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Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares: A Magical Fantasy Romance
A witch who can’t break her word.
A grumpy bookseller she shouldn’t fall for.
A village where magic sleeps in the woods… until she wakes it.
Eira Merrick has never broken her word. Not because she’s a particularly good person, but because she can’t. A generations-old curse binds every Merrick witch to their promises, and Eira knows better than to speak lightly. Yet when her dying aunt demands two final oaths, she cannot refuse them. She promises to find a way to end the curse, and she promises to not fall in love until it’s gone.
Her search leads her to Harehollow, a postcard-perfect village hiding prickly neighbours, endless secrets, and one exceedingly difficult bookshop owner named Temple. When she accidentally awakens a dark enchantment slumbering in the woods, Temple saves her, and in doing so, he reveals there is more to Harehollow—and to him—than she ever imagined.
Temple may be the key to breaking her curse. He might also be the reason she breaks her promise.
And for a Merrick witch, breaking a promise isn’t just forbidden. It’s fatal.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a cozy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain, with witches, fae, magical villages and a dash of spice. It is the first of a duet, with a soft cliffhanger and a HEA in book two.
Eira Merrick has never broken her word. Not because she’s a particularly good person, but because she can’t. A generations-old curse binds every Merrick witch to their promises, and Eira knows better than to speak lightly. Yet when her dying aunt demands two final oaths, she cannot refuse them. She promises to find a way to end the curse, and she promises to not fall in love until it’s gone.
Her search leads her to Harehollow, a postcard-perfect village hiding prickly neighbours, endless secrets, and one exceedingly difficult bookshop owner named Temple. When she accidentally awakens a dark enchantment slumbering in the woods, Temple saves her, and in doing so, he reveals there is more to Harehollow—and to him—than she ever imagined.
Temple may be the key to breaking her curse. He might also be the reason she breaks her promise.
And for a Merrick witch, breaking a promise isn’t just forbidden. It’s fatal.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a cozy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain, with witches, fae, magical villages and a dash of spice. It is the first of a duet, with a soft cliffhanger and a HEA in book two.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 14, 2025
What a fun read! Cursed to keep every promise she makes, Eria tries her best to always watch what she says! When her dying aunt’s last request is for Eria to break the curse, she has no choice but to accept. Just one little snatch…. she must not fall in love! Enter, Temple, our mysterious bookseller with his own secrets.
This is a cute, cozy read that had some fun paranormal/magical aspects that keep you invested in the strange little town of Harehollow. The twists and turns were fun and the characters we meet along the way are unique, intriguing and round out the story nicely.
It’s a slow burn romance, found family, cottagecore adventure that is perfect for a relaxing afternoon read.
Be warned though, its book one of a duology!
Slow burn romance
Animal Companions
Hidden Pasts
Cursed Town
Magical woods
Thank you to Ellery Larkspur for an ARC copy of Heart, Hares & Hidden Snares.
This is a cute, cozy read that had some fun paranormal/magical aspects that keep you invested in the strange little town of Harehollow. The twists and turns were fun and the characters we meet along the way are unique, intriguing and round out the story nicely.
It’s a slow burn romance, found family, cottagecore adventure that is perfect for a relaxing afternoon read.
Be warned though, its book one of a duology!
Slow burn romance
Animal Companions
Hidden Pasts
Cursed Town
Magical woods
Thank you to Ellery Larkspur for an ARC copy of Heart, Hares & Hidden Snares.
September 9, 2025
Thank you so much to Ellery Larkspur for an ARC copy. All reviews are my own.
This was a whimsical, charming, magical romance! It’s perfect for spooky season. We follow Eira, whos travelled to the town of HareHollow, to investigate her family curse.
I loved the writing style, it flowed so well and immersed me into the world. The characters were all so different and quirky in their own way. I loved following Eira as she tried to figure out the curse. The world was cosy, but also spooky and I was on edge flipping the pages at some points. I really enjoyed the mystery of it all and trying to figure it out before the characters did, and I audibly gasped at some points (the ending!!!!!!!!!!!!)
If you are wanting a spooky season read, pick this up!
This was a whimsical, charming, magical romance! It’s perfect for spooky season. We follow Eira, whos travelled to the town of HareHollow, to investigate her family curse.
I loved the writing style, it flowed so well and immersed me into the world. The characters were all so different and quirky in their own way. I loved following Eira as she tried to figure out the curse. The world was cosy, but also spooky and I was on edge flipping the pages at some points. I really enjoyed the mystery of it all and trying to figure it out before the characters did, and I audibly gasped at some points (the ending!!!!!!!!!!!!)
If you are wanting a spooky season read, pick this up!
September 8, 2025
ARC Read ✨ This is everything my soul needed! I’m such a sucker for books that feel like spooky versions of a Hallmark
movie and this was exactly that. Witchy and romantic, with a little horror mixed in. The characters were charming and sweet, and made the book feel so cosy. The way the mysteries unfolded was fantastic and I loved getting to know more about Eira! I cannot wait to read the second book and see how this story continues.
movie and this was exactly that. Witchy and romantic, with a little horror mixed in. The characters were charming and sweet, and made the book feel so cosy. The way the mysteries unfolded was fantastic and I loved getting to know more about Eira! I cannot wait to read the second book and see how this story continues.
September 10, 2025
This is such a wonderful cozy read I could barely put it down.
Eira has a family curse where she must keep her promises. Following her aunt’s death, she’s compelled to pick up where she left off to try and break the curse, which steers her to Harehollow and the mysterious residents there. Including but not limited to the resident grumpy bookseller…
I adored every piece of this story. It’s well-written and plotted with enough worldbuilding to make everything feel real and delivered when relevant which is such a great skill for a writer to have. The characters are well thought out and Eira is a delightful heroine to follow along with.
Her curse makes her interactions with everyone unique and adds an additional element of tension throughout the story.
There are a handful of side characters in this story and they’re solidly written and interesting in their own rights. Tor is an intriguing one with hints at his backstory and his own mysteries to be revealed.
And the romance… sweet and supportive and something I was on the edge of my seat for the entire time.
I’ll be vague about the circumstances for the sake of spoilers but the ending? My heart!!
Thank you to the author for the ARC and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!
Eira has a family curse where she must keep her promises. Following her aunt’s death, she’s compelled to pick up where she left off to try and break the curse, which steers her to Harehollow and the mysterious residents there. Including but not limited to the resident grumpy bookseller…
I adored every piece of this story. It’s well-written and plotted with enough worldbuilding to make everything feel real and delivered when relevant which is such a great skill for a writer to have. The characters are well thought out and Eira is a delightful heroine to follow along with.
Her curse makes her interactions with everyone unique and adds an additional element of tension throughout the story.
There are a handful of side characters in this story and they’re solidly written and interesting in their own rights. Tor is an intriguing one with hints at his backstory and his own mysteries to be revealed.
And the romance… sweet and supportive and something I was on the edge of my seat for the entire time.
I’ll be vague about the circumstances for the sake of spoilers but the ending? My heart!!
Thank you to the author for the ARC and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!
September 30, 2025
Thank you to the author Ellery Larkspur for a complimentary early release copy of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares.
I enjoyed my read of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares! This was such a fun story, it has an intriguing paranormal mystery that kept me hooked and curious the entire time. I really liked how the paranormal and cursed elements were introduced and how things had played out with them. The paranormal aspects have to be some of my favorite elements of this book, I never knew how far the book was going to push things with them and I loved the suspense of it!
Eria and Temple are both interesting characters to follow, I liked how they both had an air of mystery to them. It made finding things out all the more interesting! Eria made a good main character. I liked how she went about things plot wise but I was really intrigued with her magic, especially her echo ability! The fleeting romance moments are tension filled but at the same time it still keeps the soft cozy atmosphere. There are lots of cute scenes that I highlighted between the two, they just come off as so passionate and cutesy! The romance in here is definitely hinting that it’s going to be a slow burn but it’s a goodie and I’m here for it.
Aside from the characters, paranormal elements, and the romance I absolutely loved the town of Harehollow. The townspeople were great side characters and I loved the found family vibe that they gave. Everyone and Harehollow had a bit of mystery to them that I liked to unravel. The plot and characters all felt well fleshed out, a lot of the interactions between the townspeople and our main characters really stick out to me. Some of my favorite characters have to be Tor, Cecil, and of course Briar. The mystery has its hooks in me, there still a lot character and plot wise things that have my attention! I’m happy this book is a series because that ending has left me intrigued as to where the story is going to go next. I’m very pleased and excited to get back into the world of Harehollow, if you love cozy fantasy’s with a paranormal mystery, intriguing characters that have a bit of mystery of their own, a cutesy plus tension filled slow burn romance ,and a great found family aspect then I definitely recommend Hearts, Hares, & Hidden Snares.
I enjoyed my read of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares! This was such a fun story, it has an intriguing paranormal mystery that kept me hooked and curious the entire time. I really liked how the paranormal and cursed elements were introduced and how things had played out with them. The paranormal aspects have to be some of my favorite elements of this book, I never knew how far the book was going to push things with them and I loved the suspense of it!
Eria and Temple are both interesting characters to follow, I liked how they both had an air of mystery to them. It made finding things out all the more interesting! Eria made a good main character. I liked how she went about things plot wise but I was really intrigued with her magic, especially her echo ability! The fleeting romance moments are tension filled but at the same time it still keeps the soft cozy atmosphere. There are lots of cute scenes that I highlighted between the two, they just come off as so passionate and cutesy! The romance in here is definitely hinting that it’s going to be a slow burn but it’s a goodie and I’m here for it.
Aside from the characters, paranormal elements, and the romance I absolutely loved the town of Harehollow. The townspeople were great side characters and I loved the found family vibe that they gave. Everyone and Harehollow had a bit of mystery to them that I liked to unravel. The plot and characters all felt well fleshed out, a lot of the interactions between the townspeople and our main characters really stick out to me. Some of my favorite characters have to be Tor, Cecil, and of course Briar. The mystery has its hooks in me, there still a lot character and plot wise things that have my attention! I’m happy this book is a series because that ending has left me intrigued as to where the story is going to go next. I’m very pleased and excited to get back into the world of Harehollow, if you love cozy fantasy’s with a paranormal mystery, intriguing characters that have a bit of mystery of their own, a cutesy plus tension filled slow burn romance ,and a great found family aspect then I definitely recommend Hearts, Hares, & Hidden Snares.
September 9, 2025
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur
“By bargain, bravery, or beauty.”
Eira Merrick is bound by a family curse that makes breaking promises both impossible and fatal. After swearing to end the curse and never fall in love until she does, her search leads her to the seemingly idyllic village of Harehollow. There she meets Temple, a guarded bookshop owner who may hold the key to her freedom or to her ruin.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur is a warm, witchy read that balances cosy small-town life with an undercurrent of real, unsettling menace. At first glance it is the kind of book that invites you to settle in with a mug and a blanket, but as you turn the pages you realise the woods outside Harehollow are full of teeth. The result is a wonderfully addictive mix of comfort and unease, the sort of book that makes you smile and then quietly shiver in the same paragraph.
“No village stood for centuries on the edge of a forest like that one and didn’t have stories about it. She wanted to know the stories. The answers were almost always hidden in stories.”
Larkspur’s Harehollow is a triumph of atmosphere. Its village, surrounded by dark and inhospitable woods, feels lived in; every lane, thrift shop and moonlit clearing has texture. The natural world in this book is almost a character in itself, with folklore stitched into the landscape so that you notice things like oddly patterned moss or the way the hares move and immediately suspect meaning. The magic is woven through daily life, so rituals and small charms sit beside ordinary chores in a way that feels plausible and charming. I loved the small, clever touches, details that made the supernatural feel eerie and intimate rather than theatrical.
“She spent a lot of effort in becoming the sort of person who drifted in the shadows, known but unremarkable. It was a safe place to be, for someone cursed in the way she was cursed.”
For me, the highlight of this book falls on the people who call Harehollow home and the easy friendships they build with our protagonist. Eira is stubborn in the right ways, funny without trying too hard, and determined enough to carry the plot without ever feeling like a flat action hero. Temple, the bookshop owner, is properly intriguing. I did not guess every layer of him, and the slow reveal of his connections to the curse is one of the story’s satisfying beats. The supporting cast is a joy, from the prickly neighbours to the genuinely tender found-family groupings. Tor and Cecil stick in the mind as characters who both complicate and deepen the mystery, and small moments between villagers give the book a real sense of community. And then there is Briar the cat, who is so vivid and charismatic that I would happily read a novella about his life alone. He is the best character among them all.
If you enjoy paranormal mysteries with a dash of cosy fantasy romance, this will scratch that itch. The curse at the heart of the plot spins the characters pulling back their layers in careful timing. Magic here is playful but dangerous, where a misplaced word or a thoughtless promise can have weighty consequences, which keeps tension high throughout. The novel’s paranormal beats often surprised me, and the author is not afraid to let the folklore get a little grim in places, which adds bite to the cosy elements. At times, this book felt T. Kingfisher-esque, pulling on this mix of fairytale-like characters and folklore and more gruesome (though not gore by any means) depictions of nature.
“‘You are treading a fine line, Eira Merrick.’ ‘I know. I always am.’ His smile was slight, and barely there before it was gone again.”
The romance is a proper slow burn. Eira and Temple build chemistry in a way that mirrors the duality of the setting: through small domestic moments and through tension-filled, deadly situations. The fleeting, stolen scenes between them hit the sweet spot of cosy and steamy, always pulled back by the feeling of a forbidden romance.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a perfect pick for readers who love cosy romantasy with teeth. It is at once comforting, uncanny and quietly ruthless, full of characters you will want to return to and a mystery that will keep you thinking long after you close the cover. If you enjoy folklore-tinged fantasy, slow burn romance and villages where everyone has a secret, do not miss this one. I will be picking up book two.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC**
“By bargain, bravery, or beauty.”
Eira Merrick is bound by a family curse that makes breaking promises both impossible and fatal. After swearing to end the curse and never fall in love until she does, her search leads her to the seemingly idyllic village of Harehollow. There she meets Temple, a guarded bookshop owner who may hold the key to her freedom or to her ruin.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur is a warm, witchy read that balances cosy small-town life with an undercurrent of real, unsettling menace. At first glance it is the kind of book that invites you to settle in with a mug and a blanket, but as you turn the pages you realise the woods outside Harehollow are full of teeth. The result is a wonderfully addictive mix of comfort and unease, the sort of book that makes you smile and then quietly shiver in the same paragraph.
“No village stood for centuries on the edge of a forest like that one and didn’t have stories about it. She wanted to know the stories. The answers were almost always hidden in stories.”
Larkspur’s Harehollow is a triumph of atmosphere. Its village, surrounded by dark and inhospitable woods, feels lived in; every lane, thrift shop and moonlit clearing has texture. The natural world in this book is almost a character in itself, with folklore stitched into the landscape so that you notice things like oddly patterned moss or the way the hares move and immediately suspect meaning. The magic is woven through daily life, so rituals and small charms sit beside ordinary chores in a way that feels plausible and charming. I loved the small, clever touches, details that made the supernatural feel eerie and intimate rather than theatrical.
“She spent a lot of effort in becoming the sort of person who drifted in the shadows, known but unremarkable. It was a safe place to be, for someone cursed in the way she was cursed.”
For me, the highlight of this book falls on the people who call Harehollow home and the easy friendships they build with our protagonist. Eira is stubborn in the right ways, funny without trying too hard, and determined enough to carry the plot without ever feeling like a flat action hero. Temple, the bookshop owner, is properly intriguing. I did not guess every layer of him, and the slow reveal of his connections to the curse is one of the story’s satisfying beats. The supporting cast is a joy, from the prickly neighbours to the genuinely tender found-family groupings. Tor and Cecil stick in the mind as characters who both complicate and deepen the mystery, and small moments between villagers give the book a real sense of community. And then there is Briar the cat, who is so vivid and charismatic that I would happily read a novella about his life alone. He is the best character among them all.
If you enjoy paranormal mysteries with a dash of cosy fantasy romance, this will scratch that itch. The curse at the heart of the plot spins the characters pulling back their layers in careful timing. Magic here is playful but dangerous, where a misplaced word or a thoughtless promise can have weighty consequences, which keeps tension high throughout. The novel’s paranormal beats often surprised me, and the author is not afraid to let the folklore get a little grim in places, which adds bite to the cosy elements. At times, this book felt T. Kingfisher-esque, pulling on this mix of fairytale-like characters and folklore and more gruesome (though not gore by any means) depictions of nature.
“‘You are treading a fine line, Eira Merrick.’ ‘I know. I always am.’ His smile was slight, and barely there before it was gone again.”
The romance is a proper slow burn. Eira and Temple build chemistry in a way that mirrors the duality of the setting: through small domestic moments and through tension-filled, deadly situations. The fleeting, stolen scenes between them hit the sweet spot of cosy and steamy, always pulled back by the feeling of a forbidden romance.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a perfect pick for readers who love cosy romantasy with teeth. It is at once comforting, uncanny and quietly ruthless, full of characters you will want to return to and a mystery that will keep you thinking long after you close the cover. If you enjoy folklore-tinged fantasy, slow burn romance and villages where everyone has a secret, do not miss this one. I will be picking up book two.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC**
September 4, 2025
Thank you, Ellery Larkspur, for providing this ARC of Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares in exchange for an honest review.
Summary
A cosy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain full of curses, twists, mysterious villagers, and an intriguing witch at the centre of it all. Folklore vibes with bite – and an ending that left me feral for book two!
Honest review
I’m so tempted to share my home camera footage of me finishing that last page... because wow. I completely forgot this was a duology, got utterly swept up, and when the end came, I was left scrambling for more pages like some sort of book-gremlin.
Ellery’s worldbuilding is exquisite. The village and its quirky, mysterious inhabitants feel lived-in and magical, each with secrets that make you second-guess every interaction. The curses appearing as freckles? Genius. Subtle, creepy, and strangely beautiful. The magic system is playful and dangerous at the same time, and it’s clear that even small gestures – a misplaced spell, a whispered word – carry weight. And then there’s Briar the cat. Oh, Briar. I need answers, I have questions, and I may or may not be slightly obsessed.
Eira is my kind of FMC: headstrong, defiant, and utterly determined to break her curse while simultaneously questioning everything she thought she knew about magic. She’s friendly, approachable, and funny, but she’s also capable of real grit and clever problem-solving.
Temple. I literally did not see that twist coming. I was fully expecting a Giles-from-Buffy situation – a reluctant, helpful-type book shop owner but a Fae!!... Ellery completely subverted my expectations. The reveal of his involvement in Eira’s family curse added layers I wasn’t ready for, and the chemistry between them? Yes, please. Those kisses were spicy enough to make me blush and simultaneously scream at the book: “WHAT IS HAPPENING.”
And then there’s Tor. I can not, CANNOT work them out, and that’s exactly the kind of mysterious tension I love in a story. I am desperate to know more about Tor and the other village occupants because Ellery has created a world that’s as intriguing as it is immersive. Every corner of this village hides something magical or dangerous or both, and I love it.
Pacing is excellent...the story never drags, and Ellery has a way of balancing tension, character moments, and worldbuilding so seamlessly that I barely noticed the hours passing while reading. The humour, the stakes, the romance, the creeping sense of danger… it all lands perfectly.
The ending left me shooketh. Emotionally exhausted in the best possible way. I am now counting down the days until the second half of this duology, because I need resolution, I need answers, and I need more of Eira, Temple, Tor, Briar, and the rest of this enchanted village.
In short: Ellery Larkspur is a master of storytelling. This book is whimsical, sharp, funny, and dark all at once, with characters you’ll fall for and a plot that keeps you guessing. I am completely invested and can not wait for what comes next.
Summary
A cosy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain full of curses, twists, mysterious villagers, and an intriguing witch at the centre of it all. Folklore vibes with bite – and an ending that left me feral for book two!
Honest review
I’m so tempted to share my home camera footage of me finishing that last page... because wow. I completely forgot this was a duology, got utterly swept up, and when the end came, I was left scrambling for more pages like some sort of book-gremlin.
Ellery’s worldbuilding is exquisite. The village and its quirky, mysterious inhabitants feel lived-in and magical, each with secrets that make you second-guess every interaction. The curses appearing as freckles? Genius. Subtle, creepy, and strangely beautiful. The magic system is playful and dangerous at the same time, and it’s clear that even small gestures – a misplaced spell, a whispered word – carry weight. And then there’s Briar the cat. Oh, Briar. I need answers, I have questions, and I may or may not be slightly obsessed.
Eira is my kind of FMC: headstrong, defiant, and utterly determined to break her curse while simultaneously questioning everything she thought she knew about magic. She’s friendly, approachable, and funny, but she’s also capable of real grit and clever problem-solving.
Temple. I literally did not see that twist coming. I was fully expecting a Giles-from-Buffy situation – a reluctant, helpful-type book shop owner but a Fae!!... Ellery completely subverted my expectations. The reveal of his involvement in Eira’s family curse added layers I wasn’t ready for, and the chemistry between them? Yes, please. Those kisses were spicy enough to make me blush and simultaneously scream at the book: “WHAT IS HAPPENING.”
And then there’s Tor. I can not, CANNOT work them out, and that’s exactly the kind of mysterious tension I love in a story. I am desperate to know more about Tor and the other village occupants because Ellery has created a world that’s as intriguing as it is immersive. Every corner of this village hides something magical or dangerous or both, and I love it.
Pacing is excellent...the story never drags, and Ellery has a way of balancing tension, character moments, and worldbuilding so seamlessly that I barely noticed the hours passing while reading. The humour, the stakes, the romance, the creeping sense of danger… it all lands perfectly.
The ending left me shooketh. Emotionally exhausted in the best possible way. I am now counting down the days until the second half of this duology, because I need resolution, I need answers, and I need more of Eira, Temple, Tor, Briar, and the rest of this enchanted village.
In short: Ellery Larkspur is a master of storytelling. This book is whimsical, sharp, funny, and dark all at once, with characters you’ll fall for and a plot that keeps you guessing. I am completely invested and can not wait for what comes next.
September 12, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
Thank you to the author Ellery Larkspur for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a charming and quietly enchanting read that warmed my heart from the very first chapter. Ellery Larkspur weaves a whimsical world filled with gentle magic, forest creatures, and soft romance, all wrapped up in prose that feels like a cozy cup of tea on a rainy day. The story is both comforting and quietly adventurous, inviting readers into a landscape where secrets rustle beneath autumn leaves and love blooms in unexpected places.
One of the standout elements of this book is its atmosphere. Larkspur has a real gift for world-building—not through grand gestures or heavy exposition, but through the delicate layering of sensory details and a deep appreciation for nature. The woodland setting feels alive, with each hare, mossy path, and moonlit clearing rendered in such a way that you can almost smell the pine and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to go for a walk in the woods with your thoughts (and maybe a bit of hope in your heart).
The characters are endearing in their quiet complexity. The relationships—especially the tender, slow-burn romance—are built on mutual respect, small gestures, and shared silences, which felt refreshingly sincere. There’s a softness to the way the characters connect that made their journey all the more moving.
The only reason I held back from giving it a full five stars is that there were a few pacing moments where I wished the plot would move just a little faster. While the gentle rhythm suited the tone, some parts felt slightly meandering. Still, this is a minor note in an otherwise delightful and heart-nourishing book.
If you’re looking for a story that wraps around you like a knitted shawl and makes you believe in quiet magic, Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a lovely choice. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Ellery Larkspur.
🌲 Cottagecore vibes – All the cozy, nature-filled, mossy forest goodness.
🐇 Animal companions – Trusty hares and other woodland creatures that feel like family.
🌿 Soft magic / quiet fantasy – Magic that feels like mist on the trees, subtle and comforting.
💕 Slow-burn romance – The kind of love that grows over shared tea, gentle touches, and long walks.
🏡 Found family – Bonds formed through kindness, shared secrets, and quiet understanding.
🕯️ Hidden pasts & gentle reveals – Everyone’s carrying something, but it unfolds like petals, not fireworks.
🪄 Healing through nature & connection – Emotional wounds eased by moss, moonlight, and mutual care.
🫖 Herbalism / potion making – Teas, tinctures, and the kind of kitchen alchemy that smells like lavender and safety.
🌙 Mystical woods – The forest is a character in itself, full of secrets, stories, and soft enchantment.
Thank you to the author Ellery Larkspur for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a charming and quietly enchanting read that warmed my heart from the very first chapter. Ellery Larkspur weaves a whimsical world filled with gentle magic, forest creatures, and soft romance, all wrapped up in prose that feels like a cozy cup of tea on a rainy day. The story is both comforting and quietly adventurous, inviting readers into a landscape where secrets rustle beneath autumn leaves and love blooms in unexpected places.
One of the standout elements of this book is its atmosphere. Larkspur has a real gift for world-building—not through grand gestures or heavy exposition, but through the delicate layering of sensory details and a deep appreciation for nature. The woodland setting feels alive, with each hare, mossy path, and moonlit clearing rendered in such a way that you can almost smell the pine and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to go for a walk in the woods with your thoughts (and maybe a bit of hope in your heart).
The characters are endearing in their quiet complexity. The relationships—especially the tender, slow-burn romance—are built on mutual respect, small gestures, and shared silences, which felt refreshingly sincere. There’s a softness to the way the characters connect that made their journey all the more moving.
The only reason I held back from giving it a full five stars is that there were a few pacing moments where I wished the plot would move just a little faster. While the gentle rhythm suited the tone, some parts felt slightly meandering. Still, this is a minor note in an otherwise delightful and heart-nourishing book.
If you’re looking for a story that wraps around you like a knitted shawl and makes you believe in quiet magic, Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a lovely choice. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Ellery Larkspur.
🌲 Cottagecore vibes – All the cozy, nature-filled, mossy forest goodness.
🐇 Animal companions – Trusty hares and other woodland creatures that feel like family.
🌿 Soft magic / quiet fantasy – Magic that feels like mist on the trees, subtle and comforting.
💕 Slow-burn romance – The kind of love that grows over shared tea, gentle touches, and long walks.
🏡 Found family – Bonds formed through kindness, shared secrets, and quiet understanding.
🕯️ Hidden pasts & gentle reveals – Everyone’s carrying something, but it unfolds like petals, not fireworks.
🪄 Healing through nature & connection – Emotional wounds eased by moss, moonlight, and mutual care.
🫖 Herbalism / potion making – Teas, tinctures, and the kind of kitchen alchemy that smells like lavender and safety.
🌙 Mystical woods – The forest is a character in itself, full of secrets, stories, and soft enchantment.
August 29, 2025
✨ Welcome to Harehollow ✨
I was so excited to join the ARC team for Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares: a magical fantasy romance that swept me straight into the enchanting village of Harehollow.
This is the first in a duet following Eira, a reluctant witch determined to unravel her family curse. Harehollow is brought to life with a wonderful cast of characters, everyone is cursed, even the cat! who all seem seem to be hiding something.... It makes the whole village feel both mysterious and irresistible, like every turn of the page reveals something hidden. The tension between Eira and Temple is perfectly mysterious, every interaction feels like it holds a secret waiting to be revealed.
The writing is beautifully atmospheric, and every time I picked it up I was transported right into Harehollow. I just adored visiting this magical little village, and even on my train commute, I’d find myself so lost in the story I nearly missed my stop.
And I have to mention that the cover is absolutely adorable, perfectly capturing the cozy, whimsical charm of the story inside.
What I especially loved is how easy this book was to read and follow. With other fantasy-style books, I can sometimes get caught up in dense world building and intricate storylines (and that’s not a bad thing!) but this one isn’t that. It’s simply a gentle commitment, with the kind of magic and charm you can sink right into without overthinking. An ideal read for the ‘ber months!
It’s a cozy paranormal read filled with heart, enchantment, and just the right touch of intrigue. The book closes on a mild cliffhanger, leaving me eager (VERY) to see where book two (coming this November!) will take us. 🪄🌙🐇
Thank you so much to Ellery Larkspur for the ARC copy. I very much enjoyed this book and hope others pick it up and fall in love with Harehollow too.
I was so excited to join the ARC team for Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares: a magical fantasy romance that swept me straight into the enchanting village of Harehollow.
This is the first in a duet following Eira, a reluctant witch determined to unravel her family curse. Harehollow is brought to life with a wonderful cast of characters, everyone is cursed, even the cat! who all seem seem to be hiding something.... It makes the whole village feel both mysterious and irresistible, like every turn of the page reveals something hidden. The tension between Eira and Temple is perfectly mysterious, every interaction feels like it holds a secret waiting to be revealed.
The writing is beautifully atmospheric, and every time I picked it up I was transported right into Harehollow. I just adored visiting this magical little village, and even on my train commute, I’d find myself so lost in the story I nearly missed my stop.
And I have to mention that the cover is absolutely adorable, perfectly capturing the cozy, whimsical charm of the story inside.
What I especially loved is how easy this book was to read and follow. With other fantasy-style books, I can sometimes get caught up in dense world building and intricate storylines (and that’s not a bad thing!) but this one isn’t that. It’s simply a gentle commitment, with the kind of magic and charm you can sink right into without overthinking. An ideal read for the ‘ber months!
It’s a cozy paranormal read filled with heart, enchantment, and just the right touch of intrigue. The book closes on a mild cliffhanger, leaving me eager (VERY) to see where book two (coming this November!) will take us. 🪄🌙🐇
Thank you so much to Ellery Larkspur for the ARC copy. I very much enjoyed this book and hope others pick it up and fall in love with Harehollow too.
September 9, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and author for the ARC of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares!
This was such a fun and cozy read, perfect for curling up with on a rainy day. Larkspur builds Harehollow with so much care that the setting feels like a character all on its own: alive with secrets, woodland magic, and quiet mystery. It’s the kind of world I’d happily wander into and get lost in.
Eira and Temple were engaging to follow, with Eira’s curse and magic adding a unique thread of tension and Temple bringing his grumpy, bookish charm. Their relationship is definitely a slow burn, equal parts tender and charged with unspoken moments. And while I loved both of them, I have to say, the side characters were amazing and I’m eager to learn more about them in the next book (especially the cat Briar).
The paranormal mystery kept me hooked, and I loved how the romance wove softly around it without overpowering the story.I am very much a tension girlie, so their early kiss surprised me and pulled me out of the slow-burn build just a touch. That said, the romance was still cute and heartfelt and made sense with the story. My one critique is that the pacing sometimes felt a little off. There were parts where I wished the plot flowed more smoothly. Still, it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the cozy, whimsical atmosphere and the overall charm of the story.
This was such a fun and cozy read, perfect for curling up with on a rainy day. Larkspur builds Harehollow with so much care that the setting feels like a character all on its own: alive with secrets, woodland magic, and quiet mystery. It’s the kind of world I’d happily wander into and get lost in.
Eira and Temple were engaging to follow, with Eira’s curse and magic adding a unique thread of tension and Temple bringing his grumpy, bookish charm. Their relationship is definitely a slow burn, equal parts tender and charged with unspoken moments. And while I loved both of them, I have to say, the side characters were amazing and I’m eager to learn more about them in the next book (especially the cat Briar).
The paranormal mystery kept me hooked, and I loved how the romance wove softly around it without overpowering the story.I am very much a tension girlie, so their early kiss surprised me and pulled me out of the slow-burn build just a touch. That said, the romance was still cute and heartfelt and made sense with the story. My one critique is that the pacing sometimes felt a little off. There were parts where I wished the plot flowed more smoothly. Still, it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the cozy, whimsical atmosphere and the overall charm of the story.
September 2, 2025
This was such a unique story! Full of paranormal mystery, witches, curses, fae, and a cozy village, it kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved the mix of characters with Eira, a witch, the grumpy bookshop owner Temple, and the rest of Harehollow’s residents. It was an interesting blend of eeriness, romance, and small town coziness but it worked together really well!
I really enjoyed Eira as the main character! She was brave and determined even though so much of what happened to her would have sent me running. I loved seeing her relationship with her magic grow and it seems likely to develop even more in the next book! Temple was a fun MMC and it was so interesting to see their feelings for one another find root despite their circumstances with curses and old magic. Briar was the real star of the show though. I loved this furry companion who was always looking out for Eira.
The spooky elements of this book surprised me, but it was perfectly balanced. Although I definitely will not be trusting any rabbits I see in my backyard for a while now… The mystery of the curses and darkness kept me guessing the whole time. Overall, a unique story that roped me in and I really enjoyed it!
I really enjoyed Eira as the main character! She was brave and determined even though so much of what happened to her would have sent me running. I loved seeing her relationship with her magic grow and it seems likely to develop even more in the next book! Temple was a fun MMC and it was so interesting to see their feelings for one another find root despite their circumstances with curses and old magic. Briar was the real star of the show though. I loved this furry companion who was always looking out for Eira.
The spooky elements of this book surprised me, but it was perfectly balanced. Although I definitely will not be trusting any rabbits I see in my backyard for a while now… The mystery of the curses and darkness kept me guessing the whole time. Overall, a unique story that roped me in and I really enjoyed it!
August 28, 2025
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from the author for voluntarily giving a review. We meet Eira, a wandering witch, who made a promise to her aunt to find a way to undo the family curse and to not fall in love. Her aunts notes take her to a sleepy little town, Harehallow, where the town has a weird vibe about it. of course its pouring when she arrives and ends up in a bookstore where the owner looks pleasant but in fact isnt. well then. A quaint cottage greets her along with a grey cat, whom seems to understand her. She is told by locals to stay away from the witchbridge and the forest as folklore has people going missing. there is smtg about the woods that has her curious, but you know the old saying about curiousity! Eira ventures into the woods only to be rescused by bookstore owner Temple. There is smtg about him that has Eira wanting answers to all the questions she seeks. Eira finds out more truths behind the curse and learns there is another curse that may be the reason for her family curse. It is a fight against time for Eira and she always keeps her promises...the curse makes sure of that.
September 7, 2025
“Be careful what you look for.” His jaw tensed like he was battling with something. Then he sighed, light as nightfall. “Sometimes it’s looking for you, too.”
Review: Such a cozy fantasy with the sweetest hit of romance. A perfect book to read on a cozy, rainy afternoon with your hot beverage of choice.
Eira finds herself in Harehollow after her aunts death to break the curse that has plagued her family for generations. She finds herself in what I can only describe as similar to Stars Hollow if you get the reference with characters who are equally as quirky. Everyone in the town seems to be keeping secrets; secrets Eira desperately needs to break her curse. She meets Temple, the resident bookstore owner, who seems to give her some information but just enough to wet her tongue. Never enough.
THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK SENT ME INTO A RAGE. THE CLIFFHANGER TO END ALL CLIFFHANGERS. Ok, now that I’m calm I can continue with the review. This book has unique magical elements, a cute cast of characters, and a possible sweet romance 💘 I’d recommend it to anyone who likes a cozy or light fantasy read!
Review: Such a cozy fantasy with the sweetest hit of romance. A perfect book to read on a cozy, rainy afternoon with your hot beverage of choice.
Eira finds herself in Harehollow after her aunts death to break the curse that has plagued her family for generations. She finds herself in what I can only describe as similar to Stars Hollow if you get the reference with characters who are equally as quirky. Everyone in the town seems to be keeping secrets; secrets Eira desperately needs to break her curse. She meets Temple, the resident bookstore owner, who seems to give her some information but just enough to wet her tongue. Never enough.
THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK SENT ME INTO A RAGE. THE CLIFFHANGER TO END ALL CLIFFHANGERS. Ok, now that I’m calm I can continue with the review. This book has unique magical elements, a cute cast of characters, and a possible sweet romance 💘 I’d recommend it to anyone who likes a cozy or light fantasy read!
September 11, 2025
Synopsis: Bound by her aunt's dying wish to break their family curse, Eira's last chance is Harehollow - a sleepy country town half swallowed by an ancient forest bristling with dark magic. But with the townsfolk pushing back at her attempt to unearth the forest's secrets, and a grumpy bookshop owner tempting her heart (and her curse), Eira's running out of time before the family rot starts to seep in.
Review: I devoured this fantasy in one night, with its beautiful writing, interesting mystery, hints of romance, and found family/townsfolk. Layering the curses was a great idea at twisting the story, and I loved how the book progressed from a cosy fantasy to something more gothic. Warning that there is a sequel and so we're left on a half finished story. The pacing towards the end was a little rushed and the solution felt a little out of nowhere and weak. Hopefully more answers and a stronger solution in the next book!
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review: I devoured this fantasy in one night, with its beautiful writing, interesting mystery, hints of romance, and found family/townsfolk. Layering the curses was a great idea at twisting the story, and I loved how the book progressed from a cosy fantasy to something more gothic. Warning that there is a sequel and so we're left on a half finished story. The pacing towards the end was a little rushed and the solution felt a little out of nowhere and weak. Hopefully more answers and a stronger solution in the next book!
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2025
'Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares' tells the story of Eira Merrick, a witch blooded twenty-nine years old woman trying to keep her promises to her dying aunt before she settles for a brighter future as a renown journalist. As she attempts to undo the curse of her family, she may break one of her promises, falling for the one who doomed her bloodline in the first place.
The book is magnificent, a perfect mix of whimsical atmosphere and modern elements that make its narrative flow beautifully. The characters are amazingly written. Eira is not just the protagonist of the story, she is a character in her own world. I adore her interactions with Briar, Temple and the rest of the villagers, they feel authentic. I personally find fascinating how the magical system of this world works, how curses take form and was a pleasant experience learning it throughout the read and cannot wait to explore it farther in the second book! I cannot recommend this book enough, genuinely it had surpassed all of my expectations!
“Be careful what you look for.” His jaw tensed like he was battling with something. Then he sighed, light as nightfall. “Sometimes it’s looking for you, too.”
The book is magnificent, a perfect mix of whimsical atmosphere and modern elements that make its narrative flow beautifully. The characters are amazingly written. Eira is not just the protagonist of the story, she is a character in her own world. I adore her interactions with Briar, Temple and the rest of the villagers, they feel authentic. I personally find fascinating how the magical system of this world works, how curses take form and was a pleasant experience learning it throughout the read and cannot wait to explore it farther in the second book! I cannot recommend this book enough, genuinely it had surpassed all of my expectations!
“Be careful what you look for.” His jaw tensed like he was battling with something. Then he sighed, light as nightfall. “Sometimes it’s looking for you, too.”
September 8, 2025
A delightful, sweet and captivating read! The cover and title alone sold me on reading this book.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a beautifully woven tale of magic, mystery, and romance set in the quaint and enchanting village of Harehollow.
A witch rents a run down cottage and finds a cat or should I say the cat finds her? She meets a grumpy man that owns a book shop and makes her tea. Eira also accidentally awakens a dark enchantment that is linked to Temple the bookshop owner.
The story expertly balances sweet and cosy moments with tense and dark ones, keeping me hooked from start to finish.
I loved the way the villagers, though caught in the curse's web, became integral to Eira's journey, adding depth and warmth to the story. Eira's journey to break her family's curse is so thrilling, and her chemistry with Temple is undeniable.
A wonderful story that blends fantasy and romance perfectly. Can't wait for the next installment!
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a beautifully woven tale of magic, mystery, and romance set in the quaint and enchanting village of Harehollow.
A witch rents a run down cottage and finds a cat or should I say the cat finds her? She meets a grumpy man that owns a book shop and makes her tea. Eira also accidentally awakens a dark enchantment that is linked to Temple the bookshop owner.
The story expertly balances sweet and cosy moments with tense and dark ones, keeping me hooked from start to finish.
I loved the way the villagers, though caught in the curse's web, became integral to Eira's journey, adding depth and warmth to the story. Eira's journey to break her family's curse is so thrilling, and her chemistry with Temple is undeniable.
A wonderful story that blends fantasy and romance perfectly. Can't wait for the next installment!
September 4, 2025
I’m SO glad I came across Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares on Instagram. I had the best time reading this cozy, mysterious paranormal romance.
Eira, a reluctant witch committed to breaking her family curse, travels to Harehollow, where she finds not only her curse’s source, but an entire village of cursed individuals.
Harehollow was such a richly atmospheric setting full of mystery around every corner. Everyone is hiding something and each reveal feels like a new glimpse into unraveling all the village’s secrets.
I loved all the characters we met and very much hope we get to see and learn more of them in the second book, especially Briar of course.
The tension between Eira and Temple is thick and I loved reading their interactions, anticipating their next moves as they navigate their irresistible chemistry as well as their linked curses.
Ellery Larkspur’s writing is full of both beautiful and haunting prose that captivated me on every page and the cliffhanger has me so on edge I’m thankful we won’t e to wait long for the second book!
If you love cozy, romantasy mysteries, this duet is for you.
Thank you to Ellery Larkspur for allowing me a place on your ARC team and sending me a gifted copy of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares!
Publication date 9/9/25
Eira, a reluctant witch committed to breaking her family curse, travels to Harehollow, where she finds not only her curse’s source, but an entire village of cursed individuals.
Harehollow was such a richly atmospheric setting full of mystery around every corner. Everyone is hiding something and each reveal feels like a new glimpse into unraveling all the village’s secrets.
I loved all the characters we met and very much hope we get to see and learn more of them in the second book, especially Briar of course.
The tension between Eira and Temple is thick and I loved reading their interactions, anticipating their next moves as they navigate their irresistible chemistry as well as their linked curses.
Ellery Larkspur’s writing is full of both beautiful and haunting prose that captivated me on every page and the cliffhanger has me so on edge I’m thankful we won’t e to wait long for the second book!
If you love cozy, romantasy mysteries, this duet is for you.
Thank you to Ellery Larkspur for allowing me a place on your ARC team and sending me a gifted copy of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares!
Publication date 9/9/25
September 1, 2025
I was given the opportunity to read this as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a cute little read, I found it a little slow to start with but when it got going, I didn’t want to put it down.
The story writing had a lovely whimsical magical feel to it, it had just the right amount of romance and wasn’t heavy on the spice which was a welcoming change from my most recent books. It was a really wholesome story and the perfect book to head into the ‘ber months with. I enjoyed all the twists and turns the story took and loved the magical elements. I’m intrigued to see how the story continues in the next book.
Publication date for Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is the 9th September and just look how cute the artwork is on the book 🩷
@ellerylarkspur thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review 🩷🩷
This was a cute little read, I found it a little slow to start with but when it got going, I didn’t want to put it down.
The story writing had a lovely whimsical magical feel to it, it had just the right amount of romance and wasn’t heavy on the spice which was a welcoming change from my most recent books. It was a really wholesome story and the perfect book to head into the ‘ber months with. I enjoyed all the twists and turns the story took and loved the magical elements. I’m intrigued to see how the story continues in the next book.
Publication date for Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is the 9th September and just look how cute the artwork is on the book 🩷
@ellerylarkspur thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review 🩷🩷
August 30, 2025
I usually don’t read cozy paranormal books but this one was so good. A mix of paranormal and fantasy.
What I liked about this book was that it was setting in modern times but with a twist of magic.
If you love witches, faes, magic, and of course curses, this book is for you.
It was interesting to follow the journey of Eira and how she explores her witch side. Temple was a mysterious character for me but I found myself attached to him and I wanted to know more about him!
But don’t forget the others characters, April, Tor, Ruthie, Nell, Cecil and Briar (🐱).
Harehollow is really a mysterious village and the writing got me hooked from the beginning.
I can’t wait to read the second one but this one ends on a cliffhanger.
What I liked about this book was that it was setting in modern times but with a twist of magic.
If you love witches, faes, magic, and of course curses, this book is for you.
It was interesting to follow the journey of Eira and how she explores her witch side. Temple was a mysterious character for me but I found myself attached to him and I wanted to know more about him!
But don’t forget the others characters, April, Tor, Ruthie, Nell, Cecil and Briar (🐱).
Harehollow is really a mysterious village and the writing got me hooked from the beginning.
I can’t wait to read the second one but this one ends on a cliffhanger.
September 9, 2025
I knew this book would be interesting, and it honestly beat my expectations. We get a small mysterious town filled with history and folk lore and magic. With unique characters filling it. And new to the town FMC on a quest to break her family curse. The curse has deep roots and finding out more about its origins is intriguing and unexpected. We get loads of dark creatures from the curse and unexpected information about them. The romance was very light, lighter than I had expected, but it worked perfectly and just kept me wondering what would happen with them. I really want to find out what happens next with that ending. I will be reading the next book in this series and can’t wait for it to be released.
I appreciate having received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciate having received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2025
Thank you so much Ellery Larkspur for the ARC of Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares in exchange for an honest review.
Summary of book :
A witch who can’t break her word.A Grumpy bookseller she shouldn’t fall for. A village where magic sleeps in the woods… until she wakes it.
I absolutely loved the idea behind this book. A cozy, autumn feel read, with tastes of Romance, curses, fae, witches and mystery.
The relationship between Temple and Eira was a slowburn , mutual respect and trust to be earned. I loved watching their relationship blossom throughout the book.
I cannot believe how the book ended!! I look forward to being able to read the next one. I devoured this!
Summary of book :
A witch who can’t break her word.A Grumpy bookseller she shouldn’t fall for. A village where magic sleeps in the woods… until she wakes it.
I absolutely loved the idea behind this book. A cozy, autumn feel read, with tastes of Romance, curses, fae, witches and mystery.
The relationship between Temple and Eira was a slowburn , mutual respect and trust to be earned. I loved watching their relationship blossom throughout the book.
I cannot believe how the book ended!! I look forward to being able to read the next one. I devoured this!
September 17, 2025
Thank you so much for the arc!
Hearts, Hares, & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur is an absolute delight for anyone who craves a cozy, whimsical escape wrapped in gentle magic. From the very first page, the story feels like curling up by a fire with a cup of tea—comforting, enchanting, and full of wonder.
Larkspur has a gift for creating a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly, with pockets of charm hidden in every corner. The characters shine with warmth and heart, and there’s whimsy in abundance.
This book is a must-read. It’s the kind of story that leaves you smiling, believing that magic might be waiting just outside your door.
Hearts, Hares, & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur is an absolute delight for anyone who craves a cozy, whimsical escape wrapped in gentle magic. From the very first page, the story feels like curling up by a fire with a cup of tea—comforting, enchanting, and full of wonder.
Larkspur has a gift for creating a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly, with pockets of charm hidden in every corner. The characters shine with warmth and heart, and there’s whimsy in abundance.
This book is a must-read. It’s the kind of story that leaves you smiling, believing that magic might be waiting just outside your door.
August 28, 2025
Shadow hares
Forbidden forests
Family curses
Eira considers herself a mostly non magic witch with no desire to practice her craft except for a promise made to her aunt, as her powers awaken so does something else.
Temple is a temperamental bookstore owner that isn’t quite what he seems
Briar is an abandoned cat or is he? Regardless he is loyal and brave
Cecil, April, Ruthie and Tor kind villagers who lend a hand in many ways and also may be more than they appear.
Plenty of mystery and puzzles to solve, an absolutely beautiful and enjoyable read…I can’t wait for the next book!!
Forbidden forests
Family curses
Eira considers herself a mostly non magic witch with no desire to practice her craft except for a promise made to her aunt, as her powers awaken so does something else.
Temple is a temperamental bookstore owner that isn’t quite what he seems
Briar is an abandoned cat or is he? Regardless he is loyal and brave
Cecil, April, Ruthie and Tor kind villagers who lend a hand in many ways and also may be more than they appear.
Plenty of mystery and puzzles to solve, an absolutely beautiful and enjoyable read…I can’t wait for the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
A Cozy, Magical Escape
This was such a cute and cozy read! The mix of magic, mystery, and a touch of romance made it impossible to put down. The pacing was perfect, fast enough to keep me engaged, but still letting the world of Harehollow shine. I loved getting to know the citizens and their quirky, magical little town. The story was easy to read in one sitting, and the ending cliffhanger has me eagerly waiting for book two. If you enjoy magical fantasy with charming characters, a hint of romance, and a playful mystery, this one’s a delightful pick.
This was such a cute and cozy read! The mix of magic, mystery, and a touch of romance made it impossible to put down. The pacing was perfect, fast enough to keep me engaged, but still letting the world of Harehollow shine. I loved getting to know the citizens and their quirky, magical little town. The story was easy to read in one sitting, and the ending cliffhanger has me eagerly waiting for book two. If you enjoy magical fantasy with charming characters, a hint of romance, and a playful mystery, this one’s a delightful pick.
October 9, 2025
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares by Ellery Larkspur is a cozy fantasy and slow burn romance set in Harehollow, a small town in the English country side.
Eira is a reluctant witch who has been handed down the family curse and given the task to finally break it without falling in love before doing so.
She meets many charming villagers while researching her family curse and how to break it, including Temple, a man of many secrets.
Warning: this book does end with a cliffhanger, but book two is coming soon!
Eira is a reluctant witch who has been handed down the family curse and given the task to finally break it without falling in love before doing so.
She meets many charming villagers while researching her family curse and how to break it, including Temple, a man of many secrets.
Warning: this book does end with a cliffhanger, but book two is coming soon!
September 4, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
📚Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares
📚Book 1 in a Duet
📚Releases September 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️
Huge thank you to Ellery for providing me with an advanced copy of Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares! As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
Ok I absolutely adored this book! Magical whimsy and mystery with a hint of suspense and romance. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The ending has me very confused and so excited for book two, I cannot wait 😍
📚Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares
📚Book 1 in a Duet
📚Releases September 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️
Huge thank you to Ellery for providing me with an advanced copy of Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares! As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
Ok I absolutely adored this book! Magical whimsy and mystery with a hint of suspense and romance. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The ending has me very confused and so excited for book two, I cannot wait 😍
September 8, 2025
Thank you so much to Ellery Larkspur for providing an eARC of this wonderfully enchanting story!
Something I struggle with in a lot of cosy fantasy stories is feeling as though the stakes seem to be so low that they serve no purpose; in Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares it is different. The stakes manage to elicit stress and interest, whilst maintaining cosiness and warmth.
I highly recommend checking this book out!!
Something I struggle with in a lot of cosy fantasy stories is feeling as though the stakes seem to be so low that they serve no purpose; in Hearts, Hares and Hidden Snares it is different. The stakes manage to elicit stress and interest, whilst maintaining cosiness and warmth.
I highly recommend checking this book out!!
September 10, 2025
Thanks for the ARC of this book.
Welcome to a cursed StarsHollow. Small town with a bunch of quirky townies, a grumpy bookseller and a main character who keeps sticking her nose where everyone tells her not to. It was a quick read, and I finished it in an afternoon. This is a cosy mystery where romance takes a back seat. It ends on a cliffhanger, so hopefully, all things will be resolved in the second book.
Welcome to a cursed StarsHollow. Small town with a bunch of quirky townies, a grumpy bookseller and a main character who keeps sticking her nose where everyone tells her not to. It was a quick read, and I finished it in an afternoon. This is a cosy mystery where romance takes a back seat. It ends on a cliffhanger, so hopefully, all things will be resolved in the second book.
September 12, 2025
🩷 Blurb -
A witch who can’t break her word. A grumpy bookseller she shouldn’t fall for. A village where magic sleeps in the woods… until she wakes it.
Eira Merrick has never broken her word. Not because she’s a particularly good person, but because she can’t. A generations-old curse binds every Merrick witch to their promises, and Eira knows better than to speak lightly. Yet when her dying aunt demands two final oaths, she cannot refuse them. She promises to find a way to end the curse, and she promises to not fall in love until it’s gone.
Her search leads her to Harehollow, a postcard-perfect village hiding prickly neighbours, endless secrets, and one exceedingly difficult bookshop owner named Temple. When she accidentally awakens a dark enchantment slumbering in the woods, Temple saves her, and in doing so, he reveals there is more to Harehollow—and to him—than she ever imagined.
Temple may be the key to breaking her curse. He might also be the reason she breaks her promise.
And for a Merrick witch, breaking a promise isn’t just forbidden. It’s fatal.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a cozy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain, with witches, fae, magical villages and a dash of spice. It is the first of a duet, with an HEA in book two.
💜 Review -
This was such a cute and cosy read. I was hooked from the very first page and kept reading until the end. I read it in two days. There was enough content and adventure to keep me interested and sometimes I forgot that I was reading because the author's writing was so good. I loved the place settings in the book and the great mix of characters. I can't recommend the book enough and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💖 Release date -9th September.
💝 Thank you to the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A witch who can’t break her word. A grumpy bookseller she shouldn’t fall for. A village where magic sleeps in the woods… until she wakes it.
Eira Merrick has never broken her word. Not because she’s a particularly good person, but because she can’t. A generations-old curse binds every Merrick witch to their promises, and Eira knows better than to speak lightly. Yet when her dying aunt demands two final oaths, she cannot refuse them. She promises to find a way to end the curse, and she promises to not fall in love until it’s gone.
Her search leads her to Harehollow, a postcard-perfect village hiding prickly neighbours, endless secrets, and one exceedingly difficult bookshop owner named Temple. When she accidentally awakens a dark enchantment slumbering in the woods, Temple saves her, and in doing so, he reveals there is more to Harehollow—and to him—than she ever imagined.
Temple may be the key to breaking her curse. He might also be the reason she breaks her promise.
And for a Merrick witch, breaking a promise isn’t just forbidden. It’s fatal.
Hearts, Hares & Hidden Snares is a cozy fantasy romance set in a magical, fictional Britain, with witches, fae, magical villages and a dash of spice. It is the first of a duet, with an HEA in book two.
💜 Review -
This was such a cute and cosy read. I was hooked from the very first page and kept reading until the end. I read it in two days. There was enough content and adventure to keep me interested and sometimes I forgot that I was reading because the author's writing was so good. I loved the place settings in the book and the great mix of characters. I can't recommend the book enough and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💖 Release date -9th September.
💝 Thank you to the author for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2025
Welp… I’m obsessed!! I couldn’t put down this cozy read! The combination of fantasy and mystery with a touch of spooky were perfect. I love the concept of a curse to always keep your promises. It really made me think about the little promises we make and break so easily without thinking about them. The characters were all well revealed and developed. I need more Harehollow asap! 💕
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