bakery next door at risk. While I understand his motivation, the fact that he knowingly uses a magical journal to influence Natalie just pushed him into a somewhat manipulative view. While he has other positive characteristics, I feel like Natalie could do better than him.
Interestingly this book has an interesting theme of loss interwoven throughout the tale. There's loss of family, spouses, opportunity, childhood, and dreams affecting multiple characters. It was intriguing to see the characters deal with loss in realistic ways without drowning in grief. Particularly the loss of a dream played an exceptionally poignant plot point.
The Minotaur and the Mage was an interesting cozy monster romance with a motivated main character female and a single father minotaur love interest. Themes of loss and healing give the book more texture and depth. An enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Cozy romance that reminds readers that first impressions are not always true. In her third Elderberry Falls book, Cora brings together big city and small town culture to provide a fun reading experience that allows readers an escape from everyday life. I love how Cora writes magical creatures into a human world and we get to read about their interactions.
Rian just wants a simple life. He has his bakery business to run, a teenage daughter to raise, and a town that he loves. When the building next to his goes up for sale, he is not having it. It would be one thing if it was for sale for another small town business, but the potential buyer is a huge chain store. Nope, not in his small town! He will not rest until he puts a stop to this.
Natalie has just found out she inherited property from an unknown grandmother. On top of that, she also finds out she is a witch! All Natalie wants is to become a partner with her current company and maybe this inheritance will allow just that. She isn’t ready for the minotaur next door to make everything so difficult. Why do small town people care so much? Why can’t she just sell her property and continue life in the big city?
Cora always provides cozy, heartwarming romances that I thoroughly enjoy. In Natalie finding out she is a magical creature, after living as a human for so long, gives a complexity to this story not seen in her others. I loved the inclusion of a magical journal that allows our two MCs to communicate with each other, unknown to them they are actually talking to their rival. An easy, wonderful read that I fully recommend!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🧁City Girl Meets Small Town
🎵Single Dad
🧁Business Rivals
🎵Secret Identity
🧁Family Secrets
🎵Found Powers
🧁Found Family
Cozy romance that reminds readers that first impressions are not always true. In her third Elderberry Falls book, Cora brings together big city and small town culture to provide a fun reading experience that allows readers an escape from everyday life. I love how Cora writes magical creatures into a human world and we get to read about their interactions.
Rian just wants a simple life. He has his bakery business to run, a teenage daughter to raise, and a town that he loves. When the building next to his goes up for sale, he is not having it. It would be one thing if it was for sale for another small town business, but the potential buyer is a huge chain store. Nope, not in his small town! He will not rest until he puts a stop to this.
Natalie has just found out she inherited property from an unknown grandmother. On top of that, she also finds out she is a witch! All Natalie wants is to become a partner with her current company and maybe this inheritance will allow just that. She isn’t ready for the minotaur next door to make everything so difficult. Why do small town people care so much? Why can’t she just sell her property and continue life in the big city?
Cora always provides cozy, heartwarming romances that I thoroughly enjoy. In Natalie finding out she is a magical creature, after living as a human for so long, gives a complexity to this story not seen in her others. I loved the inclusion of a magical journal that allows our two MCs to communicate with each other, unknown to them they are actually talking to their rival. An easy, wonderful read that I fully recommend!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🧁City Girl Meets Small Town
🎵Single Dad
🧁Business Rivals
🎵Secret Identity
🧁Family Secrets
🎵Found Powers
🧁Found Family
December 7, 2024
In the end of book 2 of this series we find out that Natalie inherits something from a Grandmother she never knew.
In this book, we learn more about Natalie Russo. She inherits the magical shop next to Rian Kincaids bakery. Natalie is an outsider. She’s only in Elderberry Falls because her client, Ecco, lives there. She needs to sell the shop, as her boss (in the human world) just told her she’s making partner, but needs money to pay into the firm.
It should be easy to find a buyer and then get out of Elderberry Falls in no time… right?
Rian, a widowed Minotaur and father of a tween, owns a bakery in the main part of town. When Natalie, Ecco’s talent manager, comes into town and reveals she’s inherited her grandmother Myrtle’s old shop, Rian gets excited. He’s attracted to Natalie and it’s been years since he’s felt that way. But when he hears that a human chain bakery wants to buy her shop, that’s next to his bakery, he gets creative and hires the best magical lawyer in town.
I loved coming back to Elderberry Falls. BUT the story fell a bit short for me. There was no real getting to know between the characters, as most of the “secrets” and “feelings” were written in a magical journal. There was no enemies to lovers or slow burn, as Rian only has one outburst and the town council meeting before he brings over muffins as a peace offering. It felt like Rian and his daughter Jessas story were separate from Natalie’s. And what was up with Mariah being cold towards Natalie? Didn’t really make sense.
It was cute, but not as great as book one in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this book, we learn more about Natalie Russo. She inherits the magical shop next to Rian Kincaids bakery. Natalie is an outsider. She’s only in Elderberry Falls because her client, Ecco, lives there. She needs to sell the shop, as her boss (in the human world) just told her she’s making partner, but needs money to pay into the firm.
It should be easy to find a buyer and then get out of Elderberry Falls in no time… right?
Rian, a widowed Minotaur and father of a tween, owns a bakery in the main part of town. When Natalie, Ecco’s talent manager, comes into town and reveals she’s inherited her grandmother Myrtle’s old shop, Rian gets excited. He’s attracted to Natalie and it’s been years since he’s felt that way. But when he hears that a human chain bakery wants to buy her shop, that’s next to his bakery, he gets creative and hires the best magical lawyer in town.
I loved coming back to Elderberry Falls. BUT the story fell a bit short for me. There was no real getting to know between the characters, as most of the “secrets” and “feelings” were written in a magical journal. There was no enemies to lovers or slow burn, as Rian only has one outburst and the town council meeting before he brings over muffins as a peace offering. It felt like Rian and his daughter Jessas story were separate from Natalie’s. And what was up with Mariah being cold towards Natalie? Didn’t really make sense.
It was cute, but not as great as book one in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2024
Elderberry Falls is magical both literally and metaphorically. I love this series! This book didn’t disappoint either. Natalie was supposed to return to the human lands, as she was friend to her client Ecco, who’s a big deal in both human and magical worlds. Nat finds out that she is the beneficiary of the recently deceased Myrtle Hobbes. Finding out that her father had lied to her and that she had other family from her mother whom she didn’t know, hurt her. Myrtle’s storefront and apartment now belongs to Nat and she feels that she has to sell and things go total mischief and mayhem from there. She meets Rian a Minotaur who owns the property and bakery next door. Myrtle was married to Velda, another witch, so Nat gets to meet her and find out more about what she didn’t know about her family. It was so heartwarming. I was very upset that Nat wanted to sell to who she wanted to and Rian does something crazy and there is a lot of hullabaloo. Rian’s daughter, Jessa is adorable and is having a lot of growing pains as puberty is hitting her back hard as is social pressure from her friends. I felt bad for her. At that age, since my family was strict, I didn’t get to do even half the things that Jessa got to do in the book. I adore Natalie’s mom. She reminds me of my own mom. Things get even more interesting and steamy once Rian and Nat admit they have feelings for each other. I giggled a lot during this book. I wanted to yell at Jessa a few times and found myself saying, “If your friend wanted to jump off the pier, would you follow?” lol. Which of course, made me laugh as that is such a parent thing to say. I found the book to be believable in the mundane facts that were happening in the story- the peer pressure, the not wanting my business to suffer, etc. As well as the attraction, etc. I can’t wait to see what else happens in Elderberry Falls.
I received this advance reading copy for free from Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received this advance reading copy for free from Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving this review.
January 21, 2025
- Magical town
- Found family
- Rivals to friends to lovers
- Single father
I am such a fan of the Elderberry Falls series! It is cozy and spicy and I need more!
In this story, Natalie, who thought she was human until she finds out she has inherited property from her witch grandmother, is completely out of her element. She typically likes things orderly and precise, but finding out she had a grandmother (her father told her his parents were long gone) has her wondering about her heritage. But first, she needs to sell the property. She has no intention of having ties to Elderberry Falls, other than through her client Ecco, who is a siren. Her new next door neighbor is minotaur Rian. He is a single father baker who is trying to parent his tween, Jessa, who has been acting differently recently.
However, when Rian finds out Natalie wishes to sell her storefront to a big human business, he is determined to stop the sale. He and some lawyers find an old law that states any building being sold must be occupied for 60 consecutive days by the owner. Needless to say, Natalie is not pleased about this, but moves temporarily to Elderberry Falls.
Natalie finds an old journel in her grandmother's things and pens an entry, not realizing this is a magical journel and that Rian has the twin. The two begin a friendship of sorts through the journel. But will Natalie still feel the same way when she finds out Rian is her secret pen pal?
This book was adorable! I loved the characters of this magical little town and can't wait to read more in this world!
- Found family
- Rivals to friends to lovers
- Single father
I am such a fan of the Elderberry Falls series! It is cozy and spicy and I need more!
In this story, Natalie, who thought she was human until she finds out she has inherited property from her witch grandmother, is completely out of her element. She typically likes things orderly and precise, but finding out she had a grandmother (her father told her his parents were long gone) has her wondering about her heritage. But first, she needs to sell the property. She has no intention of having ties to Elderberry Falls, other than through her client Ecco, who is a siren. Her new next door neighbor is minotaur Rian. He is a single father baker who is trying to parent his tween, Jessa, who has been acting differently recently.
However, when Rian finds out Natalie wishes to sell her storefront to a big human business, he is determined to stop the sale. He and some lawyers find an old law that states any building being sold must be occupied for 60 consecutive days by the owner. Needless to say, Natalie is not pleased about this, but moves temporarily to Elderberry Falls.
Natalie finds an old journel in her grandmother's things and pens an entry, not realizing this is a magical journel and that Rian has the twin. The two begin a friendship of sorts through the journel. But will Natalie still feel the same way when she finds out Rian is her secret pen pal?
This book was adorable! I loved the characters of this magical little town and can't wait to read more in this world!
December 2, 2024
Cora Crane has done it again!! Unlike the first two books, this one focuses on a human thrown into dealing with the magical realms versus growing up with in them. Natalie finds out she inherited a magical shop in Elderberry Falls at the same time she makes partner. Unfortunately, she is cash-strapped and tries to sell the store. Enter Rian, her baker shop neighbor and single dad. Sparks fly in more ways than one and...yeah...we know how this goes in the best way possible.
I absolutely loved Natalie!! Seeing things from her POV was so refreshing! Nat looks like she has her life together, but in reality, she's just trying to get through it all. Her life gets upended and so many things she thought she knew and wanted get thrown into question. Plus, the tension and spice with Rian...*chef's kiss*!
One thing that I truly adore about the Elderberry Falls series is the emphasis on female relationships. Yes, there are the ML POVs, but ultimately, they really don't mke much an appearance outside their respective books. What we do get are continuing relationships between Natalie, Ecco, Mariah. Velda, Jessa, and Natalie's mom. There is such a sense of community, support, and growth; it's the perfect cozy space.
If you want to laugh, feel community, and some spice, Elderberry Falls is the place to be!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved Natalie!! Seeing things from her POV was so refreshing! Nat looks like she has her life together, but in reality, she's just trying to get through it all. Her life gets upended and so many things she thought she knew and wanted get thrown into question. Plus, the tension and spice with Rian...*chef's kiss*!
One thing that I truly adore about the Elderberry Falls series is the emphasis on female relationships. Yes, there are the ML POVs, but ultimately, they really don't mke much an appearance outside their respective books. What we do get are continuing relationships between Natalie, Ecco, Mariah. Velda, Jessa, and Natalie's mom. There is such a sense of community, support, and growth; it's the perfect cozy space.
If you want to laugh, feel community, and some spice, Elderberry Falls is the place to be!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2024
This was a beta read but I waited for the ARC to read the edits before reviewing.
Cora never misses on the cozy vibes. Ever. Though in my opinion this book has the most tension. Once again we get an FMC who is relatable and wonderful. Natalie has been blind sided while she goes to Elderberry Falls with her client. She is related to a witch who has passed away and left her things in her will. But Natalie is up for a huge promotion and wants nothing to do with the store front she has been left behind. She wants to sell and sell quickly.
Too bad her hot Minotaur neighbor Rian is not willing to let her sell out to someone who could possibly ruin the neighborhood. In a moment of loneliness Rian writes in a journal “I miss you.” Not knowing it is connected to a journal Natalie has and the two begin talking every day. The two find someone to vent to in each other.
I loved the progression of their relationship so much. Rian needed help with his daughter and to find the strength to move on from his wife. Natalie needed someone who didn’t demand things of her. Someone she could let loose around. It was just all so cute and sweet. I loved seeing the struggles of Rian as a single father and how realistic it all was. Seeing Natalie reevaluate what is truly important to her as we all do at some point in our lives.
I can’t wait for yall to read this. And of course the spice? HOT.
Cora never misses on the cozy vibes. Ever. Though in my opinion this book has the most tension. Once again we get an FMC who is relatable and wonderful. Natalie has been blind sided while she goes to Elderberry Falls with her client. She is related to a witch who has passed away and left her things in her will. But Natalie is up for a huge promotion and wants nothing to do with the store front she has been left behind. She wants to sell and sell quickly.
Too bad her hot Minotaur neighbor Rian is not willing to let her sell out to someone who could possibly ruin the neighborhood. In a moment of loneliness Rian writes in a journal “I miss you.” Not knowing it is connected to a journal Natalie has and the two begin talking every day. The two find someone to vent to in each other.
I loved the progression of their relationship so much. Rian needed help with his daughter and to find the strength to move on from his wife. Natalie needed someone who didn’t demand things of her. Someone she could let loose around. It was just all so cute and sweet. I loved seeing the struggles of Rian as a single father and how realistic it all was. Seeing Natalie reevaluate what is truly important to her as we all do at some point in our lives.
I can’t wait for yall to read this. And of course the spice? HOT.
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