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The Hex Files #1
Hex in the City
At eighteen, Bella Hexley was forced to leave her home—and her magic—far behind. She went to law school, built a career, raised her daughter, and lived a completely normal, spell-free life. Easy… until her husband pulled the ultimate dirty filed for divorce, drained their bank accounts, and somehow convinced the court she’s an unfit mother. Like, seriously?
Now she's forty, broke, blacklisted, and one mascara smear away from a full-on breakdown, Bella has no choice but to dust off her law degree and seek help in the one place she’s been told she doesn’t Chicago’s Enchanted District—the Midwest’s magical capital.
It’s the only place she can go to reclaim her magic and take on the legal battle that fighting for her daughter. The case is messier than her ex’s Instagram lies. Along the way there’s magical mayhem, shady advice, and Jack—a middle-aged man with a James Bond vibe, salt and pepper hair, electric-blue eyes, and magic that sparks something deep inside her.
But Bella won’t back down. Because saving herself? Totally on brand.
And falling in love along the way? Well… nobody’s perfect.
Now she's forty, broke, blacklisted, and one mascara smear away from a full-on breakdown, Bella has no choice but to dust off her law degree and seek help in the one place she’s been told she doesn’t Chicago’s Enchanted District—the Midwest’s magical capital.
It’s the only place she can go to reclaim her magic and take on the legal battle that fighting for her daughter. The case is messier than her ex’s Instagram lies. Along the way there’s magical mayhem, shady advice, and Jack—a middle-aged man with a James Bond vibe, salt and pepper hair, electric-blue eyes, and magic that sparks something deep inside her.
But Bella won’t back down. Because saving herself? Totally on brand.
And falling in love along the way? Well… nobody’s perfect.
- GenresWitches
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2025
9 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Garcia
8 books27 followersKelly writes funny, feel-good paranormal fiction where magic, mischief, and midlife collide. Her stories are filled with found family, swoony romance, and a healthy dose of magical chaos—because adventure doesn’t end at forty, it just gets more interesting. When she’s not dreaming up hijinks for her heroes, she’s happily buried in a good book, sharing space with her cats, dogs, and an ever-growing collection of coffee mugs.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 30, 2025
What an absolute blast this book was! Hex in the City is fast-paced, witty, and full of magical mayhem that kept me hooked from page one. Bella Hexley is forty, divorced, broke, and one mascara-smear away from a breakdown but instead of giving up, she dives headfirst into Chicago’s Enchanted District to reclaim her magic and fight for her daughter. And honestly? I was cheering for her every step of the way.
The banter is sharp, the sass is top-tier, and the magic has that perfect mix of cozy and chaotic. I loved how playful it was while still giving me plenty of emotional punches, betrayal, loyalty, second chances, even a dash of romance with a silver-fox lawyer who had major James Bond vibes. It’s witchy charm meets midlife reinvention, and it worked so well.
If you’re in the mood for an urban fantasy that’s equal parts fun, heartfelt, and spellbinding, this one’s for you. Bella is the kind of heroine who makes you root for her, laugh with her, and maybe even want to hex a few exes yourself. Thanks to the author and booksirens for the gifted arc.
The banter is sharp, the sass is top-tier, and the magic has that perfect mix of cozy and chaotic. I loved how playful it was while still giving me plenty of emotional punches, betrayal, loyalty, second chances, even a dash of romance with a silver-fox lawyer who had major James Bond vibes. It’s witchy charm meets midlife reinvention, and it worked so well.
If you’re in the mood for an urban fantasy that’s equal parts fun, heartfelt, and spellbinding, this one’s for you. Bella is the kind of heroine who makes you root for her, laugh with her, and maybe even want to hex a few exes yourself. Thanks to the author and booksirens for the gifted arc.
November 16, 2025
I was a little disappointed. The blurb was misleading as it said there was a little bit of love. So I thought there was some romance but I was wrong. Was the story good? Yes. But I was looking for a little romance and there was none. This was a fast-paced funny story about a woman trying to one up her husband so she can divorce him and get custody of their daughter all while trying to get her magic back.
July 23, 2025
Even if I shouldn’t be, I’m also on the lookout for a new author that fits in my favorite two genres. I’m happy that I succeeded in the case of this prequel story by an author I hadn’t read before. I just loved the attitude of Bella and her friend Gianna, and I loved how they worked together to find out what Bella’s husband was up to, and other things I can’t talk about. I’m so excited to read the next book in the series! Well-written, entertaining, and just so full of potential. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 12, 2025
Hex in the City was exactly what I needed — fast-paced, fun, and filled with just enough witchy charm to keep me hooked. The banter was sharp, the magic was playful, and the romance added the perfect amount of swoon. If you’re in the mood for something light and spellbinding between heavier reads, this one is a great pick.
Tropes: witches, urban fantasy, light romance, cozy magic ✨
Tropes: witches, urban fantasy, light romance, cozy magic ✨
October 14, 2025
Looking for a new cozy mystery with a flair of magic and a zing of defending the law? Look no further; check this out!
Bella left her magical life behind her when she decided to attend law school, got married to another fellow attorney and raised a daughter together. Life seemed to be going great for them until the inevitable happened. Her divorce lawyer of a husband blocks her from everything from their bank accounts to their love life ending in a devastatingly nasty divorce.
Now Bella has to do what she needs to do to now being a single mom including going back to work as a magical attorney in Chicago’s Enchanted District! But sometimes magic isn’t it's cracked up to be especially when she has to break a binding spell that was cast upon her before she left the magical community. She was given an ultimatum: stay or leave; unfortunately if she gave up her magic completely, it would be the end for her in more ways than one. Check out Bella’s adventures in the first book of the Hex Files series!
I was really excited to check out this book from the blurb to the cover which is definitely straight up my aisle as a reader. The story and characters are original and unique! It kinda reminds me of a witchy lawyer Hallmark movie and I’m hands down here for it! You really gotta feel for Bella; dealing with her jerk of an ex-husband in a messy divorce trying to start over, finding a way of balancing motherhood and work life and even discovering a new love along the way.
I can’t wait to check out other books in this series and I hope y’all get the chance to check out Hex in the City! Happy Reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Bella left her magical life behind her when she decided to attend law school, got married to another fellow attorney and raised a daughter together. Life seemed to be going great for them until the inevitable happened. Her divorce lawyer of a husband blocks her from everything from their bank accounts to their love life ending in a devastatingly nasty divorce.
Now Bella has to do what she needs to do to now being a single mom including going back to work as a magical attorney in Chicago’s Enchanted District! But sometimes magic isn’t it's cracked up to be especially when she has to break a binding spell that was cast upon her before she left the magical community. She was given an ultimatum: stay or leave; unfortunately if she gave up her magic completely, it would be the end for her in more ways than one. Check out Bella’s adventures in the first book of the Hex Files series!
I was really excited to check out this book from the blurb to the cover which is definitely straight up my aisle as a reader. The story and characters are original and unique! It kinda reminds me of a witchy lawyer Hallmark movie and I’m hands down here for it! You really gotta feel for Bella; dealing with her jerk of an ex-husband in a messy divorce trying to start over, finding a way of balancing motherhood and work life and even discovering a new love along the way.
I can’t wait to check out other books in this series and I hope y’all get the chance to check out Hex in the City! Happy Reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 24, 2025
Let me just start by saying: If that was MY husband… and I was a witch?
Oh baby, his balls would be bluer than the full moon over Salem. I’d teleport his cheating behind to the middle of the Sahara, slap a bow on a genie bottle, and say “Good luck, bro.” 🧞♂️✨
Now that I got that off my broomstick—let’s talk about this book.
Kelly Garcia, ma’am…
UM, EXCUSE ME?? This story is a whole vibe, a magical mess, and an emotional rollercoaster that got me yelling “YES WITCH!” and “Where’s the rest?!” at the same damn time.
Even though it’s unfinished, this tale had me clutching imaginary pearls, pacing like I was about to throw hands, and fully in my “let me take these earrings off” energy—and I DON’T EVEN WEAR EARRINGS! That’s the level of possessed-by-the-plot we’re talking about here.
The magic? 🔮 Spicy.
The betrayal? Oooh, personal.
The sass? Top tier.
The need for more? IMMEDIATE. Just email me the rest and tell me to shut up and read. I’ll obey.
Final thoughts:
If y’all don’t know about Hex in the City, then honey—you’re sleeping on a spell that hits HARD. This book is the ✨”he better be scared when I get my powers”✨ fantasy we all secretly needed.
I received this as an arc from booksirens
Oh baby, his balls would be bluer than the full moon over Salem. I’d teleport his cheating behind to the middle of the Sahara, slap a bow on a genie bottle, and say “Good luck, bro.” 🧞♂️✨
Now that I got that off my broomstick—let’s talk about this book.
Kelly Garcia, ma’am…
UM, EXCUSE ME?? This story is a whole vibe, a magical mess, and an emotional rollercoaster that got me yelling “YES WITCH!” and “Where’s the rest?!” at the same damn time.
Even though it’s unfinished, this tale had me clutching imaginary pearls, pacing like I was about to throw hands, and fully in my “let me take these earrings off” energy—and I DON’T EVEN WEAR EARRINGS! That’s the level of possessed-by-the-plot we’re talking about here.
The magic? 🔮 Spicy.
The betrayal? Oooh, personal.
The sass? Top tier.
The need for more? IMMEDIATE. Just email me the rest and tell me to shut up and read. I’ll obey.
Final thoughts:
If y’all don’t know about Hex in the City, then honey—you’re sleeping on a spell that hits HARD. This book is the ✨”he better be scared when I get my powers”✨ fantasy we all secretly needed.
I received this as an arc from booksirens
July 25, 2025
Hex in the City is a charming and cozy urban fantasy novella that had me instantly hooked. Imagine Sabrina the Teenage Witch mixed with Legally Blonde, and you’ve got the perfect vibe for this magical, feel-good read.
The main character is an absolute gem—resilient, determined, and full of heart. No matter how many times life knocks her down, she refuses to give up. I especially loved her dynamic with her best friend Gianna, who stands by her side through thick and thin. Their friendship brought warmth and humor to the story, grounding the magic in something real and relatable.
While I adored the novella, I did find myself wishing it was a full-length book. I wanted more time in this whimsical world—more spellcasting, more magical mishaps, and definitely more scenes with the intriguing Jack. But since this is just the beginning of a series, I’m excited to see where it goes next.
Overall, Hex in the City is a delightful read that left me smiling. I’m seriously hoping the next book drops around Halloween—there’s nothing better than curling up under a spooky blanket with hot cocoa and a magical story to get lost in.
The main character is an absolute gem—resilient, determined, and full of heart. No matter how many times life knocks her down, she refuses to give up. I especially loved her dynamic with her best friend Gianna, who stands by her side through thick and thin. Their friendship brought warmth and humor to the story, grounding the magic in something real and relatable.
While I adored the novella, I did find myself wishing it was a full-length book. I wanted more time in this whimsical world—more spellcasting, more magical mishaps, and definitely more scenes with the intriguing Jack. But since this is just the beginning of a series, I’m excited to see where it goes next.
Overall, Hex in the City is a delightful read that left me smiling. I’m seriously hoping the next book drops around Halloween—there’s nothing better than curling up under a spooky blanket with hot cocoa and a magical story to get lost in.
August 1, 2025
Hex in the City is a charming, witchy urban fantasy that delivers humor, heart, and just enough chaos.
Bella Hexley is a former lawyer-turned-mom trying to live a quiet life without magic. But when her powerful (and manipulative) soon-to-be-ex-husband tries to take full custody of their daughter, Bella is forced to reclaim her long-suppressed powers and fight back—both magically and legally.
The story was exactly what I hoped for: quick, fun, and filled with magical mischief. Some threads were left dangling, but it’s book one of a series—and I’m definitely continuing.
If you’re looking for a light paranormal read with a strong mom protagonist, courtroom drama, and coven vibes, this one’s for you.
Bella Hexley is a former lawyer-turned-mom trying to live a quiet life without magic. But when her powerful (and manipulative) soon-to-be-ex-husband tries to take full custody of their daughter, Bella is forced to reclaim her long-suppressed powers and fight back—both magically and legally.
The story was exactly what I hoped for: quick, fun, and filled with magical mischief. Some threads were left dangling, but it’s book one of a series—and I’m definitely continuing.
If you’re looking for a light paranormal read with a strong mom protagonist, courtroom drama, and coven vibes, this one’s for you.
September 30, 2025
From the first chapter, I was hooked by the mystery at the heart of Hex in the City 🕵️♀️. The case Bella takes on is layered with secrets, magical politics, and delicious misdirection, and I loved how each clue snapped into place without ever feeling predictable. The reveal is satisfying and earned, and the trail to get there made me feel like I was solving it alongside Bella—equal parts “aha!” and “oh no…” 🧩
What really worked for me is Bella herself. She’s forty, battle‑scarred by life, and absolutely determined to fight smart 💪. Watching her reclaim her magic and her identity gave the mystery real stakes. The Enchanted District setting adds texture without overwhelming the plot, and the legal angle keeps the story grounded even when the spells start flying ⚖️. I also appreciated the ride‑or‑die best friend energy and the way found family quietly forms around Bella as the investigation widens 👯♀️.
The romance thread with Jack is a slow simmer that never hijacks the mystery 🔥. Their chemistry crackles in the margins—sharp banter, charged moments, and just enough vulnerability to make me root for them—while the case stays front and center. He’s got secrets of his own, which adds tension without feeling gimmicky 🤐.
Tone‑wise, this hits my sweet spot: cozy urban fantasy with bite☕. The humor lands, the darker notes have weight, and the pacing is brisk without sacrificing character beats. By the end, I felt both satisfied by the resolution and excited about where this series can go next 📚.
Bottom line: a clever, compulsively readable mystery wrapped in magic and heart. I devoured it and would happily follow Bella into the next case 💜.
"Disclaimer: "I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.”
What really worked for me is Bella herself. She’s forty, battle‑scarred by life, and absolutely determined to fight smart 💪. Watching her reclaim her magic and her identity gave the mystery real stakes. The Enchanted District setting adds texture without overwhelming the plot, and the legal angle keeps the story grounded even when the spells start flying ⚖️. I also appreciated the ride‑or‑die best friend energy and the way found family quietly forms around Bella as the investigation widens 👯♀️.
The romance thread with Jack is a slow simmer that never hijacks the mystery 🔥. Their chemistry crackles in the margins—sharp banter, charged moments, and just enough vulnerability to make me root for them—while the case stays front and center. He’s got secrets of his own, which adds tension without feeling gimmicky 🤐.
Tone‑wise, this hits my sweet spot: cozy urban fantasy with bite☕. The humor lands, the darker notes have weight, and the pacing is brisk without sacrificing character beats. By the end, I felt both satisfied by the resolution and excited about where this series can go next 📚.
Bottom line: a clever, compulsively readable mystery wrapped in magic and heart. I devoured it and would happily follow Bella into the next case 💜.
"Disclaimer: "I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.”
December 30, 2025
Magic, snark, fear, this story has it all and then some!
Bella could always feel her magic, even though it was bound. And right now, it’s telling her there is something very, very wrong and it’s located in her snake of a husband’s office. This is a highly enjoyable story of one woman and her determination not to be taken advantage of, even when she makes decisions that are really not in the best of her interests. She always seems to make the best of things and carry on. There was humor, and snark, and best friends and a half-demon and even a ghost and his ghost cat. I cannot praise this story highly enough and am looking forward to reading more by Kelly Garcia.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Bella could always feel her magic, even though it was bound. And right now, it’s telling her there is something very, very wrong and it’s located in her snake of a husband’s office. This is a highly enjoyable story of one woman and her determination not to be taken advantage of, even when she makes decisions that are really not in the best of her interests. She always seems to make the best of things and carry on. There was humor, and snark, and best friends and a half-demon and even a ghost and his ghost cat. I cannot praise this story highly enough and am looking forward to reading more by Kelly Garcia.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️- This was honestly really good. This was one of those books where you just need to know what’s gonna happen next! The way Carl (her scum bag soon to be ex-husband) triggered the crap out of me… I had to keep reading because I needed to see Bella beat this A-hole at his own game! My only complaint was when Bella revealed that she was a witch to her best friend and Gianna took it like it was nothing. Then when they moved in to the house and the ghost met the girls and it was just another normal thing. Outside of those two things, the book was amazing and I’m starting Legally Hexed right now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2025
A new start
This is my first novel but this author and I was totally enchanted.
This is fast paced and full of charm. I loved Bella and her best friend Gianna, they are warm, cheeky and sassy and totally loyal to each other.
There’s action, magical mishaps, mystery, betrayal, angst, a realistically dirty divorce and child custody battle, a nasty ex, deals with a half-demon and all kinds of sparks. There’s a slow burn connection with Jack who is just full of secrets that I can’t wait to learn more about.
This is full of magic, courtroom drama, twists, heart and humour and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
This is my first novel but this author and I was totally enchanted.
This is fast paced and full of charm. I loved Bella and her best friend Gianna, they are warm, cheeky and sassy and totally loyal to each other.
There’s action, magical mishaps, mystery, betrayal, angst, a realistically dirty divorce and child custody battle, a nasty ex, deals with a half-demon and all kinds of sparks. There’s a slow burn connection with Jack who is just full of secrets that I can’t wait to learn more about.
This is full of magic, courtroom drama, twists, heart and humour and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
November 1, 2025
“Carl has no idea what’s coming for him.”
Bella Hexley-Tibbs has been hornswoggled by her husband. She's a lawyer by profession who stepped away to care for her daughter as her husband stepped out on her. And now with a completely fabricated divorce lawsuit he has taken her for everything.... but
Bella's magic was bound because of family misuse. What would happen if she got it back? This short novella introducing Bella before and after promises there's spell to pay for messing with a Hexley witch.
I gave this 4 stars because it feels like it was poorly edited and a bit rushed. Hopefully that will change as the series evolves. Recommended 4/5
Bella Hexley-Tibbs has been hornswoggled by her husband. She's a lawyer by profession who stepped away to care for her daughter as her husband stepped out on her. And now with a completely fabricated divorce lawsuit he has taken her for everything.... but
Bella's magic was bound because of family misuse. What would happen if she got it back? This short novella introducing Bella before and after promises there's spell to pay for messing with a Hexley witch.
I gave this 4 stars because it feels like it was poorly edited and a bit rushed. Hopefully that will change as the series evolves. Recommended 4/5
August 8, 2025
What a great introduction to the series! I can already tell I’m going to absolutely love it. The characters are wonderful. We have the good wife, kid, and her best friend with her kid. Then there’s the vile, soon to be ex-husband, who is an underhanded, lying, bribing, cheating, piece of garbage. A demon, who we all know is underhanded and then the mysterious, handsome man, who makes our main character feel all warm and tingly. Awesome line up! I can’t wait to see how it all progresses!
October 5, 2025
Hex In The City
This quick read introduction into a new series was fun. Full of witty moments and interesting characters. It sets up a fun future for Bella, Giana and the crew of mystical cohorts.
A fun way to fill in a couple of hours. The banter was fun, with strong female characters and some lightly shadowy males who I'm sure we'll see and learn more about in future books. I am looking forward to that.
This quick read introduction into a new series was fun. Full of witty moments and interesting characters. It sets up a fun future for Bella, Giana and the crew of mystical cohorts.
A fun way to fill in a couple of hours. The banter was fun, with strong female characters and some lightly shadowy males who I'm sure we'll see and learn more about in future books. I am looking forward to that.
October 14, 2025
Fun prequel featuring Bella, a law school graduate and bound witch, and the shenanigans of her unspeakable husband, who lives for taking other men's wives to the cleaners.
Bella and her best friend are hilarious together, there is humor, tension and an unexpected ending which sets up the forthcoming series nicely.
This is a lovely, funny, optimistic read that any cozy, snarky witch will enjoy. Kept me up way too late for a work night!
Bella and her best friend are hilarious together, there is humor, tension and an unexpected ending which sets up the forthcoming series nicely.
This is a lovely, funny, optimistic read that any cozy, snarky witch will enjoy. Kept me up way too late for a work night!
July 26, 2025
Hex in the City is Book 0 in The Hex Files by Kelly Garcia. I loved every minute of reading and said NO when I got to the end! The story ends with a happy reader until it ended in a cliffhanger! I feel that the author layer a perfect foundation for the characters as well as the story line. I can't wait to read book 1! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 19, 2025
A quick fun, charming, urban witchy fantasy book. That is so much fun it’s filled with magical mischief, chaos, humor. Bella hex is 40 divorced (best decision she made) broke & heading for a break down instead of breaking down she’s digs her heals in & fights for her daughter.
You get betrayal, second chances, banter that’s top notch, sass & feelings this is a heartfelt story.
You get betrayal, second chances, banter that’s top notch, sass & feelings this is a heartfelt story.
November 28, 2025
Such a cute cover for this fun witchy book. I loved the ride or die friendship of Gianna and Bella. There sleuthing gets them into the best kind of trouble as Bella seeks dirt on her soon-to-be ex. I immediately fell in love with the women in this book. It was a quick read, but managed to have all the pieces of a great witchy book.
August 4, 2025
Oh wow I loved this introduction to a new series. It is a quick read which I couldn’t put down until I had finished it. Great characters and wonderful world building. Bring on the next book
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2025
I can’t wait for the next book! This is going to be an absolutely FUN series! I love Bella! She is a freaking awesome witch. I loved all the characters…except for Carl. He is a nasty person. I do hope Bella can keep ahead of him. I guess she will. I loved this book!
December 23, 2025
So. Very. Fun!
A total hoot from beginning to end! The characters are likeable (except for the snake of a soon-to-be-ex-husband) and the plot just bops along, with the stakes constantly on the rise.
Very entertaining!
A total hoot from beginning to end! The characters are likeable (except for the snake of a soon-to-be-ex-husband) and the plot just bops along, with the stakes constantly on the rise.
Very entertaining!
September 22, 2025
Fun cozy read! At 40, Bella has to start over, which means heading back home and reclaiming her magic. Follow her thru her journey of rebuilding. I look forward to the next book!
September 28, 2025
What a blast!
I honestly devoured this in one sitting
no breaks - no interruptions
It has a bit of everything!
Suspense
Humor
A touch angsty
Mystery
a Bad booty female lead
The author let all kinds of breadcrumb trails 👣 that hint at things to come
We are introduced to some interesting characters - just enough to pique your curiosity, but not to give away if they are on our team or not
I can't wait to see what happens next
Seriously, though, you'll want to grab this one
It's a quick read but leaves its mark
I honestly devoured this in one sitting
no breaks - no interruptions
It has a bit of everything!
Suspense
Humor
A touch angsty
Mystery
a Bad booty female lead
The author let all kinds of breadcrumb trails 👣 that hint at things to come
We are introduced to some interesting characters - just enough to pique your curiosity, but not to give away if they are on our team or not
I can't wait to see what happens next
Seriously, though, you'll want to grab this one
It's a quick read but leaves its mark
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews