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A Widow's Charm
Caitlyn Paxson's A WIDOW'S CHARM, pitched for readers of Freya Marske and India Holton, a comedy of errors-esque fantasy romance in which a clever widow blackmails her rakish necromancer neighbor to bring her husband back to life and save her home—only to find herself falling for him.
432 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
April 6, 2026
3.5 ★— Finding your duke husband dead when you’re a woman living in a historical time period and the security of you and your future aren’t settled is a nightmare scenario, and so the heroine of this book tries to be practical, employing a necromancer to bring him back!
This book worked for me on a lot of levels: it’s a historical fantasy, which I always love, and it features a competent heroine colliding with a mischievous, slightly snarky male love interest who's been through a heaping of trauma. I really did like the beginning of this story and how it almost immediately opened on the main character strategizing on how to hide the death of her husband, because, damn, do I love a quick-witted woman!
I also thought that the story had an interesting angle with its “charms,” which are the powers the people in this world have. Where the story lost some steam for me was in the middle, when another character who sort of muddled the romance between Hilde and Elmwood appeared, bringing with it a subplot I didn't care for, and a group of side characters that didn't really entrance me either.
I did really like the dog, though! And the ending was interesting and not as cookie-cutter as I expected, so I did enjoy some of this, but not enough to compensate for how flat the middle fell for me.
_____________
Thank you to Del Rey for the ARC.
This book worked for me on a lot of levels: it’s a historical fantasy, which I always love, and it features a competent heroine colliding with a mischievous, slightly snarky male love interest who's been through a heaping of trauma. I really did like the beginning of this story and how it almost immediately opened on the main character strategizing on how to hide the death of her husband, because, damn, do I love a quick-witted woman!
I also thought that the story had an interesting angle with its “charms,” which are the powers the people in this world have. Where the story lost some steam for me was in the middle, when another character who sort of muddled the romance between Hilde and Elmwood appeared, bringing with it a subplot I didn't care for, and a group of side characters that didn't really entrance me either.
I did really like the dog, though! And the ending was interesting and not as cookie-cutter as I expected, so I did enjoy some of this, but not enough to compensate for how flat the middle fell for me.
_____________
Thank you to Del Rey for the ARC.
October 19, 2025
🪄 Bookish Thoughts
I really enjoyed this cozy fantasy. Elwood was a whole damn vibe 😅 He was easily my favorite character in the entire book. The melodrama and dramatics had me cackling, and he and Hilde were perfect together.
I also loved the world building and all of the side characters. The way it wrapped up was so satisfying. That surprise “lord” at the end had me grinning 😍🤣
🩷 What to Expect
• Widow x Necromancer
• Cozy fantasy
• Witty and whimsical
• Found family
• Magical resurrection
• Enemies to lovers
⸻
⭐ Final Score: 4.25 stars
📅 Pub Date: March 31, 2026
📝 Thank you to Del Rey, Random House Worlds, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed this cozy fantasy. Elwood was a whole damn vibe 😅 He was easily my favorite character in the entire book. The melodrama and dramatics had me cackling, and he and Hilde were perfect together.
I also loved the world building and all of the side characters. The way it wrapped up was so satisfying. That surprise “lord” at the end had me grinning 😍🤣
🩷 What to Expect
• Widow x Necromancer
• Cozy fantasy
• Witty and whimsical
• Found family
• Magical resurrection
• Enemies to lovers
⸻
⭐ Final Score: 4.25 stars
📅 Pub Date: March 31, 2026
📝 Thank you to Del Rey, Random House Worlds, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 27, 2025
pathetic self hating rake x anti land owning widow ft the best dog in fiction maybe??
(anyways this was lovely and still sharp and deeply funny. the kind of cozy fantasy I can get behind)
(anyways this was lovely and still sharp and deeply funny. the kind of cozy fantasy I can get behind)
September 26, 2025
4.5/5-I giggled...I blushed...I kicked my feet in the air...
I'm not usually a romance reader, but I enjoy a cozy fantasy rom-com from time to time, and A Widow's Charm definitely delivered. If you enjoy the way T. Kingfisher weaves tenderness and lightheartedness with the macabre in The Saint of Steel series or Swordheart, you'll definitely fall in love with this cheeky, charming, and endearing debut. Not to mention, I'm a sucker for a book with a trusty pet always at the heels of its protagonists.
My only critique would be that the world building was a little heavy-handed in the beginning, and I would have preferred for it to be spread out a bit more throughout the story. Otherwise, this was a absolute pleasure to read, and I look forward for what Caitlyn Paxson releases next!
Thanks to Netgalley and Del Ray/Random House/Inklore for the ARC!
I'm not usually a romance reader, but I enjoy a cozy fantasy rom-com from time to time, and A Widow's Charm definitely delivered. If you enjoy the way T. Kingfisher weaves tenderness and lightheartedness with the macabre in The Saint of Steel series or Swordheart, you'll definitely fall in love with this cheeky, charming, and endearing debut. Not to mention, I'm a sucker for a book with a trusty pet always at the heels of its protagonists.
My only critique would be that the world building was a little heavy-handed in the beginning, and I would have preferred for it to be spread out a bit more throughout the story. Otherwise, this was a absolute pleasure to read, and I look forward for what Caitlyn Paxson releases next!
Thanks to Netgalley and Del Ray/Random House/Inklore for the ARC!
April 5, 2026
never come between a practical, determined woman and the man with a PhD in pathetic loserism whom she has imprinted on
December 6, 2025
Light and charming and whimsical. I think this had some classic debut problems: the author did NOT trust me as a reader, and was constantly over-explaining the characters’ emotional states, info-dumping, and reminding me about things I did not need reminders about that. I think the overstating of the characters’ emotions made them feel a bit hollow and unconvincing. I also struggled to suspend my disbelief with certain plot elements that were very contrived and overly convenient.
In spite of that, the romance was really sweet and I loved the disability rep and interesting magic system.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
In spite of that, the romance was really sweet and I loved the disability rep and interesting magic system.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 7, 2026
4.5 stars
After the sudden death of her husband, Lady Hildegarde Croft, desperately needs to find a way to save their village from the clutches of her tyrant brother in law. At her wits end, her only hope may be to turn to Lord Elmwood, who is in hiding in the next estate over, and has a special Charm, that of necromancy. Yet Lord Elmwood has vowed never to use his Charm again and so Lady Croft plans to blackmail him. What else could she possibly do?
A Widow’s Charm by Caitlyn Paxson is an absolutely hilarious historical fantasy romcom, full of banter, saucy innuendos and a touch of magic.
Lady Hilde Croft and Lord Elmwood are both disastrous and morally ambiguous characters who despite their obvious flaws, are both adorably heartfelt. Lord Elmwood is a self-confessed rake, a man who is willing to bed anyone, to live life flippantly and without care nor fearing consequences. He can wallow in self pity at times, but then his misery is not without reason having had a father who was callous and unkind and then being part of a war where the horrors overwhelmed him and left him broken and injured. Lady Croft on the other hand cares a great deal about others, but she too is willing to bend her morals for, in her opinion, a righteous cause. I mean Lady Croft stoops to blackmailing on several occasions in order to manipulate Lord Elmwood and though she admonishes herself for it, she still convinces herself that it’s the only way. Yet through alternating POV’s Paxson shapes these characters so well because underneath the surface we discover two people who are growing fond of each other, who sympathise and care for each other, even whilst outwardly betraying and lying to one another. They are both so hopelessly chaotic and so much fun to follow! There were so many scenes where I laughed out loud at the saucy innuendos, they’re misunderstandings and the sparking heat between them! I just love Hilde and Lord Elmwood together and was rather sad to leave them both when the book ended.
“When Rollo showed off his new trick of befouling himself and then rubbing it all over Elmwood's lap, she laughed uproariously.
Elmwood became breathless watching her, as if he were the one laughing.
She was sitting on the lower step and leaning back with her elbows on the threshold. Her hair was up, but little wisps of it fluttered around her face where they'd come loose. She had the sketchbook and a charcoal pencil in her lap, open to an abandoned sketch of a tree. It, like all of her artistic work, was evocative.”
Caught in all the chaos are some fantastic side characters too. Han, Lady Croft’s sister, at first appears to be aloof and emotionless, but the way in which her character develops you discover the reasons behind this, which I never suspected, so that was a nice surprise. Then there was Isolde, a lady who was besotted with Lord Elmwood, she was easy to sympathise with as she’s been treated pretty badly through no fault of her own. Then there was Rollo the dog, he remains spritey and adorable throughout despite what he ordeals! Yet my favourite side character was Winthrop, and never have I been more entertained by a lawyer in my life! Winthrop had such great banter with Lord Elmwood and his friendship and ongoing persistence to make Lord Elmwood value his life was incredibly sweet.
Despite this being a fantasy romcom, there were some slightly darker themes of war, necromancy and forbidden magic. In Paxson’s world there is a war between the kingdoms of Eldmere and Relance and we are shown the cost of not only those soldiers who are sent to battle but also the cost to those left behind having to fund and fuel the war. It is done in a lighthearted manner and doesn’t dwell too much on the hardships, but it does represent how war affects so much, and especially shows us the tyrants who profit from it. Then there are those with a Charm who have to keep their abilities hidden for fear of being outed, punished and although execution was no longer established in Eldmere, Charmers did mysteriously disappear. For Charmers it was a life of fear, of having to hide something that came naturally to them and could be used for good.
“Hilde reached up and ran her fingers absently through her unbound hair, as if she were combing out knots. Elmwood clung to the gesture as a drowning man clings to a bit of wreckage. If he were to run his fingers through that mass of hair, it would be so cool and heavy against his skin. It would weigh his hands down, pressing the tremble right out of them.”
A Widow’s Charm is a comedy of errors that centres on two delightfully disastrous characters and a spicy romance. This is a tale that will bring joy and laughter.
ARC provided by Ayo at Arcadia Books in exchange for an honest review. All quotes used are taken from an early ARC and are subject to change on publication.
After the sudden death of her husband, Lady Hildegarde Croft, desperately needs to find a way to save their village from the clutches of her tyrant brother in law. At her wits end, her only hope may be to turn to Lord Elmwood, who is in hiding in the next estate over, and has a special Charm, that of necromancy. Yet Lord Elmwood has vowed never to use his Charm again and so Lady Croft plans to blackmail him. What else could she possibly do?
A Widow’s Charm by Caitlyn Paxson is an absolutely hilarious historical fantasy romcom, full of banter, saucy innuendos and a touch of magic.
Lady Hilde Croft and Lord Elmwood are both disastrous and morally ambiguous characters who despite their obvious flaws, are both adorably heartfelt. Lord Elmwood is a self-confessed rake, a man who is willing to bed anyone, to live life flippantly and without care nor fearing consequences. He can wallow in self pity at times, but then his misery is not without reason having had a father who was callous and unkind and then being part of a war where the horrors overwhelmed him and left him broken and injured. Lady Croft on the other hand cares a great deal about others, but she too is willing to bend her morals for, in her opinion, a righteous cause. I mean Lady Croft stoops to blackmailing on several occasions in order to manipulate Lord Elmwood and though she admonishes herself for it, she still convinces herself that it’s the only way. Yet through alternating POV’s Paxson shapes these characters so well because underneath the surface we discover two people who are growing fond of each other, who sympathise and care for each other, even whilst outwardly betraying and lying to one another. They are both so hopelessly chaotic and so much fun to follow! There were so many scenes where I laughed out loud at the saucy innuendos, they’re misunderstandings and the sparking heat between them! I just love Hilde and Lord Elmwood together and was rather sad to leave them both when the book ended.
“When Rollo showed off his new trick of befouling himself and then rubbing it all over Elmwood's lap, she laughed uproariously.
Elmwood became breathless watching her, as if he were the one laughing.
She was sitting on the lower step and leaning back with her elbows on the threshold. Her hair was up, but little wisps of it fluttered around her face where they'd come loose. She had the sketchbook and a charcoal pencil in her lap, open to an abandoned sketch of a tree. It, like all of her artistic work, was evocative.”
Caught in all the chaos are some fantastic side characters too. Han, Lady Croft’s sister, at first appears to be aloof and emotionless, but the way in which her character develops you discover the reasons behind this, which I never suspected, so that was a nice surprise. Then there was Isolde, a lady who was besotted with Lord Elmwood, she was easy to sympathise with as she’s been treated pretty badly through no fault of her own. Then there was Rollo the dog, he remains spritey and adorable throughout despite what he ordeals! Yet my favourite side character was Winthrop, and never have I been more entertained by a lawyer in my life! Winthrop had such great banter with Lord Elmwood and his friendship and ongoing persistence to make Lord Elmwood value his life was incredibly sweet.
Despite this being a fantasy romcom, there were some slightly darker themes of war, necromancy and forbidden magic. In Paxson’s world there is a war between the kingdoms of Eldmere and Relance and we are shown the cost of not only those soldiers who are sent to battle but also the cost to those left behind having to fund and fuel the war. It is done in a lighthearted manner and doesn’t dwell too much on the hardships, but it does represent how war affects so much, and especially shows us the tyrants who profit from it. Then there are those with a Charm who have to keep their abilities hidden for fear of being outed, punished and although execution was no longer established in Eldmere, Charmers did mysteriously disappear. For Charmers it was a life of fear, of having to hide something that came naturally to them and could be used for good.
“Hilde reached up and ran her fingers absently through her unbound hair, as if she were combing out knots. Elmwood clung to the gesture as a drowning man clings to a bit of wreckage. If he were to run his fingers through that mass of hair, it would be so cool and heavy against his skin. It would weigh his hands down, pressing the tremble right out of them.”
A Widow’s Charm is a comedy of errors that centres on two delightfully disastrous characters and a spicy romance. This is a tale that will bring joy and laughter.
ARC provided by Ayo at Arcadia Books in exchange for an honest review. All quotes used are taken from an early ARC and are subject to change on publication.
September 30, 2025
Okay that ending really got me.
A WIDOW’S CHARM puts a lady widow with a dead husband and dependent tenants and unfinished business against a fugitive necromancer who’s sworn never to use his Charm again. She’s trying to blackmail him. He thinks she’s flirting with him. Farce ensues.
Portions of the book worked better for me than others—I also think some bits were setup for possibly other books in a series, which left a few threads here and there, but this was a good read and the characters did some emotional work unpacking their baggage and trauma.
The ending scene did get me though. 🥹
Heat level: 3.5. There are a couple on page scenes and the MMC is bi and a “rake” though this just means he has slept with a lot of people. No actual rakishness exists, he is a sad golden retriever that has been kicked more times than is good for him.
A WIDOW’S CHARM puts a lady widow with a dead husband and dependent tenants and unfinished business against a fugitive necromancer who’s sworn never to use his Charm again. She’s trying to blackmail him. He thinks she’s flirting with him. Farce ensues.
Portions of the book worked better for me than others—I also think some bits were setup for possibly other books in a series, which left a few threads here and there, but this was a good read and the characters did some emotional work unpacking their baggage and trauma.
The ending scene did get me though. 🥹
Heat level: 3.5. There are a couple on page scenes and the MMC is bi and a “rake” though this just means he has slept with a lot of people. No actual rakishness exists, he is a sad golden retriever that has been kicked more times than is good for him.
January 4, 2026
This was a very pleasant and fast paced book. The idea of a resourceful widow blackmailing a grumpy aristocrat with necromancy powers into resurrecting her husband is a really fun hook, and of course from there things quickly spiral into something much bigger than that initial setup.
The book is marketed as cozy fantasy, and it does lean into that label with a small scale setting and a strong focus on community and relationships. The plot itself is not particularly complicated and relies heavily on comedy of errors and some genuinely amusing moments. That said, what actually happens in the story does not always feel fully cozy. There are a few heavier themes, and the stakes are real, even if they are more personal than world ending. Overall, the balance between cozy and heavy is handled well.
What really makes this novel work are the characters. I really enjoy reading about characters who are a bit older and already know what they want from life, what they like, and what they refuse to put up with. Hilde fits that perfectly. Elmwood does as well, with the added bonus of that classic grumpy man who slowly softens over time. The overall vibe of both the characters and the story reminded me a lot of T. Kingfisher’s Sworn Soldier series, so if you like those kinds of books, this one might be right up your alley.
If I had any complaints, the ending felt a bit rushed, and everything wrapped up very neatly and very quickly in the characters’ favor. But honestly, that is also part of the cozy fantasy formula, so it did not bother me too much in the end.
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The book is marketed as cozy fantasy, and it does lean into that label with a small scale setting and a strong focus on community and relationships. The plot itself is not particularly complicated and relies heavily on comedy of errors and some genuinely amusing moments. That said, what actually happens in the story does not always feel fully cozy. There are a few heavier themes, and the stakes are real, even if they are more personal than world ending. Overall, the balance between cozy and heavy is handled well.
What really makes this novel work are the characters. I really enjoy reading about characters who are a bit older and already know what they want from life, what they like, and what they refuse to put up with. Hilde fits that perfectly. Elmwood does as well, with the added bonus of that classic grumpy man who slowly softens over time. The overall vibe of both the characters and the story reminded me a lot of T. Kingfisher’s Sworn Soldier series, so if you like those kinds of books, this one might be right up your alley.
If I had any complaints, the ending felt a bit rushed, and everything wrapped up very neatly and very quickly in the characters’ favor. But honestly, that is also part of the cozy fantasy formula, so it did not bother me too much in the end.
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 7, 2026
This was a fun listen. I liked the magic elements, and the characters have very fun dialogue interactions. There is also a dog. I wish the world had been focused on a bit more, and apparently cozy fantasy is doing sex scenes now? They weren't bad at all, but I'm feeling particularly asexual this week and zoned out during all of them.
I'm defffffinitely in for the future book that is hinted at between Hilde's sister Han and Lady Isabel.
30 Books in 30 Days—2026
Book 4/30
I'm defffffinitely in for the future book that is hinted at between Hilde's sister Han and Lady Isabel.
30 Books in 30 Days—2026
Book 4/30
April 4, 2026
I quite enjoyed this, especially finding out the male lead was bisexual. It's always a pleasant surprise finding bisexuals in books I read. Both characters were compelling and I liked them well enough. I do wish we got a bit more in terms of the charm/magic system though.
September 2, 2025
This was an amazing debut. It's the kind of book you read with an involuntary tiny smile on your face. You keep turning the pages wanting to know what happens next and then when you find out what's next, it's both unexpected and delightful. The wordplay, the wit, and the chemistry; this book has all of that and I highly recommend you preorder it. This little gem will be available in March 2026. I was lucky enough to read it early with a digital ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75
I am quite conflicted about my feelings for this one. There were parts of it that I liked very much and some I didn't particularly enjoy but overall I think I have come to the conclusion, the goods outweighed the bads in this case. Also I didn’t expect this books to be have some gory elements and divulge into some serious topic and mental health issues but needless to say I appreciated those parts too
I also loved Hilde as a character, she never wavered in her determination and stood her ground throughout the entire book. Although I found the reaction to her husband’s death in the beginning to not hold a lot of emotional depth, given she was married to him for years and in her ways had come to appreciate him. The plot was slow at first but it picks up pace after the 50% mark. I didn't necessarily enjoy the side plot with the betrothed thing but I guess that portion was important to plant the seed for the next book which I plan to read too. My main qualm was with Elmwood, although I sympathise with his struggles and trauma I found him to be written in a very sleazy kind of way. He tends to notice people’s physical form a lot and goes into details describing it. At the beginning most of his thoughts were about sleeping with people which I didn't really want to read about. At some points I also wished this book was just written in Hilde’s pov. Something I must point out about Elmwood’s character is, it is actually quite refreshing to read about a male character who doesn't fit the mould created for mmcs in the romantasy genre. he was a loser and I love that for him. There was this one time where I thought this was going to end in a throuple but alas that didn’t happen. I do think the author should write a book about Winthrop. I liked him more.
this is one of the first arcs i ever got approved for i am very glad i liked it
I am quite conflicted about my feelings for this one. There were parts of it that I liked very much and some I didn't particularly enjoy but overall I think I have come to the conclusion, the goods outweighed the bads in this case. Also I didn’t expect this books to be have some gory elements and divulge into some serious topic and mental health issues but needless to say I appreciated those parts too
I also loved Hilde as a character, she never wavered in her determination and stood her ground throughout the entire book. Although I found the reaction to her husband’s death in the beginning to not hold a lot of emotional depth, given she was married to him for years and in her ways had come to appreciate him. The plot was slow at first but it picks up pace after the 50% mark. I didn't necessarily enjoy the side plot with the betrothed thing but I guess that portion was important to plant the seed for the next book which I plan to read too. My main qualm was with Elmwood, although I sympathise with his struggles and trauma I found him to be written in a very sleazy kind of way. He tends to notice people’s physical form a lot and goes into details describing it. At the beginning most of his thoughts were about sleeping with people which I didn't really want to read about. At some points I also wished this book was just written in Hilde’s pov. Something I must point out about Elmwood’s character is, it is actually quite refreshing to read about a male character who doesn't fit the mould created for mmcs in the romantasy genre. he was a loser and I love that for him. There was this one time where I thought this was going to end in a throuple but alas that didn’t happen. I do think the author should write a book about Winthrop. I liked him more.
this is one of the first arcs i ever got approved for i am very glad i liked it
March 10, 2026
I loved this cozy story. The premise alone hooked me a clever widow blackmailing a grumpy necromancer into resurrecting her husband to save her village is such a fun setup.
This one really leans into the cozy fantasy vibe with a smaller scale story focused on the characters and their community. Hilde is resourceful and determined, while Elmwood has that classic grumpy exterior that slowly softens.
The banter and humor made this such an entertaining read, but it also had some deeper emotional moments that gave the story heart. Overall, a really charming cozy fantasy with a unique premise and great characters.
This one really leans into the cozy fantasy vibe with a smaller scale story focused on the characters and their community. Hilde is resourceful and determined, while Elmwood has that classic grumpy exterior that slowly softens.
The banter and humor made this such an entertaining read, but it also had some deeper emotional moments that gave the story heart. Overall, a really charming cozy fantasy with a unique premise and great characters.
March 28, 2026
4.25 stars
January 25, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for this arc!
This was a delightfully fun and cozy fantasy romance! It had good writing, good character development, and the most adorable doggy sidekick. If you are a fan of India Holton’s books, I think you would enjoy this. I look forward to more from this author!
This was a delightfully fun and cozy fantasy romance! It had good writing, good character development, and the most adorable doggy sidekick. If you are a fan of India Holton’s books, I think you would enjoy this. I look forward to more from this author!
April 17, 2026
Thank you so much Del Rey for this beautiful arc!
This filled a Bridgerton-shaped gap in my heart I didn’t even realize was still there.
A Widow’s Charm gave me all the lush, romantic, slightly scandalous historical fantasy vibes I’ve been craving. It’s elegant, emotional, and just messy enough in all the right ways.
Lady Hildegarde Croft was such a strong center to the story. I loved how she refuses to be reduced to a grieving widow and instead takes control of her situation in ways that are clever, bold, and a little morally complicated in the most interesting way.
And Lord Elmwood? A destitute man with forbidden magic and terrible timing? Immediately compelling. Their dynamic is full of tension—part strategy, part attraction, part “this is absolutely going to go wrong.”
What I loved most was how layered everything felt. It’s not just romance—it’s grief, ambition, magic, and two people circling each other while neither of them is being fully honest about what they want.
It gave me longing, drama, and all the Bridgerton-adjacent feelings I was hoping for.
A really satisfying, atmospheric read that completely worked for me.
This filled a Bridgerton-shaped gap in my heart I didn’t even realize was still there.
A Widow’s Charm gave me all the lush, romantic, slightly scandalous historical fantasy vibes I’ve been craving. It’s elegant, emotional, and just messy enough in all the right ways.
Lady Hildegarde Croft was such a strong center to the story. I loved how she refuses to be reduced to a grieving widow and instead takes control of her situation in ways that are clever, bold, and a little morally complicated in the most interesting way.
And Lord Elmwood? A destitute man with forbidden magic and terrible timing? Immediately compelling. Their dynamic is full of tension—part strategy, part attraction, part “this is absolutely going to go wrong.”
What I loved most was how layered everything felt. It’s not just romance—it’s grief, ambition, magic, and two people circling each other while neither of them is being fully honest about what they want.
It gave me longing, drama, and all the Bridgerton-adjacent feelings I was hoping for.
A really satisfying, atmospheric read that completely worked for me.
November 30, 2025
Well I knew that this book is going to have a sort of charm (lol when you read the book you’ll get it) that cannot be found anywhere else when it starts with “I must regretfully inform you that the dog dies. But not for very long”.
What a hilarious and fun story to read on the first snowfall of the winter season this year. I found Lady Hilde to be so charming throughout the story and loved her relationship with her neighbor, Lord Erol.
This is a perfect cozy book for a winter or fall afternoon when you want a story that has copious amounts of humor, little mysteries scattered throughout, and a romance between an unlikely pair (that was founded under less than normal circumstances).
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the eARC of this stunning novel!
What a hilarious and fun story to read on the first snowfall of the winter season this year. I found Lady Hilde to be so charming throughout the story and loved her relationship with her neighbor, Lord Erol.
This is a perfect cozy book for a winter or fall afternoon when you want a story that has copious amounts of humor, little mysteries scattered throughout, and a romance between an unlikely pair (that was founded under less than normal circumstances).
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the eARC of this stunning novel!
September 3, 2025
ARC Review
Lady Hildegarde Croft had a plan: marrying Lord Thorgoode Croft and becoming Lady of the Manor ensured the safety of the people of Croftholde.
But when her husband suddenly dies, she is left alone to deal with his vicious brother, who now threatens her people.
Fortunately, Lady Croft’s new neighbour might be able to solve all her problems—thanks to his charm that can bring people back from the dead. Lord Elmwood is hiding in Croftholde when she decides to blackmail him. What Lady Croft doesn’t know is that Lord Elmwood never intended to use his dark power again.
This book was such a pleasant surprise. It kept me invested throughout the story, and I truly couldn’t have anticipated many of the twists. The plot was original and well-developed, and I especially enjoyed the dual point of view.
One of the things I didn’t expect was the humor. I really enjoyed the banter and the hilarious misunderstandings between the characters. And how could I not mention Rollo? He was the perfect addition to the narrative, and the ending tied everything together beautifully.
As the story progressed, I grew very attached to the two main characters. Both had satisfying character development—they complemented and healed each other in meaningful ways. I also appreciated many of the side characters, especially Mr. Winthrop. I found him really funny and absolutely loved his friendship with Lord Elmwood.
I also really enjoyed the author’s writing style: precise, elegant, and immersive. It truly brought me into this charming and cozy fantasy world.
ARC provided via NetGalley.
Lady Hildegarde Croft had a plan: marrying Lord Thorgoode Croft and becoming Lady of the Manor ensured the safety of the people of Croftholde.
But when her husband suddenly dies, she is left alone to deal with his vicious brother, who now threatens her people.
Fortunately, Lady Croft’s new neighbour might be able to solve all her problems—thanks to his charm that can bring people back from the dead. Lord Elmwood is hiding in Croftholde when she decides to blackmail him. What Lady Croft doesn’t know is that Lord Elmwood never intended to use his dark power again.
This book was such a pleasant surprise. It kept me invested throughout the story, and I truly couldn’t have anticipated many of the twists. The plot was original and well-developed, and I especially enjoyed the dual point of view.
One of the things I didn’t expect was the humor. I really enjoyed the banter and the hilarious misunderstandings between the characters. And how could I not mention Rollo? He was the perfect addition to the narrative, and the ending tied everything together beautifully.
As the story progressed, I grew very attached to the two main characters. Both had satisfying character development—they complemented and healed each other in meaningful ways. I also appreciated many of the side characters, especially Mr. Winthrop. I found him really funny and absolutely loved his friendship with Lord Elmwood.
I also really enjoyed the author’s writing style: precise, elegant, and immersive. It truly brought me into this charming and cozy fantasy world.
ARC provided via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC. Unfortunately, I'm DNFing this at 20%.
The premise sounded promising, and I really wanted to like this book, but it's a mess. I don't DNF books often, but the writing style is a mess. It jumps between language that is supposed to sound historical and modern language filled with vulgarisms. The prose is just not well-written; it's like the author couldn't decide what style they were going for.
I might have continued if it were written only from the female lead's POV, but once we switched to the male POV, I couldn't keep going. He's so annoying, unlikable, and horny… yikes.
I'm sorry, but I do not recommend this at all.
The premise sounded promising, and I really wanted to like this book, but it's a mess. I don't DNF books often, but the writing style is a mess. It jumps between language that is supposed to sound historical and modern language filled with vulgarisms. The prose is just not well-written; it's like the author couldn't decide what style they were going for.
I might have continued if it were written only from the female lead's POV, but once we switched to the male POV, I couldn't keep going. He's so annoying, unlikable, and horny… yikes.
I'm sorry, but I do not recommend this at all.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
i wanted to love this book so bad but unfortunately... this book was very middle of the road for me
so a widow's charm is a romance centered between a widow, trying bring her dead husband back to life, and the necromancer she's blackmailing to do it. it's very lighthearted with a good amount of angst/emotional moments. the writing was fine and i liked how witty some lines were.
however, i felt some of it was over-written, over-explained, very hard to get through. for most of the book, i struggled to connect to the main characters.
overall, i thought this book was just alright! thank you netgalley & the publisher for the arc
so a widow's charm is a romance centered between a widow, trying bring her dead husband back to life, and the necromancer she's blackmailing to do it. it's very lighthearted with a good amount of angst/emotional moments. the writing was fine and i liked how witty some lines were.
however, i felt some of it was over-written, over-explained, very hard to get through. for most of the book, i struggled to connect to the main characters.
overall, i thought this book was just alright! thank you netgalley & the publisher for the arc
April 1, 2026
Hilde, Lady Croft, is in a bind: her husband is dead, and her Charm (which she uses to reanimate things) isn't enough to revive him. But he never quite got around to rewriting the will that would have preserved the estates for the tenants rather than shifting the land back to his powerful brother, and Hilde wants to do everything she can to help her people. Erol Elmwood has the Charm she needs: he can bring dead things back to life. His charm has gotten him in too much trouble in the past though, and he isn't willing to resurrect Lord Croft. He is, however, very interested in the prospect of bedding the man's widow. Of course, basically everything must go wrong along the way.
WHAT A DELIGHT! This book seems to be flying under everyone's radars, but it falls into the cozy-with-high-personal-stakes side of the romantasy genre that I find myself enjoying with increasing frequency. The character work sets it apart from other books I've read, with complex people facing complex choices: a overworked and caring woman, a bisexual himbo aristocrat, a grumpy best friend, an over the top fiancee, an aunt who has no one's best interest in mind, a dead husband, a horrific brother-in-law, and a loyal dog. Watching the characters interact on page had me in stitches, because I was never quite sure what to expect next. Top it all off with exquisite yearning? It was a joy. Every chapter had me wanting to turn the pages for more...and we are rewarded with the absolute perfect epilogue chapter.
Readers used to faster paced books or ones withe more worldbuilding may find the beginning of A Widow's Charm a little slow, but I appreciated Paxson's commitment to laying character groundwork early on. This paid off as the plot picked up and we are mid-conflict with well-rounded characters. The worldbuilding stays light, with only the simplest explanations of a magic systems and an interminable war. I love when we readers can be treated with room for the characters to grow, especially in something as cozy as A Widow's Charm.
Thank you to Del Ray for an eARC. A Widow's Charm is out 3/31/26.
WHAT A DELIGHT! This book seems to be flying under everyone's radars, but it falls into the cozy-with-high-personal-stakes side of the romantasy genre that I find myself enjoying with increasing frequency. The character work sets it apart from other books I've read, with complex people facing complex choices: a overworked and caring woman, a bisexual himbo aristocrat, a grumpy best friend, an over the top fiancee, an aunt who has no one's best interest in mind, a dead husband, a horrific brother-in-law, and a loyal dog. Watching the characters interact on page had me in stitches, because I was never quite sure what to expect next. Top it all off with exquisite yearning? It was a joy. Every chapter had me wanting to turn the pages for more...and we are rewarded with the absolute perfect epilogue chapter.
Readers used to faster paced books or ones withe more worldbuilding may find the beginning of A Widow's Charm a little slow, but I appreciated Paxson's commitment to laying character groundwork early on. This paid off as the plot picked up and we are mid-conflict with well-rounded characters. The worldbuilding stays light, with only the simplest explanations of a magic systems and an interminable war. I love when we readers can be treated with room for the characters to grow, especially in something as cozy as A Widow's Charm.
Thank you to Del Ray for an eARC. A Widow's Charm is out 3/31/26.
April 12, 2026
*4.25 stars
A funny, delightful, and genuinely thoughtful cozy fantasy romance. If you've read any of India Holton's books (The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love, for instance) and liked it well enough but felt like the try-hard wittiness/wordplay got annoying after a while, then BOY do I have a book for you! Paxson is very talented and I was pleasantly surprised at how much emotional depth/vulnerability she was able to achieve in a relatively short amount of time while still balancing the funny moments. I'd describe the spice level as...explicit fade to black?
My only constructive criticism is that I personally feel like this could've used 100 more pages of Hilde and Elmwood's getting-to-know-each other period so that by the time they got together I really felt it, you know? Elmwood is immediately smitten with Hilde because she's a hot juicy widow, and Elmwood is peak blorbo and everybody can't help but love him — the ingredients are there. I was happy for them and was rooting for them and loved how they're so tender with each other, this is true! I just feel like it could've been really punched up if we really got to see them falling for each other over the little moments of domesticity and such. Also, Elmwood genuinely had some dark stuff to work through with his self-loathing/PTSD/suicidal thoughts and what not, and I would've liked to have seen more of that personal journey.
A funny, delightful, and genuinely thoughtful cozy fantasy romance. If you've read any of India Holton's books (The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love, for instance) and liked it well enough but felt like the try-hard wittiness/wordplay got annoying after a while, then BOY do I have a book for you! Paxson is very talented and I was pleasantly surprised at how much emotional depth/vulnerability she was able to achieve in a relatively short amount of time while still balancing the funny moments. I'd describe the spice level as...explicit fade to black?
My only constructive criticism is that I personally feel like this could've used 100 more pages of Hilde and Elmwood's getting-to-know-each other period so that by the time they got together I really felt it, you know? Elmwood is immediately smitten with Hilde because she's a hot juicy widow, and Elmwood is peak blorbo and everybody can't help but love him — the ingredients are there. I was happy for them and was rooting for them and loved how they're so tender with each other, this is true! I just feel like it could've been really punched up if we really got to see them falling for each other over the little moments of domesticity and such. Also, Elmwood genuinely had some dark stuff to work through with his self-loathing/PTSD/suicidal thoughts and what not, and I would've liked to have seen more of that personal journey.
April 2, 2026
This was a very enjoyable cozy fantasy. There are some darker moments here, too, but that doesn't change the overall vibe. The setting was very interesting from the start: a resourceful widow set on enlisting a banished lord to resurrect her newly deceased husband in an attempt to save all her tenants. What could possibly go wrong?
I greatly enjoyed the relationship between Elmwood and Hilde brewing throughout the book. Even with everything at stake—surprising visitors and a dark past—there is never a dull moment with them. It is always a nice change of pace when the characters are older and confident in who they are. They might be stubborn and resistant to change, but through everything that happens, they grow, develop, and reach their best selves by the end of the book.
Both Elmwood and Hilde have their own personal battles to fight, but through it all, they keep gravitating towards each other. The real joy was witnessing their choices and how they go about reaching their goals, though it did seem as if some parts of the ending were almost too good to be true.
Overall, if you enjoy cozy fantasy with a sprinkle of romance (and not with teenagers as the main characters for once!), then I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
I greatly enjoyed the relationship between Elmwood and Hilde brewing throughout the book. Even with everything at stake—surprising visitors and a dark past—there is never a dull moment with them. It is always a nice change of pace when the characters are older and confident in who they are. They might be stubborn and resistant to change, but through everything that happens, they grow, develop, and reach their best selves by the end of the book.
Both Elmwood and Hilde have their own personal battles to fight, but through it all, they keep gravitating towards each other. The real joy was witnessing their choices and how they go about reaching their goals, though it did seem as if some parts of the ending were almost too good to be true.
Overall, if you enjoy cozy fantasy with a sprinkle of romance (and not with teenagers as the main characters for once!), then I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
December 2, 2025
Hilde Croft is admirably not like other ladies with her radical views on land stewardship and the magical ability to retrograde rot. Recently widowed, she needs her dead husband to not be dead, and has a foolproof plan to blackmail the self-loathing necromancer next door to aid her. Unfortunately, said necromancer is up against it, having lost his earldom to a dog and recently sworn off his favorite pastime of pleasures of the flesh. After a difficult bout in the war, he’s none too keen to wield his resurrection charm, but Lady Croft is a persuasive vision of delights, and he is a man of rather large talent, after all. There's a crevasse of inconvenience, reanimated woodcocks, only one dovecote...this book does it all! At one point, Hilde describes her heart as a clay brick lodged inside her rib cage and I felt uncomfortably seen. 5-stars for expanding my repository of insults to include “grasping strumpet” and the MC’s being 30+, so still idiots, but not as idiotic as the average 20 year old in romantasy. If you don’t enjoy fun, whimsy, wordplay, or sex, you’re madder than a broody hen on eggs and this book just isn’t for you.
October 17, 2025
This book was one of my favorite reads of 2025. It has everything I’m looking for. Cozy, perfect romance, plot, twists, adorable animals, and disability representation. I’ve gotten tired of the classic 18-20 year old FMC with zero emotional maturity, but it’s nice to read a character with age and life experience, giving them more depth. I would absolutely read this book again as a comfort read. The stakes aren’t terribly high, but the conflict was well done and thought out, and the resolution was so cute.
April 19, 2026
This book was so cutie and sweet, I love!
September 13, 2025
Well, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it definitely wasn’t that. I appreciated the regretful forewarning, and also the “but not for very long” - as if the reality - the permanence of death - was not a thing. I wish it wasn’t a thing. In this book, it turns out it’s not, but only in the loopholes (this whole book is about the loopholes).
It was unexpectedly cosy, for a book about death. A cute little romance (which was also unexpected, when the love interest is a rake who is on the run, wanted for war crimes, with quite severe PTSD, who has the power to undo death. None of those things scream “potential love interest”… and yet…). I enjoyed the lawyers friendship and the naive lover (especially the butterflies, until the aftermath was revealed).
The back and forth was kind of cute, but I mostly enjoyed when things really kicked off, when push came to shove and everyone had to figure out the truth of their hearts, and recognised who they could rely on.
Delightful happy ending, though I wish there had been more than just a hint with what happened with Han and Isobel. It would be been delightful to see more of their happy endings too. (Okay, just read the the sequel features then, so I guess we will! The preview was lush, can’t wait)
(Thank you to NetGalley for the arc)
It was unexpectedly cosy, for a book about death. A cute little romance (which was also unexpected, when the love interest is a rake who is on the run, wanted for war crimes, with quite severe PTSD, who has the power to undo death. None of those things scream “potential love interest”… and yet…). I enjoyed the lawyers friendship and the naive lover (especially the butterflies, until the aftermath was revealed).
The back and forth was kind of cute, but I mostly enjoyed when things really kicked off, when push came to shove and everyone had to figure out the truth of their hearts, and recognised who they could rely on.
Delightful happy ending, though I wish there had been more than just a hint with what happened with Han and Isobel. It would be been delightful to see more of their happy endings too. (Okay, just read the the sequel features then, so I guess we will! The preview was lush, can’t wait)
(Thank you to NetGalley for the arc)
November 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. This book is a cozy, charming romantic fantasy with great banter and a surprising amount of heart. hilde and elmwood are such a fun duo their chemistry, tension, and emotional growth kept me hooked the whole time. the magic system is creative, the necromancy twist is handled so well, and the mix of grief, humor, and romance feels perfectly balanced. a sweet, magical read with real warmth.
April 4, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and DelRey for the e-arc!
Alix E. Harrow wrote the blurb on the front, so I knew I was in for a good time. This book was a great mix of humor, fantasy, and romance. It focuses on one of my favorite themes - the damsel saves herself.
I enjoyed the witty banter between Hilde and Elmwood, and loved Rollo. I also appreciated that they portrayed Elmwood's PTSD in a way that added depth to his character but didn't make him seem weak because of it. I would've liked more of Hilde's sister, Han, but maybe there will be a followup book??
It did seem a bit long in some spots, and the spicy scenes could've maybe been a bit shorter since this felt like a cozy romantasy for the most part. Overall though, I thought it was cute and I enjoyed it.
Alix E. Harrow wrote the blurb on the front, so I knew I was in for a good time. This book was a great mix of humor, fantasy, and romance. It focuses on one of my favorite themes - the damsel saves herself.
I enjoyed the witty banter between Hilde and Elmwood, and loved Rollo. I also appreciated that they portrayed Elmwood's PTSD in a way that added depth to his character but didn't make him seem weak because of it. I would've liked more of Hilde's sister, Han, but maybe there will be a followup book??
It did seem a bit long in some spots, and the spicy scenes could've maybe been a bit shorter since this felt like a cozy romantasy for the most part. Overall though, I thought it was cute and I enjoyed it.
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