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A Spell for Midwinter's Heart
In this holiday romance with an enchanting twist, a magic-averse witch returns home to save her small town’s beloved winter festival in time for the holidays with the help of her estranged coven and distractingly handsome childhood rival.
Rowan Midwinter has sworn off magic, and for good reason. A spell gone wrong back in high school left her with nothing but missing memories and regret, so she’s not exactly thrilled when she’s guilted into returning to her quaint mountain hometown for the first time in years. But it’s already Yule and much-needed snow still hasn't fallen, so Rowan reckons she can put up with her family, friends, and former coven if it means saving the town’s beloved winter festival from the megacorporation threatening to buy it out.
But Rowan’s plans to save the festival and make it through the holiday magic-free go awry when Gavin McCreery, prodigal son of the festival’s landlord, insists on helping, and their unwanted chemistry keeps setting off holiday lights…literally.
As the quest to keep the festival alive grows increasingly complicated, Rowan realizes she must reconnect with what she tried to leave behind--her family, coven, and even her memories--to let go of her fear of magic and let her heart lead the way.
Rowan Midwinter has sworn off magic, and for good reason. A spell gone wrong back in high school left her with nothing but missing memories and regret, so she’s not exactly thrilled when she’s guilted into returning to her quaint mountain hometown for the first time in years. But it’s already Yule and much-needed snow still hasn't fallen, so Rowan reckons she can put up with her family, friends, and former coven if it means saving the town’s beloved winter festival from the megacorporation threatening to buy it out.
But Rowan’s plans to save the festival and make it through the holiday magic-free go awry when Gavin McCreery, prodigal son of the festival’s landlord, insists on helping, and their unwanted chemistry keeps setting off holiday lights…literally.
As the quest to keep the festival alive grows increasingly complicated, Rowan realizes she must reconnect with what she tried to leave behind--her family, coven, and even her memories--to let go of her fear of magic and let her heart lead the way.
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2025
174 people are currently reading
16334 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Lockhart
4 books82 followersMorgan Lockhart hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she currently lives with her family, including her partner, two children, and a pack of fur babies. Growing up in the woods of Washington State, Morgan has always been telling and consuming stories in all shapes and sizes. She roamed her way to California, where she graduated with highest honors from the creative writing department at UC San Diego. Her path forked into video games then, as she put off her final trimester of college to work on her first video game. Currently, she works as a writer and game developer for video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
November 11, 2025
I was so excited for a magical christmas romance, but I was just too frustrated with the heroine in this one. Most of the conflict has to do with her not using her magic wisely and carelessly messing with mind magic (erasing memories) SO MANY TIMES. She would even make herself forget something she just thought about a lot because she didn't want to think about it anymore. So no surprise that magic turned into an even bigger problem for her over and over again in this book. The heroine just made this one hard to like!
June 17, 2025
I received a free copy of, A Spell for Midwinter's Heart by Morgan Lockhart, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Rowan Midwinter is a witch, who is not happy to be going back home. Rowan wants to save her towns winter festival, and make sure the town has snow. This is a sweet and magical winter love story.
June 20, 2025
This book absolutely felt like I was watching a Christmas Hallmark Movie in book version. Rowan is a witch who has refused to use her magic. After a disastrous work event she heads home for her town's annual Yule festival. She finds out that her town is in danger of losing their festival to a corporation. To complicate matters, the man who she has had a crush on since she was in high school is part of the reason their family is losing the festival. Rowan must figure out a way to save the festival, get the guy, and figure out how to use her magic responsibly.
This book was charming and sweet. I read it in the summer so it did lose a little of its magic as I was reading about hot chocolate and winter time events when it was 90 degrees outside. However, I do think this would be the perfect winter read and a great book to cozy up by a warm fire. Rowan being a witch was a great touch as I enjoyed reading about her magic abilities. It led to some cute and funny moments. If you are a fan of contemporary romances with some magic sprinkled in you will enjoy this novel.
4/5 stars
Thank you to Dutton Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
This book was charming and sweet. I read it in the summer so it did lose a little of its magic as I was reading about hot chocolate and winter time events when it was 90 degrees outside. However, I do think this would be the perfect winter read and a great book to cozy up by a warm fire. Rowan being a witch was a great touch as I enjoyed reading about her magic abilities. It led to some cute and funny moments. If you are a fan of contemporary romances with some magic sprinkled in you will enjoy this novel.
4/5 stars
Thank you to Dutton Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
November 29, 2025
3.5***
very cute!!!!
this was so inclusive of so many cultures & holidays, i had a lot of fun learning about the traditions new to me.
the romance was sweet but tbh i needed a bit more! i also found myself getting irritated by the FMC’s self sabatoging actions towards the end.
very cute!!!!
this was so inclusive of so many cultures & holidays, i had a lot of fun learning about the traditions new to me.
the romance was sweet but tbh i needed a bit more! i also found myself getting irritated by the FMC’s self sabatoging actions towards the end.
September 24, 2025
Thank you to the publisher, Dutton, for giving me access to this title! I really appreciate your recommendations!
This book sounded absolutely adorable - I was sure I would love it. From the cute cover and premise, it sounded right up my alley.
Unfortunately, this was not the book for me. I was turned off from Rowan almost the moment she was introduced. Finding out that she spitefully cast a spell to turn Gavin’s hair prematurely gray when they were teens made her seem very petty and bratty. It did not endear me to her and she did not get better. She came off as snotty and gave major attitude to Gavin for no reason. She was also very hot and cold with him and was always jumping to conclusions about how he felt or what he was thinking. I had no idea what he saw in her. She really didn’t treat anyone very well to be honest and felt sorry for herself a lot.
I didn’t like any of the secondary characters much either, except for Rowan’s dad and Gavin. They were all introduced at the same time and no one really stood out.
I also didn’t like the anti-Christian elements. I get that this is a witchy, midwinter story rather than a Christmas story, but there were a lot of anti Christian sentiments that really turned me off and it seemed like Rowan couldn’t understand why anyone would like Christmas.
Unfortunately I don’t think I’m the right audience for this book. If you like witchy stories you might enjoy this one, but sadly it was a miss for me.
This book sounded absolutely adorable - I was sure I would love it. From the cute cover and premise, it sounded right up my alley.
Unfortunately, this was not the book for me. I was turned off from Rowan almost the moment she was introduced. Finding out that she spitefully cast a spell to turn Gavin’s hair prematurely gray when they were teens made her seem very petty and bratty. It did not endear me to her and she did not get better. She came off as snotty and gave major attitude to Gavin for no reason. She was also very hot and cold with him and was always jumping to conclusions about how he felt or what he was thinking. I had no idea what he saw in her. She really didn’t treat anyone very well to be honest and felt sorry for herself a lot.
I didn’t like any of the secondary characters much either, except for Rowan’s dad and Gavin. They were all introduced at the same time and no one really stood out.
I also didn’t like the anti-Christian elements. I get that this is a witchy, midwinter story rather than a Christmas story, but there were a lot of anti Christian sentiments that really turned me off and it seemed like Rowan couldn’t understand why anyone would like Christmas.
Unfortunately I don’t think I’m the right audience for this book. If you like witchy stories you might enjoy this one, but sadly it was a miss for me.
September 24, 2025
It's fall so I am officially in my magic/witch fall-vibes era and A Spell for Midwinter's Heart was a great addition. The fall AND winter vibes were immaculate, it was super inclusive, and I was vested in the romance. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
“That isn’t how I kiss when I mean it.”
“What’s the difference?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1.5🌶️
A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart was a cute and fun witchy holiday romance. Rowan Midwinter has sworn off magic but this year for Yule she is finally returning home to her family and coven.
Gavin and Rowan haven’t seen one another in years but reunite when she returns for the Yule festival. Their families have always been adversaries and now Gavin’s dad is part of a group that’s trying to buy out the town and with that would come the end of their celebrations.
As Rowan rediscovers her magic and her and Gavin try to figure out a way to save the festival sparks stir up between them again, but she must decide whether or not to let him in on the truth about her magic.
This is a quick, lighthearted read that’s perfect for the ber months.
Thank you to Dutton books for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
“What’s the difference?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1.5🌶️
A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart was a cute and fun witchy holiday romance. Rowan Midwinter has sworn off magic but this year for Yule she is finally returning home to her family and coven.
Gavin and Rowan haven’t seen one another in years but reunite when she returns for the Yule festival. Their families have always been adversaries and now Gavin’s dad is part of a group that’s trying to buy out the town and with that would come the end of their celebrations.
As Rowan rediscovers her magic and her and Gavin try to figure out a way to save the festival sparks stir up between them again, but she must decide whether or not to let him in on the truth about her magic.
This is a quick, lighthearted read that’s perfect for the ber months.
Thank you to Dutton books for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
September 3, 2025
This book was unexpectedly deep and moving, making it very hard to put down! Gavin and Rowan are an endearing who are encountering outside forces as well as inner turmoil that stand in the way of the HEA. Each of them have conflicting emotions regarding their families, their jobs, their homes; and Rowan is also conflicted about her use of magic and embracing that part of her. Did I mention she’s a witch?? The witchcraft itself is an interesting component, especially as it pertains to Rowan and her feelings about Gavin, and things she regrets from her past. Set during the season of Yule, this book should appeal to many readers—in a word, it was magical. I received a copy of the book from the publisher.
September 20, 2025
There are many things to enjoy in A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart by Morgan Lockhart. It’s a cozy Hallmark style rivals to lovers holiday romance with magical elements. The setting is a charming small town in the Pacific Northwest during the holidays.
Unfortunately I struggled with a few aspects of the story. I had a difficult time connecting with the female main character, Rowan. I did not like her persistent negative self talk or her dramatic reactions to different characters. She wants her love interest, Gavin, to support her plan to save their small town? Then he MUST choose between her and his father! I also felt that the pacing, especially during the middle third, was too slow for my taste. There are a few spicy scenes between Rowan and Gavin but they are sparse and seemed rushed. While it had its moments of magical sweetness and spice, ultimately the book was an underwhelming read. 2.5/5⭐️
Thank you to Netgalley and Dutton Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately I struggled with a few aspects of the story. I had a difficult time connecting with the female main character, Rowan. I did not like her persistent negative self talk or her dramatic reactions to different characters. She wants her love interest, Gavin, to support her plan to save their small town? Then he MUST choose between her and his father! I also felt that the pacing, especially during the middle third, was too slow for my taste. There are a few spicy scenes between Rowan and Gavin but they are sparse and seemed rushed. While it had its moments of magical sweetness and spice, ultimately the book was an underwhelming read. 2.5/5⭐️
Thank you to Netgalley and Dutton Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2025
This is the perfect blend of witchy small town holiday enemies to lovers romance that has a self-exiled witch returning home to help with the winter festival only to run into her high school rival/ex who she unknowingly banished from her memories after a traumatic experience in their past.
I loved all the different Midwinter festival traditions shared in this book. It had tons of small town cozy charm and the two main characters work together to try to make the winter holiday town a more feasible year round attraction by capitalizing on different holidays.
Amazing on audio narrated by one of my favs, Bailey Carr and perfect for fans of authors like Sophie H Morgan or Erin Sterling. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved all the different Midwinter festival traditions shared in this book. It had tons of small town cozy charm and the two main characters work together to try to make the winter holiday town a more feasible year round attraction by capitalizing on different holidays.
Amazing on audio narrated by one of my favs, Bailey Carr and perfect for fans of authors like Sophie H Morgan or Erin Sterling. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
September 30, 2025
A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart isn’t just a book - it’s a cozy Hallmark holiday movie that got tired of clichés and decided to show up with sharper characters, terrific writing, and genuine heart.
Morgan Lockhart writes with such vivid detail that you don’t just read the story, you inhabit it. Her worldbuilding makes every corner of the town feel alive and familiar, the kind of place you wish you could pack a bag and go visit.
What sets it apart even more is its inclusivity. This isn’t one holiday or one narrow perspective. Lockhart weaves in different traditions and relationships, creating a world that feels larger, warmer, and more welcoming without ever slipping into a lecture. It’s life - messy, joyful, diverse, and beautifully celebrated.
The result is immersive and charming, a heartfelt, cinematic, magical story that completely pulls you in. If you want warm, witty, and absorbing, this book delivers. I’d watch the movie adaptation in a heartbeat, but the truth is, the book already is the movie, only better.
Morgan Lockhart writes with such vivid detail that you don’t just read the story, you inhabit it. Her worldbuilding makes every corner of the town feel alive and familiar, the kind of place you wish you could pack a bag and go visit.
What sets it apart even more is its inclusivity. This isn’t one holiday or one narrow perspective. Lockhart weaves in different traditions and relationships, creating a world that feels larger, warmer, and more welcoming without ever slipping into a lecture. It’s life - messy, joyful, diverse, and beautifully celebrated.
The result is immersive and charming, a heartfelt, cinematic, magical story that completely pulls you in. If you want warm, witty, and absorbing, this book delivers. I’d watch the movie adaptation in a heartbeat, but the truth is, the book already is the movie, only better.
September 14, 2025
May I just say this is probably one of the most inclusive holiday themed books I’ve ever read. I was looking up characters mentioned every once in a while to see which culture or religion it had been pulled from.
Nothing beats a “let’s come together to save the small town from capitalistic corruption” especially in this day and age. Throw in a second chance trope and I’m an absolute goner. The main characters had their beautiful quirks that were essential to the story.
Love comes in so many forms. The love shown whether blood or found highlights the many layers and complications that comes with maintaining relationships.
I would absolutely love to visit Elk Ridge any time of the year… would even consider attempting to not die in cold weather to try some hot apple cider hehe
Pub Date September 23 2025
ARC provided by Dutton and NetGalley. Thank you.
review posted to NetGalley & Goodreads
Nothing beats a “let’s come together to save the small town from capitalistic corruption” especially in this day and age. Throw in a second chance trope and I’m an absolute goner. The main characters had their beautiful quirks that were essential to the story.
Love comes in so many forms. The love shown whether blood or found highlights the many layers and complications that comes with maintaining relationships.
I would absolutely love to visit Elk Ridge any time of the year… would even consider attempting to not die in cold weather to try some hot apple cider hehe
Pub Date September 23 2025
ARC provided by Dutton and NetGalley. Thank you.
review posted to NetGalley & Goodreads
September 23, 2025
✨️Thank you Dutton Books for the gifted ARC
When I picked this book up, I figured it would mean taking a break from cozy, Fall-ish reads in order to dive into this Winter story. But I was pleasantly surprised to discover that, despite this being Winter and Yule focused, it was actually also perfectly cozy and witchy, fitting right in with my mood recently.
Rowan is a witch who cast a forgetting spell 8 years ago, effectively isolating herself from her coven. She returns home for Yule for the first time in years, and discovers that her town's winter festival is at risk of ending. She sets aside her ambivalent feelings toward her magic, and throws herself into helping save it. Along the way, she discovers an unlikely ally in Gavin, the son of the man threatening the festival.
The world-building in this book was absolutely magical. I adored the Hallmark-ish feel of the story and how immersed I was in the town and it's people. Rowan was a relatable character, full of self-doubt and negative thoughts about herself. Her character growth was phenomenal and I was rooting for her the whole time. Gavin was her perfect counter-part, and it was clear from the start that he was absolutely smitten.
There were complicated family dynamics between Rowan and her mom and Gavin and his dad, and also between the two families themselves. This added a lot of layers and emotions to the story.
I loved the mysteriousness of Rowan's lost memories, especially when it became clear that they involved Gavin. I was so eager to find out what had really happened between them back in High School.
The ending was satisfying, even when the last few conflicts had me nervous!
If you're looking for a sweet, cozy, witchy, small-town romance that will put you in the mood for winter, I highly recommend this one. It was pure fun and magic and gave me all the warm feelings I love getting from books this time of year.
When I picked this book up, I figured it would mean taking a break from cozy, Fall-ish reads in order to dive into this Winter story. But I was pleasantly surprised to discover that, despite this being Winter and Yule focused, it was actually also perfectly cozy and witchy, fitting right in with my mood recently.
Rowan is a witch who cast a forgetting spell 8 years ago, effectively isolating herself from her coven. She returns home for Yule for the first time in years, and discovers that her town's winter festival is at risk of ending. She sets aside her ambivalent feelings toward her magic, and throws herself into helping save it. Along the way, she discovers an unlikely ally in Gavin, the son of the man threatening the festival.
The world-building in this book was absolutely magical. I adored the Hallmark-ish feel of the story and how immersed I was in the town and it's people. Rowan was a relatable character, full of self-doubt and negative thoughts about herself. Her character growth was phenomenal and I was rooting for her the whole time. Gavin was her perfect counter-part, and it was clear from the start that he was absolutely smitten.
There were complicated family dynamics between Rowan and her mom and Gavin and his dad, and also between the two families themselves. This added a lot of layers and emotions to the story.
I loved the mysteriousness of Rowan's lost memories, especially when it became clear that they involved Gavin. I was so eager to find out what had really happened between them back in High School.
The ending was satisfying, even when the last few conflicts had me nervous!
If you're looking for a sweet, cozy, witchy, small-town romance that will put you in the mood for winter, I highly recommend this one. It was pure fun and magic and gave me all the warm feelings I love getting from books this time of year.
June 17, 2025
This was very charming. I liked how the magic was important, but not everything to the story. Family and community really took center stage here. And the romance was sweet and spicy and developed at just the right pace. Thanks to Dutton for the ARC.
October 5, 2025
this was so charming and cozy!!!! i loved the characters and the whimsical winter vibes. as someone who loves fall and winter, this book was the perfect combo of both with a winter festival setting with one of the main characters being a witch. i read it within twenty four hours because i was invested into the plot. a great contemporary romance with cute and funny moments.
this is a great transition book from fall to winter because the main character is a witch who returns home to save her small town’s beloved winter festival in time for the holidays with the help from her estranged coven and childhood rival gavin. rowan has sworn off magic due to a spell gone wrong back in high school leaving her with nothing but missing memories and regret. she is summoned back to her hometown to save the winter festival from the mega corporation threatening to buy it out. gavin, son of the festival’s landlord insists on helping bringing unwanted chemistry between the two. will they be able to save the festival?
tropes: magic-averse, witch x childhood rival, small town, grumpy x sunshine, second chance, whimsical winter magic
🏔️🌨️🪄🎄❄️
this is a great transition book from fall to winter because the main character is a witch who returns home to save her small town’s beloved winter festival in time for the holidays with the help from her estranged coven and childhood rival gavin. rowan has sworn off magic due to a spell gone wrong back in high school leaving her with nothing but missing memories and regret. she is summoned back to her hometown to save the winter festival from the mega corporation threatening to buy it out. gavin, son of the festival’s landlord insists on helping bringing unwanted chemistry between the two. will they be able to save the festival?
tropes: magic-averse, witch x childhood rival, small town, grumpy x sunshine, second chance, whimsical winter magic
🏔️🌨️🪄🎄❄️
Read
September 19, 2025Thank you PRH Audio for the free gift!
This was such a well-written and enjoyable holiday romance. I really appreciated that it wasn’t tied solely to Christmas but instead centered around Yule and the winter solstice, which made it feel like a cozy seasonal read that works for anyone during the winter months.
The romance itself was sweet and fun, and I liked how the magic system leaned into the classic idea of witches while still feeling fresh and not overused. It gave the story an enchanting quality that balanced out the humor and heart. Bailey Carr did a wonderful job narrating. She really brought Rowan’s emotions to life in a way that made the listening experience even more engaging.
Overall, this was a cute, cozy holiday romance with just the right touch of magic. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a wintery read with witchy vibes, a charming romance, and a narrator who makes the story shine.
This was such a well-written and enjoyable holiday romance. I really appreciated that it wasn’t tied solely to Christmas but instead centered around Yule and the winter solstice, which made it feel like a cozy seasonal read that works for anyone during the winter months.
The romance itself was sweet and fun, and I liked how the magic system leaned into the classic idea of witches while still feeling fresh and not overused. It gave the story an enchanting quality that balanced out the humor and heart. Bailey Carr did a wonderful job narrating. She really brought Rowan’s emotions to life in a way that made the listening experience even more engaging.
Overall, this was a cute, cozy holiday romance with just the right touch of magic. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a wintery read with witchy vibes, a charming romance, and a narrator who makes the story shine.
September 19, 2025
I received this ARC from NetGalley and Dutton Books. This was such a fun read and perfect for the holiday season. We see our main FMC go back home to save her small town Christmas festival. There she reconnects with her family, her childhood rival and herself. It was fun getting to learn about different Winter Holidays and ways that people celebrate them. If you love a good witchy book, then I believe you will love this one.
September 24, 2025
This was a well-written, entertaining book. It was sweet, fun, cozy and heartwarming. It was like a witchy, inclusive Hallmark movie and kept me reading. I enjoyed this book and would read more books by this author.
December 23, 2025
I devoured this book!! It really put me in the holiday spirit and i just adore the cozy, witchy atmosphere in this book. it was way more than a holiday romance and i loved the character development as well as the found family trope!!
lots of love and merry christmas 🎄
lots of love and merry christmas 🎄
September 23, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley & Dutton for the E-ARC! So cute! Loved the characters & the magical elements. Fast-paced too. Will read more from this author.
Want to read
November 14, 2025When will I actually read this? Who knows!!!!! If it's a Hanukkah romance or a witchy kind of Christmas one, I will read it eventually. Probably in January.
August 28, 2025
This was such a fun, sweet, witchy romance. Very Hallmark holiday movie, but not in a bad way. I enjoyed it a lot.
December 9, 2025
LOVE LOVE LOVE this one! Very cute - winter, love, and magic!
August 22, 2025
3.75 stars, rounded up!
I received an ARC to review, thank you to Storygraph, Morgan Lockhart, and Penguin Random House!
I thought this was a very fun novel from debut author Morgan Lockhart. I loved centering the story around Yule, saving a small town from corporitization, and magic that permeated the book. I really liked Rowan and her journey overall. The small town vibes were great, and I wanted to live inside the winter festival and this small town.
For me, this teeters on the edge of the romance genre, because I would argue that it isn't mainly about Rowan and Gavin as a couple, it is mostly Rowan's story -- meaning I would classify it as closer to the (admittedly pejoratively named) "women's lit" genre, or simply fiction in general. The romance also wasn't a huge driver for me (based on Gavin's characterization and the plot events, I was almost rooting for them not to get together. I didn't love his character, and I thought they only had a little chemistry). Overall, the pacing was a bit slow or uneven for me for about the first 3/4 of the book, there were so many side characters and side storylines that simply slowed the pacing a bit. Then, the plot really hit the accelerator pedal around chapter 34, and stayed quick until the end.
Overall, a really fun and festive read that I would recommend!
Spicy scenes:
P.S. Big shout out to the very specific use of the cut song/scene "The Love is Gone" scene from A Muppet Christmas Carol - a deep cut for Muppets fans!
I received an ARC to review, thank you to Storygraph, Morgan Lockhart, and Penguin Random House!
I thought this was a very fun novel from debut author Morgan Lockhart. I loved centering the story around Yule, saving a small town from corporitization, and magic that permeated the book. I really liked Rowan and her journey overall. The small town vibes were great, and I wanted to live inside the winter festival and this small town.
For me, this teeters on the edge of the romance genre, because I would argue that it isn't mainly about Rowan and Gavin as a couple, it is mostly Rowan's story -- meaning I would classify it as closer to the (admittedly pejoratively named) "women's lit" genre, or simply fiction in general. The romance also wasn't a huge driver for me (based on Gavin's characterization and the plot events, I was almost rooting for them not to get together. I didn't love his character, and I thought they only had a little chemistry). Overall, the pacing was a bit slow or uneven for me for about the first 3/4 of the book, there were so many side characters and side storylines that simply slowed the pacing a bit. Then, the plot really hit the accelerator pedal around chapter 34, and stayed quick until the end.
Overall, a really fun and festive read that I would recommend!
Spicy scenes:
P.S. Big shout out to the very specific use of the cut song/scene "The Love is Gone" scene from A Muppet Christmas Carol - a deep cut for Muppets fans!
July 3, 2025
A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart is a debut holiday romance by Morgan Lockhart that follows Rowan as she returns home only to find that the town she grew up in could be changing for the worse. Can she keep her hallmark town a tourist destination?
This was cute. I loved the witchy elements and I thought Rowan was a realistic, if a little annoying, character. She has a lot of doubt in herself which I didn’t love but it fit the overall story. I liked the romance that happened. The cute holiday town was the perfect setting for the story.
I wish this felt a little more fleshed out as a story. A lot of the parts that I found interesting seemed to be glossed over quickly. I wanted a bit more magic.
That being said, I feel the same way about this book as I do Erin Sterling’s witchy romance series so I think fans of that series would absolutely love this book and I plan on recommending it to those readers!
This was cute. I loved the witchy elements and I thought Rowan was a realistic, if a little annoying, character. She has a lot of doubt in herself which I didn’t love but it fit the overall story. I liked the romance that happened. The cute holiday town was the perfect setting for the story.
I wish this felt a little more fleshed out as a story. A lot of the parts that I found interesting seemed to be glossed over quickly. I wanted a bit more magic.
That being said, I feel the same way about this book as I do Erin Sterling’s witchy romance series so I think fans of that series would absolutely love this book and I plan on recommending it to those readers!
June 9, 2025
Morgan Lockhart’s A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart is such a charming, witchy romcom. The atmosphere of this book was heartwarming with plenty of holiday festivities and magic! I was totally invested in Rowan and Gavin right from the start. They were both relatable characters and loved the banter between them. This seasonal escape has everything you could want in a holiday romcom. The plot (saving a small-town’s festival), second chance romance, the main characters, supporting characters, chemistry, holiday vibes and magic! The story delivered plenty of heart and I loved it!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Dutton for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Dutton for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 27, 2025
A very sweet Hallmark-esque romantic comedy with the added bonus of real magic (and some spicy bits). You have the strained family relationships to fix, a Winter Festival to save, and some magic that has gone awry thanks to adolescent heartbreak. This took me a few chapters to get invested (and to like the main character and she's tough at times) but once I was into the story, it flies. The banter is hit or miss for me but still a fun seasonal read.
*I received an e-ARC from NetGalley to provide this review
*I received an e-ARC from NetGalley to provide this review
October 3, 2025
A spell for a 5 ⭐ book
Morgan definitely cast it when she wrote A Spell for Midwinter's Heart because this book is everything you need to read this holiday season. I have it preordered and will definitely be re-reading.
5 ⭐ | 2.5🌶️
---What makes it magical?---
✒️ First and foremost, the author's writing style. The way she writes is unique out of all the books I've read, in the best way. She puts the "creative" in creative writing, making something that might be a simple straightforward description into utterly unique and enjoyable prose.
❄️ It's a paranormal holiday romcom with cozy vibes, spice, an excellent twisty plot, the perfect level of tension and dashes of mystery. Basically all my favorite things.
✨ It's home to a cast of highly relatable, diverse characters with complex backgrounds and emotions as well as excellent banter. FMC Rowan and MMC Gavin will surprise and delight you, but they won't be the only ones.
🫂 Character growth abounds, and not in the cookie-cutter Hallmark way.
🌲 This book has extra magic from the author's obvious subject matter expertise -- from what it's like to live in the PNW to Yule, to spells to clear the mind. This made the world all the more vibrant and immersive, and made this story unique and un-put-downable.
Thank you to @morganlockhart, @dutton and @eidelweiss for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
Morgan definitely cast it when she wrote A Spell for Midwinter's Heart because this book is everything you need to read this holiday season. I have it preordered and will definitely be re-reading.
5 ⭐ | 2.5🌶️
---What makes it magical?---
✒️ First and foremost, the author's writing style. The way she writes is unique out of all the books I've read, in the best way. She puts the "creative" in creative writing, making something that might be a simple straightforward description into utterly unique and enjoyable prose.
❄️ It's a paranormal holiday romcom with cozy vibes, spice, an excellent twisty plot, the perfect level of tension and dashes of mystery. Basically all my favorite things.
✨ It's home to a cast of highly relatable, diverse characters with complex backgrounds and emotions as well as excellent banter. FMC Rowan and MMC Gavin will surprise and delight you, but they won't be the only ones.
🫂 Character growth abounds, and not in the cookie-cutter Hallmark way.
🌲 This book has extra magic from the author's obvious subject matter expertise -- from what it's like to live in the PNW to Yule, to spells to clear the mind. This made the world all the more vibrant and immersive, and made this story unique and un-put-downable.
Thank you to @morganlockhart, @dutton and @eidelweiss for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up)
🌶️🌶️
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Holiday Romance
✔️ Small Town with Witches
I’m a sucker for a good holiday romance (thanks Hallmark for the lifelong addiction 😂) so when I saw this witchy holiday romance I knew it would be right up my alley. This book is the perfect cozy, magical, read that will be sure to put you in the holiday season. With that said it might be best to wait until the season to read it. 🤣 Personally I live in the inferno known as Florida so reading a book about snow while it’s 90 degrees outside just seems rude.
Anyways, the characters in this are truly adorable. I loved both Rowan and Gavin - both truly embodied the holiday romance cutesy vibes. Their storyline was truly Hallmark worthy between the struggling small town and budding relationship. I really enjoyed the twist on the romance, while it was heavily hinted at I thought it was a really nice add that made it different from your normal cookie cutter holiday romance. I also enjoyed the found family aspects with Rowan and the town. Overall I think this book would be great to read to get you into the holiday spirit. ❤️
“Which is why when you appeared in the chaos at the airport the other night, looking like you’d stepped off the pages of a storybook, it was like . . .Holiday magic.”
🌶️🌶️
✔️ Second Chance
✔️ Holiday Romance
✔️ Small Town with Witches
I’m a sucker for a good holiday romance (thanks Hallmark for the lifelong addiction 😂) so when I saw this witchy holiday romance I knew it would be right up my alley. This book is the perfect cozy, magical, read that will be sure to put you in the holiday season. With that said it might be best to wait until the season to read it. 🤣 Personally I live in the inferno known as Florida so reading a book about snow while it’s 90 degrees outside just seems rude.
Anyways, the characters in this are truly adorable. I loved both Rowan and Gavin - both truly embodied the holiday romance cutesy vibes. Their storyline was truly Hallmark worthy between the struggling small town and budding relationship. I really enjoyed the twist on the romance, while it was heavily hinted at I thought it was a really nice add that made it different from your normal cookie cutter holiday romance. I also enjoyed the found family aspects with Rowan and the town. Overall I think this book would be great to read to get you into the holiday spirit. ❤️
“Which is why when you appeared in the chaos at the airport the other night, looking like you’d stepped off the pages of a storybook, it was like . . .Holiday magic.”
August 24, 2025
5/9
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for gifting me this ARC. Looking forward to a cozy, adorable read with a touch (or a splash) of magic!!!
8/24/25
Thank you Netgalley and Morgan Lockhart for gifting me with this eARC for my honest review.
Okay, so I'm going in this saying that though I've read books before about witches and the occult, this book had a little more emphasis on spells and magic than it would have for my taste, but I also realize that is needed for me to have a good sense of context. Nevertheless, it very nearly dropped the score for me. Not that that's bad per se, it's just that it would have been the wrong book for the wrong reader in this case.
However...I can appreciate how everything came together in this very multifaceted story, and the ending was a triumph and an eye-opener, so I was able to set aside those feelings and appreciate the story and and emotional journey of the characters for what they are.
I really loved the explorations of the need for community and family, and how love is the greatest magic of all that could help make miracles happen. Rowan starts of broken and in a way, hating part of herself, while grieving due to a misuse of magic that she learned from her beloved Grandmother when the consequences became unintended and harmful. One other thing...it caused her to forget...among other complications.
So she returns to the scene of her slight disdain and meets up with her old rival who also has a complicated past with her and a connection that she cannot explain. As the past comes up to greet them and they struggle to help their small town, in Rowan's case, reluctantly at first, pieces start coming together. She learns to love parts of herself that she once thought were long lost, and forgive the wrongs of her Grandmother while honoring her at the same time. This story wrapped it all up so beautifully that it made me take the time to self-reflect, and I thought the ending came together nicely.
In short, although the dosage of magic and spells was a little heavy for me, I still greatly enjoyed the story and its message and feel confident that anyone who reads this will, too. Will definitely give you a dosage of holiday cheer and spirit even in the middle of a scorching summer.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for gifting me this ARC. Looking forward to a cozy, adorable read with a touch (or a splash) of magic!!!
8/24/25
Thank you Netgalley and Morgan Lockhart for gifting me with this eARC for my honest review.
Okay, so I'm going in this saying that though I've read books before about witches and the occult, this book had a little more emphasis on spells and magic than it would have for my taste, but I also realize that is needed for me to have a good sense of context. Nevertheless, it very nearly dropped the score for me. Not that that's bad per se, it's just that it would have been the wrong book for the wrong reader in this case.
However...I can appreciate how everything came together in this very multifaceted story, and the ending was a triumph and an eye-opener, so I was able to set aside those feelings and appreciate the story and and emotional journey of the characters for what they are.
I really loved the explorations of the need for community and family, and how love is the greatest magic of all that could help make miracles happen. Rowan starts of broken and in a way, hating part of herself, while grieving due to a misuse of magic that she learned from her beloved Grandmother when the consequences became unintended and harmful. One other thing...it caused her to forget...among other complications.
So she returns to the scene of her slight disdain and meets up with her old rival who also has a complicated past with her and a connection that she cannot explain. As the past comes up to greet them and they struggle to help their small town, in Rowan's case, reluctantly at first, pieces start coming together. She learns to love parts of herself that she once thought were long lost, and forgive the wrongs of her Grandmother while honoring her at the same time. This story wrapped it all up so beautifully that it made me take the time to self-reflect, and I thought the ending came together nicely.
In short, although the dosage of magic and spells was a little heavy for me, I still greatly enjoyed the story and its message and feel confident that anyone who reads this will, too. Will definitely give you a dosage of holiday cheer and spirit even in the middle of a scorching summer.
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