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Bitten By Magick #1
Will It Hurt?
A wytch prone to chaos. A grieving, murderous vampyre. When hate turns to heat, can they work together to bring a loved one back from the dead?
A wytch and a vampyre walk into a bar—except they don’t. It’s a cafe. And they almost kill each other first.
But snap judgments never last. If only Jinn didn’t desperately need a wytch to cast a retraction spell, and Aisla Laxmi wasn’t the only one available for miles.
The hate is still there, but so is something else. Something that’s way more complicated. As their forced partnership begins to feel a little less forced, the two start to believe they might actually have a chance at bringing a loved one back from the other side… Or do they?
Four nights. Two powerful beings. One goal.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2025
253 people are currently reading
1460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
July 9, 2025
Ahhh a vampire story but also witches, I was sold before I even read the synopsis. This book had me so invested I read it in a day. And the angst, holy… Jinn and Aisla were the perfect pair. The push and pull between them, chefs kiss.
If you like paranormal, steamy, laughing, crying, basically all the feels in a book, run to this one!
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
If you like paranormal, steamy, laughing, crying, basically all the feels in a book, run to this one!
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2025
If I had to use only one word to describe this book, it would be spectacular! What a book!
I found the storyline to be brilliant and thoroughly captivating, entertaining from beginning to end. I particularly enjoyed the book's depiction of the enemies-to-lovers romance between Aisla and Jinn; it was excellently presented, and each character's personality shone brightly.
The connection between Aisla and Jinn was incredibly captivating and undeniable throughout; their chemistry was breathtaking and the spice was 🤌 'chefs kiss' perfect - the Shadow Strap scene is so sinfully good you'll need a cold shower 🔥
This is my first foray into the works of Lily X, and if this book is any indication of her future writing, I'm eager to read more! I highly recommend adding the release date to your calendar and securing a copy; you won't regret it.
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I found the storyline to be brilliant and thoroughly captivating, entertaining from beginning to end. I particularly enjoyed the book's depiction of the enemies-to-lovers romance between Aisla and Jinn; it was excellently presented, and each character's personality shone brightly.
The connection between Aisla and Jinn was incredibly captivating and undeniable throughout; their chemistry was breathtaking and the spice was 🤌 'chefs kiss' perfect - the Shadow Strap scene is so sinfully good you'll need a cold shower 🔥
This is my first foray into the works of Lily X, and if this book is any indication of her future writing, I'm eager to read more! I highly recommend adding the release date to your calendar and securing a copy; you won't regret it.
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
September 23, 2025
I received this book as an ARC and this is my own honest review.
I loved the first chapters. The use of the crossword they were doing really helped me get into the setting! And so did the character description.
This was different from any sapphic vampire book I’ve read before and that’s another thing that had me hooked. I enjoyed the plot, getting to know the characters and their dynamics together.
Let’s also take a moment for the spice, if you know me you know how much I love a good spicy scene. The joy of having spice in fantasy/paranormal books is that you can play with more “non-human” elements, shadow play? Yes, please. I’m sure you can use your imagination on what went on there, or better yet, read it for yourself!
Highly recommend giving this one a read, especially if you’re like me and you’re a sucker for a sapphic vampire book (pun intended).
This one is written in first person with 2x POV’s. Vampire/Witch. Enemies to Lovers. Masc/Femme. Plus Size rep.
I loved the first chapters. The use of the crossword they were doing really helped me get into the setting! And so did the character description.
This was different from any sapphic vampire book I’ve read before and that’s another thing that had me hooked. I enjoyed the plot, getting to know the characters and their dynamics together.
Let’s also take a moment for the spice, if you know me you know how much I love a good spicy scene. The joy of having spice in fantasy/paranormal books is that you can play with more “non-human” elements, shadow play? Yes, please. I’m sure you can use your imagination on what went on there, or better yet, read it for yourself!
Highly recommend giving this one a read, especially if you’re like me and you’re a sucker for a sapphic vampire book (pun intended).
This one is written in first person with 2x POV’s. Vampire/Witch. Enemies to Lovers. Masc/Femme. Plus Size rep.
May 31, 2025
2.5 ⭐
I was so excited to read this book—I even backed the author's Kickstarter just to get early access to Will It Hurt
Going in, I was expecting a completely different vibe than what the story actually delivered. The characters did slowly start to grow on me, but I couldn't fully invest in their budding relationship for a few reasons. First off, although this book is marketed as a "romantasy," it leaned way more into the fantasy side than the romance. Especially since the main focus was about the "retraction spell" which ended up taking the center stage. Because of that, the romance felt more like a background element, and that made it harder for me to really believe in or connect with it.
Another thing that didn’t quite land for me was the enemies-to-lovers trope. Sure, Jinn is trying to kill Aisla at first, so I get where the “enemy” part comes in, but it felt kind of one-sided. Early on, so the moment she gets close to Jinn, her fascination with her starts to peek through. That made the shift from enemies to lovers feel a bit too easy and not quite what I was hoping for.
That said, I really enjoyed the lore around the Wytches. It felt much more fleshed out compared to the Vampyre stuff. I would’ve loved to see more depth on the Vampyres too, but the glimpses we did get were still entertaining.
Overall, what stood out most to me was the theme of grief and the idea of not settling for “what’s always been” just because it’s familiar. That message really stuck with me.
I was so excited to read this book—I even backed the author's Kickstarter just to get early access to Will It Hurt
Going in, I was expecting a completely different vibe than what the story actually delivered. The characters did slowly start to grow on me, but I couldn't fully invest in their budding relationship for a few reasons. First off, although this book is marketed as a "romantasy," it leaned way more into the fantasy side than the romance. Especially since the main focus was about the "retraction spell" which ended up taking the center stage. Because of that, the romance felt more like a background element, and that made it harder for me to really believe in or connect with it.
Another thing that didn’t quite land for me was the enemies-to-lovers trope. Sure, Jinn is trying to kill Aisla at first, so I get where the “enemy” part comes in, but it felt kind of one-sided. Early on, so the moment she gets close to Jinn, her fascination with her starts to peek through. That made the shift from enemies to lovers feel a bit too easy and not quite what I was hoping for.
That said, I really enjoyed the lore around the Wytches. It felt much more fleshed out compared to the Vampyre stuff. I would’ve loved to see more depth on the Vampyres too, but the glimpses we did get were still entertaining.
Overall, what stood out most to me was the theme of grief and the idea of not settling for “what’s always been” just because it’s familiar. That message really stuck with me.
September 7, 2025
3.5
This was my first Lily X read, and I enjoyed it. I loved that the story centers two women of color as the main characters, with great representation across identities, masc/femme dynamics, South Asian rep, and plus-size rep. The worldbuilding in Edinburgh was fantastic; the atmosphere and flow of the writing really pulled me in and made the setting feel alive.
Jinn and Aisla grew on me more and more as the story unfolded. Their journey does lean into insta-love, which isn’t my favorite trope, but if you enjoy it, you’ll probably connect with their romance.
One thing that did trip me up, though, was the spelling choices, “vampyre,” “wytch,” and “magick.” I know it was a stylistic decision, but every time I came across those words, it jolted me out of the story a little.
Overall, a fun, atmospheric read with strong representation and a unique spin on familiar tropes.
This was my first Lily X read, and I enjoyed it. I loved that the story centers two women of color as the main characters, with great representation across identities, masc/femme dynamics, South Asian rep, and plus-size rep. The worldbuilding in Edinburgh was fantastic; the atmosphere and flow of the writing really pulled me in and made the setting feel alive.
Jinn and Aisla grew on me more and more as the story unfolded. Their journey does lean into insta-love, which isn’t my favorite trope, but if you enjoy it, you’ll probably connect with their romance.
One thing that did trip me up, though, was the spelling choices, “vampyre,” “wytch,” and “magick.” I know it was a stylistic decision, but every time I came across those words, it jolted me out of the story a little.
Overall, a fun, atmospheric read with strong representation and a unique spin on familiar tropes.
July 10, 2025
Surprisingly funny. I mean, there was the whole wanting to bring someone back from the dead thing (it’s already in the description), but it had its comedic moments. I would’ve liked for there to have been more depth in terms of the vampyre lore background and the relationship between Aisla and Jinn. The banter and spice were all well and good, but like, what’s your favorite color? Or something to that effect. Overall, it was an entertaining read that fans of the supernatural would enjoy.
July 31, 2025
2,5⭐️ I didn’t particularly like it, but there are worst books for sure!
November 20, 2025
A really fun sapphic vampire x witch romance set in Edinburgh! I absolutely loved Aisla, and loved the setting. A quick and easy read too!
September 2, 2025
*3.75*
look, I’m just a lesbian okay? when you tell me a vampire x wytch romance with a masc / butch main character and a plus size woman of colour- of course I’m going to run right to it, it can’t be helped.
this was the perfect book to read now the seasons are changing because it’s set in Edinburgh which just really helped create a gothic feel of dark nights, rainy days and a long history of witch folklore that is important to my heart <3 I enjoyed the diversity of the characters (lesbians, transgender, plus size, masculine & feminine sapphic rep) and I loved the exploration of mental health issues paired with abusive parental relationships and grief / loss. the witchy elements were very traditional with it being passed down through bloodlines, but the main character wanting to find her own path and autonomy and choose a life for herself rather than one being handed to her was great.
the plot was very fun and fast, really easy to get through and easy to hook you in- it’s borderline insta love / lust but weirdly enough it didn’t bother me in this (bc I too can imagine myself falling for a vampire that quickly)
look, I’m just a lesbian okay? when you tell me a vampire x wytch romance with a masc / butch main character and a plus size woman of colour- of course I’m going to run right to it, it can’t be helped.
this was the perfect book to read now the seasons are changing because it’s set in Edinburgh which just really helped create a gothic feel of dark nights, rainy days and a long history of witch folklore that is important to my heart <3 I enjoyed the diversity of the characters (lesbians, transgender, plus size, masculine & feminine sapphic rep) and I loved the exploration of mental health issues paired with abusive parental relationships and grief / loss. the witchy elements were very traditional with it being passed down through bloodlines, but the main character wanting to find her own path and autonomy and choose a life for herself rather than one being handed to her was great.
the plot was very fun and fast, really easy to get through and easy to hook you in- it’s borderline insta love / lust but weirdly enough it didn’t bother me in this (bc I too can imagine myself falling for a vampire that quickly)
July 26, 2025
3.25🧛🏾♀️
I think I would’ve liked the conclusion to be Belle not coming back.
Needed editing lots of missing words unless that’s just a writing choice.
I think Aisla and Jinn relationship would’ve meant more for me if their romance/lust came after at LEAST two weeks of knowing each other. I think I’d also would’ve been more impacted if maybe the two had a past history as it would’ve brought and interest to their dynamic and that disdain they had before the collaboration.
The lore of the wyches were really intriguing but when it came to the vampyres, it felt flat. What is Indra then if not a Blood Wytch? I wish we got more about them as their abilities and nesting/eating ways were interesting. Also in the epilogue I wish time was stretched more and we seen Nat again or a convo with Indira.
It was an easy and fun read that I went through quickly! Love the POC representation and in depth background of such a character and Bella showing that— although the love is deep— Jinn’s want for her to stay was selfish.
I think our mains are really good for each other and I enjoyed them and all their steaminess ☺️
I think I would’ve liked the conclusion to be Belle not coming back.
Needed editing lots of missing words unless that’s just a writing choice.
I think Aisla and Jinn relationship would’ve meant more for me if their romance/lust came after at LEAST two weeks of knowing each other. I think I’d also would’ve been more impacted if maybe the two had a past history as it would’ve brought and interest to their dynamic and that disdain they had before the collaboration.
The lore of the wyches were really intriguing but when it came to the vampyres, it felt flat. What is Indra then if not a Blood Wytch? I wish we got more about them as their abilities and nesting/eating ways were interesting. Also in the epilogue I wish time was stretched more and we seen Nat again or a convo with Indira.
It was an easy and fun read that I went through quickly! Love the POC representation and in depth background of such a character and Bella showing that— although the love is deep— Jinn’s want for her to stay was selfish.
I think our mains are really good for each other and I enjoyed them and all their steaminess ☺️
July 1, 2025
I was incredibly fortunate to receive this book as an ARC. I was instantly drawn in by the vampire x witch theme when ARC sign ups went out that I didn't really take much notice of anything else about it. This is an honest and voluntary review.
This is a sapphic novel and this was the first time I had heard this term. Though not my usual genre, I had a goal to read things I normally wouldn't and I am so glad that I did!
I was captivated by the story and the connection and chemistry between the main characters. Aisla and Jinn had a crackling chemistry that went beyond the usual enemies-to-lovers character development. The representation of loss and grief was so touching and had me in my feels.
I felt represented as the daughter of a mother just like Jinn's and the quote "My own mother, my creator. I had known she was cruel, but some naive, desperate part of me had clung to the hope that this time would be different. That, despite everything, she wouldn't abandon me when I desperately needed her help. But she had" was felt in my entire being.
This was my first Lily X book and I seriously hope there is a second book for this one coming! I honestly couldn't put this one down!
This is a sapphic novel and this was the first time I had heard this term. Though not my usual genre, I had a goal to read things I normally wouldn't and I am so glad that I did!
I was captivated by the story and the connection and chemistry between the main characters. Aisla and Jinn had a crackling chemistry that went beyond the usual enemies-to-lovers character development. The representation of loss and grief was so touching and had me in my feels.
I felt represented as the daughter of a mother just like Jinn's and the quote "My own mother, my creator. I had known she was cruel, but some naive, desperate part of me had clung to the hope that this time would be different. That, despite everything, she wouldn't abandon me when I desperately needed her help. But she had" was felt in my entire being.
This was my first Lily X book and I seriously hope there is a second book for this one coming! I honestly couldn't put this one down!
July 6, 2025
To review Will It Hurt by Lily X in one word: captivating.
From the moment I started reading, I couldn't put it down. An enemies-to-lovers romance between a vampyre and a wytch, with South Asian representation? I was immediately sold.
The plot was brilliant with dual POV to allow to delve into Jinn and Aisla's stories and their chemistry from both sides.
We can't go any further without talking about the spice. It's steamy with romantasy and paranormal elements - shadow play!🥵🔥 But the spice doesn't overpower the plot. Phenomenal!
As a woman of colour, I deeply appreciated the representation of a non-white female main character. The author didn’t reduce Aisla to her race—instead, she was written with depth and complexity, portraying a full woman whose identity was shaped by both her ethnicity and life experiences.
I am so grateful to have received this book as an ARC and leave my review voluntarily.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
From the moment I started reading, I couldn't put it down. An enemies-to-lovers romance between a vampyre and a wytch, with South Asian representation? I was immediately sold.
The plot was brilliant with dual POV to allow to delve into Jinn and Aisla's stories and their chemistry from both sides.
We can't go any further without talking about the spice. It's steamy with romantasy and paranormal elements - shadow play!🥵🔥 But the spice doesn't overpower the plot. Phenomenal!
As a woman of colour, I deeply appreciated the representation of a non-white female main character. The author didn’t reduce Aisla to her race—instead, she was written with depth and complexity, portraying a full woman whose identity was shaped by both her ethnicity and life experiences.
I am so grateful to have received this book as an ARC and leave my review voluntarily.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
July 13, 2025
Funny, cute, sexy, engaging. Lily X is definitely one of my favorite authors, and for a good reason. While this one leaned slightly more info fantasy and less into romance than I'm used to from the author, I loved it just as much🩵
Genuinely I felt happy when reading this. The tea obsession was soooo funny to me, the crossword element was very cute and clever, I am however still not sure how I feel yet about the smut (iykyk) cause come of that is slightly unhinged ma'am😂 (I'm kinda into it but what???)
All in all, I've never read a Lily X book that was lower than a 4 star for me. This one wasn't my favorite I've read from her, but the world, the wit, the cuteness, and finally the absolute baddie Aisla is definitely bring it to a strong 4.5 stars🌟
Genuinely I felt happy when reading this. The tea obsession was soooo funny to me, the crossword element was very cute and clever, I am however still not sure how I feel yet about the smut (iykyk) cause come of that is slightly unhinged ma'am😂 (I'm kinda into it but what???)
All in all, I've never read a Lily X book that was lower than a 4 star for me. This one wasn't my favorite I've read from her, but the world, the wit, the cuteness, and finally the absolute baddie Aisla is definitely bring it to a strong 4.5 stars🌟
May 31, 2025
Super fun, I decided to go blindly into it without knowing anything about it, and I'm actually surprised at how much I liked it.
September 20, 2025
What can I say? I am Lily X fan, so I can only mumble fangirling cheers. I am excited for the next book.
October 25, 2025
this was so good i absolutely loved it, i loved the starting point of them ready to kill each other, and then the evolution of their relationship. the chemistry was there from the start the sexual tension was so thick😂 the scenes of the practice spells and research were fun to go through and i enjoyed the plot
jinn is so my type with her masc vampire self 😭🥵 i loved her little quirks of not getting social media, and folding her clothes into neat piles, and her “outdated” language i just loved her😂
aisla was such a badass, she cared so much even tho she struggled to show it, but how she never gave up and continued to try was so important. having such powerful magic is so hot everytime she’d do something with her magic i was like 👀okay girl😂
i really liked the way this book ended, it felt like such a sweet moment and satisfying way to quietly end🥰
cannot wait for the next book! will definitely by reading more by lily!
also hate indira
jinn is so my type with her masc vampire self 😭🥵 i loved her little quirks of not getting social media, and folding her clothes into neat piles, and her “outdated” language i just loved her😂
aisla was such a badass, she cared so much even tho she struggled to show it, but how she never gave up and continued to try was so important. having such powerful magic is so hot everytime she’d do something with her magic i was like 👀okay girl😂
i really liked the way this book ended, it felt like such a sweet moment and satisfying way to quietly end🥰
cannot wait for the next book! will definitely by reading more by lily!
also hate indira
September 25, 2025
Will it hurt?
Well, it hurt me to read it. A star for the shadow play and a star because I did finish the book and that’s a win I guess. I don’t know if it was the mere hours they spent as “enemies” before they became lovers that bothered me. Or the chronically online dialogue that fell flat and made me cringe. Or the fact that the cats name was too close to the main characters name. I don’t know I just didn’t like this. Sometimes I’m fine with no plot all vibes if I know that’s what I’m in for but I was not prepared for this to be such a let down after the hype I had heard.
Well, it hurt me to read it. A star for the shadow play and a star because I did finish the book and that’s a win I guess. I don’t know if it was the mere hours they spent as “enemies” before they became lovers that bothered me. Or the chronically online dialogue that fell flat and made me cringe. Or the fact that the cats name was too close to the main characters name. I don’t know I just didn’t like this. Sometimes I’m fine with no plot all vibes if I know that’s what I’m in for but I was not prepared for this to be such a let down after the hype I had heard.
November 25, 2025
Fuuuuuck me, this was so good. I’ve been thinking on this one for a little bit and it’s stayed in the forefront of my mind thru bookish GCs and the authors insta, for whatever reason I hadn’t taken the leap. MY ENTIRE BAD, babyyyy the only thing I can hope is I was setting myself up for minimal wait to go back to Coven Layng in book 2.
Jinn and Aisla? I think I could read a ten book series on these two alone. They might be two of my favorite characters I’ve read. Both of them were so complex and it felt like following along real people with their real thoughts and feelings.
Jinn and Aisla? I think I could read a ten book series on these two alone. They might be two of my favorite characters I’ve read. Both of them were so complex and it felt like following along real people with their real thoughts and feelings.
July 3, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of Will It Hurt? As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
✨ Adult Sapphic Fantasy
✨ First Person, Dual POV
✨ 3.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 1 in a Series (possibly standalone within a series)
✨ Rep: South Asian MC, lesbian MC, trans SC, pansexual SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- sapphic vampyres and wytches
- a faster paced, compressed timeline
- spice with your plot
- themes of grief and rejection of duty
- found family and complex mother-daughter dynamics
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
This was a highly anticipated read of mine, so I was excited to get started! By the end of the first chapter, I was absolutely hooked. A wytch whose job is to provide voluntary “neutralization” to vampyres? The whole concept appealed to me. Add in complex feelings? Yeah, I needed to know what happened next.
Plot
With a compressed timeline (span of days), this book to be fast paced despite being over 400 pages long (on kindle). I had a hard time putting it down! I probably wouldn’t have minded if the book was about 150 pages longer just to see more of the main character, but all the important things happened with enough time for character arcs to resolve. A couple loose ends were left that I am hoping might be answered in the next book (or perhaps future books as I don’t know how many are anticipated).
Characters
I absolutely loved both Aisla and Jinn. I wanted more of them because I was obsessed with their dynamic. I appreciated the representation within the book as well as the commentary in regard to racism. The characters were complex in their desires and motivations. Plus, the side characters held more depth than simply being plot devices or props.
Romance
Not really insta-love, but the romance develops from one character needing the other to do something (created forced proximity of sorts). Combined with heightened emotions and clear physical attraction/chemistry, when the match finally strikes it practically takes off. Also, as one expects from Lily X, the spice was spicing.
World-building
Being a low fantasy, the world-building is focused more on the lore behind vampyres and wytches, how their magic works, the council, etc.. As opposed to more wide-spread, in depth world-building. This story takes place in a modern Edinburgh, so there is a contemporary setting with fantasy elements. I felt there was enough world-building to be satisfying and answer most of my questions without being too world-building heavy.
Final Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Will it Hurt? and I’m excited to read the next book! I hadn’t read a sapphic vampyre story in a while, and this hit the mark for me. An easy read to devour.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
blood/blood drinking, grief, loss, mental health, mercy killing, vampyric euthanasia, complicated mother-daughter dynamics, violence (mild), casual modern-day racism (from author’s own lived experience), sexually explicit content, decapitation (aftermath described), stalking, addiction
✨ Adult Sapphic Fantasy
✨ First Person, Dual POV
✨ 3.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 1 in a Series (possibly standalone within a series)
✨ Rep: South Asian MC, lesbian MC, trans SC, pansexual SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- sapphic vampyres and wytches
- a faster paced, compressed timeline
- spice with your plot
- themes of grief and rejection of duty
- found family and complex mother-daughter dynamics
Content warnings after review.
Initial Thoughts
This was a highly anticipated read of mine, so I was excited to get started! By the end of the first chapter, I was absolutely hooked. A wytch whose job is to provide voluntary “neutralization” to vampyres? The whole concept appealed to me. Add in complex feelings? Yeah, I needed to know what happened next.
Plot
With a compressed timeline (span of days), this book to be fast paced despite being over 400 pages long (on kindle). I had a hard time putting it down! I probably wouldn’t have minded if the book was about 150 pages longer just to see more of the main character, but all the important things happened with enough time for character arcs to resolve. A couple loose ends were left that I am hoping might be answered in the next book (or perhaps future books as I don’t know how many are anticipated).
Characters
I absolutely loved both Aisla and Jinn. I wanted more of them because I was obsessed with their dynamic. I appreciated the representation within the book as well as the commentary in regard to racism. The characters were complex in their desires and motivations. Plus, the side characters held more depth than simply being plot devices or props.
Romance
Not really insta-love, but the romance develops from one character needing the other to do something (created forced proximity of sorts). Combined with heightened emotions and clear physical attraction/chemistry, when the match finally strikes it practically takes off. Also, as one expects from Lily X, the spice was spicing.
World-building
Being a low fantasy, the world-building is focused more on the lore behind vampyres and wytches, how their magic works, the council, etc.. As opposed to more wide-spread, in depth world-building. This story takes place in a modern Edinburgh, so there is a contemporary setting with fantasy elements. I felt there was enough world-building to be satisfying and answer most of my questions without being too world-building heavy.
Final Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed Will it Hurt? and I’m excited to read the next book! I hadn’t read a sapphic vampyre story in a while, and this hit the mark for me. An easy read to devour.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
blood/blood drinking, grief, loss, mental health, mercy killing, vampyric euthanasia, complicated mother-daughter dynamics, violence (mild), casual modern-day racism (from author’s own lived experience), sexually explicit content, decapitation (aftermath described), stalking, addiction
June 16, 2025
I was blown away by the detail that was provided in this book. You'll fall right into the pages as you get deeper and deeper into this fantasy world. I'd be lying if I didn't imagine myself diving into the pages and appearing inside the book. The author's imagination is quite literally out of this world, like for real. Having read a lot of the author's previous books, I knew I wanted to get my hands on this one and I was not at all disappointed though, Lily X took this book to a whole new dimension and steered her pen in a completely different direction than her previous works. The possibilities on her pages are endless and in this specific book.
I felt a lot of different emotions while reading Will It Hurt! I was able to personally connect with the characters and their stories. In the beginning, we are introduced to Aisla and Belle pretty much immediately (keep reading, you'll figure it out). I pretty much fell in love with Aisla right off the bat, her attitude and personality were so different from what I had expected.
I will say, that this book may resonate with some folk to have sensitive content and I'm not referencing the spice part. The absolute chaos that unravels in Jinn and Aisla's lives is like an atomic bomb going off in a small room. My absolute favorite part of this book is Aisla's "dream" of Jinn doing all sorts of unholy things to her. The lust between Aisla and Jinn is so hot 🔥 and then the romantasy gets rolling. Jinn has a big heart whether you choose to believe it in the beginning or not. Her drive to fight her loneliness does take a toll on her and the world around her till she makes peace with it (again, keep reading and you'll figure it out)
The questions I found myself asking while reading this book constantly kept me on my toes.
Will It Hurt (yes, yes it will but it hurts sooooo good!!) has all the feelings from regret to pain to anger to hatred, sadness, romance dominance, peace and all your wildest fantasies come to life. Now, where can I get my hands on a shadow strap 🤔
While I have never thought much about vamp witch-style literature, I can honestly say that Will It Hurt has officially popped my cherry. If I could give 10 stars I would.
A small token of thanks to the author for bringing some real-life awareness content to this book and letting us readers of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, and sexual orientations know that you SEE us!!! ❤️
I felt a lot of different emotions while reading Will It Hurt! I was able to personally connect with the characters and their stories. In the beginning, we are introduced to Aisla and Belle pretty much immediately (keep reading, you'll figure it out). I pretty much fell in love with Aisla right off the bat, her attitude and personality were so different from what I had expected.
I will say, that this book may resonate with some folk to have sensitive content and I'm not referencing the spice part. The absolute chaos that unravels in Jinn and Aisla's lives is like an atomic bomb going off in a small room. My absolute favorite part of this book is Aisla's "dream" of Jinn doing all sorts of unholy things to her. The lust between Aisla and Jinn is so hot 🔥 and then the romantasy gets rolling. Jinn has a big heart whether you choose to believe it in the beginning or not. Her drive to fight her loneliness does take a toll on her and the world around her till she makes peace with it (again, keep reading and you'll figure it out)
The questions I found myself asking while reading this book constantly kept me on my toes.
Will It Hurt (yes, yes it will but it hurts sooooo good!!) has all the feelings from regret to pain to anger to hatred, sadness, romance dominance, peace and all your wildest fantasies come to life. Now, where can I get my hands on a shadow strap 🤔
While I have never thought much about vamp witch-style literature, I can honestly say that Will It Hurt has officially popped my cherry. If I could give 10 stars I would.
A small token of thanks to the author for bringing some real-life awareness content to this book and letting us readers of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, and sexual orientations know that you SEE us!!! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2025
vampire x witch is the ultimate power couple. i don’t make the rules.
fangs + magic = perfection.
this book?? PERFECT WITCHY VAMPIRE VIBES!!!! we’ve got danger, we’ve got spells, we’ve got that “i could kill you but i'll js kiss you” energy. took me a minute to get into the plot buuuut the spice became the plot and i was thriving.
the tension?? so good.
the blood scenes?? chef’s kiss, sensual but dangerous, like the witchy magic mixed with vampire dominance?? immaculate vibes. and then. THE shadow strap scene.
i am now a ghost writing this review because that scene ended me!!!!! so yeah, if you want something witchy, vampy, spicy, and a little bit unhinged (aislas inner monologue HAD ME GIGGLING) you gottaaaaa read this. bonus points if you also want to be slightly in love with a fictional vampire by the end. i need her so bad no one gets me.!!!!!
fangs + magic = perfection.
this book?? PERFECT WITCHY VAMPIRE VIBES!!!! we’ve got danger, we’ve got spells, we’ve got that “i could kill you but i'll js kiss you” energy. took me a minute to get into the plot buuuut the spice became the plot and i was thriving.
the tension?? so good.
the blood scenes?? chef’s kiss, sensual but dangerous, like the witchy magic mixed with vampire dominance?? immaculate vibes. and then. THE shadow strap scene.
i am now a ghost writing this review because that scene ended me!!!!! so yeah, if you want something witchy, vampy, spicy, and a little bit unhinged (aislas inner monologue HAD ME GIGGLING) you gottaaaaa read this. bonus points if you also want to be slightly in love with a fictional vampire by the end. i need her so bad no one gets me.!!!!!
August 7, 2025
3⭐️
thannkyou to the berry agency for sending me an arc for an exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book and the storyline but there just were some bits that fell a little flat for me, one being the “enemies to lovers” this is by far my favourite trope and I feel it could of been done a little better, but they hated each other for a second and then it was instant love which to me isn’t enemies to lovers. I also think it was very fast paced with not a lot going on, I was reading and hoping something big would happen.. but it didn’t, I felt like some bits really dragged. Overall I really liked both the FMC’s and thought they were really likeable and funny. The spicy scenes in this were SPICY, I love that there was just enough details and some of them I had to put my kindle down…. Hint the shadows… 🤭🫣
I like that Lily mentioned grief and losing the ones you love and real life struggles throughout this book *TRIGGER WARNING* ⚠️ drugs/ overdose. The writing in this book was easy to follow and read and if you are after a vampire & witch sapphic read then this is the book for you!
thannkyou to the berry agency for sending me an arc for an exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book and the storyline but there just were some bits that fell a little flat for me, one being the “enemies to lovers” this is by far my favourite trope and I feel it could of been done a little better, but they hated each other for a second and then it was instant love which to me isn’t enemies to lovers. I also think it was very fast paced with not a lot going on, I was reading and hoping something big would happen.. but it didn’t, I felt like some bits really dragged. Overall I really liked both the FMC’s and thought they were really likeable and funny. The spicy scenes in this were SPICY, I love that there was just enough details and some of them I had to put my kindle down…. Hint the shadows… 🤭🫣
I like that Lily mentioned grief and losing the ones you love and real life struggles throughout this book *TRIGGER WARNING* ⚠️ drugs/ overdose. The writing in this book was easy to follow and read and if you are after a vampire & witch sapphic read then this is the book for you!
June 26, 2025
2.5⭐
I was lucky enough to receive an arc copy of Will It Hurt through The Berry Agency, thank you. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I recently finished Will It Hurt, a spicy, sapphic, vampire x witch fantasy book. I was really excited to read this book, it's unlike anything I had read before. Unfortunately I was left with mixed feelings.
The writing was simple which made it really quick and easy to read, the pacing was also done really well.
I absolutely loved the queer representation, all the dynamics between the characters were written really well.
I also really appreciated the discussions around grief and loss. It added much needed depth to the characters, and was by far one of the highlights of the book.
Ultimately the major thing this book lacks is depth, with the world building, characters, and magic system. Everything is pretty much glazed over. I really wanted to see some world and character development but it never came. The book (besides the epilogue) being set over about a week really doesn't help.
This book is somewhat marketed as an enemies to lovers, but it really didn't live up to that for me. Yes there are moments of conflict where the characters don't like each other (rightly so), but they literally have feelings for each other within 48 hours! There's no time for development.
One of the major things that turned me off the book and honestly made me want to dnf it was the spice. Don't get me wrong the spice was good and was written well, but it was absolutely not needed. It felt so random and out of place, it really took away from the plot. At times it felt the book was written just for the spice and the actual plot of the story was an after thought.
I really wanted to like this book, so I'm disappointed that I didn't. Unfortunately there wasn't enough depth, and the spice really overtook the story.
I was lucky enough to receive an arc copy of Will It Hurt through The Berry Agency, thank you. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I recently finished Will It Hurt, a spicy, sapphic, vampire x witch fantasy book. I was really excited to read this book, it's unlike anything I had read before. Unfortunately I was left with mixed feelings.
The writing was simple which made it really quick and easy to read, the pacing was also done really well.
I absolutely loved the queer representation, all the dynamics between the characters were written really well.
I also really appreciated the discussions around grief and loss. It added much needed depth to the characters, and was by far one of the highlights of the book.
Ultimately the major thing this book lacks is depth, with the world building, characters, and magic system. Everything is pretty much glazed over. I really wanted to see some world and character development but it never came. The book (besides the epilogue) being set over about a week really doesn't help.
This book is somewhat marketed as an enemies to lovers, but it really didn't live up to that for me. Yes there are moments of conflict where the characters don't like each other (rightly so), but they literally have feelings for each other within 48 hours! There's no time for development.
One of the major things that turned me off the book and honestly made me want to dnf it was the spice. Don't get me wrong the spice was good and was written well, but it was absolutely not needed. It felt so random and out of place, it really took away from the plot. At times it felt the book was written just for the spice and the actual plot of the story was an after thought.
I really wanted to like this book, so I'm disappointed that I didn't. Unfortunately there wasn't enough depth, and the spice really overtook the story.
dnf
August 11, 2025DNF at 10%
November 12, 2025
Love love loved this book! Wytches and Vampyres are pretty much always a hit for me, but on top of being super sexy paranormal creatures getting it on, this book delved into heavy topics of grief and working through it as well as touching on issues of colonization.
And on top of that (it keeps getting better) it was so funny I was laughing out loud at parts. Maia provided the perfect comedic relief while still showing full-hearted dedication to her sister.
The way the title tied into this book was so unique, showing up in the beginning and then bringing us closure toward the end.
It would be hard to not fall in love with Aisla and Jinn. Give this book a read! Excited to dive into this author’s sapphic omegaverse series.
And on top of that (it keeps getting better) it was so funny I was laughing out loud at parts. Maia provided the perfect comedic relief while still showing full-hearted dedication to her sister.
The way the title tied into this book was so unique, showing up in the beginning and then bringing us closure toward the end.
It would be hard to not fall in love with Aisla and Jinn. Give this book a read! Excited to dive into this author’s sapphic omegaverse series.
June 7, 2025
Every penny spent backing this Kickstarter was worth it! I loved Aisla and Jinn's story! Lily's worldbuilding has become one of my favorite aspects of her books and this one was so cozy. It made me want to raid Aisla's tea cabinet and curl up in front of the fire. I also loved the little pictures in the book! It was adorable and felt like cute easter eggs to find while you read! The spice was delicious and there was one scene in particular where I didn't think the story was going there but it did 🥵
This has definitely solidified Lily X as a must read author for me 💗
This has definitely solidified Lily X as a must read author for me 💗
July 28, 2025
i was so fortunate to receive an ARC of this beautiful book!! it was a no brainer when sign ups came out and i saw it was a sapphic vampire x witch novel… yes pleeeeeaseee!!
i was so hooked from the beginning, i genuinely couldn’t put it down. the characters and the world building were MAGNIFICENT, i fell in love with Aisla instantly. every aspect of this book is so gripping & pulls you in constantly.
this being my first Lily X book, i am thoroughly impressed and SO excited to read more.
thank you so much for the ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review!
i was so hooked from the beginning, i genuinely couldn’t put it down. the characters and the world building were MAGNIFICENT, i fell in love with Aisla instantly. every aspect of this book is so gripping & pulls you in constantly.
this being my first Lily X book, i am thoroughly impressed and SO excited to read more.
thank you so much for the ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review!
June 9, 2025
Loved this book. I'm a big fan of vampire romances in general so I already expected to love it. This story added some new elements that I hadn't read about before. It was nice to have some new ideas. The magic was well done with the spell work. It leaves it open for a future book in the series as well. All of the books by this author have been incredible. I highly recommend.
June 13, 2025
I had the pleasure of being part of the Kickstarter and receiving the book early.
I was not disappointed at all, even though Im a fan of Lily’s The seventh star series this history is totally different from that and amazing in its own way. The history of Aisla and Jinn is intriguing, and not at all what you could expect.
Action, romance, spice and a little of everything.
I was not disappointed at all, even though Im a fan of Lily’s The seventh star series this history is totally different from that and amazing in its own way. The history of Aisla and Jinn is intriguing, and not at all what you could expect.
Action, romance, spice and a little of everything.
July 28, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed the world that this was set in & liked the MCs and their chemistry but I feel like maybe this was marketed as something a bit different to what it actually was…. I also felt like not much was happening a lot of the time. A shame because I really wanted to love this one & have been on such a vampire kick recently!
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