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She’s supposed to find him the perfect match. Falling for him herself was not part of the deal.
Mallory has zero magic. No spells, no shape-shifting and no flashy Preternatural strength. But in the magical city of Coldstream, Mallory has made knowledge her power and she turns secrets and favours into currency.
Enter Alexander alpha werewolf, wealthy businessman, and walking temptation. He wants Mallory to find him a mate. She wants absolutely nothing to do with him.
But MacTire isn’t used to hearing no—and Mallory’s not immune to his charm, no matter how hard she tries. What starts as a reluctant business arrangement soon turns into something dangerously personal. Because the more she gets to know him, the less she wants to help him find love ... with anyone but her.
The first book in the Coldstream Chronicles is jam-packed full of magic, mayhem, and slow-burn heat. It can be read as a standalone or alongside The Cat Lady Chronicles.
Mallory has zero magic. No spells, no shape-shifting and no flashy Preternatural strength. But in the magical city of Coldstream, Mallory has made knowledge her power and she turns secrets and favours into currency.
Enter Alexander alpha werewolf, wealthy businessman, and walking temptation. He wants Mallory to find him a mate. She wants absolutely nothing to do with him.
But MacTire isn’t used to hearing no—and Mallory’s not immune to his charm, no matter how hard she tries. What starts as a reluctant business arrangement soon turns into something dangerously personal. Because the more she gets to know him, the less she wants to help him find love ... with anyone but her.
The first book in the Coldstream Chronicles is jam-packed full of magic, mayhem, and slow-burn heat. It can be read as a standalone or alongside The Cat Lady Chronicles.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
February 3, 2026
I think this is the first Urban Fantasy Romcom I have ever read, and I loved it! It’s light fluff that is sweet, engaging, and just plain fun. It’s the perfect antidote when a reader needs a break for a minute from all the other, darker fantasy and paranormal fare.
This is actually a spin-off from Ms. Harper’s Cat Lady Chronicles series. And, I’ve come to learn that it does NOT stand alone well, so I would highly encourage reading that series before starting this book. The two main characters are two of my personal favorites from that series, though, and for those who have read The Cat Lady Chronicles, this story will be all kinds of enjoyable.
Alexander MacTire is the very strong and powerful Alpha of an influential pack and Mallory is a “squib” or magicless person living in a city that is populated almost entirely with magical beings. It’s not easy, but Mallory has carved out a perfect little nitch for herself by trading in favors and secrets. She is extremely good at it and it’s a blast watching her work her own style of “magic” to accomplish her goals. Alexander is a super interesting character, one that has been shown in the past as uber powerful and savvy with a reputation of being fair but not one to be crossed. In this story, however, we get to see a sweet, vulnerable side rise to the surface. It’s horribly hard for him, but all kinds of fun to see him squirm and eventually show us the warm teddy-bear he really is underneath it all. Together, these two should wreck some pretty awesome havoc in books come!
This is actually a spin-off from Ms. Harper’s Cat Lady Chronicles series. And, I’ve come to learn that it does NOT stand alone well, so I would highly encourage reading that series before starting this book. The two main characters are two of my personal favorites from that series, though, and for those who have read The Cat Lady Chronicles, this story will be all kinds of enjoyable.
Alexander MacTire is the very strong and powerful Alpha of an influential pack and Mallory is a “squib” or magicless person living in a city that is populated almost entirely with magical beings. It’s not easy, but Mallory has carved out a perfect little nitch for herself by trading in favors and secrets. She is extremely good at it and it’s a blast watching her work her own style of “magic” to accomplish her goals. Alexander is a super interesting character, one that has been shown in the past as uber powerful and savvy with a reputation of being fair but not one to be crossed. In this story, however, we get to see a sweet, vulnerable side rise to the surface. It’s horribly hard for him, but all kinds of fun to see him squirm and eventually show us the warm teddy-bear he really is underneath it all. Together, these two should wreck some pretty awesome havoc in books come!
March 2, 2026
Squib runs parallel to the Cat Lady Cronicles.
I was looking forward to Mallory's and book however it didn't quite hit the spot. This is a matter of me and not the book.
I was looking forward to Mallory's and book however it didn't quite hit the spot. This is a matter of me and not the book.
January 30, 2026
I’m enjoying Helen Harper’s latest series,
The Cat Lady Chronicles
, so much. Unfortunately, the next book isn’t due out until May 2026. In the meantime, we get a consolation prize: a side character from that series stepping into the spotlight as the main character here.
Enter Mallory Nash. She’s a squib - someone without preternatural powers or magic - but don’t mistake that for weakness. Mallory is powerful in her own way. She’s a broker, dealing in secrets and favours, and she is absolutely marvellous at it.
Mallory first appeared in Waifs and Strays as someone who owed Thane Barrow a favour. She then reappeared in the next two books. This story sits neatly in the timeline between The Dark Hiss of Magic - where we see how Mallory and Alexander MacTìre first meet - and A Skirl of Sorcery, when Mallory cashes the favour Kit owes her by asking Kit to host a ban sith.
In this book, Mallory is tasked with helping Alexander MacTìre find his First Mate, all while juggling a request from a vampire who wants two specific items for his own (clearly suspicious) purposes.
This book felt noticeably different from the other Harper novels I’ve read so far - it leaned far more into romance. There’s no big murder to solve this time. Instead, Mallory has to navigate her growing feelings while dealing with Alexander’s request, even though it’s painfully obvious to us readers that Alexander wants her and simply has no idea how to go about it. Stupid alpha wolf 😤! Naturally, this made the book even more fun for me to read.
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Alexander and Mallory. I’m especially curious about how the people of Coldstream will react once they learn who Alexander has chosen as his First Mate - though his wolf pack already seems perfectly fine with Mallory. And since the ending of this book directly ties into the next Kit novel, I’m also very interested in seeing how Kit reacts to that particular piece of information 😆.
Enter Mallory Nash. She’s a squib - someone without preternatural powers or magic - but don’t mistake that for weakness. Mallory is powerful in her own way. She’s a broker, dealing in secrets and favours, and she is absolutely marvellous at it.
Mallory first appeared in Waifs and Strays as someone who owed Thane Barrow a favour. She then reappeared in the next two books. This story sits neatly in the timeline between The Dark Hiss of Magic - where we see how Mallory and Alexander MacTìre first meet - and A Skirl of Sorcery, when Mallory cashes the favour Kit owes her by asking Kit to host a ban sith.
In this book, Mallory is tasked with helping Alexander MacTìre find his First Mate, all while juggling a request from a vampire who wants two specific items for his own (clearly suspicious) purposes.
This book felt noticeably different from the other Harper novels I’ve read so far - it leaned far more into romance. There’s no big murder to solve this time. Instead, Mallory has to navigate her growing feelings while dealing with Alexander’s request, even though it’s painfully obvious to us readers that Alexander wants her and simply has no idea how to go about it. Stupid alpha wolf 😤! Naturally, this made the book even more fun for me to read.
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Alexander and Mallory. I’m especially curious about how the people of Coldstream will react once they learn who Alexander has chosen as his First Mate - though his wolf pack already seems perfectly fine with Mallory. And since the ending of this book directly ties into the next Kit novel, I’m also very interested in seeing how Kit reacts to that particular piece of information 😆.
February 3, 2026
Urban fantasy set in Scotland with a romance subplot
According to the author, you don't need to have read her Cat Lady Chronicles series before reading this novel. However, this book clearly seems geared more toward fans of the CLC than newbies to this magical universe such as myself who haven't been exposed to the CLC. A lot of the world building was confusing to me because of that.
In particular, I have read many different urban fantasy books containing werewolves, and I was disconcerted at how relatively fragile these werewolves are. It was hard to be impressed by them. They don't have the ability to instantly heal from wounds, and a single strike with a silver arrow, that would have been mostly shrugged off by the werewolves in other UF series, is practically a death blow. It was also rather bizarre to me that they are only capable of changing into wolf form during the night of the full moon. The organization of their packs, and the meaning of an Alpha seemed diluted to me as well. It also seemed inexplicable that, in a relatively small geographic area, instead of one big pack, there are multiple packs.
It was also strange to me that the FMC, Mallory, who continually claims to have no magic, could instantly identify various types of magical beings. Most of them, other than a vampire, do not display any distinctive non-humanoid features, which in itself is a weird artistic choice. (Only in one other case is an overt physical trait, extreme height, mentioned as an identifying physical feature of one particular species of magical creature.)
The lion's share of this novel involves Mallory's wheeling and dealing, which wasn't of much interest to me, and which I skimmed over quite a bit. Maybe it's clarified in some of the Cat Lady books, where I am guessing she is an important subcharacter, but it is not explained in this book how Mallory survives with nothing but favors from people, because she doesn't need money. In particular, I didn't notice anybody offering to keep her refrigerator filled with food or cover her rent as a favor she has traded for by some service she has performed. So how was she paying for those things? She never purchases a single thing with cash in the entire book.
What made this novel acceptable to me at all is the romance plot. As a huge fan of the romance genre, I was invested in the relationship between Mallory and Alexander. Theirs is a pleasant, slowburn romance that was mostly satisfying. Given that we only get Mallory's point of view, however, the main romantic conflict was her complete inability to notice Alexander was nuts about her. Her internal monologue about that misunderstanding got rather redundant after a while.
I also found the switch to the POV of a villain for the epilogue to be a dissatisfying and jarring ending for a novel like this. An epilogue in a romance novel is typically dedicated to the MCs living out their HEA. No such luck here. But maybe people who enjoy the CLC series will be satisfied with this choice. It was mostly a cliffhanger for the next book in the CLC.
Overall, this was a mildly entertaining book for me. I don't have plans to read any other books by this author. However, American readers who are interested in this author will be glad to know that there is a very large collection of her books available through Hoopla for free.
According to the author, you don't need to have read her Cat Lady Chronicles series before reading this novel. However, this book clearly seems geared more toward fans of the CLC than newbies to this magical universe such as myself who haven't been exposed to the CLC. A lot of the world building was confusing to me because of that.
In particular, I have read many different urban fantasy books containing werewolves, and I was disconcerted at how relatively fragile these werewolves are. It was hard to be impressed by them. They don't have the ability to instantly heal from wounds, and a single strike with a silver arrow, that would have been mostly shrugged off by the werewolves in other UF series, is practically a death blow. It was also rather bizarre to me that they are only capable of changing into wolf form during the night of the full moon. The organization of their packs, and the meaning of an Alpha seemed diluted to me as well. It also seemed inexplicable that, in a relatively small geographic area, instead of one big pack, there are multiple packs.
It was also strange to me that the FMC, Mallory, who continually claims to have no magic, could instantly identify various types of magical beings. Most of them, other than a vampire, do not display any distinctive non-humanoid features, which in itself is a weird artistic choice. (Only in one other case is an overt physical trait, extreme height, mentioned as an identifying physical feature of one particular species of magical creature.)
The lion's share of this novel involves Mallory's wheeling and dealing, which wasn't of much interest to me, and which I skimmed over quite a bit. Maybe it's clarified in some of the Cat Lady books, where I am guessing she is an important subcharacter, but it is not explained in this book how Mallory survives with nothing but favors from people, because she doesn't need money. In particular, I didn't notice anybody offering to keep her refrigerator filled with food or cover her rent as a favor she has traded for by some service she has performed. So how was she paying for those things? She never purchases a single thing with cash in the entire book.
What made this novel acceptable to me at all is the romance plot. As a huge fan of the romance genre, I was invested in the relationship between Mallory and Alexander. Theirs is a pleasant, slowburn romance that was mostly satisfying. Given that we only get Mallory's point of view, however, the main romantic conflict was her complete inability to notice Alexander was nuts about her. Her internal monologue about that misunderstanding got rather redundant after a while.
I also found the switch to the POV of a villain for the epilogue to be a dissatisfying and jarring ending for a novel like this. An epilogue in a romance novel is typically dedicated to the MCs living out their HEA. No such luck here. But maybe people who enjoy the CLC series will be satisfied with this choice. It was mostly a cliffhanger for the next book in the CLC.
Overall, this was a mildly entertaining book for me. I don't have plans to read any other books by this author. However, American readers who are interested in this author will be glad to know that there is a very large collection of her books available through Hoopla for free.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2026
4.5 rounded up because I haven’t been this entertained by an urban fantasy in a while. I really liked Mallory’s character because although she doesn’t have magic in a magical place, she is very creative about how she solves her problems. She is also a genuinely nice and capable person without being a Mary Sue, which is a refreshing change from the common trope in urban fantasy of the badass, snarky, bitch character that everyone inexplicably loves. I also liked Alexander’s character because although he does have the alpha werewolf thing going on, he has a nice character arc. I’m very curious to read the second book after reading the epilogue! I will probably read the Cat Lady Chronicles too because it appears upon a closer look that these go together and although there was a little bit of world building in Squib, it assumed I had more knowledge than I actually did of the world in which it existed.
January 15, 2026
Rating: 2,3
Format:audiobook
I mean, I liked a lot of this book, and I love smut, but the romance in this book felt so unnecessary and completely unbelievable, it was, distracting and I was some sorta silly instalove, I have no idea why these people were seemingly so into each other.
Our heroine was a likeable enough character, as was the hero, but their shambling around each other was neither charming, nor sexy. Just annoying, and made me want to smack both of them over the head.
The plot threads with out heroine wheeling and dealing in Coldstream as a broker of secrets were interesting enough, and if we'd have been given more of that, and a tighter story I might not have been left so disappointed.
I'm giving two stars, cause it was OK background noise when feeling under the weather, but it's not up to par of what Helen Harper can deliver when she nails something.
Format:audiobook
I mean, I liked a lot of this book, and I love smut, but the romance in this book felt so unnecessary and completely unbelievable, it was, distracting and I was some sorta silly instalove, I have no idea why these people were seemingly so into each other.
Our heroine was a likeable enough character, as was the hero, but their shambling around each other was neither charming, nor sexy. Just annoying, and made me want to smack both of them over the head.
The plot threads with out heroine wheeling and dealing in Coldstream as a broker of secrets were interesting enough, and if we'd have been given more of that, and a tighter story I might not have been left so disappointed.
I'm giving two stars, cause it was OK background noise when feeling under the weather, but it's not up to par of what Helen Harper can deliver when she nails something.
January 17, 2026
Are you looking for a light-hearted paranormal romance, here's the answer. The book offers an entertaining light read with a diverse coverage of creatures.
The romance was a slow burn, which is a plus for me, although I found the couple's final declaration of love to each other a bit abrupt and too easy, but as the series continues, there will certainly be challenges ahead 3.5 ⭐️.
I read the book as an audiobook and I liked the reader. The focus is on our FMC Mallory, who has learned to survive, even shine as a powerless person, among the supernaturals who underestimate her.
Thank you to Tantor Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of the audiobook!
The romance was a slow burn, which is a plus for me, although I found the couple's final declaration of love to each other a bit abrupt and too easy, but as the series continues, there will certainly be challenges ahead 3.5 ⭐️.
I read the book as an audiobook and I liked the reader. The focus is on our FMC Mallory, who has learned to survive, even shine as a powerless person, among the supernaturals who underestimate her.
Thank you to Tantor Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of the audiobook!
January 19, 2026
Loved this!
What a great adventure. I liked seeing Mallory handle herself in multiple situations with no access to magic. So cool! Also thoroughly enjoyed the relationship between Mallory and Alex. Swoon worthy! I am partial to the Coldstream setting. I need more!
What a great adventure. I liked seeing Mallory handle herself in multiple situations with no access to magic. So cool! Also thoroughly enjoyed the relationship between Mallory and Alex. Swoon worthy! I am partial to the Coldstream setting. I need more!
January 16, 2026
KU) 🌶🌶 Really enjoyed this!
January 22, 2026
excellent!
Can definitely recommend and this one took me by surprise with understanding the sheer levels of a woman’s need to be seen, it really struck a cord. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Can definitely recommend and this one took me by surprise with understanding the sheer levels of a woman’s need to be seen, it really struck a cord. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Read
January 27, 2026Dnf'ed for now.
February 7, 2026
My first Helen Harper book, it won’t be the last. An enjoyable romantic fantasy tale with supernatural characters and the main character, Mallory, who is a squib, a non-magical creature who more than holds her own in the midst of vampires, werewolves, witches, and ogres. Thanks NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook with terrific narration by Ruth Urquhart.
January 15, 2026
A magical, marvelous story of Mallory, a Squib in the supernatural city of Coldstream. She has no magic; she deals in secrets and favors, trading services and knowledge for benefits and boons, using blood contracts to keep the paranormals honest. When Alexander MacTire, alpha werewolf and entrepreneur, wants her to find him a mate, she refuses, but he won't take "No" for an answer. Mallory searches amongst the eligible ladies in the city for him while fighting her own desires. Meanwhile, shes bartering with vampires, witches, ogres, and goblins! Will Mallory find an enchanted jar and complete her blood bargain with Chester? Can she find a partner for Alex before the Wolf Ball? This delightful book is in the same setting as Helen Harper's adorable Cat Lady Chronicles, with cute catlady cameos!! Definitely 5 stars!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 25, 2026
Tired Tropes
We have:
Love at first sight
He couldn’t possibly want plain old me!
Miscommunication
Jealous macho man
It started off so well too.
We have:
Love at first sight
He couldn’t possibly want plain old me!
Miscommunication
Jealous macho man
It started off so well too.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a refreshing read and a great one for the start of the New Year!
Mallory is a squib. She has no magical talents, she is not a witch, she is not a werewolf… therefore, in the town where she lives, Coldstream, she is basically a nobody…
But… she does have some powers. You see she TRADES things for her clients that no one else seems to be able to get their hands on… and that itself makes her a very valuable asset.
One of her clients asks her for a certain map…one that needs to be stored in a climate controlled room and with certain Magicks spells surrounding it, and IN a particular sealed jar. Is she going to be able to procure the map, AND everything else? Well, she’s sure going to give it her best shot!
Her next client wants to hire her to find him his perfect match. She stops him. NO! This is NOT what she does!
But he insists… and so, she’s now on a journey to find the perfect mate for the Alpha Werewolf, Alexander!
There’s only one problem… she just may have a teeny, tiny, itsy-bitsy, small amount of feelings for him… 😮😳
So, she goes through her everyday life and tries to set him up with the perfect woman…
Until it all falls apart around her….
Sweet. Relatively short (about 7+ hours). And with just the right amount of Magicks. Magical Realism. Romance. Angst. And…so much more!
I absolutely adored this one, and I hope you do too!
The only reason it is 4 bold stars (instead of 5) is because the end of the book cut off…like I was in the middle of the chapter…. Kind of like the last episode of the Soprano’s… where you thought your house just lost power…
Only this one just STOPS! Seemingly in the middle of a chapter! 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m happy to see on #NetGalley that this is book #1 in a new series…. But, I had NO IDEA of that going in to read this.
So… FOUR STARS FOR ME!
#Squib by @HelenHarper and narrated beautifully by @RuthUrquhart.
This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, so please keep your eyes 👀 open for it to drop on on 1/13/26!!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Mallory is a squib. She has no magical talents, she is not a witch, she is not a werewolf… therefore, in the town where she lives, Coldstream, she is basically a nobody…
But… she does have some powers. You see she TRADES things for her clients that no one else seems to be able to get their hands on… and that itself makes her a very valuable asset.
One of her clients asks her for a certain map…one that needs to be stored in a climate controlled room and with certain Magicks spells surrounding it, and IN a particular sealed jar. Is she going to be able to procure the map, AND everything else? Well, she’s sure going to give it her best shot!
Her next client wants to hire her to find him his perfect match. She stops him. NO! This is NOT what she does!
But he insists… and so, she’s now on a journey to find the perfect mate for the Alpha Werewolf, Alexander!
There’s only one problem… she just may have a teeny, tiny, itsy-bitsy, small amount of feelings for him… 😮😳
So, she goes through her everyday life and tries to set him up with the perfect woman…
Until it all falls apart around her….
Sweet. Relatively short (about 7+ hours). And with just the right amount of Magicks. Magical Realism. Romance. Angst. And…so much more!
I absolutely adored this one, and I hope you do too!
The only reason it is 4 bold stars (instead of 5) is because the end of the book cut off…like I was in the middle of the chapter…. Kind of like the last episode of the Soprano’s… where you thought your house just lost power…
Only this one just STOPS! Seemingly in the middle of a chapter! 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m happy to see on #NetGalley that this is book #1 in a new series…. But, I had NO IDEA of that going in to read this.
So… FOUR STARS FOR ME!
#Squib by @HelenHarper and narrated beautifully by @RuthUrquhart.
This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, so please keep your eyes 👀 open for it to drop on on 1/13/26!!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @TantorMedia and #TantorAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big Thanks To Tantor Audio for an advanced listener copy of Squib by Helen Harper.
Squib is a novel I'd recommend for anyone who wanted to dip into paranormal romance, but was not sure how they really feel about PNR! It is an excellent, palate cleanser novel after a heavy read, and although there was some violence, and mentions of a possible war in the future, this really fell very heavily into the realm of Cozy Paranormal Fantasy/Romance.
Mallory is a squib, a person with no magic. She's chosen to live in Coldstream which is full of magic, and she's happy there. A ray of sunshine, she has a business of trading in information and secrets. Mallory is well regarded and has a great business going in this magical town.
All this changes rapidly with a chance encounter with Alpha Werewolf McTire. He's obviously an Alpha and a bit bossy. Mallory is more of a free spirit, but at her core, she's a business woman, so when he proposes a business deal, she accepts. She's to find him his perfect First Mate. Tricky business as the First Mate is somewhat akin to a "First Lady" and must meet a lot of requirements.
As Mallory and McTire spend more time together, sparks fly - but will Mallory and McTire fan the flames or dim them? You'll want to read to find out! Mallory is fun, sunny, smart and sassy. McTire is of course broody and bossy and prone to impulsive behavior.
I did find the town of Coldspring to be enjoyable to read about. There's magic, and lots of magical creatures all going about daily lives, which was well done and a lot of fun. To me the book did read a bit like a Young Adult novel - and I thought it was one until that one last scene! I think this is likely appropriate for todays 16-18 year olds and beyond.
This cozy Paranormal romance was narrated by award winner Ruth Urquhart. I was delighted to find out that she is a real human who was nominated for a Voice Arts Award, as there was some discussion on the interwebs about AI use for narration of this book and I do not support synthesized voices in finished copies of books. Her accent was charming, and I really found that the narration flowed, making this book an "easy listen" for me.
I think I'll be dipping into more from Helen Harper when I need something light and fun!
Squib is a novel I'd recommend for anyone who wanted to dip into paranormal romance, but was not sure how they really feel about PNR! It is an excellent, palate cleanser novel after a heavy read, and although there was some violence, and mentions of a possible war in the future, this really fell very heavily into the realm of Cozy Paranormal Fantasy/Romance.
Mallory is a squib, a person with no magic. She's chosen to live in Coldstream which is full of magic, and she's happy there. A ray of sunshine, she has a business of trading in information and secrets. Mallory is well regarded and has a great business going in this magical town.
All this changes rapidly with a chance encounter with Alpha Werewolf McTire. He's obviously an Alpha and a bit bossy. Mallory is more of a free spirit, but at her core, she's a business woman, so when he proposes a business deal, she accepts. She's to find him his perfect First Mate. Tricky business as the First Mate is somewhat akin to a "First Lady" and must meet a lot of requirements.
As Mallory and McTire spend more time together, sparks fly - but will Mallory and McTire fan the flames or dim them? You'll want to read to find out! Mallory is fun, sunny, smart and sassy. McTire is of course broody and bossy and prone to impulsive behavior.
I did find the town of Coldspring to be enjoyable to read about. There's magic, and lots of magical creatures all going about daily lives, which was well done and a lot of fun. To me the book did read a bit like a Young Adult novel - and I thought it was one until that one last scene! I think this is likely appropriate for todays 16-18 year olds and beyond.
This cozy Paranormal romance was narrated by award winner Ruth Urquhart. I was delighted to find out that she is a real human who was nominated for a Voice Arts Award, as there was some discussion on the interwebs about AI use for narration of this book and I do not support synthesized voices in finished copies of books. Her accent was charming, and I really found that the narration flowed, making this book an "easy listen" for me.
I think I'll be dipping into more from Helen Harper when I need something light and fun!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a great start to this spin off series from the Cat Lady Chronicles, starring a few of the characters we briefly met in that series. Mallory Nash is a squib, i.e. she has no magical talent whatsoever, does not shapeshift and is not a vampire either. But living in the magical Scottish town of Coldstream, she has a special talent all of her own. She trades in knowledge and secrets - she is able to find artefacts and finds out things that no-one else seems to be able to.
In this book. she has a couple of jobs that take a lot of effort, energy and expertise to complete. The first is to gain access to a magical map, but the conditions on borrowing the map lead her all over Scotland in order to complete. The second took a lot more time and effort. The local alpha werewolf wants Mallory to find him his First Mate - not something she wanted to do at all and definitely not something she has ever done before. She really doesn't want to be known as the local matchmaker for the supes in the area and there's also a little problem Mallory has with him as well.
Mallory was a great character - I loved her quirkiness and how determined she was to see a job through to the end despite her feelings about it and the person who hired her at times. I also loved how everyone seemed to underestimate her and her abilities, but she proved time and time again that she does not need rescuing by any man and even ending up doing more of the rescuing!
Alexander MacTire was a great character as well and I loved seeing him evolve even in such a short time. In the Cat Lady Chronicles and at the crossover scene in this book, he definitely came across as arrogant and aloof, expecting everyone to jump when he demanded it of them, but through his developing relationship with Mallory, he soon changed into someone more much redeemable and likeable! Can't wait to see what happens between them in the next book in this series.
If you like fun characters with no magic living amongst a host of magical creatures, who has a talent that no one else can match, then this urban fantasy book with a touch of romance is perfect for you!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one! Thank you Helen for another fun, exciting read!
In this book. she has a couple of jobs that take a lot of effort, energy and expertise to complete. The first is to gain access to a magical map, but the conditions on borrowing the map lead her all over Scotland in order to complete. The second took a lot more time and effort. The local alpha werewolf wants Mallory to find him his First Mate - not something she wanted to do at all and definitely not something she has ever done before. She really doesn't want to be known as the local matchmaker for the supes in the area and there's also a little problem Mallory has with him as well.
Mallory was a great character - I loved her quirkiness and how determined she was to see a job through to the end despite her feelings about it and the person who hired her at times. I also loved how everyone seemed to underestimate her and her abilities, but she proved time and time again that she does not need rescuing by any man and even ending up doing more of the rescuing!
Alexander MacTire was a great character as well and I loved seeing him evolve even in such a short time. In the Cat Lady Chronicles and at the crossover scene in this book, he definitely came across as arrogant and aloof, expecting everyone to jump when he demanded it of them, but through his developing relationship with Mallory, he soon changed into someone more much redeemable and likeable! Can't wait to see what happens between them in the next book in this series.
If you like fun characters with no magic living amongst a host of magical creatures, who has a talent that no one else can match, then this urban fantasy book with a touch of romance is perfect for you!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one! Thank you Helen for another fun, exciting read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Helen gave me an arc*
Note: this book overlaps with the "Cat Lady" books.
CW: FMC is bruised & threatened by an angry client (not MMC) but MMC does go a bit 'alphahole' and escalates the situation; one open-door sex scene, cliffhanger that leads into the next "Cat Lady" book
Mallory is a squib (someone without magic)-- one of about 100 in Coldstream. Because of this, people think her powerless. Mallory stays safe (and powerful) in Coldstream by dealing in secrets and favours across all species in the city (with the help of her assistant Boris who clearly does not get paid enough). She has faced down vampires, a mysterious cat lady who is more than she seems, entire witch covens and more... but can she survive the heartbreak of trying to matchmake for a grumpy alpha who *maybe* isn't as bad as he seems?
After accidentally crashing a failed date between cat lady Kit McCafferty and werewolf alpha Alexander MacTire, Mallory blurts out that she knows the alpha is searching for a mate. Intrigued at Mallory's explanation on how she would have finagled a meeting between him and a potential mate (as she had been approached to do but declined), he decides to hire her to find potential mates on his behalf. Weirdly though, after all the time they spend together, none of the potentials seem quite right?
***
I loved this book! My parents and I (with permission from Helen of course) read this on New Years Eve and it was such a wonderful way to end the year! Mallory is *excellent* and I adored seeing scenes from other books from a new point of view! "Squib" is a chaotically joyous tale between two romantically-clueless powerhouses who aren't quite sure how they got themselves into such a emotional mess.
This is probably my second favourite in this world after the first book in this world (Waifs & Strays). Helen does such a masterful job creating intricate world-building that isn't too detail-heavy. I love the emphasis on how power doesn't have to be physical and how much of Coldstream functions on Mallory's intel.
Note: this book overlaps with the "Cat Lady" books.
CW: FMC is bruised & threatened by an angry client (not MMC) but MMC does go a bit 'alphahole' and escalates the situation; one open-door sex scene, cliffhanger that leads into the next "Cat Lady" book
Mallory is a squib (someone without magic)-- one of about 100 in Coldstream. Because of this, people think her powerless. Mallory stays safe (and powerful) in Coldstream by dealing in secrets and favours across all species in the city (with the help of her assistant Boris who clearly does not get paid enough). She has faced down vampires, a mysterious cat lady who is more than she seems, entire witch covens and more... but can she survive the heartbreak of trying to matchmake for a grumpy alpha who *maybe* isn't as bad as he seems?
After accidentally crashing a failed date between cat lady Kit McCafferty and werewolf alpha Alexander MacTire, Mallory blurts out that she knows the alpha is searching for a mate. Intrigued at Mallory's explanation on how she would have finagled a meeting between him and a potential mate (as she had been approached to do but declined), he decides to hire her to find potential mates on his behalf. Weirdly though, after all the time they spend together, none of the potentials seem quite right?
***
I loved this book! My parents and I (with permission from Helen of course) read this on New Years Eve and it was such a wonderful way to end the year! Mallory is *excellent* and I adored seeing scenes from other books from a new point of view! "Squib" is a chaotically joyous tale between two romantically-clueless powerhouses who aren't quite sure how they got themselves into such a emotional mess.
This is probably my second favourite in this world after the first book in this world (Waifs & Strays). Helen does such a masterful job creating intricate world-building that isn't too detail-heavy. I love the emphasis on how power doesn't have to be physical and how much of Coldstream functions on Mallory's intel.
January 8, 2026
This is my first book by Harper that I've read. Apparently, this one is a book that is a spin-off or companion to another of her series, but is also a standalone and the start of a new series. This was such a fun story, but I kept thinking of Harry Potter because I had never heard of a Squib in the fantasy world context before that series. Though different from HP, where a squib was born from magical parents without magic, in this world, a Squib is just a person who is not a part of the preternatural world, non-magical, not a shifter, not any other kind of supernatural being. So Mallory is this person who deals in favors and secrets, and she happens upon the new Alpha of town, who needs a mate. He doesn't have the best of luck, so he enlists her to find him a partner. These two are obviously attracted to one another, but Mallory does not think that this powerful being would ever be interested in her because, as everyone points out constantly, she is just a squib. Alongside this contract, she is also on a contract with an anxious vampire, and for him to complete those tasks, she has to find this rare jar that holds magical documents. That sends her on many different missions to gain favors as well. It does get frustrating because it was obvious, as a reader, that MacTire only has eyes for Mallory, but we have to go in circles on this whole mission to set him up with the perfect partner. We also see a constant mention of how powerful and respected she is, then turn around and see how much people don't respect her due to her lack of magic. The story itself is fun, and as much as everyone underestimates Mallory, she continuously proves she doesn't need to be rescued by a man, which was nice. I love this world and town, and since discovering it's in the same world as this other series, I'm going to have to pick that one up and give it a go.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think we read books for all different reasons - one great reason is for pure enjoyment / escapism. Helen Harper's books always deliver on this as it is an absolute delight to enter the worlds she creates. This particular book was one I didn't know I needed, but once it was started, I absolutely loved it.
Mallory Nash is a squib, one with no magic, who we met in the recent Cat Lady chronicles - however having no magic hasn't held her back as she is a powerbroker in Coldstream working in secrets and deals. There is a delightful crossover towards the start of the book which allows us revisit the first meeting between Mallory and Alexander MacTire, Alpha of the MacTire Pack, looking at it from a totally different perspective. Alex quickly hires Mallory to find him a mate, a job she is a little bit dubious about taking, but regardless she sets up a contract to help him find the one. Things get pretty complicated from this point forward and we are taken on a rollercoaster of a ride. Of course, Alex's hunt for a mate is not Mallory's only job. One particularly difficult job at the same time is to help a vampire to attain an ancient map he desperately needs for information - a task that causes all kinds of complications for Mallory.
Once again Helen has created all kinds of wonderful characters, some of whom we have encountered in previous books and it was really entertaining to be back in Coldstream. Mallory is a great main character and her interactions with Alex as well as his pack are very engaging. I'm really looking forward to seeing what other spin offs emerge from the Coldstream universe - it will be hard to top this one for pure entertainment. Thank you to the author for the chance to read early and provide my honest opinion.
Mallory Nash is a squib, one with no magic, who we met in the recent Cat Lady chronicles - however having no magic hasn't held her back as she is a powerbroker in Coldstream working in secrets and deals. There is a delightful crossover towards the start of the book which allows us revisit the first meeting between Mallory and Alexander MacTire, Alpha of the MacTire Pack, looking at it from a totally different perspective. Alex quickly hires Mallory to find him a mate, a job she is a little bit dubious about taking, but regardless she sets up a contract to help him find the one. Things get pretty complicated from this point forward and we are taken on a rollercoaster of a ride. Of course, Alex's hunt for a mate is not Mallory's only job. One particularly difficult job at the same time is to help a vampire to attain an ancient map he desperately needs for information - a task that causes all kinds of complications for Mallory.
Once again Helen has created all kinds of wonderful characters, some of whom we have encountered in previous books and it was really entertaining to be back in Coldstream. Mallory is a great main character and her interactions with Alex as well as his pack are very engaging. I'm really looking forward to seeing what other spin offs emerge from the Coldstream universe - it will be hard to top this one for pure entertainment. Thank you to the author for the chance to read early and provide my honest opinion.
February 23, 2026
{urban fantasy; M/F; single POV; one explicit ending}
I just love a story where the main character is normal but surrounded by misfits (supernaturals). It reminds me of Annette Marie’s beloved series. Mallory has an unusual job she created. She is both a mediator between supernatural groups and an information broker. Since she is an established trader with a long client list, her own lack of supernatural capabilities has not been a problem...until the local alpha werewolf asks her to find the perfect mate for him. Oops. She already has a contract with an arrogant egomaniacal vampire to obtain some obscure vase. Life is already complicated.
“Thump. Thump.
The best way forward would be to hide in her bed until the apocalypse happened.”
I think this is a fun, peppy story for a staycation or beach weekend. I really enjoyed how Mallory managed to navigate her different freelance projects and still take Alexander, the alpha wolf, on dates as the third wheel. Yes, his motivations are pretty clear, and she gradually admits that work is not the end goal. It leaves me feeling good, and I needed that. BUT skip the epilogue unless you want to get a hint on another story. This story left some major things unresolved (like why does the vampire desperately desire a vase?) but still feels like a finished story.
I think this story would have been just as good if it were a ‘clean’ romance. The plot is great!
* The oddest epilogue
* She saves him
* Matchmaker
* Older, smart, underdog heroine
* Did I mention confusing epilogue?
I just love a story where the main character is normal but surrounded by misfits (supernaturals). It reminds me of Annette Marie’s beloved series. Mallory has an unusual job she created. She is both a mediator between supernatural groups and an information broker. Since she is an established trader with a long client list, her own lack of supernatural capabilities has not been a problem...until the local alpha werewolf asks her to find the perfect mate for him. Oops. She already has a contract with an arrogant egomaniacal vampire to obtain some obscure vase. Life is already complicated.
“Thump. Thump.
The best way forward would be to hide in her bed until the apocalypse happened.”
I think this is a fun, peppy story for a staycation or beach weekend. I really enjoyed how Mallory managed to navigate her different freelance projects and still take Alexander, the alpha wolf, on dates as the third wheel. Yes, his motivations are pretty clear, and she gradually admits that work is not the end goal. It leaves me feeling good, and I needed that. BUT skip the epilogue unless you want to get a hint on another story. This story left some major things unresolved (like why does the vampire desperately desire a vase?) but still feels like a finished story.
I think this story would have been just as good if it were a ‘clean’ romance. The plot is great!
* The oddest epilogue
* She saves him
* Matchmaker
* Older, smart, underdog heroine
* Did I mention confusing epilogue?
February 28, 2026
Another great winner
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Squib is a side story to The Cat Lady Chronicles that features Kit McCafferty, retired assassin/agent living in the paranormal city of Coldstream.
Harper has chosen two of her more intriguing, often irritating secondary characters from The Cat Lady Chronicles to feature in the first of The Coldstream Chronicles, the crossover series. And it works beautifully on multiple levels.
Mallory has popped up numerous times in Kit’s stories because she’s a powerful information broker. She trades in secrets and the ability to deliver items that no other person or company is capable of doing. What she deals in is absolute promises. Which as a “mere” human in a paranormal world makes her powerful.
Her companion in the story is another frequent character as well in Kit’s series. Another powerful player in Coldstream, the werewolf Alpha Enter Alexander MacTire. He’s got an interesting mission for her.
Harper has their interactions playing out with intelligence, great dialogue, and believable chemistry.
Plus a terrific mystery that’s not totally resolved but will have ramifications for both series.
I am very excited to see how Harper is going to weave in the storylines and sustain the many characters that crossover throughout this mystery.
Another great winner. And honestly, I loved how these characters became so much more well developed and relatable here than they were in the first series.
The Coldstream Chronicles
Squib #1
Crossover from:
The Cat Lady Chronicles
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Squib is a side story to The Cat Lady Chronicles that features Kit McCafferty, retired assassin/agent living in the paranormal city of Coldstream.
Harper has chosen two of her more intriguing, often irritating secondary characters from The Cat Lady Chronicles to feature in the first of The Coldstream Chronicles, the crossover series. And it works beautifully on multiple levels.
Mallory has popped up numerous times in Kit’s stories because she’s a powerful information broker. She trades in secrets and the ability to deliver items that no other person or company is capable of doing. What she deals in is absolute promises. Which as a “mere” human in a paranormal world makes her powerful.
Her companion in the story is another frequent character as well in Kit’s series. Another powerful player in Coldstream, the werewolf Alpha Enter Alexander MacTire. He’s got an interesting mission for her.
Harper has their interactions playing out with intelligence, great dialogue, and believable chemistry.
Plus a terrific mystery that’s not totally resolved but will have ramifications for both series.
I am very excited to see how Harper is going to weave in the storylines and sustain the many characters that crossover throughout this mystery.
Another great winner. And honestly, I loved how these characters became so much more well developed and relatable here than they were in the first series.
The Coldstream Chronicles
Squib #1
Crossover from:
The Cat Lady Chronicles
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨📚 I just finished Squib and I honestly loved every minute of it! Mallory is such a clever and independent heroine—she may not have magic herself, but her sharp mind and resourcefulness make her a force to be reckoned with in Coldstream’s magical world.✨ I admired her strength and wit, especially in a city full of spells and secrets.
Enter Alexander—an alluring alpha werewolf and successful businessman who’s used to getting what he wants. 🐺 When he asks Mallory to find him a perfect mate, I thought it was just a simple business deal. But of course, things quickly become more complicated—and more personal. 💖 Their chemistry is slow-burning but undeniable, and I loved how their connection deepened amidst the magic and mayhem.
What really stood out to me was the balance between humor, tension, and heartfelt moments. The world-building was immersive, making Coldstream feel like a place full of mystery and enchantment. The story is satisfying as a standalone, but it also leaves room for more adventures in the Coldstream Chronicles, which I’m already looking forward to!
If you enjoy stories with strong, clever heroines and captivating alpha heroes, wrapped in a world of magic and secrets, Squib is an absolute must-read. 🌟💫 Perfect for those who love a bit of romance, intrigue, and a dash of danger!
Enter Alexander—an alluring alpha werewolf and successful businessman who’s used to getting what he wants. 🐺 When he asks Mallory to find him a perfect mate, I thought it was just a simple business deal. But of course, things quickly become more complicated—and more personal. 💖 Their chemistry is slow-burning but undeniable, and I loved how their connection deepened amidst the magic and mayhem.
What really stood out to me was the balance between humor, tension, and heartfelt moments. The world-building was immersive, making Coldstream feel like a place full of mystery and enchantment. The story is satisfying as a standalone, but it also leaves room for more adventures in the Coldstream Chronicles, which I’m already looking forward to!
If you enjoy stories with strong, clever heroines and captivating alpha heroes, wrapped in a world of magic and secrets, Squib is an absolute must-read. 🌟💫 Perfect for those who love a bit of romance, intrigue, and a dash of danger!
January 19, 2026
I picked up *Squib* by Helen Harper not really knowing what to expect, and honestly? It was way more fun than I thought it would be.
The main character is basically the magical equivalent of “I have one useless skill and no one takes me seriously,” which is instantly relatable. She’s scrappy, sarcastic, and very aware that the odds are stacked against her, but she keeps going anyway. A lot of the humor comes from that underdog energy, and it works really well.
The magical journey setup isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but Harper leans into it in a smart way. The worldbuilding is clear without being overwhelming, and the pacing is quick enough that you’re never stuck slogging through explanations. It’s one of those books where you keep saying “okay, just one more chapter” and then suddenly you’re halfway through.
Tone-wise, it’s light, funny, and easy to read, but it still has stakes. There are some genuinely tense moments mixed in with the snark, which keeps it from feeling too fluffy. The side characters are solid too—some predictable archetypes, sure, but still entertaining.
Overall, *Squib* is a great comfort read if you want something magical, funny, and fast-paced without needing to emotionally recover afterward. Perfect for when you’re in a reading slump or just want to have a good time. LOVED!
The main character is basically the magical equivalent of “I have one useless skill and no one takes me seriously,” which is instantly relatable. She’s scrappy, sarcastic, and very aware that the odds are stacked against her, but she keeps going anyway. A lot of the humor comes from that underdog energy, and it works really well.
The magical journey setup isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but Harper leans into it in a smart way. The worldbuilding is clear without being overwhelming, and the pacing is quick enough that you’re never stuck slogging through explanations. It’s one of those books where you keep saying “okay, just one more chapter” and then suddenly you’re halfway through.
Tone-wise, it’s light, funny, and easy to read, but it still has stakes. There are some genuinely tense moments mixed in with the snark, which keeps it from feeling too fluffy. The side characters are solid too—some predictable archetypes, sure, but still entertaining.
Overall, *Squib* is a great comfort read if you want something magical, funny, and fast-paced without needing to emotionally recover afterward. Perfect for when you’re in a reading slump or just want to have a good time. LOVED!
January 31, 2026
DNF’ed at 83%
Very great writing but this story pissed me off.
I was already upset about the fact that he’s been playing games with her since the first day they met.
For someone who is supposed to be direct and honest, he was everything but that with her and would rather she was deceived or led into liking him. She already liked him, he didn’t need to play the ‘find me a mate’ game. It felt like he didn’t want to admit his feelings because he didn’t think she would be a suitable mate for the pack but he still wanted to keep her around.
And now after all the times she has warned him she can take care of herself, he comes in and ruins a job for her?? Then she foolishly tries to enter into another contract with the…sigh, I’m too upset to even type this review properly. Goodbye.
No wait I came back because I’m still angry. She legit has 2 favors and 2 secrets with this vampire. She could’ve said she’s invoking one of her favors and he’s to allow Alex and herself leave safely but nooooo she called upon a new contract to get the one thing that was so difficult to get before and was broken by the same foolish vampire. Omg I’m incensed.
And she had the guts to offer up her blood in exchange? I know there’s a way to write all of this and wrap it up well but I’m quite displeased at this turn of events. It’s unnecessary and silly.
Very great writing but this story pissed me off.
I was already upset about the fact that he’s been playing games with her since the first day they met.
For someone who is supposed to be direct and honest, he was everything but that with her and would rather she was deceived or led into liking him. She already liked him, he didn’t need to play the ‘find me a mate’ game. It felt like he didn’t want to admit his feelings because he didn’t think she would be a suitable mate for the pack but he still wanted to keep her around.
And now after all the times she has warned him she can take care of herself, he comes in and ruins a job for her?? Then she foolishly tries to enter into another contract with the…sigh, I’m too upset to even type this review properly. Goodbye.
No wait I came back because I’m still angry. She legit has 2 favors and 2 secrets with this vampire. She could’ve said she’s invoking one of her favors and he’s to allow Alex and herself leave safely but nooooo she called upon a new contract to get the one thing that was so difficult to get before and was broken by the same foolish vampire. Omg I’m incensed.
And she had the guts to offer up her blood in exchange? I know there’s a way to write all of this and wrap it up well but I’m quite displeased at this turn of events. It’s unnecessary and silly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
A non-magical resident of an almost entirely magical town who deals in secrets and favors and trades? Sign me up!
Squib was a lot of fun to read, and I really enjoyed Mallory's personality. Mallory's job is like a nonmagical fixer for the various magical residents of Coldstream. We begin with a pissy vampire named Longchamps who needs a [i'm uncertain of the spelling here since I listened to the audio of this]bellermine? bellamine? jug to transport a magical map. This is a pretty big subplot point, and you will want to smash the damn jug by the end. Anyway, she meets Alex, an alpha werewolf who needs a mate, and agrees to matchmake for him. It pretty much all goes downhill from there, with Mallory slowly realizing she has feelings for Alex and finding herself in danger from angry vampires.
The narrator did a good job, and I would recommend this for lighthearted magical reads. I'd probably read more from this author, and I believe this is a standalone but connects to the author's other works.
Thanks to Tantor Audio for the ALC! I received an advanced copy of this audiobook for review. All opinions are my own.
Squib was a lot of fun to read, and I really enjoyed Mallory's personality. Mallory's job is like a nonmagical fixer for the various magical residents of Coldstream. We begin with a pissy vampire named Longchamps who needs a [i'm uncertain of the spelling here since I listened to the audio of this]bellermine? bellamine? jug to transport a magical map. This is a pretty big subplot point, and you will want to smash the damn jug by the end. Anyway, she meets Alex, an alpha werewolf who needs a mate, and agrees to matchmake for him. It pretty much all goes downhill from there, with Mallory slowly realizing she has feelings for Alex and finding herself in danger from angry vampires.
The narrator did a good job, and I would recommend this for lighthearted magical reads. I'd probably read more from this author, and I believe this is a standalone but connects to the author's other works.
Thanks to Tantor Audio for the ALC! I received an advanced copy of this audiobook for review. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2026
Magic isn't always power.
Oh, I have been waiting for this book.
The character of Mallory peaked my intrest early on in the Cat Lady Chronicles and when I found out we were getting a book, I was so excited. Best of all, Helen did not disappoint at all.
So our FMC is a broker of knowledge and favors and the like. A fixer if you will, living in the magical town of Coldstream. However, there is a tiny catch. She has no magic. Zero, zilch, nada. She is what the call a squib. What she does have is a sunny personality, a keen mind at reading anyone but herself, and a go get them attitude. Plus, she will not take no for an answer.
She's been hired to find an item by a vampire and shortly after, hired by an Alpha werewolf to find him a mate. These two job hilariously bounce around each other and lead to some shenanigans and a few bad, but not life threatening, decisions.
Obviously, I am not going to spoil this for anyone, but I would definitely recommend you read it. The laughs alone are worth it, but the plot is wonderfully crafted and it flows seamlessly from one part to the next.
The best part is, there's more to come! So check this out and do yourself a favor.
Oh, I have been waiting for this book.
The character of Mallory peaked my intrest early on in the Cat Lady Chronicles and when I found out we were getting a book, I was so excited. Best of all, Helen did not disappoint at all.
So our FMC is a broker of knowledge and favors and the like. A fixer if you will, living in the magical town of Coldstream. However, there is a tiny catch. She has no magic. Zero, zilch, nada. She is what the call a squib. What she does have is a sunny personality, a keen mind at reading anyone but herself, and a go get them attitude. Plus, she will not take no for an answer.
She's been hired to find an item by a vampire and shortly after, hired by an Alpha werewolf to find him a mate. These two job hilariously bounce around each other and lead to some shenanigans and a few bad, but not life threatening, decisions.
Obviously, I am not going to spoil this for anyone, but I would definitely recommend you read it. The laughs alone are worth it, but the plot is wonderfully crafted and it flows seamlessly from one part to the next.
The best part is, there's more to come! So check this out and do yourself a favor.
January 17, 2026
Had no idea this was related to the Cat Lady Chronicles when I saw this on my KU recommendations lists. The title sounded quirky enough to have me checking out the synopsis, and it wasn't until Kit made an appearance that my synapses made the connection. I really enjoyed this book. I liked that the character was completely normal. No sudden magic or abilities, no super strength or long lost family artefact, or death of a family member that would imbue her with awe-inspiring magics. Just a human woman who had made herself powerful in her own way.
This book was also interesting because there was no real murder/investigation that ran the plot forward. This was more about the relationship between Mallory and Alexander, and her deals with other supernaturals as she barters between customers to facilitate the contracts and earning more favours in return. It was an interesting way to go about moving the story forward, and it was nice not to be in the middle of a potentially murder mystery investigation. Will definitely read more if Ms Harper continues on with Mallory and Alexanders story as it really piqued my interest.
4.25 stars
This book was also interesting because there was no real murder/investigation that ran the plot forward. This was more about the relationship between Mallory and Alexander, and her deals with other supernaturals as she barters between customers to facilitate the contracts and earning more favours in return. It was an interesting way to go about moving the story forward, and it was nice not to be in the middle of a potentially murder mystery investigation. Will definitely read more if Ms Harper continues on with Mallory and Alexanders story as it really piqued my interest.
4.25 stars
January 19, 2026
Did I take a look at this cover and immediately want to find out all about this totally awesome looking cheerful woman and dive right into this story? Yes, yes I did! And it was such a fun book to listen to and I know if I need some magical item or hidden info, I would for sure hire Mallory to do the job! She is such a wonderful, clever, resourceful woman, and even if she has no magic of her own while still living in the magical city of Coldstream, I would pit her against anyone!
So, of course I was invested in this first tale with Mallory working to find a special jar for a vampire and also tasked with finding a mate for a certain tall handsome alpha, pulling strings, digging up secrets, and maybe also falling for that sweetly devilish Alexander. There is danger but also humor, sweetness, and I was enthralled the whole time! I am very much looking forward to the continuation of this series!
This was a great audiobook to listen to. The Narrator, Ruth Urquhart, did an excellent job in bringing Mallory and her intriguingly magical world to life! I am so glad I got the chance to listen to this and now I need the next book now!
So, of course I was invested in this first tale with Mallory working to find a special jar for a vampire and also tasked with finding a mate for a certain tall handsome alpha, pulling strings, digging up secrets, and maybe also falling for that sweetly devilish Alexander. There is danger but also humor, sweetness, and I was enthralled the whole time! I am very much looking forward to the continuation of this series!
This was a great audiobook to listen to. The Narrator, Ruth Urquhart, did an excellent job in bringing Mallory and her intriguingly magical world to life! I am so glad I got the chance to listen to this and now I need the next book now!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first Helen Harper book! I loved it! I can't wait for more in this series! In the meantime, I looked up more books by Harper and am going to start some of the series she already has rolling! I loved the quick wit of Mallory the main character. Mallory is a very bright young girl who uses her natural talents to get her far in a world she doesn't necessary fit in, proving you don't have to have magic to be powerful. I love that she has a conscious and wits to get what she needs, using the favor for a favor system, to seemingly make the place she lives a better place without burning people in the end. The slow burn love story is beautiful, I love how Mallory denies it and pushes forward with her agreement despite her feelings! I can't wait to see how the pack accepts her. I believe with her good-hearted nature and stubborn personality things should be very entertaining moving forward! The end of the book perfectly sets up the next book theme! LOVE!!!
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