The first book in a cozy romantasy small town monster romance series with mythology, fairy tales, and folk lore.
Chelsea
It’s been months since I learned mythology was real when my sister and best friend became goddesses, mated to their hunky Greek gods. I’m happy for them, but lonely and aimless since they left. It’s time to grab life by the horns, stop pitying myself, and seek a fresh start.
Arcane Cove drew me in like a siren’s lullaby, and who was I to resist its pull? Only, I didn’t expect to run into him—Dionysus, the wine god I met months ago and fell into a spiral of tantalizing, flirtatious texts with. I’ve since been avoiding him because he was everything I shouldn’t want—possessive, dominant, charming. And yet, my body kept calling for him. Him and his beast.
Maybe the universe was giving us another chance. But while the Cove brought me back to Dion, it also led me on a path to my true self—a part of me that could be using an unexplained force to manipulate his mind. Was any of this real? Or was he, too, tricking me and luring me into his seductive world?
Dion
As the Greek god of wine, frenzy, and pleasure, I’ve worked the same gig for eons and have loved every moment of it. The parties. The orgies. The endless supplies of ambrosia wine. Eternal life has been peachy.
Until the day I met a fiery-haired mortal who was the polar opposite of me. We were horrible for each other. So why haven’t I been able to get her off my mind? We haven’t spoken for months and suddenly there she was, in Arcane Cove, even though humans shouldn’t be able to make it past the wards. And if this really was some kind of second chance for us, would she take me seriously, given my track record? Most importantly, could I control my inner beast around her? Did I want to?
An adult romance writer who has been writing since she could pick up a pencil. After the insanity of obtaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree in cybersecurity, creating worlds to escape to still ate at her very soul. She started writing FanFiction (which can still be found if you scour the internet 😉 ), and soon felt the need to get her original ideas on paper. And so the adventure began.
She lives in Colorado with her husband and two fur babies, and revels in an enemies to lovers trope with a slow burn.
This was a fun, cosy, small-town monster romance with a very cool mythology spin that I haven't seen in my usual monster romance books.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
Now, going into this book, we are introduced to Dion, aka Dionysus. I love his clear Jake the Lad feel; it's clear how everyone who knows him sees him as carefree, brash, all about pleasure and less about responsibility. Honestly, while reading this book, he was totally the life and fun of the book. More than once, he had me laughing, but you totally see a massively different side to him that he clearly is not used to.
Chelsea is our FMC. She has just moved to Arcane Cove and is restarting there. She comes across as someone who is put together and tightly wound, who struggles to let her hair down.
Getting into this book was pretty easy, honestly. The writing style is smooth and has a great flow to it, covering dual POVs. There is a very clear storyline from start to end with a clear progression. I would say the speed of the story is fast due to the book not being huge, so some events have less weight and depth, and the reactions are shorter. Showing the events' effects on a character does not seem long enough or just seems too short overall. I would have loved a little more reaction from our FMC to one of these events.
That being said, this also means you are not stuck in a bind of misunderstanding or groaning about being stuck in a moment for too long; everything kept moving.
I loved the fun lightness of the book, the direction the book went in and the sprinkling of drama, but what this book had a lot of was spice. Clearly descriptive and fun spice! It was a little more on the vanilla side, and only one spice scene was a little more adventurous, but I love my warmer, fun spice when inside my cosy town monster romance books, so I was totally all in for it. It was clear and fitting and also did not totally take over the book.
I liked the ending, but I was surprised to feel that the ending was fun, yet it might have left a little open-ended part. So I am not sure if that will follow into the next book, but that really left me excited too.
Overall, a small-town monster romance hit for me!! Magic, wine and horns all the way, thank you very much
Enjoyable read. I like myths and stories based on them. I enjoy the story. Good world building and interesting characters. Good plot. Pleasurable and relaxing read. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Carly Spade has this incredible way of taking the most fantastical beings, Greek gods, monsters, mythological oddities, and making them not just believable but endearing. Dion and Chelsea might be otherworldly, but their quirks, banter, and vulnerabilities bring them to life in a relatable way.
I love this new world of Arcane Cove! It’s cozy and magical, brimming with side characters who are so fun and intriguing that I can already see (and hope!) they’ll each get their own stories. This setting feels like the start of something big, and I’m eager to see where it goes.
That said, I did feel a little adrift at times because Dion and Chelsea’s backstory originates in Ares from Spade’s Contemporary Mythos series. It’s been a while since I read that one, and I didn’t recall their earlier interactions, which made the “already-met” vibe feel a little thin here. For brand new readers, I’d suggest checking out Ares first if you want the full impact of their history.
Still, as a couple they’re engaging, fiery, and sexy as sin with that streak of divine mystery only a Greek god can bring. And watching them fight, flirt, and find their way together in a town as enchanting as Arcane Cove made this a fun, addictive start to a series I’ll definitely be following.
When I first started reading this I’m not gonna lie I really wasn’t interested but the more I pushed through the more interested I became. I’m so glad I was part of the ARC team that got to read this. I love how the MMC and FMC relationship played out. I loved that the spicy scene wasn’t so far into the book. I loved how Chelsea came into her newfound personality. I loved how Dion was obsessed with her. I love how descriptive the author was of Dion that I could visualize him in my head. I am excited to see how their story plays out in future books. I can’t wait for the book to come out so I can order it for my bookshelf.
I received the book through bookfunnel and this is my honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Sometimes you just want to turn your brain off and read something that will make you laugh and think, “What could possibly happen next?” That is exactly what Witches and Wine was for me. Thanks to BookSirens for the complimentary early copy.
Chelsea is a PR consultant who needs to start over after her best friend/top client and her sister married Greek gods, leaving her on her own in Colorado. While scouting towns in New England, she stumbles across Arcane Cove and feels called to move herself, her business, and her pet ferret, Riley, to the small town. What she doesn’t know is that Arcane Cove is a safe haven for those with magic—in fact, only those with magic can enter the town limits. It also happens to be home to Dionysus—Dion, the Greek god of wine and frenzy—who just happens to be Chelsea’s texting situationship. Dion is thrilled she’s there. He hasn’t been able to get her out of his head since they met, and he makes it his mission to convince her they belong together. But first, they need to figure out what kind of magic Chelsea has and how she can use it.
While Witches and Wine is the first book in a new series, it heavily overlaps with two of Carly Spade’s earlier books. I haven’t read those, so I was a bit confused at the beginning about how much Chelsea already knew about magic and the gods, but that was quickly filled in.
This book was a romp. We bounced from mythical creatures to Greek gods to fairytale characters with no real rhyme or reason as to why they were there. I kept asking myself who could possibly crop up next—and then an even wilder character would appear. It was a lot of fun. But if you’re looking for depth or an intricately woven plot and magic system, this is not the book for you. It’s exactly as lighthearted and chaotic as the cover and premise suggest. Just turn your brain off and enjoy the ride.
I’m giving this one three stars. It delivered what it promised, and I enjoyed myself despite the fact that the story was all over the place.
YES YES AND EVERYTHING YES 👏🏽 if you like greek myth inspired flirty greek gods who have excellent banter and swoon worthy flirting skills >>> THIS IS THE READ FOR YOU >>> Dionysus (Dion) is the biggest flirt but he’s clearly SO ENAMORED by Chelsea (red) that it is fun to see him focus his skills on her. Plus who doesn’t love furry companions who fall for the MMC despite the FMCs protests 😏 (Riley the ferret 🫶🏼). Add in a little twist of hidden identities & dual POV and I’m sold.
As part of my 31 reads of halloween list, this is a spooky season recommendation that i think could be devoured any time of year 🤩
Rating: 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ Read if you love: • Small Town Monster Romance • Second chance • MMC has horns/beastly form • Self-discovery • pr!mäl play • Furry companion • Bi-awakening • Magical tattoo • Claiming • Dual POV
Thank you so much to R&R Book Tours & the author Carly Spade for my free copy >>> it was so much fun to read this story!!!!
Gleeful Goblin Review: Like many of us I had a significant Way Into Mythology phase as a kid and Greek mythology was the most readily available so of course I went feral for those stories and finding as many retellings as possible. Now as an adult who has gotten into monster romances, having a re-imagining of a character like Dionysus (Dion in this story) set in this cozy, fantasy romance...omg sign me UP.
In this story, Dion has had what was basically a Missed Connection with our FMC Chelsea prior to this book and he's been pining for her ever since. Which disturbs him significantly because as the deity of wine, fertility, and frenzy Dion isn't used to focusing on any one person for a significant amount of time. Especially not to the point of him not being interested in whomever is in his immediate area. So imagine Dion's surprise when Chelsea, aka Red, turns out to have moved from Colorado to Arcane Cove for a new start without knowing he lives there. Suddenly, Dion has a spark again and the goal of figuring out how and why this seemingly human woman has such a hold on him!
Chelsea meanwhile has been quietly just as enamored of Dion but both of them have been keeping their cards close to the vest and not being fully upfront about their burgeoning feelings while at a distance. But now that she's living in the same town as Dion, he's willing to introduce her to anyone who's anyone in Arcane Cove, AND he instantly won over her persnickety ferret Riley...Chelsea is in deep before she even knows it.
This was such a phenomenally fun reimagining of Greek myth meets small town paranormal romance! I can't wait for more in this series! 5/5 Stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Greek mythology meets a cozy, magical town filled with witches, wine, and a dash of debauchery, then Witches and Wine is your ticket to the best party in Arcane Cove! Plot Twist: Picture this—a laid-back wine god, Dionysus, finds himself tangled in a web of magic, mystery, and romance when he crosses paths with Chelsea, a newly discovered witch. Their chemistry is electric, and the banter? Pure gold! It’s like watching a rom-com unfold, but with more horns and a lot more magic. Characters: Dion is the swoon-worthy god we didn’t know we needed, complete with a charming personality and a penchant for mischief. Chelsea, our fierce witch protagonist, is relatable and refreshingly real, making you root for her from page one. Plus, the supporting cast, including a satyr and a few mischievous pixies, adds the perfect sprinkle of humor and chaos. Vibe Check: The writing is sharp, witty, and flows like a fine wine. Carly Spade knows how to weave humor into the narrative while keeping the stakes high and the romance sizzling. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud one minute and swooning the next. Final Sip: If you’re looking for a read that combines magic, romance, and a whole lot of fun, grab your favorite glass of wine and dive into Witches and Wine. It’s a delightful escape that’ll leave you enchanted and ready for more! Thank you book sirens for the advanced copy! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Witches and Wine is the first book in a new series from Carly Spade, one that sits within her already established series of modern day Greek gods. I've absolutely loved the world that Carly has created, so I was excited to get back to it!
This story is a mash up of cozy, small town vibes, what happens when a God is also a little bit of a monster, and witchcraft/paranormal romance. We have some cameos from characters we have seen before, and while I think this would stand on its own, I definitely recommend you check out her previous books!
This is a quick read, clocking in at under 240 pages. I really enjoyed Chelsea, our FMC, as she came into her powers and learned more about herself. I also adored Riley, her ferret familiar. She and Dion had great chemistry together too!
If you're looking for a fun romance with gods, witches, shifters, all set in a cozy town check this one out!
A few spoilery thoughts behind this cut.
I received a copy of this book for an instagram book tour, my thoughts are my own.
“Witches and Wine” by Carly Spade fit beautifully into my current paranormal era. This is my first title by Spade, and I very much enjoyed it.
I will admit to a bit of concern when hot sex entered the story so early. We’ve all read at least one title that was nothing but hot sex connected by poorly plotted narrative. Given that Dion is Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, frenzy and pleasure (and whose Roman counterpart is Bacchus), the hot sex scene was expected (and very well done).
The rest of the plot held my interest throughout. Watching Chelsea discover a part of her life that she never knew was a fun journey, as was watching Dion realizing the beauty of having a fated mate.
“Witches and Wine” is the first book in Spade’s new Mythical Mates of Arcane Cover series, which is related to her earlier Contemporary Mythos series. Chelsea’s sister and best friend each have a book in the Mythos series.
Knowledge of Greek mythology is not required to enjoy this title. For me, it’s time to dive into Spade’s backlist to discover what I’ve been missing.
I received an ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest opinion.
Greek mythology vs. a cozy small town, with a sprinkle of other mythical creatures.
Thank you to Carly Spade and BookSirens for the ARC of this book, which I received for free, and im leaving this review voluntarily.
Chelsea is moving across the country for a fresh start in life when she stumbles into Arcane Cove. She instantly loves it and decides this is where she will plant herself for a while. She runs into Dion, a Greek God who she is unexplainably drawn toward. When happens next is magical in its own way. I enjoyed reading how Chels and Dion have some funny banter, their steamy sex scenes, and the bond they share. I felt this was a solid mythology laced romance book, with not too much or too little explained. There are some loose ends at the end of the book that im hoping get tied up in the rest of the series, but time will tell. Overall, I enjoyed the book, a solid 4 star read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Carly spade has long been one of my favorite Greek myth retellers and Wine and Witches did not disappoint! Getting a book with a side character from her contemporary mythos series was so much fun and I can’t wait to see where things go from here.
Dionysus is such a fun character and I adored watching him fall for this crazy woman he met one time and now has to try and convince that what they are feeling isn’t just lust but love.
I’m excited to see more from Arcane Cove and can’t wait to see who comes next!
I received Witches and Wine as an ARC, and wow, what a surprise! This was my first monster romance, and I loved the storyline.
When Chelsea moves to Arcane Cove, her life takes a magical turn, literally. She discovers she’s a witch, and if that wasn’t enough, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to the God of Wine himself. Dion is a beastly, intoxicating force of nature who’s completely smitten with this fiery redhead. Together, their chemistry is off the charts, and through him, Chelsea learns more about her powers, her desires, and herself.
A spellbinding mix of magic, romance, and heat 🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
5:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3:🌶🌶🌶 I had the pleasure of reading this book as an ARC read. I absolutely loved it. It was a perfect small town cosy romance involving mythical creatures and gods! what more could a girl want? I loved the banter and chemistry between the main fmc and mmc. I would highly recommend this book to someone who's looking for a fun and quick read that involves a bit of spice.
I absolutely love Carly! This book was absolutely amazing! I’ve loved the chemistry between Dion and Chelsea since the beginning and am so glad that they finally got their own story!! I couldn’t put it down once I started! I finished it in a day! This has definitely become one of my favorites from her!!
Interesting story involving some Greek mythology in modern times. Dionysus isn’t my favorite God (that would be Hades) because I’m not huge on his whole hedonistic lifestyle, but I enjoyed his dynamic with Chelsea. Good spice between these two! Enjoy the magical town setting too. Overall, an entertaining read!
I loved this book sooo much it was funny it was relateable and it references Thor and Zeus it’s the perfect spooky season read! A woman who doesn’t know she is magical and a beautiful god of wine and frenzy is no helps her find her way! I devoured this book! Carly I can’t wait for the next one
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this book. It features insta-love, or at least a pre-existing attraction before the story begins. The narrative primarily focuses on the couple, with little else happening outside of the evolution of their relationship. Nonetheless, I found the read to be delightful. It’s sweet and spicy, with intriguing mythical elements that I appreciated. Overall, it’s an easy and enjoyable read.
I loved this book. This was different from what I have previously read and it was a nice contrast. I love Chelsea and Dionysus and it was short and sweet with a wholesome romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I absolutely love getting more time with Chelsea and Dion. Watching their romance flourish was fantastic, and so were the spicy scenes.
I think it was a good introduction into a new series of books and a little mystery thrown in for good measure. I can't wait to read the second book in this series!
🧁Greek Mythology, Magic, Mates, Small Town Spicy Romance
If your vibe is a cozy and spicy romance, this book is for you. It's Greek Mythology meets present day. I find it imaginative and refreshing. There's a hint of mystery. Dion and Chelsea 's chemistry sizzles. He's a touch and her die MMC with all the muscles. I love all the side characters and the banter. Such an enjoyable read.
Thank you to Carly Spade for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. This was the first book I have read from Carly Spade. I’m definitely going to be reading more of her books. I loved the plot, and the world of Greek mythology. The characters are great! The love story 💕 and the SPICE 🌶️ top tier! 10/10 recommend
This has mythos retelling has a little bit of everything, spicey chemistry, all the feels, just enough intrigue and drama to pull at your heartstrings, humor, a funtastic cast, and a fantastic love story.
I loved Dion and Chelsea, another wonderfully smoking hot mystical, magically perfect love story. I love all of Carly's books and Witches and Wine, the beginning of her new series is another amazing new place with fantastic new characters for us to become obsessed with.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tropes list- greek mythology retelling paranormal fated mates witches And gods
"And though I never admitted my jealousy over my little sister’s mythical life—here I was, a part of the magic all along."
This book was just what I needed. It was the perfect greek mythology retelling mixed with paranormal romance.
"Not only did I inherit a mate, a lifelong partner, but I didn’t lose any of myself in the process. I’m a better version of myself with him, and I’d found my true self as a lunar witch."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was so cute! This combined Greek mythology with your common fairytale characters to bring you a whole plethora of magical beings. This is decently spicy which added a nice aspect to plot for me because I do enjoy my fair amount of spice! This was really easy and fun to read. I love fated mates and Dionysus is 🥵 a Greek god who knows how to have a good time, how to please AND is good at communication? Sign me up immediately. This was absolutely perfect for this season and I’m really excited to read the rest of the series and meet more monsters/Greek gods/mythical beings!
This has mythos retelling has a little bit of everything, spicey chemistry, all the feels, just enough intrigue and drama to pull at your heartstrings, humor, a funtastic cast, and a fantastic love story.
I loved Dion and Chelsea, another wonderfully smoking hot mystical, magically perfect love story. I love all of Carly's books and Witches and Wine, the beginning of her new series is another amazing new place with fantastic new characters for us to become obsessed with.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The start of a new series called Mythical Mates of Arcane Cove. Chelsea and Dionysus, the wine god's story with a good storyline and great characters. I enjoyed seeing them get their happy ending. I will be watching for more in this series. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.