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A Look Beyond the Mist
She’s the apothecary until fear names her witch.
For years, Everleigh Greene has lived quietly in the woods of Sylvan, content to keep to her small village. But when whispers of witch hunts sweep across the continent—and Sylvan’s new mayor, Sir Hawthorne, arrives—her peace shatters.
As the village apothecary, Everleigh soon finds herself under scrutiny. With guards on every corner and fear taking root in Sylvan’s soil, the public execution of a neighbor forces her to make a let terror silence her, or fight back.
We do not hide.
But when a blacksmith with secrets of his own enters her life, he upends everything Everleigh thought she knew, forcing her to question the truths she’s clung to and the boy who has always been her refuge.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Everleigh is caught between two men and a battle she never knew was hers to fight.
In a war against injustice, will she bloom, or will she burn?
For years, Everleigh Greene has lived quietly in the woods of Sylvan, content to keep to her small village. But when whispers of witch hunts sweep across the continent—and Sylvan’s new mayor, Sir Hawthorne, arrives—her peace shatters.
As the village apothecary, Everleigh soon finds herself under scrutiny. With guards on every corner and fear taking root in Sylvan’s soil, the public execution of a neighbor forces her to make a let terror silence her, or fight back.
We do not hide.
But when a blacksmith with secrets of his own enters her life, he upends everything Everleigh thought she knew, forcing her to question the truths she’s clung to and the boy who has always been her refuge.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Everleigh is caught between two men and a battle she never knew was hers to fight.
In a war against injustice, will she bloom, or will she burn?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2025
7 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 14, 2025
Thank you to the author, Bridie Charles, for sending me this ARC!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Everleigh was a great FMC - she wasn't overly naive (which can happen with younger protagonists), and I like that she stood her ground when it mattered. There were a few parts of the book where the pacing felt slow, but it really picked up towards the end.
Rylan was a great love interest and honestly, once he was on the scene, I forgot about Silas (much like Everleigh haha!). However, I am interested to find out why Silas made the decisions he did and why he was hiding so much from Everleigh, despite being in love with her.
I was left with my jaw dropped on several occasions, and I am eager for the next book!! A solid 4 stars!
Some of my favourite quotes:
'I only wished to know if you and I were made of the same fabric - if our souls were connected through a thread of gold'
'He kisses me like he’s been aching to do it ever since the last time we found ourselves like this. Like my mouth is the only thing giving him air to breathe, like he might die without it. The feeling is intoxicating. More overwhelming than anything I’ve ever felt.'
'Like I said, I was foolish.” “You were hopeful,” I say. “There is a difference.” As I say the words, I realise how true they really are.'
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Everleigh was a great FMC - she wasn't overly naive (which can happen with younger protagonists), and I like that she stood her ground when it mattered. There were a few parts of the book where the pacing felt slow, but it really picked up towards the end.
Rylan was a great love interest and honestly, once he was on the scene, I forgot about Silas (much like Everleigh haha!). However, I am interested to find out why Silas made the decisions he did and why he was hiding so much from Everleigh, despite being in love with her.
I was left with my jaw dropped on several occasions, and I am eager for the next book!! A solid 4 stars!
Some of my favourite quotes:
'I only wished to know if you and I were made of the same fabric - if our souls were connected through a thread of gold'
'He kisses me like he’s been aching to do it ever since the last time we found ourselves like this. Like my mouth is the only thing giving him air to breathe, like he might die without it. The feeling is intoxicating. More overwhelming than anything I’ve ever felt.'
'Like I said, I was foolish.” “You were hopeful,” I say. “There is a difference.” As I say the words, I realise how true they really are.'
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
The vibes in this book were perfection. Cozy romantasy with a touch of danger, political tension, and a love triangle that had me screaming. You know I love a good love triangle and this one was SO well done.
Everleigh is an apothecary trying to survive during witch hunts, and she finds herself torn between her brother’s best friend, Silas, and the new blacksmith in town, Rylan. And RYLAN… the first blonde MMC in a LONG time that made me absolutely feral. 😮💨
I don’t want to give too much away since this is one of those books that’s best experienced blind, but if you’re into witchy, magical, and dark cottagecore vibes you need to read this one. And that CLIFFHANGER?! I need book two immediately.
Thank you Bridie Charles for the ARC.
Everleigh is an apothecary trying to survive during witch hunts, and she finds herself torn between her brother’s best friend, Silas, and the new blacksmith in town, Rylan. And RYLAN… the first blonde MMC in a LONG time that made me absolutely feral. 😮💨
I don’t want to give too much away since this is one of those books that’s best experienced blind, but if you’re into witchy, magical, and dark cottagecore vibes you need to read this one. And that CLIFFHANGER?! I need book two immediately.
Thank you Bridie Charles for the ARC.
October 23, 2025
She’s the apothecary, until fear names her ✨witch✨
“Sometimes I think if I look hard enough, I might find the answers to all the questions of the world in these freckles. Perhaps they spell something, or maybe together they form a map, one that might lead me over the bridge of your nose and into your soul.” 🥲🤭
Well, this had me in a chokehold. The plot had me completely locked in. I had never read anything like that before - totally original, cleverly written, and well researched. I loved Everleigh, she’s not your typical heroine in the best way. She was soft but full of quiet strength in her search for truth and I loved how she was an apothecary - the nurse in me found her work to be suuuper intriguing and well done. I found some of her internal monologue and general phrasing to be quite repetitive and the pacing to be a bit off at times, but I didn’t think it took away from the story, as I said: locked in. All I’ll say on the love triangle: it’s been a while since a blonde has had me down bad and I wasn’t mad. But that ending.. that was DIABOLICAL. Waiting for book two is going to make me a little feral, I swear.
“I want to be consumed by you,” he says, hovering over me. “I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.” ❤️🩹😮💨
“Sometimes I think if I look hard enough, I might find the answers to all the questions of the world in these freckles. Perhaps they spell something, or maybe together they form a map, one that might lead me over the bridge of your nose and into your soul.” 🥲🤭
Well, this had me in a chokehold. The plot had me completely locked in. I had never read anything like that before - totally original, cleverly written, and well researched. I loved Everleigh, she’s not your typical heroine in the best way. She was soft but full of quiet strength in her search for truth and I loved how she was an apothecary - the nurse in me found her work to be suuuper intriguing and well done. I found some of her internal monologue and general phrasing to be quite repetitive and the pacing to be a bit off at times, but I didn’t think it took away from the story, as I said: locked in. All I’ll say on the love triangle: it’s been a while since a blonde has had me down bad and I wasn’t mad. But that ending.. that was DIABOLICAL. Waiting for book two is going to make me a little feral, I swear.
“I want to be consumed by you,” he says, hovering over me. “I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.” ❤️🩹😮💨
October 20, 2025
An absolute huge thank you to Bridie for the eARC. Now for my slightly unhinged review…
Holy. Sh*t. This book completely consumed me in the best, most unhinged way possible. I went in expecting a cozy witchy story, and Bridie Charles said “oh no,” and gave us something darker, deeper, and absolutely breathtaking.
Everleigh isn’t your typical fierce, loud heroine. She’s soft-spoken, big-hearted, and fiercely loyal. The kind of woman whose quiet strength moves mountains. She lives a simple life as her village’s apothecary until fear begins to take root and everything she knows starts to crumble. But even when danger closes in, she doesn’t let fear silence her. She searches for truth, even when it costs her everything. She was so admirable and then some.
And Rylan… the only man alive who can be morally grey and blonde and somehow make me lose my mind. His story completely blindsided me as it unfolded. The layers and the tension? chef’s kiss. Of everything said in this book, the one that stuck with me was when Rylan said “I want to be consumed by you. I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.”
And Silas? I’m still trying to untangle my feelings there. The confusion is real. Currently, I want to run him over with a horse.
The cottagecore aesthetic of this story made it the perfect October read. It feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, only to have that blanket suddenly burst into emotional flames by the end. Because let me tell you, that ending wasn’t a cliffhanger. It was Bridie shoving us off a cliff and waving as we fell knowing we are going to be drowning while we wait for answers.
If you’re craving a story filled with witch hunts, quiet bravery, secrets, love, and an atmosphere that feels both haunting and tender, A Look Beyond the Mist is your next obsession.
Holy. Sh*t. This book completely consumed me in the best, most unhinged way possible. I went in expecting a cozy witchy story, and Bridie Charles said “oh no,” and gave us something darker, deeper, and absolutely breathtaking.
Everleigh isn’t your typical fierce, loud heroine. She’s soft-spoken, big-hearted, and fiercely loyal. The kind of woman whose quiet strength moves mountains. She lives a simple life as her village’s apothecary until fear begins to take root and everything she knows starts to crumble. But even when danger closes in, she doesn’t let fear silence her. She searches for truth, even when it costs her everything. She was so admirable and then some.
And Rylan… the only man alive who can be morally grey and blonde and somehow make me lose my mind. His story completely blindsided me as it unfolded. The layers and the tension? chef’s kiss. Of everything said in this book, the one that stuck with me was when Rylan said “I want to be consumed by you. I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.”
And Silas? I’m still trying to untangle my feelings there. The confusion is real. Currently, I want to run him over with a horse.
The cottagecore aesthetic of this story made it the perfect October read. It feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, only to have that blanket suddenly burst into emotional flames by the end. Because let me tell you, that ending wasn’t a cliffhanger. It was Bridie shoving us off a cliff and waving as we fell knowing we are going to be drowning while we wait for answers.
If you’re craving a story filled with witch hunts, quiet bravery, secrets, love, and an atmosphere that feels both haunting and tender, A Look Beyond the Mist is your next obsession.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
“The healer is coming with us.”
“No,” Rylan seethes, and my heart screams in my chest as he jumps off his horse's back. “I can assure you, she is not.”
“We don’t need you.” The man with the stronger grip on his weapon steps forward. “Only her.”
“Such a shame.” Rylan tips his head as he pulls a sharp dagger from a holster hidden under his shirt. “You won’t be getting either of us.” 🌿🤎✨
I had so much fun with this book. I absolutely love when a story reminds me of my appreciation for a trope which I might otherwise overlook, and A Look Beyond The Mist had me absolutely hooked and throughly invested with the love triangle— this is the closest I’ve come to understanding people who dedicate themselves to sports teams and yell at their TVs. I will always be won over by copious amounts of witty banter and teasing, and Bridie Charlies did not disappoint.
The cozy earthiness of the setting and the soft-mannered lead character, in constant contention with the deadly stakes and duplicitous nature of those around her, made for such a spellbinding reading experience, dizzying at every turn. The quick pacing of the chapters made A Look Beyond the Mist compulsively readable even when the plot lulled, and I cannot over-exaggerate the amount of times I thought to myself the classic “One more chapter,” only to devour four more.
Were I to pinpoint areas for improvement, I did find the opening chapters to be somewhat expositional, falling back on some methods of storytelling which could have been more naturally integrated through time and dialogue rather than heaped into the prose, and there was, generally speaking, more leaning onto telling than showing as the plot and mystery unfolded. Additionally, I found myself thinking it could have been longer! I loved all of what we saw, and would have deeply enjoyed seeing it taken one step further— while I aforementionedly appreciated the ease of reading granted by the brief chapters, I did on occasion find that the cutoff left little resolution to some moments, with gaps left by the somewhat jarring pick up to one-two days later. They could have been filled out a little more. To see the world, the character dynamics and relationships (both established and blossoming), and major and minor plot points alike expanded on would have greatly added to the depth of the story and the impact of critical moments which were already hard-hitting. The potential is there, and while far from wasted in A Look Beyond the Mist, I look forward to seeing it developed in the upcoming instalments of the Secrets of Arizaya trilogy.
I was absolutely hooked by the brilliant marketing for this book, and was nothing short of giddy with gratitude and excitement when I received it as an ARC from the lovely Bridie Charles in exchange for an honest review. It was such an anticipated read, and I’m so thrilled that it lived up to the hype. I had fun. I was never bored, and I was entirely invested in the characters and the romance, and I know the next book will only get better. I would absolutely recommend it if you’re looking for a fun, quick fantasy read with a delightful romance— as long as you’re ready to be ruined by a cliffhanger.
Overall, 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. Thank you again to Bridie Charles for the ARC, I absolutely cannot wait to return to Nameria in the sequel, and to celebrate A Look Beyond the Mist’s release on October 24th! In the meantime, I’ll be retrieving my jaw from the floor after that ending.
“No,” Rylan seethes, and my heart screams in my chest as he jumps off his horse's back. “I can assure you, she is not.”
“We don’t need you.” The man with the stronger grip on his weapon steps forward. “Only her.”
“Such a shame.” Rylan tips his head as he pulls a sharp dagger from a holster hidden under his shirt. “You won’t be getting either of us.” 🌿🤎✨
I had so much fun with this book. I absolutely love when a story reminds me of my appreciation for a trope which I might otherwise overlook, and A Look Beyond The Mist had me absolutely hooked and throughly invested with the love triangle— this is the closest I’ve come to understanding people who dedicate themselves to sports teams and yell at their TVs. I will always be won over by copious amounts of witty banter and teasing, and Bridie Charlies did not disappoint.
The cozy earthiness of the setting and the soft-mannered lead character, in constant contention with the deadly stakes and duplicitous nature of those around her, made for such a spellbinding reading experience, dizzying at every turn. The quick pacing of the chapters made A Look Beyond the Mist compulsively readable even when the plot lulled, and I cannot over-exaggerate the amount of times I thought to myself the classic “One more chapter,” only to devour four more.
Were I to pinpoint areas for improvement, I did find the opening chapters to be somewhat expositional, falling back on some methods of storytelling which could have been more naturally integrated through time and dialogue rather than heaped into the prose, and there was, generally speaking, more leaning onto telling than showing as the plot and mystery unfolded. Additionally, I found myself thinking it could have been longer! I loved all of what we saw, and would have deeply enjoyed seeing it taken one step further— while I aforementionedly appreciated the ease of reading granted by the brief chapters, I did on occasion find that the cutoff left little resolution to some moments, with gaps left by the somewhat jarring pick up to one-two days later. They could have been filled out a little more. To see the world, the character dynamics and relationships (both established and blossoming), and major and minor plot points alike expanded on would have greatly added to the depth of the story and the impact of critical moments which were already hard-hitting. The potential is there, and while far from wasted in A Look Beyond the Mist, I look forward to seeing it developed in the upcoming instalments of the Secrets of Arizaya trilogy.
I was absolutely hooked by the brilliant marketing for this book, and was nothing short of giddy with gratitude and excitement when I received it as an ARC from the lovely Bridie Charles in exchange for an honest review. It was such an anticipated read, and I’m so thrilled that it lived up to the hype. I had fun. I was never bored, and I was entirely invested in the characters and the romance, and I know the next book will only get better. I would absolutely recommend it if you’re looking for a fun, quick fantasy read with a delightful romance— as long as you’re ready to be ruined by a cliffhanger.
Overall, 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. Thank you again to Bridie Charles for the ARC, I absolutely cannot wait to return to Nameria in the sequel, and to celebrate A Look Beyond the Mist’s release on October 24th! In the meantime, I’ll be retrieving my jaw from the floor after that ending.
November 8, 2025
A look beyond the mist by @authorbridiecharles
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I love Romantasy books and I’ve read so many of them — but I’d never have guessed this was Bridie’s debut in the genre. The plot had my jaw on the floor as it kept unfolding, and those hidden Easter eggs connecting everything? I was literally 😲.
The slow burn between the three main characters? Chef’s kiss. The hardships and losses the town endured were heartbreaking and gut wrenching.
This story has it all — emotion, magic, mystery, and heart. You need to add this to your TBR right now!
What to Expect:
🍂 MAGIC & WITCH HUNTS
🍄 MYSTERY & SUSPENSE
🍂 LOVE TRIANGLE
🍄 APOTHECARY FMC
🍂 SECRETS ON SECRETS
🍄 POLITICAL TENSION
🍂 FOUND FAMILY CLIEFHANGER
Blurb:
She’s the apothecary until fear names her witch.
For years, Everleigh Greene has lived quietly in the woods of Sylvan, content to keep to her small village. But when whispers of witch hunts sweep across the continent—and Sylvan’s new mayor, Sir Hawthorne, arrives—her peace shatters.
As the village apothecary, Everleigh soon finds herself under scrutiny. With guards on every corner and fear taking root in Sylvan’s soil, the public execution of a neighbor forces her to make a choice: let terror silence her, or fight back.
We do not hide.
But when a blacksmith with secrets of his own enters her life, he upends everything Everleigh thought she knew, forcing her to question the truths she’s clung to and the boy who has always been her refuge.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Everleigh is caught between two men and a battle she never knew was hers to fight.
In a war against injustice, will she bloom, or will she burn?
#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #kindle
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I love Romantasy books and I’ve read so many of them — but I’d never have guessed this was Bridie’s debut in the genre. The plot had my jaw on the floor as it kept unfolding, and those hidden Easter eggs connecting everything? I was literally 😲.
The slow burn between the three main characters? Chef’s kiss. The hardships and losses the town endured were heartbreaking and gut wrenching.
This story has it all — emotion, magic, mystery, and heart. You need to add this to your TBR right now!
What to Expect:
🍂 MAGIC & WITCH HUNTS
🍄 MYSTERY & SUSPENSE
🍂 LOVE TRIANGLE
🍄 APOTHECARY FMC
🍂 SECRETS ON SECRETS
🍄 POLITICAL TENSION
🍂 FOUND FAMILY CLIEFHANGER
Blurb:
She’s the apothecary until fear names her witch.
For years, Everleigh Greene has lived quietly in the woods of Sylvan, content to keep to her small village. But when whispers of witch hunts sweep across the continent—and Sylvan’s new mayor, Sir Hawthorne, arrives—her peace shatters.
As the village apothecary, Everleigh soon finds herself under scrutiny. With guards on every corner and fear taking root in Sylvan’s soil, the public execution of a neighbor forces her to make a choice: let terror silence her, or fight back.
We do not hide.
But when a blacksmith with secrets of his own enters her life, he upends everything Everleigh thought she knew, forcing her to question the truths she’s clung to and the boy who has always been her refuge.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Everleigh is caught between two men and a battle she never knew was hers to fight.
In a war against injustice, will she bloom, or will she burn?
#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #kindle
October 24, 2025
4.5 stars
THIS BOOK!!! I could not put this down!!
Everleigh is an apothecary trying to survive in the era of witch hunts. Her bravery and ability to stand strong in her beliefs, even in the face of prosecution, was truly inspiring.
Mix in a little love triangle between the brother’s best friend and the mysterious new guy in town and I was hooked. Rylan was so swoon worthy!! “I want to be consumed by you. I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.” 😮💨 Tell me you didn’t swoon I dare you. I will admit, I was into Silas at the beginning but that all went out the window as soon as Rylan was introduced.
And her bond with her friends 🤍 If you know me at all then you should know that I LOVE the found family trope. The way Everleigh, Hazel, Cedar & eventually Elara all care and fight for each other was so heartwarming. I have so much love for these girls
But in all seriousness, this book was so good and If you’re a fan of
💕 love triangle
🔮 witchy stories
🤍 found family
✨ magic
then I highly recommend you give this story a shot
Thank you to Bridie Charles for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
THIS BOOK!!! I could not put this down!!
Everleigh is an apothecary trying to survive in the era of witch hunts. Her bravery and ability to stand strong in her beliefs, even in the face of prosecution, was truly inspiring.
Mix in a little love triangle between the brother’s best friend and the mysterious new guy in town and I was hooked. Rylan was so swoon worthy!! “I want to be consumed by you. I want to be confused about where you end, and I begin. I want to reach the core of your heart and attach myself to it.” 😮💨 Tell me you didn’t swoon I dare you. I will admit, I was into Silas at the beginning but that all went out the window as soon as Rylan was introduced.
And her bond with her friends 🤍 If you know me at all then you should know that I LOVE the found family trope. The way Everleigh, Hazel, Cedar & eventually Elara all care and fight for each other was so heartwarming. I have so much love for these girls
But in all seriousness, this book was so good and If you’re a fan of
💕 love triangle
🔮 witchy stories
🤍 found family
✨ magic
then I highly recommend you give this story a shot
Thank you to Bridie Charles for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
October 18, 2025She’s the apothecary until fear names her witch.
With a new mayor in town and guards on every continent, the fear of witches has finally reached Everleigh's small town - and Everleigh finds herself under scrutiny.
I absolutely loved this book - it was such a delight to read. It has a cosy fantasy vibe, a soft-mannered yet strong FMC, despite everything that is going on around her and the scrutiny she's under.
As a big fan of love triangles, this one delivered everything that I want a good love triangle to deliver with a cherry on top of witty banter. It was such a fun time following these characters on their journey and seeing Everleigh really come into herself. However that ending is diabolical and I cannot wait until book two!
For lovers of:
🌱 witch hunt plots
❤️ found family
🌱 earth magic
❤️ love triangles
Thank you to Bridie for an e-arc of A Look Beyond the Mist, all opinions are my own!
With a new mayor in town and guards on every continent, the fear of witches has finally reached Everleigh's small town - and Everleigh finds herself under scrutiny.
I absolutely loved this book - it was such a delight to read. It has a cosy fantasy vibe, a soft-mannered yet strong FMC, despite everything that is going on around her and the scrutiny she's under.
As a big fan of love triangles, this one delivered everything that I want a good love triangle to deliver with a cherry on top of witty banter. It was such a fun time following these characters on their journey and seeing Everleigh really come into herself. However that ending is diabolical and I cannot wait until book two!
For lovers of:
🌱 witch hunt plots
❤️ found family
🌱 earth magic
❤️ love triangles
Thank you to Bridie for an e-arc of A Look Beyond the Mist, all opinions are my own!
October 24, 2025
{{ARC REVIEW}}
Thank you Bridie for gifting me with an e-ARC of your book!!
“A Look Beyond The Mist” tells the tumultuous story of Everleigh (an apothecary) and her friends as they grapple with the intrusion of a new dictatorial mayor and the king’s “shields” (guards) into her quaint town.
The bad news is, these intruders are on a literal witchhunt, stringing up and killing any suspected witches as well as their sympathisers. Paranoia runs rampant. All the while, Everleigh must deal with her feelings for her best friend Silas, and the enigmatic Rylan who seems to find her wherever she goes…
This was a cute book. It could even be considered a cozy romantasy if it weren’t for the *small spoiler alert* public executions lol. It had enough to keep me interested: a love triangle (but omg I actually hate Silas now), magical mysteries, beautiful female friendships, and a highly pervasive feeling of helplessness as you watch the characters’ lives descend further and further into chaos.
There was huge cliffhanger at the end of the book which, you could say, contains several sub-cliffhangers. I DMed Bridie after to complain about it ahahaha 😂 I’m looking forward to getting some closure with the sequel, that’s for sure!
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 1/5
Thank you Bridie for gifting me with an e-ARC of your book!!
“A Look Beyond The Mist” tells the tumultuous story of Everleigh (an apothecary) and her friends as they grapple with the intrusion of a new dictatorial mayor and the king’s “shields” (guards) into her quaint town.
The bad news is, these intruders are on a literal witchhunt, stringing up and killing any suspected witches as well as their sympathisers. Paranoia runs rampant. All the while, Everleigh must deal with her feelings for her best friend Silas, and the enigmatic Rylan who seems to find her wherever she goes…
This was a cute book. It could even be considered a cozy romantasy if it weren’t for the *small spoiler alert* public executions lol. It had enough to keep me interested: a love triangle (but omg I actually hate Silas now), magical mysteries, beautiful female friendships, and a highly pervasive feeling of helplessness as you watch the characters’ lives descend further and further into chaos.
There was huge cliffhanger at the end of the book which, you could say, contains several sub-cliffhangers. I DMed Bridie after to complain about it ahahaha 😂 I’m looking forward to getting some closure with the sequel, that’s for sure!
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 1/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
Bee: I’m not sure what I was expecting from this but it was beyond anything I thought could happen. The world building, character development, it was all so beautiful. Without spoiling too much - I really need to know WTF is going to happen asap because the cliffhanger had me gagged. There are so many theories running around my head and I am twiddling my thumbs waiting till book 2. In this book, Evie had an amazing transformation while still remaining her true self. I loved seeing her grow with the information she’d been given and I have such high hopes for her in the future. I don’t know what Bridie has in store for Silas and her, but as of right now, he can sit in a patch of stinging nettles.
Nik: Bridie is a new to me author but she had bees stamp of approval so I said let’s do a tandem read!! I loved every minute of it. The world building was descriptive and amazing. The characters were introduced well and at the correct timing without feeling like info dumping. I couldn’t wait to find out more and more and mannn the cliffhanger was brutal. I am in NEED of book 2 immediately. Rylan and evie had delicious banter and tension. The magic was so cool and I can’t wait to see more of it!
Nik: Bridie is a new to me author but she had bees stamp of approval so I said let’s do a tandem read!! I loved every minute of it. The world building was descriptive and amazing. The characters were introduced well and at the correct timing without feeling like info dumping. I couldn’t wait to find out more and more and mannn the cliffhanger was brutal. I am in NEED of book 2 immediately. Rylan and evie had delicious banter and tension. The magic was so cool and I can’t wait to see more of it!
October 25, 2025
I knew I loved Bridie's writing but wow. That was an amazing romantasy debut!
What I really loved about A Look Beyond The Mist, is how Everleigh has been through so much, is going through so much and is at such risk... but still she does what she can to help people. And the sense of community in this story is incredible. At the face of such horrific acts at the order of the king and such political tension, there is still a strong sense of protecting each other.
I also really appreciate the way Bridie writes about grief. I felt seen and understood by the way Everleigh explains her grief and her memories.
The love triangle was well done, and I wish I could say more about it favourite boy.. (..I have a few things to say about the other guy too.. ) you'll just have to read it!
What I really loved about A Look Beyond The Mist, is how Everleigh has been through so much, is going through so much and is at such risk... but still she does what she can to help people. And the sense of community in this story is incredible. At the face of such horrific acts at the order of the king and such political tension, there is still a strong sense of protecting each other.
I also really appreciate the way Bridie writes about grief. I felt seen and understood by the way Everleigh explains her grief and her memories.
The love triangle was well done, and I wish I could say more about it favourite boy.. (..I have a few things to say about the other guy too.. ) you'll just have to read it!
October 30, 2025
4.25 ⭐
This story is honestly so unique and fascinating. I’ve never read anything quite like it and oh my did I have such a fun time. I love supporting indie authors, especially when you try one for the first time and instantly know you’ll read anything they write. Bridie’s writing is so magical and completely addictive. Everything felt so vivid and alive and you can tell how much care and research went into this book. I fell in love with these characters, especially Everleigh, our female main character. She’s such a gentle, soft soul but with this incredible inner strength. I found her to be truly admiring. And the ending, it’s all I will be thinking about for awhile, I need book two right now.
This story is honestly so unique and fascinating. I’ve never read anything quite like it and oh my did I have such a fun time. I love supporting indie authors, especially when you try one for the first time and instantly know you’ll read anything they write. Bridie’s writing is so magical and completely addictive. Everything felt so vivid and alive and you can tell how much care and research went into this book. I fell in love with these characters, especially Everleigh, our female main character. She’s such a gentle, soft soul but with this incredible inner strength. I found her to be truly admiring. And the ending, it’s all I will be thinking about for awhile, I need book two right now.
October 28, 2025
★★★.5 - 3 and a half star read
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✨ARC REVIEW✨
I enjoyed this arc read but I’m just not sure the whole magic/fantasy/witchy vibe is 100% my cup of tea. I struggled through this more than I usually would with Bridie’s work because of the genre. I am however very much down for a love triangle plot so throughly enjoyed that aspect. I would really recommend this to lovers of fantasy, witchy and magic vibes. This was a great read for the cosy spooky season and I wanna thank Bridie for the opportunity x
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Dates Read: October 20th - October 28th 2025
•
✨ARC REVIEW✨
I enjoyed this arc read but I’m just not sure the whole magic/fantasy/witchy vibe is 100% my cup of tea. I struggled through this more than I usually would with Bridie’s work because of the genre. I am however very much down for a love triangle plot so throughly enjoyed that aspect. I would really recommend this to lovers of fantasy, witchy and magic vibes. This was a great read for the cosy spooky season and I wanna thank Bridie for the opportunity x
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Dates Read: October 20th - October 28th 2025
October 27, 2025
this book has my favourite trope (love triangle) and THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF PAIN. i wanna be hurt!!!!
To me it was a slower start, but really around the 50-60% mark it picked up a lot and it was such a fun read.
There’s friendship, family, betrayals, politics, and never know who or what you can trust.
The ending!!! So good!!!!
Literally I messaged bridie as soon as I was done asking her how dare she do this to me cause I need book 2 now.
To me it was a slower start, but really around the 50-60% mark it picked up a lot and it was such a fun read.
There’s friendship, family, betrayals, politics, and never know who or what you can trust.
The ending!!! So good!!!!
Literally I messaged bridie as soon as I was done asking her how dare she do this to me cause I need book 2 now.
November 3, 2025
Arc Review :
Wow.. just .. wow . Absolutely amazing wow . This was a different read for me , a love triangle , never would have thought I'd like it but here we are . The story was intriguing lots of twists and turns , lots of tears shed . Lots of gasps. Plot twists at the end ?? The ending ? Wow I have no words.
6 stars.
Wow.. just .. wow . Absolutely amazing wow . This was a different read for me , a love triangle , never would have thought I'd like it but here we are . The story was intriguing lots of twists and turns , lots of tears shed . Lots of gasps. Plot twists at the end ?? The ending ? Wow I have no words.
6 stars.
December 27, 2025
Absolutely devoured this book! Loved the plot line, felt very unique and unlike any fantasy I’ve read. I just loved the writing in this, I felt like I could actually see the story playing out. What an ending though…. I need book 2 asapppp!!!!
November 20, 2025
THAT ENDING
December 7, 2025
LOVED THIS ONE!!! It’s perfect for those of you who loved Cruel Prince vibes!!! This is a MUST READ for cottage core romantasy lovers
November 2, 2025
Thank you so much Bridie Charles for the opportunity to read her debut fantasy novel as an ARC. I absolutely loved it! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I was initially hooked from the very beginning, Bridie’s writing is beautiful and addictive, you can’t help but continue reading Everleigh’s captivatingly emotional story.
I don’t normally read books with a love triangle, it’s not something I personally gravitate towards but I loved this element with Silas, her brothers best friend, and Rylan, the new blacksmith in town. I enjoyed the quibbling between them, both with secrets that slowly got revealed throughout and I’m sure there will be even more to reveal in the books to come.
There is so much camaraderie between the characters, Everleigh’s friends really help her along the way amidst all the witch trials that keep them in constant danger. This book is also incredibly raw and emotional with the storyline that I was in tears many times because you feel for and become so attached to the characters Bridie has created.
This is so remarkable, so moving to the very end with lots being unveiled and has left me in need of book 2 immediately to continue where it’s left off because it’s been so addictive and I’m excited for more.
A Look Beyond the Mist is ready to read now!🤎
You can also find my review on my Bookstagram account: _romanticallybookish_ ☺️
I was initially hooked from the very beginning, Bridie’s writing is beautiful and addictive, you can’t help but continue reading Everleigh’s captivatingly emotional story.
I don’t normally read books with a love triangle, it’s not something I personally gravitate towards but I loved this element with Silas, her brothers best friend, and Rylan, the new blacksmith in town. I enjoyed the quibbling between them, both with secrets that slowly got revealed throughout and I’m sure there will be even more to reveal in the books to come.
There is so much camaraderie between the characters, Everleigh’s friends really help her along the way amidst all the witch trials that keep them in constant danger. This book is also incredibly raw and emotional with the storyline that I was in tears many times because you feel for and become so attached to the characters Bridie has created.
This is so remarkable, so moving to the very end with lots being unveiled and has left me in need of book 2 immediately to continue where it’s left off because it’s been so addictive and I’m excited for more.
A Look Beyond the Mist is ready to read now!🤎
You can also find my review on my Bookstagram account: _romanticallybookish_ ☺️
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