When You Burn Me is the exciting and enchanting first book in the Enchanted Hearts series by Lorelei Johnson, filled with magic, mystery, and romance. This young adult fantasy brings readers into a world where witches, demons, and vampires collide, all set against the backdrop of a gripping and emotional storyline.
The book centers around Ienna, a young witch who has found solace and strength in her tight-knit coven. Although Ienna has a family in her coven, her past is a constant shadow over her, one that she can’t quite shake. Haunted by the traumatic loss of her parents, Ienna is determined to uncover the truth behind their deaths, even if it means facing dangerous secrets. As she digs deeper, the story reveals more than just her personal journey—it introduces us to a world of forbidden love, secrets, and dark forces.
One of the things that truly stands out in When You Burn Me is the way Johnson builds the world and the coven. The backstory of how the coven came together is fascinating, and I love how each member has their own unique story that explains why they joined. The diverse personalities within the group make for some delightful dynamics—there’s a sassy witch who can kill with just a touch, and every character brings something special to the table. As the story progresses, you can’t help but get invested in their lives and their relationships.
Ienna’s character is relatable and compelling. Her internal struggle between her past trauma and her desire to protect her coven makes her journey all the more engaging. The emotional depth that Johnson gives to Ienna’s character makes her growth throughout the story feel authentic, and you’ll find yourself rooting for her as she uncovers the secrets of her past.
The romance in When You Burn Me is equally captivating. The chemistry is palpable, and the forbidden love angle adds an irresistible tension to the plot. The slow-burn romance between Ienna and her love interest is swoon-worthy, and it adds a layer of complexity to the already rich narrative. The forbidden love element adds just the right amount of suspense and emotional stakes to keep readers hooked.
The world of demons, witches, and vampires is full of intrigue, and Johnson does a fantastic job of blending fantasy elements with real emotional stakes. The mix of magic, danger, and romance keeps the pacing tight, and each chapter feels like it’s building to something bigger. By the end of the book, you’ll be eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where the story goes next.