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The Witches' Weave #1
The Last Stitch
Not yet published
Expected 17 Feb 26One magical pendant. Two enemies bound by fate. A love that could unravel history itself.
When Oxford graduate student Lily Whitmore inherits her grandmother's mysterious hourglass pendant, she's catapulted into Victorian England, where magic is forbidden and those who wield it are erased from existence. But Lily isn't just any time traveler. She's a Weaver, capable of rewriting the very threads of fate.
Enter August Hawthorne: witch hunter, sworn to erase Weavers from existence. Cold. Calculating. Devastatingly beautiful. And bound by duty. Every clash between him and this mysterious woman strips away another layer of his merciless exterior, revealing the tortured soul he's desperate to hide. He should be her hunter. Instead, the witch he's sworn to destroy is unraveling everything he believed about magic, duty, and himself.
As magic bleeds from the world around them, Lily faces an impossible choice: embrace her power and save the Weavers, knowing she'll never see home again, or let magic die forever and watch the man who owns her heart become just another casualty of history.
Some threads bind tighter when pulled. And some enemies are destined to become everything.
When Oxford graduate student Lily Whitmore inherits her grandmother's mysterious hourglass pendant, she's catapulted into Victorian England, where magic is forbidden and those who wield it are erased from existence. But Lily isn't just any time traveler. She's a Weaver, capable of rewriting the very threads of fate.
Enter August Hawthorne: witch hunter, sworn to erase Weavers from existence. Cold. Calculating. Devastatingly beautiful. And bound by duty. Every clash between him and this mysterious woman strips away another layer of his merciless exterior, revealing the tortured soul he's desperate to hide. He should be her hunter. Instead, the witch he's sworn to destroy is unraveling everything he believed about magic, duty, and himself.
As magic bleeds from the world around them, Lily faces an impossible choice: embrace her power and save the Weavers, knowing she'll never see home again, or let magic die forever and watch the man who owns her heart become just another casualty of history.
Some threads bind tighter when pulled. And some enemies are destined to become everything.
Unknown Binding
Expected publication February 17, 2026
27 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Chantelle N. Kerr
2 books52 followersChantelle N. Kerr is the author of new adult fantasy romance that blends real-world struggles with sweeping, magical realms, crafting stories where love is as powerful as destiny and the line between good and evil is never black and white.
A lifelong dreamer and storyteller, she thrives on exploring themes of fate, sacrifice, and the cost of power. When she’s not lost in the worlds she creates, she’s embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood, devouring books, and connecting with fellow fantasy lovers through content creation.
The Starfire Prophecy is her debut novel, the first of many journeys into epic love, fate-defying choices, and the magic that lingers in the shadows.
A lifelong dreamer and storyteller, she thrives on exploring themes of fate, sacrifice, and the cost of power. When she’s not lost in the worlds she creates, she’s embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood, devouring books, and connecting with fellow fantasy lovers through content creation.
The Starfire Prophecy is her debut novel, the first of many journeys into epic love, fate-defying choices, and the magic that lingers in the shadows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW - This was my first time being an ARC reader and what a perfect book to start this off with. I honestly do not get pulled into books so quickly very often, but from the first chapter to the very last word, I didn't want it to end! And to end how this did... I'm trying for no spoilers but holy cow, can we have book 2 already! I am going to go insane waiting to find out what happens next!
Needless to say, this book was well written, intriguing in a way I didn't expect and so unlike many others I have read recently. The characters, especially the 2 MC's, have so much substance, I felt as if I was actually living with them. The settings, I so desperately wanted to be there to view them myself, to take in all the views, experiences and feelings of the story. From heartbreak (yes there were tears) to the overwhelming feelings of love and hate, I felt it all.
I will admit, there was maybe one or two chapters that lost me for a minute, but I was quickly back on track and those chapters not only made sense, but were helpful in explaining situations once I kept going. Reading about time travel has never been my thing, but if it is like this, Chantelle N Kerr has changed it for me!
@chantelkenkerr
Needless to say, this book was well written, intriguing in a way I didn't expect and so unlike many others I have read recently. The characters, especially the 2 MC's, have so much substance, I felt as if I was actually living with them. The settings, I so desperately wanted to be there to view them myself, to take in all the views, experiences and feelings of the story. From heartbreak (yes there were tears) to the overwhelming feelings of love and hate, I felt it all.
I will admit, there was maybe one or two chapters that lost me for a minute, but I was quickly back on track and those chapters not only made sense, but were helpful in explaining situations once I kept going. Reading about time travel has never been my thing, but if it is like this, Chantelle N Kerr has changed it for me!
@chantelkenkerr
December 29, 2025
The Last Stitch hit all the themes I love- intergenerational friendships, a slow-burning romance, a fight against the patriarchy, time travel, and magic. In this story, set in Victorian England, women have the power, and the hunters refuse to allow even one woman to live: they literally erase any trace of their existence. The idea of one man having the ability to unravel women of power resonated with me because what is a witch, really, except a woman with too much power. Kerr's characters are strong, determined women who will fight for their way of life with the support of unlikely allies. The story is told through the perspectives of Lily and August as they find themselves at opposing ends of the genocide that August's father is orchestrating.
This is the first book in The Witches' Weave series, and it ends, leaving the reader ready for book 2 immediately. It is a great start to what I expect will be an excellent series.
This is the first book in The Witches' Weave series, and it ends, leaving the reader ready for book 2 immediately. It is a great start to what I expect will be an excellent series.
December 20, 2025
I can’t decide if I want to hug the author right now for writing such a thrilling and beautiful book, or yell at her for that ending because I cannot believe the cliff she left us on, with everything hanging in the balance at the end! I need the next book like NOW please!!
The FMC Lily is a student at Oxford when she is magically transported back in time to the exact period she was studying mysterious disappearances. She ends up caught in the battle between those with magic who can weave the threads of the world (the weavers) and a group of witch hunters who wish to eliminate them all. When the MMC August is thrust into a world that forces him to question everything he’s believed by a tempting women who claims she’s from the future, he must decide what path to take and if he really knows the truth about the weavers.
As each stitch of this story is woven, I became more and more enthralled in this story. The storytelling and world building enriched a world based in reality that I was somewhat familiar with being 1890s English society, while putting an exciting twist on it through adding the world of magic. I truly enjoyed the relationship that developed between Lily and August and how they were both trying to use each other while resisting the undeniable tension between them. They both must learn the truth about this magic system and work together even when they are at odds to protect Lily and try to get her back to her 2025 timeline. I also loved the side characters sibling duo of Garrick and Adeline, they both brought fun sass and some added twists to the status quo of the story that kept me entertained!
This book was filled with plenty of twists and turns, running for their life, some hidden powers/identity and of course plenty of romance and tension that I was on the edge of my seat, rapidly turning to the next page. This was a beautiful, well crafted story and I cannot wait to see where the author takes us next after the cliffhanger ending! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
The FMC Lily is a student at Oxford when she is magically transported back in time to the exact period she was studying mysterious disappearances. She ends up caught in the battle between those with magic who can weave the threads of the world (the weavers) and a group of witch hunters who wish to eliminate them all. When the MMC August is thrust into a world that forces him to question everything he’s believed by a tempting women who claims she’s from the future, he must decide what path to take and if he really knows the truth about the weavers.
As each stitch of this story is woven, I became more and more enthralled in this story. The storytelling and world building enriched a world based in reality that I was somewhat familiar with being 1890s English society, while putting an exciting twist on it through adding the world of magic. I truly enjoyed the relationship that developed between Lily and August and how they were both trying to use each other while resisting the undeniable tension between them. They both must learn the truth about this magic system and work together even when they are at odds to protect Lily and try to get her back to her 2025 timeline. I also loved the side characters sibling duo of Garrick and Adeline, they both brought fun sass and some added twists to the status quo of the story that kept me entertained!
This book was filled with plenty of twists and turns, running for their life, some hidden powers/identity and of course plenty of romance and tension that I was on the edge of my seat, rapidly turning to the next page. This was a beautiful, well crafted story and I cannot wait to see where the author takes us next after the cliffhanger ending! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
Review of advance copy received from Author
what can I say about this book that doesn't give to much away? It's captivating, wonderfully written, made me feel like I was there in the thick of it all. I loved this book so much. Chantelle Kerr has a way to bring you into the world she creates with such ease, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
January 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️¾✩✩ 2.75 stars
I really wanted to love this one—and there is a lot here that I admired—but in the end, the gaps were things I just couldn’t overlook.
The Last Stitch starts with a genuinely compelling setup: a young historian researching erased disappearances, grief, inherited jewelry, and a sudden fall into the mid-1800s. The idea of witches as weavers of fate, history as something stitched and unraveled, and magic tied to threads and time is beautiful on paper. Add in a slow-burn romance and lyrical prose, and this felt like it should have been a hit for me.
What worked:
The writing itself is often gorgeous. The prose leans lyrical, with an almost dreamlike quality that makes the emotional beats—especially the relationship between Lily and August—feel intimate and tender. The slow-burn romance is clearly the heart of the book, and that’s where the story feels most confident and cohesive. I also loved the conceptual parallels between history, memory, fate, and weaving; the inspiration drawn from the idea of the Fates adds a nice thematic layer without being heavy-handed.
What didn’t work for me:
The magic system, while lovely in concept, never fully solidified. We’re told about threads, weaving, mending, unraveling—but rarely shown how any of it actually works in a concrete way. Training scenes feel vague, abilities feel inconsistent, and it’s hard to grasp limits, rules, or stakes, which makes the magic feel more symbolic than functional.
World-building in general felt underdeveloped. Characters appear and disappear without resolution, scenes jump locations abruptly, and entire threads (no pun intended) seem to drop out of the narrative. I kept wanting more grounding—more sense of place, continuity, and cause-and-effect.
August’s POV also never fully comes into its own. While his arc gains some emotional weight later on, his voice remains less distinct than Lily’s, and he often reads as a familiar archetype rather than a fully realized character.
Finally, the pacing falters in both directions: the middle lingers too long in atmosphere without enough narrative momentum, while the final stretch rushes through major developments so quickly that the urgency paradoxically disappears. The inclusion of multiple late-stage spicy scenes also felt tonally out of sync with the slow-burn, character-first story that came before and pulled me out of the larger conflict.
Overall:
If you’re here for vibes, lyrical writing, and a romance-forward fantasy with a cool central idea, there’s a lot to enjoy. But if you’re someone who needs clear magic rules, stronger world-building, and tighter narrative structure, this may leave you wanting more. For me, it was a book full of beautiful ideas that never quite stitched itself together.
I really wanted to love this one—and there is a lot here that I admired—but in the end, the gaps were things I just couldn’t overlook.
The Last Stitch starts with a genuinely compelling setup: a young historian researching erased disappearances, grief, inherited jewelry, and a sudden fall into the mid-1800s. The idea of witches as weavers of fate, history as something stitched and unraveled, and magic tied to threads and time is beautiful on paper. Add in a slow-burn romance and lyrical prose, and this felt like it should have been a hit for me.
What worked:
The writing itself is often gorgeous. The prose leans lyrical, with an almost dreamlike quality that makes the emotional beats—especially the relationship between Lily and August—feel intimate and tender. The slow-burn romance is clearly the heart of the book, and that’s where the story feels most confident and cohesive. I also loved the conceptual parallels between history, memory, fate, and weaving; the inspiration drawn from the idea of the Fates adds a nice thematic layer without being heavy-handed.
What didn’t work for me:
The magic system, while lovely in concept, never fully solidified. We’re told about threads, weaving, mending, unraveling—but rarely shown how any of it actually works in a concrete way. Training scenes feel vague, abilities feel inconsistent, and it’s hard to grasp limits, rules, or stakes, which makes the magic feel more symbolic than functional.
World-building in general felt underdeveloped. Characters appear and disappear without resolution, scenes jump locations abruptly, and entire threads (no pun intended) seem to drop out of the narrative. I kept wanting more grounding—more sense of place, continuity, and cause-and-effect.
August’s POV also never fully comes into its own. While his arc gains some emotional weight later on, his voice remains less distinct than Lily’s, and he often reads as a familiar archetype rather than a fully realized character.
Finally, the pacing falters in both directions: the middle lingers too long in atmosphere without enough narrative momentum, while the final stretch rushes through major developments so quickly that the urgency paradoxically disappears. The inclusion of multiple late-stage spicy scenes also felt tonally out of sync with the slow-burn, character-first story that came before and pulled me out of the larger conflict.
Overall:
If you’re here for vibes, lyrical writing, and a romance-forward fantasy with a cool central idea, there’s a lot to enjoy. But if you’re someone who needs clear magic rules, stronger world-building, and tighter narrative structure, this may leave you wanting more. For me, it was a book full of beautiful ideas that never quite stitched itself together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Last Stitch absolutely scratched the Outlander-wanting itch in my soul. If you love time travel, forbidden magic, broody morally-conflicted men, and enemies-to-lovers tension so thick you could cut it with a knife, this book delivers in all the best ways.
Lily Whitmore is pulled from modern Oxford into a Victorian England where magic is outlawed and Weavers, people who can manipulate fate itself, are hunted down and erased. The world-building here is immersive without being overwhelming, and the concept of “weaving” fate is genuinely fresh in a genre that can sometimes feel repetitive. The magical system feels purposeful, dangerous, and beautifully tied into the emotional stakes of the story.
And then there’s August Hawthorne. Cold. Ruthless. Witch hunter. Bound by duty. Emotionally constipated in the most delicious way. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Lily and August is chef’s kiss. Every interaction is loaded. Every argument feels like foreplay. Watching his rigid beliefs slowly unravel because of her is incredibly satisfying, and their chemistry is one of the strongest parts of the book.
The time travel elements really do have that Outlander feel. Being dropped into a past that feels alive, political, and hostile, where survival depends on learning fast and trusting carefully. If you loved that aspect of Outlander, you’ll feel right at home here.
That said… I did have one big frustration. It took way too long for Lily to realize that Elias, the Unraveler, was August’s father. The clues were practically waving flags, and she remained completely oblivious until the Pemberton ball. I found myself internally yelling at her more than once. It didn’t ruin the story, but it definitely tested my patience.
And then the ending. I won’t spoil it, but HOW did the Weavers not sense what was happening?! HOW did no one put it together?! I was equal parts shocked, stressed, and slightly exasperated, in the way that makes you immediately need the next book. Which, honestly, is the mark of a good romantasy. This book weaves together magic, fate, romance, and time travel in a way that feels both epic and intimate. If you’re a fan of Outlander or enemies-to-lovers romances with high stakes and emotional tension, this is one you’ll want on your shelf. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for Book 2 because I need answers.
Lily Whitmore is pulled from modern Oxford into a Victorian England where magic is outlawed and Weavers, people who can manipulate fate itself, are hunted down and erased. The world-building here is immersive without being overwhelming, and the concept of “weaving” fate is genuinely fresh in a genre that can sometimes feel repetitive. The magical system feels purposeful, dangerous, and beautifully tied into the emotional stakes of the story.
And then there’s August Hawthorne. Cold. Ruthless. Witch hunter. Bound by duty. Emotionally constipated in the most delicious way. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Lily and August is chef’s kiss. Every interaction is loaded. Every argument feels like foreplay. Watching his rigid beliefs slowly unravel because of her is incredibly satisfying, and their chemistry is one of the strongest parts of the book.
The time travel elements really do have that Outlander feel. Being dropped into a past that feels alive, political, and hostile, where survival depends on learning fast and trusting carefully. If you loved that aspect of Outlander, you’ll feel right at home here.
That said… I did have one big frustration. It took way too long for Lily to realize that Elias, the Unraveler, was August’s father. The clues were practically waving flags, and she remained completely oblivious until the Pemberton ball. I found myself internally yelling at her more than once. It didn’t ruin the story, but it definitely tested my patience.
And then the ending. I won’t spoil it, but HOW did the Weavers not sense what was happening?! HOW did no one put it together?! I was equal parts shocked, stressed, and slightly exasperated, in the way that makes you immediately need the next book. Which, honestly, is the mark of a good romantasy. This book weaves together magic, fate, romance, and time travel in a way that feels both epic and intimate. If you’re a fan of Outlander or enemies-to-lovers romances with high stakes and emotional tension, this is one you’ll want on your shelf. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for Book 2 because I need answers.
February 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5🌟
This book won me over with the description of Outlander meets Discovery of Witches and I feel like the comparison held true!!
The time travel, slow burn, enemies to lovers vibe with found family is so good! This book does leave you on a bit of a cliffhanger so prepare yourself for that. But the story of sisterhood and the quiet perseverance in the face of adversity is truly a beautiful tale. There is a couple of open door spicy scenes, I would rate 2/5 🌶️🌶️. Thank you to the author for the eARC! This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I really loved this love story and I cannot wait to see how everything comes together in the next book. (Please bring it all together nicely for me!! 😅)
I always love a story where someone comes to terms with the fact that what they were taught to believe wasn’t actually the truth. I love the way we can overcome prejudice and build bridges that span vast distances between groups of people!
Here are some quotes that I loved:
“These women weren’t evil. I wasn’t evil. And yet, the world saw us as something to be erased.”
“Men rarely suspect women of subversion. We’re supposed to be too delicate for treason.”
“If you two are quite finished,” Garrick drawled, “some of us would like to finish our drinks without being subjected to whatever mating ritual this is.”
“Compassion isn't weakness. It's the only thing that makes us human.”
‘Real change, lasting change, took time.’
‘The arithmetic of revolution was never clean.’
I caught her hand, pressing a kiss to her palm. “Even if the very heavens fall, I shall find you again in every lifetime.”
4.5/5🌟
This book won me over with the description of Outlander meets Discovery of Witches and I feel like the comparison held true!!
The time travel, slow burn, enemies to lovers vibe with found family is so good! This book does leave you on a bit of a cliffhanger so prepare yourself for that. But the story of sisterhood and the quiet perseverance in the face of adversity is truly a beautiful tale. There is a couple of open door spicy scenes, I would rate 2/5 🌶️🌶️. Thank you to the author for the eARC! This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I really loved this love story and I cannot wait to see how everything comes together in the next book. (Please bring it all together nicely for me!! 😅)
I always love a story where someone comes to terms with the fact that what they were taught to believe wasn’t actually the truth. I love the way we can overcome prejudice and build bridges that span vast distances between groups of people!
Here are some quotes that I loved:
“These women weren’t evil. I wasn’t evil. And yet, the world saw us as something to be erased.”
“Men rarely suspect women of subversion. We’re supposed to be too delicate for treason.”
“If you two are quite finished,” Garrick drawled, “some of us would like to finish our drinks without being subjected to whatever mating ritual this is.”
“Compassion isn't weakness. It's the only thing that makes us human.”
‘Real change, lasting change, took time.’
‘The arithmetic of revolution was never clean.’
I caught her hand, pressing a kiss to her palm. “Even if the very heavens fall, I shall find you again in every lifetime.”
Review of advance copy
I'm such a giant sucker for witch/witch hunter books, and this one did not disappoint! Throw in a dash of time travel, strong women, and sassy friends, and who could really ask for more?
There were definitely some issues (grammar, plot armor, historical inaccuracies), but honestly, I didn't mind most of it because the story was just so fun and engaging. My biggest issue with the book was the end, which felt fairly incongruous from the rest in terms of pacing and tone. The romance, which I loved in most of the story, was over the top at the end as well.
In addition to being a sucker for witch/witch hunter books, I am also a sucker for dual POVs. This one was done incredibly well, with a good mix of POVs, and with both being written in such a way that I could connect with the two main characters. Lily was easy to like from the start, but I appreciated seeing all the inner turmoil in August's chapters because it made the story so much more believable.
Adeline and Garrick were great in a not-super-believable but still very entertaining to read sort of way. I hope we see a lot more of them in the next book.
This book ended with a pretty depressing/calamitous cliffhanger, which typically doesn't have me super excited to pick up the next book (that's a me problem, lol), but this book was so fun that I am really looking forward to seeing where it goes next!
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
There were definitely some issues (grammar, plot armor, historical inaccuracies), but honestly, I didn't mind most of it because the story was just so fun and engaging. My biggest issue with the book was the end, which felt fairly incongruous from the rest in terms of pacing and tone. The romance, which I loved in most of the story, was over the top at the end as well.
In addition to being a sucker for witch/witch hunter books, I am also a sucker for dual POVs. This one was done incredibly well, with a good mix of POVs, and with both being written in such a way that I could connect with the two main characters. Lily was easy to like from the start, but I appreciated seeing all the inner turmoil in August's chapters because it made the story so much more believable.
Adeline and Garrick were great in a not-super-believable but still very entertaining to read sort of way. I hope we see a lot more of them in the next book.
This book ended with a pretty depressing/calamitous cliffhanger, which typically doesn't have me super excited to pick up the next book (that's a me problem, lol), but this book was so fun that I am really looking forward to seeing where it goes next!
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“My father would say you're bewitching me. That this is how it starts—the corruption, the fall...And part of me. . . God help me, part of me still wonders if he's right.”
I am right there with you, I am utterly bewitched by this book.
Do you remember the first book that truly captivated you? That swept you away?!
This book was that feeling I have been chasing!
The Last Stitch by will absolutely enthrall you,leave you equally in love and in pieces.
The perfect blend of time traveling from Outlander and the grittiness from A Discovery of Witches.
Magic is outlawed and wielders are hunted.
This is a huge problem for Lily who can not only time travel, she also has the power to weave fate.
Whats a girl to do?!
Well...she meets a witch hunter of course.
August is as handsome as he is grumpy and he has vowed to eradicate all witches.
They say opposites attract....right?!
As fates bind and unravel, we are caught in an epic hunt between worlds, duty, and love.
Absolutely lush!
This author does an amazing job weaving an intricate story without it feeling muddled. It's gripping and beautifully written. I was glued to every word and just a fair warning, there is a slightly cruel cliffhanger I am currently still dangling from.
I am right there with you, I am utterly bewitched by this book.
Do you remember the first book that truly captivated you? That swept you away?!
This book was that feeling I have been chasing!
The Last Stitch by will absolutely enthrall you,leave you equally in love and in pieces.
The perfect blend of time traveling from Outlander and the grittiness from A Discovery of Witches.
Magic is outlawed and wielders are hunted.
This is a huge problem for Lily who can not only time travel, she also has the power to weave fate.
Whats a girl to do?!
Well...she meets a witch hunter of course.
August is as handsome as he is grumpy and he has vowed to eradicate all witches.
They say opposites attract....right?!
As fates bind and unravel, we are caught in an epic hunt between worlds, duty, and love.
Absolutely lush!
This author does an amazing job weaving an intricate story without it feeling muddled. It's gripping and beautifully written. I was glued to every word and just a fair warning, there is a slightly cruel cliffhanger I am currently still dangling from.
December 31, 2025
Mind..truly..blown! 🤯 I was excited to receive an ARC of The Last Stitch because I had a feeling it was going to be special. Special is an understatement. I could not put this book down once I started.
I’ve seen The Last Stitch being compared to Outlander. I confess I’ve never seen Outlander so I had zero preconceived notions beginning this story.
Our FMC is Lily, a historian from England thrust back in time after accidentally breaking a magical glass pendant. She comes to discover she possesses the magic of a weaver. Our MMC is August. He’s broody, he’s sexy and he has always done what was expected of him. He also happens to be a hunter who has vowed to put an end to all weavers.
The characters were so well written in this series. Lily was such a strong FMC. I could also feel and sympathize with August’s struggle of doing what his father and position demand of him vs what he uncovers to be the truth. August is so controlled and here comes Lily, chipping away at all the walls and restraint he has built up. The chemistry between Lily and August was fire! That ending though?! I wanted to throw my kindle across the room and I mean that in the best way possible.
I ADORED this book and will be one of the first in line when the second book comes out.
I’ve seen The Last Stitch being compared to Outlander. I confess I’ve never seen Outlander so I had zero preconceived notions beginning this story.
Our FMC is Lily, a historian from England thrust back in time after accidentally breaking a magical glass pendant. She comes to discover she possesses the magic of a weaver. Our MMC is August. He’s broody, he’s sexy and he has always done what was expected of him. He also happens to be a hunter who has vowed to put an end to all weavers.
The characters were so well written in this series. Lily was such a strong FMC. I could also feel and sympathize with August’s struggle of doing what his father and position demand of him vs what he uncovers to be the truth. August is so controlled and here comes Lily, chipping away at all the walls and restraint he has built up. The chemistry between Lily and August was fire! That ending though?! I wanted to throw my kindle across the room and I mean that in the best way possible.
I ADORED this book and will be one of the first in line when the second book comes out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was delightful! Time traveling, magic, and a brewing rebellion...what more could you want in a story! Not to mention the banter between the two main characters was so charged you could feel the tension building throughout the book.
I enjoyed the world the author built, blending the Victorian era with magic. More than that, I appreciated the FMC's status as a historian which I found brought relevance of this story into current events of the world, since history tends to devestatingly repeat itself and do significant and irreparabale damage to people. It is a reminder that if you have a voice, you have a responsiblity to use it in defense of those who have lost theirs.
The characters were incredibly likeable and I am looking forward to book two of this series to find out what happens next.
4.5 🌟
Also, HUGE shout out for the cover, it is gorgeous!
I enjoyed the world the author built, blending the Victorian era with magic. More than that, I appreciated the FMC's status as a historian which I found brought relevance of this story into current events of the world, since history tends to devestatingly repeat itself and do significant and irreparabale damage to people. It is a reminder that if you have a voice, you have a responsiblity to use it in defense of those who have lost theirs.
The characters were incredibly likeable and I am looking forward to book two of this series to find out what happens next.
4.5 🌟
Also, HUGE shout out for the cover, it is gorgeous!
January 17, 2026
***ARC REVIEW***August and Lily ughhh swoon! This book is absolutely incredible. He's the ruthless hunter from the 1800's who has been trained his whole life to hunt Weavers, the witches he thinks are responsible for the death of his mother and countless others. She's the time traveling historian from 2025 who falls into his world literally and figuratively, who not only makes him question everything he has ever known but who he cant help but fall for. This is my first 5 star read of 2026 and man does it deserve it. The world building (I'm a sucker for all things Victorian England), the pacing, the absolute yearning and the giant cliff Chantelle left us hanging off with that ending. All I can say about this book is Masterpiece.
January 22, 2026
This book was everything I expected it to be and more!
Lily starts out in present day Oxford 2025 studying as a historian about hundreds of missing girls just erased from history in the late 1800s. Vanished without a trace.
Events happen and somehow Lily is magically thrust back into Oxford, 1892. The exact time period when all of these girls were being erased from history.
Now, not only is she living in the piece of history she was studying, she is determined to uncover the truth about these missing girls!
What she doesn’t expect is to fall for a devastatingly, handsome hunter in the process.
The story unfolded in a way I was not expecting. I had so much fun reading this book! I love the author’s writing, it was easy to connect with, easy to visualize and hard to out down. I can’t wait for the next one! Because yes, there will be more!
Lily starts out in present day Oxford 2025 studying as a historian about hundreds of missing girls just erased from history in the late 1800s. Vanished without a trace.
Events happen and somehow Lily is magically thrust back into Oxford, 1892. The exact time period when all of these girls were being erased from history.
Now, not only is she living in the piece of history she was studying, she is determined to uncover the truth about these missing girls!
What she doesn’t expect is to fall for a devastatingly, handsome hunter in the process.
The story unfolded in a way I was not expecting. I had so much fun reading this book! I love the author’s writing, it was easy to connect with, easy to visualize and hard to out down. I can’t wait for the next one! Because yes, there will be more!
January 21, 2026
The Last Stitch had so much of what I love: history, witches, slow-burn, enemies to lovers, and friendship. Lily as a present-day historian flung back into the Victorian period she was studying had be hooked. I enjoyed the heat between Lily and August. August really grew on me becoming one of my favourite characters. Adeline ended up being a favorite character of mine, I loved her “let me get blood on my boots this time” quote. I enjoyed seeing the arc of the battles of morals vs doctrine in multiple characters.
I thought the writing style was great and many beautifully deep quotes in the story. However, the editing was lacking in ways such as confusing point of view switches and some inconsistencies.
There are some excellent life lessons in this story!
The author brilliantly led the story into a book 2. Looking forward to the next weaver’s book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thought the writing style was great and many beautifully deep quotes in the story. However, the editing was lacking in ways such as confusing point of view switches and some inconsistencies.
There are some excellent life lessons in this story!
The author brilliantly led the story into a book 2. Looking forward to the next weaver’s book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 17, 2025
This was an absolutely fabulous book. It’s a unique spin on the Witch Hunter trope. Lilly is transported back in time and lands right in the middle of a witch hunt where she is captured by a witch hunter named August. The relationship that blooms between the 2 MC’s is believable. The tension and banter is realistic. I found myself rooting for them from the beginning. The fantasy/romance genre is so saturated with carbon copy story lines it is hard as an avid fantasy reader to find new and interesting books in this genre right now. This one blew my expectations! I can’t wait for book 2. Favorite line from the book, “In my time, we’d called it “privilege” the ability to speak truth because you had less to lose.
January 2, 2026
This book was a 5/5 for me before I even got the chance to finish it. The narrative is beyond captivating. Lily & August carry the perfect banter throughout the book. I didn’t just want to read this story.. I wanted to be a part of this story.
It’s beautiful, it’s so deeply thought out and I’m so thankful I was able to read it. The realization that Lily may have been the one to leave the necklace for herself —- mind blown! I didn’t even consider such an idea but yes on every level. “I think I’ve always been here, August. I just didn’t know it yet” !!!!!!!! The cliffhanger ending has me wanting more now. Can’t wait for book 2.
It’s beautiful, it’s so deeply thought out and I’m so thankful I was able to read it. The realization that Lily may have been the one to leave the necklace for herself —- mind blown! I didn’t even consider such an idea but yes on every level. “I think I’ve always been here, August. I just didn’t know it yet” !!!!!!!! The cliffhanger ending has me wanting more now. Can’t wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy
I loved this book. The characters are epic. Watching everything unfold was so absorbing. The tension builds beautifully. The sex is very good and fits the story, not just for the sake of it. I loved the ballroom scene … It was so well described I felt like I was there & even held my breath at the important moment! Can't wait to read the next one! Highly recommended. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
February 3, 2026
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC!
If you liked Outlander and the Shepherd King series, then you'll like this book!
The magic system was extremely unique.
The burn was slow and poetic!
I cannot wait for the next book!
If you liked Outlander and the Shepherd King series, then you'll like this book!
The magic system was extremely unique.
The burn was slow and poetic!
I cannot wait for the next book!
January 29, 2026
ARC REVIEW! The cliffhanger 🤯 I have the pleasure of being apart of Chantelle’s street team and she killed it again! Very well written and I loved the story line! I cannot wait for the second book!
Review of advance copy
Absolutely brilliant read. Loved it
January 20, 2026
I was so lucky to get this book as an ARC. Reading the book it has everything a strong female role, magic, time travel, romance and many secrets to be revealed. There is spice in this book but it focuses more into the emotional bond between the characters. This was so beautiful with how it describes everything and I felt myself get lost in the story. The ending amazing!!! I will be impatiently waiting for more books in their series.
January 20, 2026
Such an amazing book! I think what stood out to me was the incredibly unique magic system and the character’s journeys, especially August. He is trying to unlearn things that have not only been drilled into his head for 22 years, but that made up his entire identity. The relationship between Lily and August has so much tension and it is a slowwwwww burn. I’d recommend this book to lovers of A Discovery of Witches or Outlander.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg loved this so much , Discovery of witches x Outlander. Slow burn enemies to lovers . Beautifully written can't wait for the next instalment ❤️
December 10, 2025
The Last Stitch by Chantelle Kerr kept me up, made me sweat, made me kick my feet, and ultimately made me craving the next book like NOW!
Enemies to Lovers
Forbidden love
Magic
Witches
Time travel
Slow Burn perfection
Haunting
Just right spice
Evil villain
And:.. a belief that suffering caused by standing up for what’s right is still worth more than painful silence.
I can’t wait to read more about Lily and her love.
Beautiful from beginning to end.
Thank you for the ARC copy of this book. I am leaving my review voluntarily. I plan to buy the beautiful book when it is released. Chantelle is an auto buy author for me from now on!
Enemies to Lovers
Forbidden love
Magic
Witches
Time travel
Slow Burn perfection
Haunting
Just right spice
Evil villain
And:.. a belief that suffering caused by standing up for what’s right is still worth more than painful silence.
I can’t wait to read more about Lily and her love.
Beautiful from beginning to end.
Thank you for the ARC copy of this book. I am leaving my review voluntarily. I plan to buy the beautiful book when it is released. Chantelle is an auto buy author for me from now on!
December 7, 2025
ARC Review — I don’t know if I finished this book or if this book finished me.
From page one, I was hooked. Lily’s curiosity about the missing women pulls you straight into the mystery—every chapter makes you question what you think you know. And then August steps in… the slow burn? Immaculate. The tension? Chef’s kiss.
By the time I hit the last page, I was fully invested, ruined, and already planning where this beauty will sit on my trophy shelf.
Chantelle, you crafted something magical, enchanting, and utterly addictive. Perfection.
• FORCED PROXIMITY 😮💨🔒
• TOUCH HER AND DIE ☠️🔥
• TIME TRAVEL ⏳💫
• WITCH/WITCH HUNTER 🔮🗡️
• FORBIDDEN LOVE 🚫❤️
• SLOW BURN 🕯️🔥
• UNIQUE MAGIC ✨🌙
From page one, I was hooked. Lily’s curiosity about the missing women pulls you straight into the mystery—every chapter makes you question what you think you know. And then August steps in… the slow burn? Immaculate. The tension? Chef’s kiss.
By the time I hit the last page, I was fully invested, ruined, and already planning where this beauty will sit on my trophy shelf.
Chantelle, you crafted something magical, enchanting, and utterly addictive. Perfection.
• FORCED PROXIMITY 😮💨🔒
• TOUCH HER AND DIE ☠️🔥
• TIME TRAVEL ⏳💫
• WITCH/WITCH HUNTER 🔮🗡️
• FORBIDDEN LOVE 🚫❤️
• SLOW BURN 🕯️🔥
• UNIQUE MAGIC ✨🌙
December 18, 2025
There are so many things I could say about this book. I’ll start by thanking the author for allowing me to be apart of reading this story early on, and as always my reviews are honest and heartfelt. THIS STORY IS MAGICAL. There’s a lot to be said for A Discovery of Witches meets Outlander but this book is so much more than that. Lily and August will capture your attention, your hearts, and make you think deeply from the very beginning. There is nothing I didn’t love about this book, I have read it multiple times already. Not only is it powerful in its messages, there are so many powerful lines, but the way it takes on society is perfection,but it is so beautifully written you won’t want to put it down. Add IMMEDIATELY to your TBR.
Review of advance copy
This book started promising and the writing style was mostly good, but in my opinion it has a lot of plot issues.
We follow a historian who time travels by accident to the Victorian England. So long so good. Then we get a lot of random scenes, which are not always building on each other. For example August, the MMC, repeats that he has to plan how to introduce Lilly, the FMC, to the society and than randomly takes her out for dinner instead dining at home?
My main issues are that the world Lilly traveled to doesn’t read like Victorian era, since the author repeatedly puts the characters in situations which were not acceptable in this time period:
- Lilly randomly decides that she needs a drink and goes to a tavern at night with Adeline. I don’t need to explain that this would have been scandalous and they would probably not get served? Also, only women with bad reputations would have been seen in taverns at the time.
- The towel scene is so random, it doesnt make any sense. This would have been scandalous and since he doesn’t live alone (he also has a housekeeper) her walking naked would have just been considered mad and tasteless. I understand that this scene was ment to serve for a sexual tension building up, but we don’t see any romance development, only some random yearning and insta attraction.
-When she goes to the Weavers for the second time, they stay quite late, and it is hard to imagine how they spent the day. We don’t see her learning anything, we don’t even know what she is really capable off.
Lilly:
It is ok that Lilly doesn’t speak as if from this time period, but we don’t see any of her historian skills. It is repeated often, that she knows this time well, and it is a pity that we don’t see a lot of her knowledge. Why do we get the introduction that she is to learn the society rules when there is no need to really show what she learned afterwards? There is a mention that she can’t dance well, and voila she is waltzing as a professional. Her whole character is not consistent.
August:
I don’t know, I neither found him charming, nor horrible. It is nice that he is developing a spine.
Garrick as a character is a know-all and a perfect analyst - this is just too much. He is August’s friend and most of the time not present in the scenes, but than he constantly is suggesting to August that he is too focused on Lilly. As if this character only serves as a conscience to the MMC, without any real character trait.
Even though I liked the writing style, the dialogues were often flowing and some scenes have nice descriptions, I was often pulled out from the story because of the plot issues. For me it seems as lazy writing, as if the author liked the aesthetics of the Victorian Era, but didn’t really bother to do a research of society rules. As a summary the book has potential, but it still feels raw.
** ARC Read on BookSirens in exchange for an honest review **
We follow a historian who time travels by accident to the Victorian England. So long so good. Then we get a lot of random scenes, which are not always building on each other. For example August, the MMC, repeats that he has to plan how to introduce Lilly, the FMC, to the society and than randomly takes her out for dinner instead dining at home?
My main issues are that the world Lilly traveled to doesn’t read like Victorian era, since the author repeatedly puts the characters in situations which were not acceptable in this time period:
- Lilly randomly decides that she needs a drink and goes to a tavern at night with Adeline. I don’t need to explain that this would have been scandalous and they would probably not get served? Also, only women with bad reputations would have been seen in taverns at the time.
- The towel scene is so random, it doesnt make any sense. This would have been scandalous and since he doesn’t live alone (he also has a housekeeper) her walking naked would have just been considered mad and tasteless. I understand that this scene was ment to serve for a sexual tension building up, but we don’t see any romance development, only some random yearning and insta attraction.
-When she goes to the Weavers for the second time, they stay quite late, and it is hard to imagine how they spent the day. We don’t see her learning anything, we don’t even know what she is really capable off.
Lilly:
It is ok that Lilly doesn’t speak as if from this time period, but we don’t see any of her historian skills. It is repeated often, that she knows this time well, and it is a pity that we don’t see a lot of her knowledge. Why do we get the introduction that she is to learn the society rules when there is no need to really show what she learned afterwards? There is a mention that she can’t dance well, and voila she is waltzing as a professional. Her whole character is not consistent.
August:
I don’t know, I neither found him charming, nor horrible. It is nice that he is developing a spine.
Garrick as a character is a know-all and a perfect analyst - this is just too much. He is August’s friend and most of the time not present in the scenes, but than he constantly is suggesting to August that he is too focused on Lilly. As if this character only serves as a conscience to the MMC, without any real character trait.
Even though I liked the writing style, the dialogues were often flowing and some scenes have nice descriptions, I was often pulled out from the story because of the plot issues. For me it seems as lazy writing, as if the author liked the aesthetics of the Victorian Era, but didn’t really bother to do a research of society rules. As a summary the book has potential, but it still feels raw.
** ARC Read on BookSirens in exchange for an honest review **
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes & Themes:
🕰️Time travel romance
✨Witchy fantasy
🕰️Forbidden magic
✨Witch hunter x witch
🕰️Broody MMC
✨Strong, intelligent FMC
🕰️Morally conflicted hero
✨Slow-burn romance
🕰️Forced proximity
I was incredibly lucky to beta read The Last Stitch over the summer, so receiving the ARC as well honestly felt surreal. And I can confidently say I loved everything about this book. This is the kind of story you don’t realize you’ve been missing until you read it, witchy, emotional, immersive time travel perfection. If you love Outlander, but wish it had witches, forbidden magic, and higher stakes, this book is absolutely for you.
Our FMC, Lily, is intelligent, witty, and refreshingly capable. After accidentally touching a family necklace, she’s thrust back into Victorian England, a world where magic is prohibited and those who wield it are quite literally erased from existence. Lily immediately stood out to me as a protagonist because she refuses to shrink herself. She’s not afraid to use her modern knowledge to survive, she questions unjust systems, and she stands firmly by her beliefs no matter the cost.
Then there's August, our broody, emotionally guarded MMC and a witch hunter determined to make his father proud by turning in magic wielders. He’s loyal to a fault, shaped entirely by the beliefs he was raised with, and closed off to anything that challenges his worldview. Watching August slowly 'unravel' and rebuild because of Lily was one of my favorite parts of this story. Their relationship was layered and compelling, built on perspective shifts, growth, and moral tension rather than instant attraction. Lily forces August to see the world differently, while August helps Lily accept who she is and step fully into herself.
The setting deserves its own moment. As a lifelong history fan, I adored how vividly Victorian England was portrayed. From cobblestone streets to the stark contrast between modern electricity and Victorian plumbing, the details made the world feel alive. You can tell this story was written by someone who truly loves history, and that passion shines through on every page.
And of course, I can’t talk about this book without mentioning the side characters, especially Garrick, August’s best friend. He completely stole my heart. Quiet, loyal, and observant, he acts as a silent support system for August, his sister, and even Lily (despite not being her biggest fan).
Overall, The Last Stitch was such a fun, exciting, and emotionally engaging read, and it ends in a way that made me NEED the next book immediately. This book releases February 17th, but honestly? I would highly recommend saving this one for a fall read around Halloween because the vibes are absolutely perfect. Either way, 100% pick this witchy time-travel story up, it's a 4.5/5 ⭐ from me.
🕰️Time travel romance
✨Witchy fantasy
🕰️Forbidden magic
✨Witch hunter x witch
🕰️Broody MMC
✨Strong, intelligent FMC
🕰️Morally conflicted hero
✨Slow-burn romance
🕰️Forced proximity
I was incredibly lucky to beta read The Last Stitch over the summer, so receiving the ARC as well honestly felt surreal. And I can confidently say I loved everything about this book. This is the kind of story you don’t realize you’ve been missing until you read it, witchy, emotional, immersive time travel perfection. If you love Outlander, but wish it had witches, forbidden magic, and higher stakes, this book is absolutely for you.
Our FMC, Lily, is intelligent, witty, and refreshingly capable. After accidentally touching a family necklace, she’s thrust back into Victorian England, a world where magic is prohibited and those who wield it are quite literally erased from existence. Lily immediately stood out to me as a protagonist because she refuses to shrink herself. She’s not afraid to use her modern knowledge to survive, she questions unjust systems, and she stands firmly by her beliefs no matter the cost.
Then there's August, our broody, emotionally guarded MMC and a witch hunter determined to make his father proud by turning in magic wielders. He’s loyal to a fault, shaped entirely by the beliefs he was raised with, and closed off to anything that challenges his worldview. Watching August slowly 'unravel' and rebuild because of Lily was one of my favorite parts of this story. Their relationship was layered and compelling, built on perspective shifts, growth, and moral tension rather than instant attraction. Lily forces August to see the world differently, while August helps Lily accept who she is and step fully into herself.
The setting deserves its own moment. As a lifelong history fan, I adored how vividly Victorian England was portrayed. From cobblestone streets to the stark contrast between modern electricity and Victorian plumbing, the details made the world feel alive. You can tell this story was written by someone who truly loves history, and that passion shines through on every page.
And of course, I can’t talk about this book without mentioning the side characters, especially Garrick, August’s best friend. He completely stole my heart. Quiet, loyal, and observant, he acts as a silent support system for August, his sister, and even Lily (despite not being her biggest fan).
Overall, The Last Stitch was such a fun, exciting, and emotionally engaging read, and it ends in a way that made me NEED the next book immediately. This book releases February 17th, but honestly? I would highly recommend saving this one for a fall read around Halloween because the vibes are absolutely perfect. Either way, 100% pick this witchy time-travel story up, it's a 4.5/5 ⭐ from me.
Review of advance copy
Thank you Book Sirens and to the Author for an ARC copy of this incredible story.
I was so invested in this story from the very beginning. I bonded with the characters immediately and WOW. This was such an interesting concept for a story. Witches that are called Weavers because they can manipulate the threads of fate, and Hunters that capture the Weavers and subject them to the Unraveller, the leader of the hunters who has the ability to unravel their threads and completely wipe them from existence.
Lily is a historian working towards her degree and researching the strange disappearance of people that seemingly disappeared with no reason back in the 1800s. She inherits a strange heirloom after her grandmother passes away that catapults her back in time to when this was all going down. There in the year 1892, Lily meets August who basically is the commander of the Hunters who hunt the weavers. He suspects that this strange girl that says she is from the future is a weaver in disguise...
And the story goes from there.
After the first 2 or 3 chapters, I could not put this down. I loved the main characters and the side characters, and this was such an enjoyable read for me.
I only have a few complaints about this book, which weren't deal breakers for me because I was still obsessed with the story, But I wish that we got a little more context about the Grandmother's background before the time travel began. I felt like I didn't know much about Lily because the beginning of this book seemed so fast and I wish that it was a little longer so that we could get that back story and it not feel so random. I also wish that there was more explanation about the magic system and the Unraveling. I understood the basics but there wasn't enough detailed unraveling or complex magic on page so for me, it left a lot up to imagination. But even with the few flaws, I am so invested. I am so ready for book 2 and I am just so honored that I was able to devour this beautiful story before its official release.
On and LOOK AT THAT BEAUTIFUL COVER. STUNNING. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover but I definitely did in the best way and I am so happy that the story inside was just as beautiful. I enjoyed the authors writing as well. I will be picking up other books by the author for sure.
I was so invested in this story from the very beginning. I bonded with the characters immediately and WOW. This was such an interesting concept for a story. Witches that are called Weavers because they can manipulate the threads of fate, and Hunters that capture the Weavers and subject them to the Unraveller, the leader of the hunters who has the ability to unravel their threads and completely wipe them from existence.
Lily is a historian working towards her degree and researching the strange disappearance of people that seemingly disappeared with no reason back in the 1800s. She inherits a strange heirloom after her grandmother passes away that catapults her back in time to when this was all going down. There in the year 1892, Lily meets August who basically is the commander of the Hunters who hunt the weavers. He suspects that this strange girl that says she is from the future is a weaver in disguise...
And the story goes from there.
After the first 2 or 3 chapters, I could not put this down. I loved the main characters and the side characters, and this was such an enjoyable read for me.
I only have a few complaints about this book, which weren't deal breakers for me because I was still obsessed with the story, But I wish that we got a little more context about the Grandmother's background before the time travel began. I felt like I didn't know much about Lily because the beginning of this book seemed so fast and I wish that it was a little longer so that we could get that back story and it not feel so random. I also wish that there was more explanation about the magic system and the Unraveling. I understood the basics but there wasn't enough detailed unraveling or complex magic on page so for me, it left a lot up to imagination. But even with the few flaws, I am so invested. I am so ready for book 2 and I am just so honored that I was able to devour this beautiful story before its official release.
On and LOOK AT THAT BEAUTIFUL COVER. STUNNING. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by its cover but I definitely did in the best way and I am so happy that the story inside was just as beautiful. I enjoyed the authors writing as well. I will be picking up other books by the author for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Last Stitch left me holding my breath!
Short version: I felt like this book had everything I want in a witchy fantasy romance! I loved it right up to the last page and am suffering a major bookish-hangover wanting more of Lily and August’s story. Thank you Chantelle Kerr and BookSirens for the opportunity to review an advance copy.
Plot ✅ Characters ✅ Settings ✅
Romance ❤️🔥 Ending 😱🫣
(🌶️🌶️There’s a fair amount of spice in this one but Ι skipped a lot of it.)
I knew the moment I read the blurb that I would love this book, and my hunch was correct. Historians dropped into history is one of my favorite tropes, and this book has perfected it. Chantelle Kerr includes so much detail in the historical connection between our modern historian and her experience in the past. Lily, the main character, is even able to predict specific events like the upcoming installation of street-lamps in a certain location. Her deep knowledge of the period is tempered by surprise at things that don’t line up exactly as expected with the maps she’s studied. This blend of familiarity and discomfort makes the time travel element feel very believable.
I also love anything witchy, and magical system of the weavers delivered on that front too. The weavers abilities are complex and interesting without being difficult to understand. The author illustrates the magic beautifully, giving certain scenes an ethereal quality that stands in contrast to the gritty depictions of the hunters and the spire. Again, this all felt so believable, more than most fantasy novels.
The characters are multifaceted and lovable, with the exception of Elias who proves the perfect villain. It’s interesting to see the alliances form and shift as Lily’s presence upends the status quo. Dynamic relationships between the women weavers push the plot forward and add weight to the dangers they all face. They range from little girls to older women and I appreciated this intergenerational sisterhood.
There’s also a strong enemies to lovers romance with several moments that made me swoon. It’s a fairly spicy book, but I skipped those pages.
Overall, I just loved this story! I am definitely struggling with a bookish-hangover and unable to stop thinking about the implications of the devastating cliffhanger ending. Ms. Kerr, I am going to need more of Lily and August’s story!
Short version: I felt like this book had everything I want in a witchy fantasy romance! I loved it right up to the last page and am suffering a major bookish-hangover wanting more of Lily and August’s story. Thank you Chantelle Kerr and BookSirens for the opportunity to review an advance copy.
Plot ✅ Characters ✅ Settings ✅
Romance ❤️🔥 Ending 😱🫣
(🌶️🌶️There’s a fair amount of spice in this one but Ι skipped a lot of it.)
I knew the moment I read the blurb that I would love this book, and my hunch was correct. Historians dropped into history is one of my favorite tropes, and this book has perfected it. Chantelle Kerr includes so much detail in the historical connection between our modern historian and her experience in the past. Lily, the main character, is even able to predict specific events like the upcoming installation of street-lamps in a certain location. Her deep knowledge of the period is tempered by surprise at things that don’t line up exactly as expected with the maps she’s studied. This blend of familiarity and discomfort makes the time travel element feel very believable.
I also love anything witchy, and magical system of the weavers delivered on that front too. The weavers abilities are complex and interesting without being difficult to understand. The author illustrates the magic beautifully, giving certain scenes an ethereal quality that stands in contrast to the gritty depictions of the hunters and the spire. Again, this all felt so believable, more than most fantasy novels.
The characters are multifaceted and lovable, with the exception of Elias who proves the perfect villain. It’s interesting to see the alliances form and shift as Lily’s presence upends the status quo. Dynamic relationships between the women weavers push the plot forward and add weight to the dangers they all face. They range from little girls to older women and I appreciated this intergenerational sisterhood.
There’s also a strong enemies to lovers romance with several moments that made me swoon. It’s a fairly spicy book, but I skipped those pages.
Overall, I just loved this story! I am definitely struggling with a bookish-hangover and unable to stop thinking about the implications of the devastating cliffhanger ending. Ms. Kerr, I am going to need more of Lily and August’s story!
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