A Witch and Her Minotaur

Coven Crest Academy #2

by Emberly Wyndham

She’s chaos and sparks. He’s calm carved from stone. Now he’s burning for her—and the flames refuse to be tamed.

Lyra Wilder has a fire problem—literally and emotionally. As a volatile fire witch with a reputation of leaving scorch marks wherever she goes, she’s one magical mishap away from being expelled from Coven Crest Academy. When she’s sentenced to a year of community service with the academy’s stoic, reclusive groundskeeper, she expects misery and manual labor. She doesn’t expect a brooding minotaur with soil-stained hands, quiet strength, and a soul more deeply rooted than the gardens he tends.

Cairn has kept his world small and quiet for a reason. He doesn’t need chaos. He doesn’t need fire. And he certainly doesn’t need a defiant, impulsive witch disturbing the fragile peace he’s worked so hard to build and protect. But what begins as reluctant cooperation slowly blossoms into something neither of them respect, vulnerability . . . and a forbidden love that could cost them everything.

As the seasons shift and their connection deepens, Lyra and Cairn must confront the fears and scars they’ve both buried. Because love, like magic, has rules—and breaking them could set a fire that’ll be impossible to put out.

A Witch and Her Minotaur is the second book in a quartet of standalones set against the magical backdrop of Coven Crest Academy. If you like cozy books with gentle monsters and a dash of spice, this book is for you! Appropriate for readers 18+.


Cozy monster romanceAcademy settingEnemies to loversForced proximityAge gapForbidden loveFire witch x Minotaur groundskeeper

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Cozy Fantasy, Fiction, Cozy, Forced Proximity, Magic

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2025

About the author

Hi, I’m Emberly! I write spicy romance and love getting lost in my own fictional worlds.

To keep up-to-date with my new releases, please sign up for my newsletter.

Reviews

[BookishKB · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨ Bookish Thoughts
I wanted to love this book so much but I couldn’t stand the FMC, Lyra. She came across as immature, which made the age gap feel even larger than it was. The power dynamic between Cairn being an employee of the academy and Lyra being a student also added an uncomfy vibe that just didn’t land for me.

♥️ What to Expect
• Monster romance
• Fire witch
• Minotaur groundskeeper
• Academy setting
• Forced proximity
• Age gap
_ _ _

⭐ Final Score: 3 stars
📅 Pub Date: October 3, 2025
📝 Disclaimer: Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Witch and her Minotaur (Coven Crest Academy #2) by Emberly Wyndham

Book Blurb: She’s chaos and sparks. He’s calm carved from stone. Now he’s burning for her—and the flames refuse to be tamed.
Rating: ****
Feels: Cozy, Earthy, Peaceful, Adorable
Style: Cozy Fantasy, Fantasy, Romantasy
First published October 3, 2025 : 360 pages

I loved the vibes of this read so much. Cozy with just the right amount of spice. I loved getting to go back to Coven Crest Academy and spending time with our favorite crew of witches. Loved Lyra’s story with the emotional depth and growth she had. Our MMC, Cairn was very much adorably spicy in the most fun way. The set up for book two was smooth ,which was such a nice pace for me and I felt like the story really got to focus on the characters and storyline which I appreciated. The spice was spicing !!! I may need me a Minotaur now.

Favorite Quote: “I know, I know.” He holds up his hands, which are bejeweled with rings. “You prefer fungi over friendly banter.” His marble-smooth brow furrows. “Though I’ll never understand why.”

This book has:
Cozy Monster Romance
Age Gap
Student/Teacher Relationship
Forbidden Love
Forced Proximity
Magical Academy
Gentle Giant MMC
Feisty Fire Witch FMC

[Annmarie Ager · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice

Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.

I was lucky enough to read the first book in this series and totally loved it — so when I saw book two, I all but threw myself at it. 😅
I told myself I’d take it slow…
Yeah. That didn’t happen.
This book is like cotton candy or hot chocolate — I devoured it and was left with a giddy sugar rush. ☁️🍫💕

Let me start by saying the introduction was so well done. I found myself sinking into the story within the first two pages. While this is the second book in the series, you don’t have to read book one first — but I highly recommend you do. There are sweet little connections between the two books that had me smiling, but not in a way that would confuse new readers. It was deliciously handled. ✨

The writing style is smooth and easy to follow. It paints the world, places, and characters clearly without dragging into over-detailing. You get the vivid imagery without getting lost in it — a perfect balance.

What stood out most to me was the emotional portrayal of the characters. I felt what they felt. I was invested, I was upset, I was moved. This book made me feel so much. While the storyline wasn’t as tightly focused as the first book, this one felt more about growth, healing, and change — and I was completely wrapped up in that beautiful, soft bubble.

But don’t be fooled — it wasn’t just fluff.
It was a mix of sunshine and storm, with a thick layer of hot, hot spice between the leads that had me fanning myself. 🔥💦

Now I’m torn — which do I love more, book one or book two? Honestly, I think I love them both for different reasons, and they each hold a warm place in my heart. ❤️


Would I recommend it?

Every day of the week to anyone who’ll listen.

Would I read it again?

Try and stop me. This one’s going straight to my re-read shelf.

How would I sum it up?

Hot and cozy with a massive emotional storm on top. ☀️🌧️🔥

[KMart Vet · Rating 3 out of 5]

The definition of a cozy fall romantasy. From the charming magical academy setting to the adorable animal familiars, it wraps you in that warm, autumnal vibe that’s perfect for curling up with a blanket and a cup of tea.

Cairn, the broody minotaur groundskeeper, is a steady, grounding presence, while Lyra is all stubborn energy and sparks (literally). Together, their dynamic is sweet and satisfying, a perfect balance of calm and fire. I loved how their relationship developed with moments of quiet intimacy mixed with playful banter. Adorable.

While I also appreciated that the book does acknowledge the sticky issue of power dynamics (since Cairn is working for the academy), the follow-through was a bit shaky. They had the conversations, but then kind of ignored their own concerns in favor of immediate attraction. Even the head of the school, who is described as very rules-focused and unlikely to tolerate this sort of romance, ends up not caring because they complement one another so well. Honestly, I think it would have read smoother if it hadn’t been highlighted at all, because it only made me MORE aware of it.

That said, this was still a really charming, romantic story that hit the spot for a cozy-spicy fall read. If you’re craving something both comforting and spicy, this pairing delivers.

Thank you so much to the author and R&R Book Tours for the complimentary copy and opportunity to read and review.

[Michaela | bumblebeeslibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Witch and Her Minotaur, book 2 in the Coven Crest Academy.

This book is so good, talk about a spicy monster romance, that is also cozy, academic, and full of magic. FMC Lyra is having trouble controlling her fire magic, and after yet another accidental fire incident, the headmistress assigns Lyra some community service. In an effort to help calm and ground Lyra, she is assigned to work with the groundskeeper, MMC Cairn, who has a love for plants and solitude. He begrudgingly agrees to take on Lyra, and puts her to work right away. Cairn is wary of Lyra and her possible fire magic taking out his garden, but Lyra manages to surprise him, over and over. The more time they spend together, the more they both start to have feelings towards each other. Cairn is a staff member though, and relations with students is forbidden, will he risk his job and livelihood for the fiery witch who he can't stop thinking about?

I love so many things in this story! Lyra's spirit companion, a little rat named Juniper is so cute, and loves to eat snacks. Lyra takes her everywhere with her hiding in a pocket or tucked in her shirt, its just so cute! I love how Lyra is the one who takes charge when it comes time for her and Cairn to get intimate. Cairn may be an older, much larger, minotaur, but Lyra is not intimidated. Once they get intimate, Lyra REALLY finds out how much bigger Cairn is, in fact, so big, he quite literally won't fit. To prep for that, Cairn has to stretch Lyra, but the stretching is quite a fun adventure for both Lyra and Cairn. After their first spicy encounter, Cairn does get worried about being caught, but an extremely sexy Samhain outfit worn by Lyra tears right through those fears.

Lyra does show her age a bit when she realizes Cairn may be applying for a job in another town, she basically just storms out and ignores him for weeks on end. While Lyra does have abandonment in her past, I feel like she never takes a second to stop and think about the overall picture, and what Cairn wants with his life. This is her younger age though, because of course, she eventually comes to her senses and realizes Cairn isn't leaving HER, just his job. 

I really enjoyed this story, and look forward to the next coven crest academy installment!

Some fav quotes:
"If anyone else were to hear her, they'd just hear little rat chirps and chattering. Witches can communicate with their own spirit companions, but not with anyone else's."

"His horns stand stoic atop his head, looking smooth and shiny as he tips his head this way and that. For the first time, I wonder what they might feel like if I were to run my fingertips across them. Are they smooth, the way they look? Or do they have a deceivingly rough texture?"

"I don't laugh much, especially around students. They're usually just a weed in the garden that is my day. But this fire witch has disturbed the soil, and she's making everything feel a bit...different."

"How is it that a tiny fire witch has me feeling so vulnerable? It's been years since I felt so exposed, so...laid bare. And all she's doing is looking at me."

"And I know, can no longer deny, that I want this man. I want him badly."

"And I'm so screwed. Because I'm pretty sure I'm falling for her. For a student. F*** me..."

"Tonight, she looks dangerous-like she might eat men whole and then string their teeth onto a necklace to display for the world to see."

""I won't fit inside you. You'd tear." That probably shouldn't turn me on even more, but it does."

"THIS WITCH WILL BE THE death of me. At this moment, I know this to be an irrefutable fact. But I also know that I'd go peacefully into the dark, knowing she's the one who sent me there. Though I'd really like to f*** her first."

"And even his tongue is huge. Every part of this man feels like it was built to pleasure a woman. How lucky am I to be the one in his bed?"

Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!

[Cat Bowser · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily

I really loved Book 1 so I was more than happy to look at Book 2! But you could absolutely read this in its own. You’d miss some of the cool connections to Book 1 but the story can stand independently.

Cairn is a lovely MMC, with a nice mix of cinnamon roll and grouch. It wasn’t too much of either though, which made for a nice balance of personality.

Lyra was all spice and stubbornness which while engaging didn’t make her stand out as much to me. She’s fun, she plays the FMC well and I find nothing wrong with her. I just didn’t find anything particularly stand out about her either.

But honestly, Cairn carries most of the story. In fact, the only true issue I have is the fact there is a power dynamic here, given Lyra is a student and Cairn is a groundskeeper. The author really makes sure to let us know about the level of respect and consent in the relationship but it still felt a little iffy to me.

But all in all, a fun read! I think I probably like Book 1 a little more but this one is a nice addiction.

[Rita · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tricked myself into thinking this would be more cozy than spicy, so colour me disappointed when the characters literally jumped into bed about 30% into the book.

The premise was cute - a clumsy witch, Lyra, who can’t quite control her fire magic (some exotic plants were harmed in the process), is given community service with a groundskeeper, Cairn - an introverted minotaur with a huge… ahem… garden? 🤣

Anyway, there’s some plot, a silly misunderstanding, not much character or story development, and, most disappointingly, it didn’t feel all that cozy.

Read at your own accord.

2.25/5 ⭐

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Andi Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyra's a Fire witch who finds herself in trouble with her Coven. She is given a year of community service which has her sent to Cairn, a Minotaur. He's settled in his quiet life working in his garden. This pair have to get along despite their indifference to each other.
They have to overcome emotional issues from their pasts and learn to move forward, despite opposition and breaking rules to find that Hea and peace.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fantastic book! I loved the super low stakes and the chemistry between the main characters was perfect. I'm usually not much of an age-gap fan, but this didn't do anything to make it seem inappropriate or taboo. They are both just so perfect for each other and the growth, both with their relationship and as individuals, was just delightful to read. And I think I'm getting hints of who the couple will be in book 3? Super excited for that.

[Tiffany Tantrum · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so cute! A cozy fantasy monster romance indeed. Although I wouldn't say that Cairn is a monster, more like if Luke Danes was a Minotaur he would be Cairn. A little grumpy, likes to be left alone, gardens, bakes, makes lattes but has a hidden sweet side that he only shows for one person. And then there is Lyra. A spicy fire witch trying to figure out her magic, causing a little chaos along the way. This book is perfect for a cozy Fall afternoon or a date night with a book and your favorite drink. It has an academy setting in Autumn, a grumpy MMC, a feisty FMC, cottagecore with some spice, and I had a great time! I can't wait to dive into the next book!

E-book was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.

[Thea-Louvise · Rating 4 out of 5]

ahhh my 10th ARC! i have been waiting to be able to read the second book of this series and it did not let me down! so cosy and such a peaceful read, absolutely perfect to just relax! i loved getting to know another character from the friend group and a new pairing and tropes! i enjoyed this alot!<3

[Ecem · Rating 3 out of 5]

*****Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of A Witch and Her Minotaur by Emberly Wyndham in exchange for an honest review.

I honestly don’t know why it turned out this way. The book actually started really well, but the whole setting and atmosphere kept reminding me of Hogwarts. Because of that, I couldn’t warm up to the story. Every time Cairn was mentioned, I pictured Hagrid, and whenever the school or its surroundings were described, all I could see in my mind was Hagrid’s hut and Hogwarts. Unfortunately, that became one of the main reasons I struggled to connect with the book.

As the story went on, I also found it difficult to connect with the female character. I never really managed to bond with her, and that made it hard for me to fully focus on the story. That being said, the pacing and progression of the plot weren’t bad, and the world-building itself was definitely rich and well-crafted. Still, for me, it felt a bit too much like Hogwarts, and that held me back from enjoying it as much as I wanted.

[Bookworm From Finland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it!

A sweet, quick read and spicy age- and size-gap monster romance, set in a magic school. It was lovely to watch Lyra's confidence grow and the gardening and baking brought cozy elements to the book.

Thanks to author Emberly Wyndham and NetGalley for the early review copy.

[Micaelasofia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!
it has a very homely feeling and is a cozy read with some spice.
I would recommend it!

[c_reads_books_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

True rating: 3.5/5

I enjoyed this spicy and sweet follow up to A Witch & Her Dragon in this interconnected standalone series. It was fun to revisit the ladies' dorm at Coven Crest Academy and meeting gentle Cairn. Their love story was sweet, and Lyra's initial 'pushiness' is addressed later in the story - meaning that it was an intended plot point rather than a minor red flag for me.

I am relatively new to monster romance and so perhaps my views are more as a result of not being read enough, but the constant focus on Lyra's preparation and then later the length of time the specific 'act' was really pulled me out of the story. I appreciate the more realistic need for a human to be "made ready" for a minotaur, but this felt like it took away from the fantasy of the whole circumstance for me.

That said, I will definitely continue to read this series - I'm already keeping my eyes out for A Witch & Her Orc!

Thank you to Emberly Wyndham and BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review A Witch & Her Minotaur prior to its release.

[Kaat SweetOnStories · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lyra Wilder is in big trouble. Big. HUGE. A second-year at Coven Crest academy, the volatile, red-headed fire witch is one accidental case of arson removed from being kicked out of the magic school. The idea of disappointing her father nearly breaks her heart, and it is the only reason she accepts her punishment: a year of community service with the academy's groundkeeper, Cairn Axton, a quiet minotaur who typically minds his own business, currently occupied enough what with being at a crossroads in his career. The introverted giant isn't pleased with the arrangement: why should he be the one stuck with a bratty witch who disrupts his peace and quiet, and could literally set fire to his garden and cottage? 
Neither of them sees it coming when the only thing Lyra sets ablaze turns out to be Cairn's heart, with Lyra's own heart burning just as fiercely for him. Their deepening bond defies all the odds, as well as the rules... is it really worth the risk?

The second book in a quartet of interconnected standalones, A Witch and Her Minotaur brings us back to the group of four witchy roommates at a magic academy. Though you don't need to read all books to understand the story, I think there's a benefit to reading these in order. Book one, A Witch and Her Dragon (which I rated 4 stars), features witch Alina and her romantic partner Raelan; through Alina, we met her roommate Lyra. There is an brief antagonistic first encounter between Lyra and Cairn, which immediately set off alarm bells that these two would definitely cross paths again in the future. And so, here we are. Just a bit of a backstory.

What I like immediately, having read both books now, is that they're very different from each other. They don't follow the same formula. Whereas book one was more action-packed with a thrilling plotline, book two is decidedly calmer and slow-paced, which fits the characters. Cairn is all about slow and cozy living, sitting by the warming fire in his cottage with a cup of tea in one hand and a book on gardening in the other... Lyra is a force to be reckoned with, but her arc sees her finding her much-needed way within that calm Cairn offers. And so the quieter mood and comparatively more limited setting (most of the story takes place in or around Cairn's cottage) is very fitting. I like that the books have their own personalities just as much as the witches and their partners do.

One thing that isn't slow, though, is how these two get together. Honestly, the romance between Lyra and Cairn doesn't have as much build-up, and is quite lusty rather than lovey, focused on the physical rather than on connection (especially from Lyra's PoV). That isn't to say there isn't a connection, but I'm missing something as they go from reluctant cooperation to Lyra wanting him to f*ck her. Cairn is written as wise (this is age gap with him being 10 years older), careful (hello, forbidden romance?), considerate, not at all a risk-taker, and so I struggle with believing he'd be so quickly willing to risk it all for what is essentially, this early on, something more physical rather than emotional. I would have liked a more romantic side to our gentle giant (...to start) and for him to go full-blown monster-daddy mode later, when he's more sure of himself in Lyra's presence and when their relationship is more solid. These two appear to go about it in reverse: it is all about "f*cking" to these two, and all of their intimacy focuses on getting her ready to "take him" rather than just... be intimate for the sake of it.

I don't read monster romance often, because it isn't really my thing, but I try and keep an open mind always. Cairn is pretty humanoid, save for some details, and that in my opinion makes this book a really good introduction to newer readers of the minotaur romance subgenre, which really is gaining in popularity. I find this book quite accessible to a newbie like myself and tame in comparison to other books I've heard about, and would recommend it to readers interested in dipping their toes into monster romances. But I digress a little: I want to point out that a facet of monster romance does focus on size incompatibility which is then made compatible by way of preparation, so I understand why it's a huge part (pun intended) of Lyra and Cairn's romance. I don't wish to discount that. But ack, I just... miss the connection. Initially.

I do think the balance in lust versus love shifts as we keep reading (proving that sometimes, ya gotta keep going), because these characters obviously encourage each other to heal and grow (with a third act breakup that does make sense - I'm OK with it if there is organic character development and an increase in compatibility as a result), and that is a loving way to affect and respond to a significant other, as well. Their love does convince and shine, and I think it's an endearing romance eventually, and overall. Upon finishing, I found myself quite moved by their arc, and very happy with how maturely conflicts are resolved, and that's why I do rate it 4-stars despite not vibing with the romance's build-up.

The cozy feel is a delight, and what's thoroughly enjoyable is the amount of interactions Lyra has with her spirit animal Juniper, a cute little rat. She is the most adorable little thing and brightens every page that even merely mentions her. What I miss, is more interactions with the friend group. I feel the girls had such a closeness in book one, and was hoping to see more of that in its sequel. But the good news is: we get two more books in the Coven Crest series, and enough material to get to know Poppy and Maeve, and hopefully see the roommates (and their partners? Oh I'd love that) bond further. Book three in the quartet is A Witch and Her Orc, and will feature Poppy and Aric, Maeve's stepbrother and Coven Crest's star runeball player. Yes, it's already on my "will read" list. Obviously.

Thank you NetGalley and author Emberly Wyndham for generously providing me with a copy of this book; all opinions expressed are honest, voluntary and 100% my own.

[MaryGrace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another masterful installment in the world of Ravenwood and its surroundings. Emberly Wyndham has once again swept me away and swaddled me in a soft blanket, complete with a warm drink and heart flutters. Following Lyra in her second year at Crestwood while she fights for her spot at school. I love that once again, the author is able to pull us into a magical world that feels so real and relatable. A FMC that is struggling with abandonment and anger, and her grumpy counterpart of a groundskeeper that is running from attachment and hurt. The humor and frankness of these characters make you fiercely protective of them. And the spicy scenes? Lord take me. They are small (well, actually, quite the opposite) but mighty. Once again, I really appreciate how Wyndham gives you a story that is a warm apple cider, with a sweater wrapped around the cup, and just a dollop of Brandy. I look forward to the next installment of this series as I am quite fond of the whole dorm now.

🌶🌶🌶 3 chili peppers: Romance with explicit sex scenes, but generally milder language.
PROS:
- grumpy/sunshine
- age gap
- forbidden romance
- college romance
- strangers to lovers
- overcoming emotional trauma

CONS:
- Honestly? I could use a little more length, but not much room to complain here.

Did you think about the book when not reading it?
- Yes

How severe was the angst?
- When it happened, I could feel it coming and dreaded the shoe dropping.

Angst follow-up: what stuck out?
- I knew that Lyra was going to self-sabotage herself when she found the letter from the Conservatory and not let Cairn explain things. My cringe made me abandon the story for a half day while I built up the courage to face the music.

Re-readability
- Would read again

If part of a series, would you continue?
- Yes

How do the characters change throughout the book?
- Lyra finds a way to center herself and gain control over the emotional turbulence of her powers. Cairn learns to let others in again and closer to him despite past hurts.

Compelling plot?
- Yes

Believable dialogue?
- Yes

Did any quotes strike me?
- "I didn't realize how high-maintenance rubbish piles could be." p 30
- Then her hands are on either side of my face, and she pushes her fingers through my scruffy facial har. I should trim it. It's grown way too long. She breaks our kiss, and breathlessly, she whispers, "I love your beard." Okay, in that case, maybe I won't be trimming it.
- ...I finally see what I've been looking for all night. Her. And oh, wow. Wow. Tonight, she looks dangerous--like she might eat mean whole and then string their teeth onto a necklace to display for all the world to see. Her hair is wild, untamed. The smoky makeup she wears makes her crimson eyes more vibrant, like candles burn behind each iris. And that dress, pulled tight and laced at her hips...Am I going to faint? I'm definitely feeling lightheaded, and I know for certain it's not from the one mug of mead I've been nursing all night. p 128
- "Anger is exhausting. It weighs you down, becomes a bag that's heavier to carry with each passing day. And though what she did will never be gone from your memory, you can choose to put that bag down, Ly. Choose to leave it where it lies. Your anger, while valid, doesn't change anything. I learned long ago that finding my joy was much more important than holding on to my hurt." p. 249

Any trigger warnings needed?
- No, just the 18+ or mature readers for the smuttier bits. Again, it is not the focus and is not prolonged.

Author's voice?
- Conversational

What other books are similar to this one?
- The Season of the Witch set in the same world

What did I learn while reading?
Did this book make you think more deeply about any academic or moral topics?
- Having gone through heartbreak and holding onto my pain and anger, the narrative of Lyra letting her mother's abandonment keep a hold on her really resonated with me.

Who would I recommend this book to?
What specific audience would enjoy this book? Is it worth the time for others to read it?
- Late teens and up and anyone that wants some sweet adventure with whimsy and growth, and a touch of spice. And yes, worth the time as it is not a super long read.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 Title: A Witch and Her Minotaur-Coven Crest Academy #2-4

✍🏾 Author: Emberly Wyndham-I read A Witch and Her Dragon and gave it 4 ⭐

📅Publication date: 10-3-25 | Read 10-1-25

📃 Format: eBook 360 pgs.

Genre:
*Paranormal Romance
*Fantasy
*Adult Fic

Tropes:
*age gap-10 years
*magical academia
*forced proximity
*cozy
*minotaur groundskeeper H/ fire witch h
*pet friendly

👆🏾POV: 1st person dual Lyra & Cairn

⚠️TW: forbidden romance, painful s-x, parental abandonment

🌎 Setting: Mysteria-Coven Crest Academy (CCA)

Summary: When fire witch Lyra accidentally sets the greenhouse on fire in botany class after several other mishaps, she's sentenced to 1-year community service with the groundskeeper. Cairn is a quiet, animal & plant loving minotaur who prefers to be alone with his books. Lyra brings literal sparks into his life when she comes to serve her time, but after awhile he likes it. They can't fight their attraction but a job opportunity for Cairn makes him and Lyra question if its love.

👩🏾 Heroine: Lyra Wilder -2nd year @ CCA struggling w/ controlling her fire magic

👨🏾 Hero: Cairn Axton- has worked @ CCA since graduating and is thinking about leaving

🎭 Other Characters:

* Lysander Moonhart-Headmistress
* Poppy, Alina and Maeve-Lyra's roommates
* Raelan Ashvale-Alina's dragon mate
* Aric-Maeve's stepbrother, attends CCA
* Juniper-Lyra's rat companion
* Professors-Fleur and Stone
* Papa-Lyra's father, her mother left them long ago
* Milo Foster-wants Cairn to apply for a job with him @ Columbine Botanical Conservatory and leave CCA

🤔 My Thoughts: Lyra and Cairn were in a forbidden relationship as teacher and student. Their ages weren't revealed but there was a 10-year age gap. Both had fears with being alone and abandoned, but once they started spending more time together their attraction grew. I cringed at the s-x scenes a little, but there were no consent issues. This was a solid sequel and it had a cute encounter with Poppy and Aric for book #3.

Rating: 4/5 ✨
Spice level 5/5 🌶️ explicit, open door

**Thanks to NetGalley and Emily Wyndham for this ARC! I am leaving this review of my own accord. All thoughts are my own. **

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gleeful Goblin Review: Man, I really felt for our FMC Lyra in this book. As a bit of a disasterpiece theatre cast member myself, I can understand how frustrating it is to have accidents that cause damage like what keeps happening to Lyra around her school. I also have no luck with plants similar to her as well. Since Lyra is in an academy setting there's really no escaping the environment that is ratcheting up her anxiety, which makes her fire magic more unpredictable, which circles back to anxiety, etc into infinity. Early in the book the main conflict is that enough accidents have occured around campus due Lyra's fire magic that she's in serious danger of expulsion.

Our MMC Cairn meanwhile is the opposite of Lyra's fiery volatility and unpredictable magic. He is very grounded, physically considering he's the grounds caretaker and emotionally as nothing much ruffles him. He's also very used to and comfortable with his own company and isn't looking to change that by adding Lyra as his assistant! But Cairn is, even by his own admission, a big old softy: "Tiny witch hands—with a problem controlling their fire. I’m quite sure I don’t need such a pair of hands. Mine do perfectly well, thank you. “And what is she supposed to get out of this . . . collaboration?” Lysandra’s pale blue eyes find me again. “She needs to ground herself, to learn how to control her magic. Hard work may be just what she needs. And plants can stabilize us. They’re healing.” She reaches out and places a hand gently on my knee, despite the mud and dirt still staining the fabric from my work this morning. “I’d hate to see her lose her place at Coven Crest because she can’t get a handle on her emotions.” Sympathy flickers in her gaze. “I’m not sure what else to do for her, Cairn. You may be her last hope.” Something squeezes in my chest. I wish it wouldn’t. I’m much too softhearted for my own good. Lysandra continues to stare at me with those big pleading eyes. How am I supposed to say no when she’s looking at me like that? I can’t. And she knows it. So, with a barely restrained groan, I yield. “Fine. I’ll deal with the fire witch.”

It was so easy for these two characters to steal my heart from so early in this story. I was initially hesitant because typically age gap and student/teacher isn't my jam but I'll take a chance on just about any book that has "cozy" and "minotaur" involved. And I'm thrilled that I did take that chance because this book was a ton of fun. 5/5 Stars

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, this book was such a delight to read. It had such a different tone from the first book. Where there had been the elements of suspense woven through the fated-mates romance between the characters in Book 1 (A Witch and her Dragon), this book was all pure romance, forbidden and complicated though it was.

So in this book we meet Lyra Wilder, a fire witch who is yet to master her abilities at wielding her element. She is assigned to work under the guidance of the school's groundskeeper, Cairn Axton, in the hopes that through him, Lyra will finally be able to learn the techniques to fully master her power. This arrangement starts out as wholly unwelcome to them both, but as they work more closely together, their perceptions of each other shift, and their affection for each other starts to blossom.

In spite of the happiness and sense of contentedness they instill in each other's company, there is the pesky fact that their deepening relationship is forbidden. It is this complication that we then get to see unravel for the rest of the story. Along the way, both Lyra and Cairn are made to face difficult choices that will impact their present and future. We see how their personal histories play out as they confront their fears - will they let their fears dictate their choices, or will they learn to trust that their love for each other can be bigger than their fears? Will they fight for each other, or let each other go? Will they keep the status quo, or will they seize the chance for change?

The climactic point of this story had resonated so well with me because it is something my husband and I experience on a regular basis. Having to say goodbye prior to experiencing another long bout of separation is always difficult and heartbreaking, no matter how many times we've been through it. So I knew exactly what Lyra and Cairn had been feeling at that point. That then sealed the 5-star for this book for me, because a great book always impacts you at your core.

I was granted a free review copy of this book. I write this review voluntarily.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Witch and Her Minotaur by Emberly Wyndham sweeps readers back into the magical world of Coven Crest Academy, where witches, wizards, shifters, vampires, and even minotaurs collide in a tangle of chaos, charm, and forbidden romance.

Our fiery FMC, Lyra Wilder, is a spirited witch with vibrant red curls, golden-ringed eyes, and a pesky habit of accidentally setting things ablaze—greenhouse flowers, libraries, you name it. At her side is her loyal spirit companion, Juniper the rat, who adds a delightful touch of quirk to Lyra’s journey. With her midterms looming and the threat of expulsion hanging over her, Lyra is forced into “community service” with the academy’s broody groundskeeper.

Enter Cairn (Mr. Axton), a hulking minotaur who would rather nurture his plants than deal with people after having his heart broken once before. With his pointy ears, scruffy beard, septum piercing, and quiet strength, Cairn is both intimidating and surprisingly endearing. He and Lyra couldn’t be more different—yet their chemistry ignites in stolen glances, secret trysts, and one very memorable “fuck it” moment. Their relationship is both spicy 🌶️ and forbidden, adding a delicious tension as they sneak around faculty rules.

What stood out:
• The unique blend of magical beings (witches, minotaurs, dragon shifters, etc.) kept the world vibrant and immersive.
• Lyra’s growth as she battles her unruly magic and her fears of failure felt raw and relatable.
• The romantic tension was perfectly balanced between sweet, steamy, and forbidden.
• Cairn’s plant-loving, gruff-yet-gentle nature made him one of my favorite monster MMCs yet.

The ending was heartwarming and hopeful, with Cairn moving on to the Columbine Conservatory and Lyra finally finding her place at the academy. This is a magical, romantic, and spicy addition to the series—perfect for anyone who loves a forbidden romance wrapped in whimsical worldbuilding.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

[Kelly Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has officially cemented Monster Romance as one of my absolute favorite genres. I came for the spice (and yes, it’s spicing 👀🔥), but I stayed for the heart. Because wow—this story is just so cozy. It radiates cottagecore and cozy academia vibes in the best way: gardens, cooking, gentle moments, and soft monster care.

Lyra is bold, fiery, and full of chaos, while Cairn is the ultimate grumpy, reclusive MMC… except, it’s his softness that completely undid me. His quiet strength, his gardening, his cooking, his tender care of wild animals, it all made my heart thud. Honestly, there’s something irresistible about a brooding minotaur who’s as good with his hands in the soil as he is with his heart.

The romance simmers and blooms slowly, and its equal parts tender and forbidden. Their push and pull felt so natural, and the emotional growth made their connection all the more magical. This book proves monster romance doesn’t have to be dark or brutal, it can be tender, cozy, and oh-so romantic while still delivering that dash of spice we’re all here for it (OK, it wasn’t a dash, it was the whole spice rack).

If you love grumpy x sunshine, cozy fantasy vibes, and a monster MMC who’ll melt your heart as easily as he’ll set it racing, A Witch and Her Minotaur belongs on your cozy autumn reading list, stat!

This was actually my first time reading this author (I jumped straight into book two without reading the first because I just loved the sound of this book), and now I’m definitely intrigued. While I never felt lost, this one works perfectly as a standalone, I’ll absolutely be going back to pick up the first and patiently (impatiently) waiting for the third.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Author Emberly Wyndham for providing me an ARC of this book!

[Jessica Matts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Coven Crest Academy…an magical school

What happens when you can’t control your magic…especially when you’re an elemental witch? And that element…happens to be fire??

Well, if you’re Lyra Wilder…you’re treading on thin ice….once her emotions start to get riled…her magic quickly follows…

So…when you accidentally set fire to the greenhouse….what happens??

Well…no one wants to expel her…so she is ‘sentenced’ to a year of community service with the minotaur groundskeeper…whom the headmistress hopes will help ‘calm’ her magic so that she make it through the rest of her time at Coven Crest.

Needless to say…the groundskeeper isn’t exactly happy to be ‘overseeing’ an volatile fire witch…especially around plants & such that could go up in smoke.

But they start to work well together…and they start to be drawn to each other…

But…he’s faculty…she’s a student, and about a decade or so younger…

She doesn’t see the problems…

Can they figure things out?? Does Lyra burn anything else?? The answers & more lie within the pages of A Witch and Her Minotaur, the second book in the Coven Crest Academy series. I loved the first book, I adored the second book & I’ll be keeping my eye out for the next two books in the series as well.

If you like cozy, but spicy monster romances—this book is for you. Enemies-to-lovers…I actually feel like it was ‘miscommunication’ for awhile on both their parts…neither was happy with the initial situation…and men (regardless of whether he’s a minotaur or not) can be stubborn…and so can fire witches with trust issues.

Go grab a copy of A Witch & Her Minotaur…because what better way to spend an weekend then curled up with a good book?? Five out of five stars.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book in this series was really cute and really exciting. I was therefore really looking forward to this second book in this world! As soon as the book appeared on Netgalley I therefore requested my digital review copy and luckily the author granted me one.

This story felt a little lighter than the first book in the series. The first book had a side plot, this book was fully about the blossoming romance between the two main characters. I didn't miss the side plot, though. These characters were both interesting enough for this book to be fully about them. They both had their own experiences from the past and those heavily influenced how they treated each other and how they reacted to what happened.

Although this book contains a forbidden romance, he is employed by the school and she is a student, it never feels problematic. He's not in a position to determine her grades or her success. She's not an innocent child having her first crush ever. They're both adults, they know that what they do is not allowed and eventually they handle the situation perfectly. Other characters also didn't make a big issue about it and I loved that.

I also liked how this book has a feel that fits the characters. Compared to the first book, this book feels calmer, more relaxed. And yet, there is a lot of passion and fire in it too. The author did an amazing job balancing emotional scenes and the characters connecting with more intimate moments. It does mean that being able to connect with the characters and feeling for them becomes more important. I cared about them, I felt for them, and I rooted for them.

I can't wait for the next book in the series!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. 


A witch and her minotaur is a cozy, spicy romance with a tiny dash of fantasy and great autumn vibes!


Lyra is a troubled fire witch who's emotional turmoil is causing her problems at Coven Crest. After burning multiple school properties by accident she is sentenced to community service with the reclusive Minotaur groundskeeper. 


Cairn lives alone, quietly tending the grounds and gardens of Coven Crest Academy, spurning even the constantly offered social interactions of the staff. He's content to live his lonely life behind his walls to keep himself and his heart safe. But that all changes when a troublesome fire witch is put under his care. 


But as their forbidden student/faculty relationship blossoms, both their fears and relationship trauma get in the way. 


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


I love, love, love this book!! I thought I loved Alina and Raelan as I love a Princess/bodyguard trope but I absolutely connected with Lyra and Cairn! I was balling my eyes out almost every chapter. This has great Autumn vibes for anyone looking for a fall read. Cairn's soft gentle nature is so at odds with his stature and Lyra's a wildfire that only he can tame. I just loved this one! 


Haha, I loved the Easter eggs from book 1 including Raelan returning Cairn's stolen clothes! 


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am so looking forward to Poppy and Aric! I definitely got the vibes there! I love how the next roommate book is foreshadowed.

[Tralyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read A WITCH AND HER MINOTAUR by Emberly Wyndham for the review tour hosted by the author and R&R Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted e-arc.

I read book 1, A Witch and Her Dragon, earlier this month. I read it in one sitting and loved it. While this series is described as connected standalones, I recommend reading them in order. You learn about the world and meet most of the characters in book 1.

This story was just what I needed. It was cozy, heartfelt, humorous, spicy. I read it in one sitting. I love forbidden romance. It's my favorite trope. I also like a good loner-finds-love kind of story. And, being set in the fall/winter made it perfect reading for this time of year.

Cairn is my favorite character in this book. He has his routines, his tidy little life, and he likes it that way. Then Lyra comes in with her uncontrolled fire magic, her sarcasm, and her red hair. She turns his life upside down. I just love their story. When things finally heat up, they really heat up. They are both on a journey of healing and learning to overcome their fears. Some things are hard to overcome, though. I really wanted a happily ever after for Cairn.

I can't wait for the next installment. In the meantime, I'll be checking out Emberly's backlist!

I recommend A WITCH AND HER MINOTAUR to fans of cozy romance, monster romance, fantasy romance, spicy romance, academy setting, and forbidden love.

[Gabrielle (belle.bookcorner) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story gave me all the cozy feels—crisp air, falling leaves, and a hint of winter magic.
It reminded me so much of when I read The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst a few months ago. That same warm, comforting vibe came rushing back!

The romance did feel a bit fast-paced for my taste, but I really appreciated how Lyra and Cairn’s relationship helped them grow.
Lyra’s bright, energetic personality nudged Cairn out of his shell, making him more open and social.
And Cairn’s quiet, gentle nature helped Lyra learn to channel her magic with grace instead of force. Their dynamic was sweet and surprisingly comforting

That said, I wasn’t expecting the age-gap trope—it totally slipped past me in the tropes list (oops, my bad!). I picked this up purely because I loved the first book so much.
At first, the student x groundskeeper setup threw me off, but once I got past that, I could see how good they are together. They really do bring out the best in one another.

The ending was satisfying—a win-win that made their relationship feel right.
Now I’m dying to know who’s next! Lyra’s friend group still has Maeve and Poppy, and I’m crossing my fingers they’ll each get their own story and happy ending, just like Lyra and Alina did!

Thank you to RR Book Tour and the author for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: sexual content, abandonment, emotional trauma

[Amanda Diers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came into this thinking it might not be my thing...monster smut but in a cozy romantasy? I was so wrong. While the spice was definitely spicy, there was so much more to this book than I expected. I was planning to work through it a little at a time while continuing to read some of my other usual genre books but I devoured this book. The backdrop is done so well. You learn the world and setting gently in snippets so you're not overloaded with the world building and bored for the first 30% of the book. The characters are endearing and so easy to love. The tension and romance are so steamy and compatible. I finished this book in one evening because I couldn't bring myself to wait until the next day. Within the first few pages, I was in and dying to know how our fiery little witch learned to control her magic and how the stoic loner of a minotaur learned to let someone close to him. The tension, distance, love, frustration and sadness felt by the characters are described so poignantly that I felt them them in real time and found myself rooting so hard for the happy ending that even with the absolutely SPICY scenes, the story felt so romantic and complete. So steamy cozy romantasy is a new favorite genre of mine and I've always tracked down Emberly's other writings.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and Emberly Wyndham for an advanced copy!

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book curious about how a fire witch and a minotaur groundskeeper could possibly work—and Emberly Wyndham absolutely delivered. Lyra is everything I love in a heroine: fiery (literally), stubborn, messy, and all heart underneath her sparks. She’s one step away from losing it all at Coven Crest, and then boom—she’s paired with Cairn, the quiet, grounded minotaur who’d rather be alone with his gardens than deal with her chaos.
The forced proximity had me grinning from the start. Their banter is sharp, their tension is slow-burn delicious, and watching Cairn’s calm unravel as Lyra worms her way past his walls was one of the most satisfying parts of this read. I loved how he’s this stoic, earthy protector, yet when it comes to her, his restraint starts to crack, and you just feel the heat simmering between them.
What surprised me most, though, was how cozy this story felt despite the fire and forbidden love. It’s tender, it’s vulnerable, and it really digs into how love can both heal and ignite. By the time Lyra and Cairn finally let go and give in, I was melting right alongside them.
If you’re into cozy monster romance, enemies-to-lovers sparks, and the kind of forbidden, slow-burn chemistry that smolders until it’s ready to roar, A Witch and Her Minotaur is pure magic. Emberly Wyndham blends heart, heat, and fantasy in a way that kept me hooked from page one.

[Bookwyrm_in_KC · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Witch and her Minotaur picks up the following school year from the events of A Witch and Her Dragon. It follows the romance of the chaotic fire witch Lyra and the steady minotaur groundskeeper Cairn.

Lyra has always had difficulty controlling her fire magic. Her magic is connected to her emotions and they always run high, leading to many unfortunate fire related incidents. But the "last straw" event is when she accidentally burns up a bunch of rare plants in her magical botany class after frustration causes her to lose control of her magic.

The headmaster puts her on the magic academy equivalent of academic probation: she has to get a handle on her magic or she'll be expelled. In addition, she is assigned community service hours helping the groundskeeper.

Cairn has lived a fairly solitary, simple existence for many years. He prefers the company of plants and wildlife to any sentient beings. And Lyra is determined to be a thorn in his side.

As they spend time together Cairn teaches Lyra how to be calmer and more intentional with how she approaches things, which in turn helps her begin to controlling her magic better. Lyra's presence helps Cairn begin opening up to new opportunities and experiences.

A Witch and her Minotaur is cute, spicy and cozy. Thank you Emberly Wyndham for the opportunity to advance read!