When the Witch Met the Minotaur

Leafshire Cove Monsters #2

by Lila Appleton

She crafts perfection; he conjures chaos—and neither is prepared for the spell they cast on each other. 


I am respected in Leafshire Cove because I perform magic exactly the way it should be performed—with a witch’s intuition. My spells are precise, and they’re either wonderfully practical or completely fun. Regardless, my magic is true magic. On market days, my cart always has the longest line. 


That is, until he arrives.

An arrogant, foolish minotaur with a ridiculously posh accent sets up shop right beside me. And even though his magic is only a mishmash of tacky illusions and over-the-top displays, townsfolk flock to him. 


Infuriating.


When one of his stupid illusions triggers a magical mishap, I have to step in to keep the whole town from going down. And just when I think he’s my biggest issue and I might have to murder the fool, we discover something far, far more dangerous hiding beneath the streets of Leafshire Cove. 


This rivals to lovers cozy fantasy romance features spice, monsters, and banter that will have you kicking your feet. Book Two in the Leafshire Cove Monsters series, this book is a standalone with a happily ever after ending. 

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Cozy Fantasy, Ebooks, Fiction, Monster Romance

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2025

About the author

Lila Appleton lives in a small Tennessee town where she does yoga with her cats and drinks more tea than anyone should be capable of consuming. You can also find her on IG @authorlilaappleton and on the clock app @lilaappleton. The Leafshire Cove series are all standalone cozy monster fantasy romance novels that are short, sweet, and spicy.

Reviews

[Soft Nectarine ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Candlelight romance ~ perfectly spicy with adorably cozy world building! 🌳🪞✨

Tully is pissed a new magical vendor is selling at her local market. Even more infuriating….he is a hottt Minotaur with cool horn piercings. Spoiler alert: he does use them during sex! Tully is trying to rein in her bitch side but Argo’s amateur magic is now creating chaos & she doesn’t know if she should bone him or kill him.

✨ (reverse) grumpy x sunshine

🧪 witchy small town coziness with dragon foxes, antler owls & wishberries

✨ she melts for him

🧪 knotting with smutty use of horns & tail

This was a perfect low stakes romantasy with lovable townsfolk & magical creatures. Whimsical coziness but at one point she does tie him down to her bed. It’s all checks and balances!

Sometimes the scenes switch up abruptly, which caught me off guard but I loved the writing & pace. Peak coziness!


monster romance (lite)
stubborn & independent fmc
insta love
gentle mmc
he falls first
they get tied up ✨
fated mates
small town coziness
HEA

Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Elena Rodríguez · Rating 2 out of 5]

Creo que mi problema con esta novela no ha sido el argumento sino los personajes. No me ha caído bien ninguno de los dos. No entiendo lo de “no puedo verte pero me encantaría acostarme contigo”. Sinceramente como dice una amiga de estas redes: yo si odio a alguien me lo imagino más feo.
Espero que el siguiente mejore.

[Elizabeth]

DNF at 3%. Immediately not a fan of the rude to lovers vibe here

[Stacey Markle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the cozy fantasy story I thought this was! it's more of a slutty monster story.
I wasn't prepared for the spice and I found it oddly graphic for a cozy fantasy. I have nothing against spice but found that it came up very abruptly and out of place.
This might just be my take! I do prefer my cozy fantasy clean-ish.
There is a lot to like here as well, a little mystery to be solved by magical means, the enemies to lovers trope for our main characters, a cozy family vibe to the townsfolk, and a sweet happily ever after ending.
Overall, this book didn't work for me and I wouldn't read another in the series. My rating is 3.5

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars. Tully, the female witch lead, is furious when Argos, the male minotaur lead, comes to town as a competitor for the provision of magic in her town. He doesn’t have magic himself and she can’t work out his trickery until it starts causing havoc in the town. Argos is desperately trying to raise money to discharge legacy family debt but he didn’t mean to break things! Now Tully needs to find a (safe) solution to the problems in town, keep herself away from Argos, and maybe help him solve his problems too…

This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, rival to lovers, fantasy romance. I enjoyed Tully’s gruffness underlaid by her genuine care and compassion. I empathised with Argos’ struggles and enjoyed the contrast of his personality with Tully’s. I enjoyed the relationship development, and the happiness they found together. I also enjoyed the set up for the next story, which I’m looking forward to.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Kelsey Alexander · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

This one had its moments, but it didn’t really hook me. The enemies-to-lovers vibe felt a bit forced, with Tully being pretty unlikeable for most of the book and Argos not doing much to keep things interesting. The constant “witch” and “Minotaur” nicknames also got old fast. The last smut scene was good and the ending was sweet—but overall, I found myself more bored than invested.

[Isa Newbury | reading_isa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 ⭐️
2.5 🌶

[Livia Bartels · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall: ‘morally grey’ (read: selfish) witch and arrogant Minotaur fall in love in a cute town.

Pros: the town is cute, the side characters fun. Magic is good.

Cons: weird *intimate* scenes and you didn’t like either character because- see above. Witch’s reaction to Minotaur at first reads a lot like xenophobia and then the stakes get wayyy to high for a cozy town story.

[Chasing Silhouettes · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5🌟

Heated, sassy fantasy novella, a little rom com-esque with rivals going head-to-head in the most endearing and provocative of ways.

eARC Review.

. Spicy Cozy Fantasy Novella
. Monster Romance
. Supernatural Romance
. Morally Gray FMC
. Rivals to Lovers
. Cottagecore Vibes
. Sub/Dom Play
. Familiars
. Knotting
. Spell-casting
. He Falls First

In Leafshire Cove, a town filled with all sorts of creatures, there is a witch named Tully. She is their premier source of magical potions... That is, until an arrogant, annoying sus minotaur shows up to test her patience, drive her to lose control (in more ways than one), and steal her business.

Argos moves to the cove bent on fulfilling a personal mission, but he wasn't prepared to meet Tully. She challenges him at every turn, but in the most enticing way. And despite the knowledge that she hates him, he can't help but to fantasize about her.

"I give Tully a meaningful look and she smiles with all of her teeth. Gods, she’s scary. And stunning. What I wouldn’t give to tie her up and torture her in the most pleasurable ways…" (pg 49)

When magic goes awry, causing a bit of a disturbance, they unearth a magical object that could spell disaster... or the end for them and the town. They have to work together to unravel the mystery before the power gets out of hand.

This couple is hard not to like, I mean, when Argos thinks things like:

"... she lifts her chin and puts her pink little tongue out to catch another string of cheese before she devours the bite. I’ve never wanted to be cheese, but I suppose there is a first time for everything." (pg 51).

Can't help, but to giggle. And Tully, she did try her best to put up a noble fight.

"He’s an idiot. I refuse to be physically aroused by a fool." (pg 42)

Quirky banter, quite an enjoyable read!

Bonus! There are real recipes at the end, I'm going to have to try to make them! Though part of a series, this can be read as a standalone.

electronic Advance Reader Copy

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ⭐️/ 2 🌶️

This was a quick read. There were some giggly moments and moments that seemed chaotic, but overall it was a cute. I liked the town and the townsfolk, it was full of characters. Not super spicy, there seemed to be a lot glossed over in moments. Knotting was sort of an after thought - not sure I would have really gotten it if I wasn’t already familiar with it.

[Emily Grizzell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic, magical creatures, and spice. What else could you ask for in a book? This book was a fun, cozy, whimsical adventure with two amazingly stubborn and witty characters at the helm. A smartass witch and a brilliant Minotaur reluctantly work together to solve a magical problem that could mean the end of Leafshire Cove. They just love to hate each other. Can Tully and Argos work together to save the cove? Do they want to? You’ll have to read to find out!

[Shelby Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lila Appleton strikes again! Tully was by far my favorite character in book one, and I was thrilled to see her truly shine in book two. This installment is much more plot-focused than its predecessor, providing a steady, engaging heartbeat throughout. Argos serves as a perfect counterbalance to Tully, and the spice is artfully woven in—never overwhelming but delightfully knotty. The narrative is filled with clever twists that keep the tension high, and the chemistry between the characters deepens with every page. Overall, a fantastic read that leaves me eagerly anticipating where Tully's journey will lead next!

[Brittanica Bold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay for returning to Leafshire Cove!!!

Let me tell you, Tully was my GIRRRRL in book 1 and my ultimate monster match is a minotaur, so I was so excited for this enemies to lovers, witch x minotaur romance!!

I loved this book’s take on enemies-to-lovers because there was the added element of them being magic vendor competitors. I especially loved that she was better at magic than him because she was an actual witch while he used runes to siphon magic from his environment but couldn’t create magic himself. This just made sense and, I mean, girl power!

Speaking of which, I loved how heavily focused the book was on magic. The whole book was about Tully and Argos teaming up to figure out what was causing these magical malfunctions within the town, which I loved for the premise and for making sure they stuck together until they admitted their feelings. I also loved how intense of a toll magic took on her body (or anyone’s body who was a magic wielder) and that Argos made a bracelet to help her not drain her body so soon. That is just so sweet!!!!

We also learned that within the town there are only about 3 people who actually have magic, which was an interesting insight because I incorrectly assumed it was a lot more! I kinda love that it’s a very small part of the population that has magic abilities, because that means we’ll get characters going forward who have their own abilities and traits. Love the diversity in this town!

I loved meeting new side characters and expanding on the side characters we had already been introduced to. I really love Kaya and have been intrigued with her since the first book. She is a human, like Laini from book 1, and she is definitely part of Tully’s and Laini’s squad. I don’t recall Cyrus from the first book, but I loved him as a side character in this one. He is this playboy, dragon shifter who in moments you can see he loves someone who he thinks he could never have a chance with. I cannot wait for this big guy to fall completely for his special someone.

SPARK OFFICIALLY HAS A GIRLFRIEND, MOONPETAL!!! I love that cute little dragonfox and I love that he is still with his lady he met in book 1. On the subject of animal sidekicks, I loved that Tully also had one in Lady Owl. Lady Owl was definitely reclusive, but wise just like Tully! I love that through her magic she can telepathically communicate with a lot of animals, but there was something special about her connection with Lady Owl.

Tail play. That’s it. That’s the message 😊

Thank you to Lila Appleton for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.

---

Blurb Release:
Tully and A FREAKING MINOTAUR!?!?! I seriously can’t wait for these two to clash and smash!

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was simply gorgeous! It was sweet and cozy, delightful and steamy hot, an immensely fun read and with the right amount of "seasoned" humour, Ms Appleton is a MasterChef! I "met" the MC, Tully in the previous book and she sure made an impression on me. Not only is she a super talented witch, she's an awesome friend too.

Tully is a witch who's potions are saught after, making her living from said potions, until a minotaur decides to set up shop on her doorstep. Argos is suave and charming and sexy to boot but Tully will have none of that, she wants him gone, pronto, although, a bit of ogling seems harmless enough. The problem is, when Argos swept into town, it's not only Tully's livelihood at stake, something very strange is happening. Magic is suddenly going wonky and Tully lays that firmly on Argos. Hehehe, did I love the "going on's" between them, the really hot going on's, so well woven into the story, an enemies to lovers delight! This book is a delight! Oh.... I've said that already... well...😜

As much as I liked Tully in the previous book, in this one I get a truer sense of who she is, what she is and I'm liking her more with every page I'm reading. The softening of her very sharp edges slowly round off until she's as smooth as silk! Only don't let her know, she likes to think she's not sweet and kind....And Argos, well, yum! Yummedy yum yum is all I can say, although... I won't limit myself there... He's not in Leafshire Cove for anything neferious, he's here to earn much needed cash to save his estate from the crippling debt. So, armed with 2 mysterious runed stones he inherited, he is selling his wares, much to the chagrin of Tully. She's soooooo put out by what she's deemed a charlatan, I mean, everyone knows that minotaurs don't have magic.

I love how much fun Ms Appleton infuses into these awesome characters, how well her plot unfolds. The brilliantly fasted pace read genuinely has it all. Very cool characters, like Cyrus and Tata, bringing back Laini and Tom and the very generous mayor, Rustion. The warmth of the characters leap off the pages, the warmth of the book settles snuggly in my tummy and how can I not have a smile on my face? This author has the perfect recipe for warm, fuzzy and steamy and on that note, with the cool recipe's at the end of the book, I couldn't resist making the tea, which was as yummy as this book! I'll be here quietly, sipping my tea, while mentally urging the author to rush me the next book!

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tully lives in Leafshire Cove and is at the marketplace. She's doing nicely until suddenly her customers are all gone. She looks and there just a ways away is a minotaur selling potions and spells.
Argos is a minotaur who dabbles in magic. He sets up near another boothe selling similiar items. Then the witch comes storming over.
Later at the Inn he has a nice evening and conversation with the dragon owner, Cyrus. He asks a question about dark bloods and finds that's an old term for witches and wizards. He owns a set of khymeia stones he found in his father's vault after the funeral. The note from his father gives him the stones and tells him to find a dark blood to figure out how to use them since he never could.He needs to earn enough money to buy back the family estate from the debt collectors. That night his thoughts are focused on the witch with green eyes.
The next day as Tully is doing a protection spell over the butcher it goes awry. Before she did the spell she noticed that the minotaur held stones. When she brings them to the mayor's notice Argos pulls them out. She looks at them and the runes on them and tells him they are dangerous. The mayor asks her to investigate the stones and to set the marketplace back to order.
Argos takes to complementing Tully along with aggravating her with his smug behavior and smirk. Meanwhile Tully is planning on how to get those rocks away from him. She doesn't understand how she can be so aggravated with him but drawn to him. She needs him gone maybe permanently. She's not picky. She'll just have to hide the body.
Will she be able to figure out the stones, get rid of the minotaur and return to her peaceful existence? Or will everything go topsy turvy?

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

We first met the mischievous witch in When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle. Now, it's Tully's turn to find a little magic in the second book in Lalia Appleton's Leafshire Cove series, When the Witch Met the Minotaur.


There is most definitely a black cat/golden retriever situation. Tully is a little morally gray, while Argos, the minotaur, is quite charming. And better yet, Tully's Tulliness doesn't get to him, but he does get under her skin. He flirts, and she threatens, and the chemistry is strong. I loved their back-and-forth. I loved Tully. She's a lot, but she's loyal and cares more than she's willing to admit. It amazed me that Argos knew exactly how to handle her. It looks like Tul has met her match.


The plot was pretty well-balanced, with equal parts romance and magical mystery. There was also a great combination of magic and science with all sorts of experiments, spells, and potions. I cannot tell you how pleased I am about the amount of magic in this book. Not only that but there were varying kinds. Lila really went into detail, it helped bring the story to life. Two magical mysteries pulled me in. Plus, I got a little research scene that I very much enjoyed and a whole lot of chaos. This time around, things are a little more exciting, and there is a dangerous element that comes into play towards the end.


When the Witch Met the Minotaur was spectacular! I loved Argos and Tully's story. They're going to be the couple to beat. This is such a good series, and after reading the epilogue from Cyrus, I can't wait for my next cozy fantasy romance fix by Lila.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

So. Tully is Leafshire Cove's morally gray witch and I didn't love her in Laini's book thanks to the love spell she slipped Laini and Rom. Consent is key, my friends. HOWEVER, the consent issue has been addressed (thank you, lord mayor) and Tully isn't nearly as gray as she seemed initially. In fact, she's kind of turned into a good friend for Laini and Kaya. Not that she'll admit it, but her actions speak for themself.

That said, Tully still has some sharp edges. She's furious that a MINOTAUR would dare try to horn in on her magic business when everyone knows minotaurs don't have any magic. Let's just say she's not nice to Argos in the slightest and it's only Argos's laid back personality that keeps things from getting out of hand. Tully is also quick to fling about accusations. Again, it's only Argos's sunny disposition and scientific mind (because Tully is fascinating to him) that keeps things level.

On Argos's end, he really is smitten with Tully's fierce glares and crackling hair from the first. He has his reasons for needing to make money fast and he doesn't really understand the power he's harnessing to make his illusions. Fortunately for everyone, Tully knows what's what and when she unbends enough to work with Argos, THINGS HAPPEN.

A little chaos magic, a pair of sexy glasses, kindly townsfolk, a male who has to shed his inhibitions a little to keep up with his witch, and a witch who likes to be in charge when things go down. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[Victoria Foxdenreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lila has done it again - a sweet, spicy, feel-good cozy romantasy that I devoured in one evening.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the first instalment of the Leafshire Cove Monsters series, I was so excited for the second and it definitely lived up to the hype. The dynamic between Tully and Argos is just so good - rivals to lovers with a bit of Tully's signature bite carried through right to the end.

This book was more plot driven than the previous one, and I really liked that there was a bit of a mystery to uncover that didn't take anything away from the interactions between the main characters. Argos is a perfect counterbalance to Tully - both riling her up further and taking care of her (even if she argues she doesn't need it) in equal measure. I was obsessed with Laini and Rom but... I think I might love Tully and Argos even more?!

I've come to eagerly anticipate Lila's latest releases as a breath of fresh air amongst heavy, sometimes draining epic fantasy reads, and I'm left delighted every time. In just one instalment she manages to create a loveable cast of characters who you really root for and get invested in, and I always know I'm going to have a good time.

**Thank you Lila for the ARC copy**

[Mott (Foxandcatspress) · Rating 5 out of 5]

~ When The Witch Met The Minotaur ~
(Leafshire Cove Monsters Book 2)
By Lila Appleton

🔮Medieval Casy Fantasy Mets Cottagecore Vibes
🧪 Rivals to Lovers
🔮Magical Mystery
🧪 He Falls Fist
🔮Grumpy Witch With a Heart of Gold
🧪 Sunshine Minotaur, To Clever for His Own Good
🔮Snowed In
🧪 Only One Bed
🔮Forced Proximity
🧪 Fated Mates
🔮Open Door
🧪 He Wears Glasses

TW: Loss of loved ones(mentioned) Grief, Mention of Depression, death of a parent.

My Rating: Five stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice: 3
🌶️🌶️🌶️

My Thoughts:
I am so delighted and deeply grateful to have been able to arc read both Leafshire Cove book 💕 They are one of my favourite cosy fantasy series.
Tully And Argos’s story is delightful with a Pride & Prejudice feel to their banter and fist impression of each other. Not only the romance fun but the story has emotion and character slowly came to blossom by the conclusion of this book.
With a chaotic magic, banter and business rivals, fantasy village settings, cozy mystery, spice and knots. And so much more!
Please please pick up this book when it releases or preorder now!

📚✨ Release March 13th ✨📚

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a definitely must read enemies to lovers romantic fantasy novel. This book 2 is once again set in the town of Leafshire, where humans and monsters dwell peacefully together. This book is about the town's witch who is much loved and respected, and whose wares are usually the ones most sought after, until a minotaur stranger to the town, sets up shop on market day and steals her thunder. Tully becomes extremely angry at the upstart Argos, and swears she will hound him out of Leafshire. However when a deadly danger is triggered, she and Argos have to work together to save all her friends from extinction. Whilst working together Argos reveals his true story, and magic happens between them. This is a steamy hot, adult romance, fun and full of magic, love and loyalty and a great community spirit making this novel a pleasure to read. Ms. Appleton does it again! I look forward to the next human and monster romance.

[Deb Barringer · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Witch Met the Minotaur, by Lila Appleton, is the second installment in her Leafshire Cove Monsters collection. This is a fun, quirky book that pitches a very prickly witchy against an aggravating Minotaur, that lets whatever she throws at him roll right off like he's made of Teflon. This just infuriates Tully more. She is determined to run Argos out of town for being a non-magical, practicing magic by using special stones. She is convinced the stones are dangerous, and by extension so is Argos. It's fun to see them have to work together to save the town, and determine once and for all if the stones are truly bad, or just being used for a bad purpose. It's endearing to see their relationship go from one of animosity to trust to caring. Ms. Appleton does a great job building up her characters. It was also a bonus to see old friends from When the Weaver Met the Gargoyle. I hope this trend continues for the third book!

[Gabrielle Hashimoto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome back to Leafshire Cove. Tully is a witch who crafts the perfect spells for her clients. When Argos, the Minotaur, sets up a stall next to hers selling his own brand of magic, Tully is steamed. First of all, Minotaurs aren’t supposed to have magic and secondly, well the nerve of him trying to compete with her with a bunch of tacky illusions! This starts this spicy, enemies to lovers, cozy fantasy tale.
Argos is an interesting character who’s in town for his own special reasons and I love his golden retriever demeanor, especially his loyalty. Tully proves to be a tough nut to crack but she just needed the right person to come along who could handle her tough exterior. This is a fun and entertaining read with a little mystery involved surrounding the magical mishaps occurring in the town. Argos and Tully must team up to solve the mystery and save the town from disaster. As for the rest, I guess you’ll have to read it and find out for yourself. I can’t wait for the next one!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Unique, Lyrical, and Quietly Powerful — A Soft Monster Romance That Surprised Me in All the Best Ways

When the Witch Met the Minotaur by Lila Appleton is a hauntingly beautiful blend of quiet fantasy, emotional depth, and unexpected tenderness. Appleton continues her signature tradition of crafting magical, low-stakes romances that feel like folklore come to life — and this one might just be her most atmospheric yet.

The witch is everything I love in a fantasy heroine: wise but still learning, strong but deeply human. Her magic is woven through her every thought and action, but it’s her heart — her curiosity, her compassion, her refusal to fear what others call monstrous — that makes her unforgettable. She doesn’t just see the Minotaur’s humanity — she honors it.

And the Minotaur? He is so much more than a beast. Lila Appleton crafts him with such tenderness — all gruff strength and quiet sorrow. His presence is massive and intimidating, yet his soul is gentle, scarred, and yearning. Their romance unfolds with a slow, reverent intimacy that makes every touch, every glance, every quiet moment feel. He’s not just protective — he’s vulnerable, and watching him trust again was genuinely moving.

The writing is poetic without being overdone, and the world feels soaked in ancient magic. The dynamic between the witch and the Minotaur is one of mutual respect, healing, and quiet desire. It’s not a flashy story — and it doesn’t need to be. It lingers. It glows.

Why not a full 5 stars? A few pacing lulls in the middle had me wanting just a bit more urgency or tension to keep the momentum flowing. But honestly, by the end, I didn’t care — I was fully invested in the tenderness of their journey.

Recommended for fans of:
🌕 Soft monster romances with soul
🪄 Witches who lead with wisdom and warmth
🐂 Gentle giants with tragic pasts and fierce devotion
📜 Folklore-style storytelling and slow-burn magic
💘 A love story that feels like ancient myth and modern comfort

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tully and Argos . . .

Tully is a witch who lives in town and makes a very good living here with her magical skills. But when a minotaur, Argos, needs to earn money and arrives to sell his goods, she knows what he is doing is not magic but illusions and faking. His deceiving people makes her angry and determined to get him to leave, even trying to get Mayor Rustion to kick him out of town. Their interactions are humorous since he knows perfectly how to get her all ruffled and angry and lets her “attacks” roll right off his shoulders as she gets more and more frustrated with him. His teasing and compliments drive her crazy. But when things go wrong in the town, she blames Argos’ illusions for making her spells explode and damage things. Will she work together with Argos to try to fix the problems that are happening? Or will they discover something else is actually going on?

[Spinster Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a deliciously delightful story!! Leafshire Cove is a lovely world and I was so happy to get to visit again.

Tully is a witch. Argos is a minotaur. She does magic. He does magic. They have competing booths selling potions, spells and such. She loathes him. He goads her. They end up having to work together to sort out a magical object issue. Drama, irritation and attraction ensue. It is so much fun!

Tully likes to act like she is this mean, bad witch but she truly has a sweet and caring heart (but, like, don't tell her I said that). Argos is this sweet creature trying to help his family save their home after living a life of luxury and ease. And he has a tail. And wears glasses.

This book is such an enjoyable, happy read. Tully and Argos just made my heart happy and my day brighter. I cannot recommend it enough.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team.

[Bookwyrm_in_KC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am LOVING the Leafshire Cove series. It's nice to read a romantasy/monster romance with stakes just high enough to keep me invested, but not so high it spikes by blood pressure.

We briefly met Tully and Argos in the first book of the series. Tully is a prickly, guarded witch with a heart of gold and Argos is a sweet, scientific minded minotaur who rolls into Leafshire Cove and upsets the delicate balance of Tully's life (and magic). They are forced to work together when an dangerous magical artifact turns up and causes all kinds of chaos.

If you like:
-Monster Romance
-Black Cat/Golden Retriever dynamics
-rivals-to-lovers
-A little forced proximity
-Knotting
then you'll probably love When the Witch Met the Minotoaur!

[Aria Maze · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited for Tully’s story! I love her black cat chaotic energy so much! She lived up to her reputation and definitely was abrasive and still intensely loyal and kind. She has issue when Argos, a Minotaur with no magic, sets up and start selling illusions. They clash and have a bit of an enemies to lovers things going on. Argos has his own troubles and needs and he gives as good as he gets.

I will say it’s low tension and cozy so of course all issues are wrapped up fairly quickly, and they go from dislike to infatuated fairly quickly. I will admit I wanted more tension because I think Tully could have been an absolute firecracker. But I adored the talk through with his knot and how sweet Argos was in the end. But especially how much he loved his “scary lovely witch”. 🥰

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Payback’s a Witch—and She’s Got Horns to Deal With

Payback is a witch, and Tully’s about to learn that the hard way. After the magical matchmaking stunt she pulled in book one, it’s only fair she gets tangled up in her own romantic chaos. Enter Argo the Minotaur—stoic, illusion-casting, and absolutely not here for subtlety. He doesn’t so much sweep Tully off her feet as drag her into a magical partnership that makes her spells go sideways and her heart go squishy.

This cozy fantasy monster romance delivers another dose of awkward enchantment, with just enough magical misfires and emotional fumbling to keep things delightfully messy. If you liked the first book’s slow-burn sweetness, this one adds a touch of karmic justice and a whole lot of horned charm.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Within just a few pages I knew I'd be adding the first book of this series to my TBR. I think I skipped it when it first released because I'd recently read a spicy monster romance that passed my comfort level on the spicy side, but if it's anything like this sequel I'll love it. The characters were fun and the little bit of backstory given to them leaves plenty of information to unfold in later stories.

I love Tully's no nonsense, borderline b*tchy attitude and Argos' endless curiosity and loyal nature. Things between them move pretty quickly, but we wouldn't be reading a spicy cozy fantasy standalone if we wanted the HOA to drag out for hundreds of pages.

[Alonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good read. You have a touch of mystery surrounding the Minotaur character that made me want to discover more of his story. The lore of Minotaur creatures in this book I found really intriguing, the importance of kissing and public displays. Argos is such a sweet and yet spicy character, he falls almost instantly for the prickly witch Tully and finds her annoyance of him hot, which I found hilarious and how Tully described him glasses had even me sweating. The mystery of the mirror and stones work to pull these two characters closer and I loved reading about that pull between them. The tension was great.