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13 Wishes
Being merry and bright when you’re a tarot reading witch from Salem is not all the nutcrackers crack it up to be, or so Gemma thought. She’s in over her head when she ends up stranded in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a town where every day is Christmas. The holiday cheer and eggnog are overflowing and endless. Not to mention the people she meets there are sickly sweet, like living, breathing gumdrops and sugar plums. Especially Sebastian.
The handsome, chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who helps her when she’s stranded at the side of the road and immediately makes her feel warm and welcome. She didn’t plan on hooking up with him. For the love of reindeer and mistletoe, she was on her way to her ex-boyfriend who proposed to her. She turned him down, but she believes maybe she made a mistake.
And now, Gemma realizes she is fa-la-la-la forked, because as falling snow, sleigh bells, and the magical hum of Christmas carols whisper around her and Sebastian, she begins to fall hard for the small-town boy with a heart of gold and a spirit of joy that could rival Santa himself.
Before Gemma’s grams died, she made her promise she’d keep the magic alive. She would continue their 13 Wishes ritual, and find the people and place that make her magic sing.
But Frankenmuth, Michigan surely can’t be where all her wishes come true, can it?
The handsome, chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who helps her when she’s stranded at the side of the road and immediately makes her feel warm and welcome. She didn’t plan on hooking up with him. For the love of reindeer and mistletoe, she was on her way to her ex-boyfriend who proposed to her. She turned him down, but she believes maybe she made a mistake.
And now, Gemma realizes she is fa-la-la-la forked, because as falling snow, sleigh bells, and the magical hum of Christmas carols whisper around her and Sebastian, she begins to fall hard for the small-town boy with a heart of gold and a spirit of joy that could rival Santa himself.
Before Gemma’s grams died, she made her promise she’d keep the magic alive. She would continue their 13 Wishes ritual, and find the people and place that make her magic sing.
But Frankenmuth, Michigan surely can’t be where all her wishes come true, can it?
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About the author
S.R. Hartley
3 books95 followersS.R. Hartley writes dreamy contemporary romance and haunting dark romantasy full of emotion and spice. She lives in a small town in Ohio and works night shift as a registered nurse, using her stories as an escape. She enjoys writing about light vs. darkness to find ways to bring mental health issues to light, and to help readers relate to her words or heal old wounds. Her characters are real, flawed, and a bit damaged, because nothing makes her happier than seeing a lost soul finally get their happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 2, 2025
This book was so cute! Such a great little holiday read. Gives you all the cozy vibes. Great town setting and adorable storyline. I loved the witchy vibes mixed with Christmas, it just made it feel that much more magical! And the spice was definitely spicinggggg, truck scene!🔥🥵 the characters were relatable as well as the emotions with loss and grief. I’m excited to see what else this author will come out with! ❤️
December 4, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
I was so delighted to be able to read S.R. Hartley’s debut novel. We thrown into a magical Christmasy land of Frankenmuth, Michigan, as our leading lady Gemma is caught with car trouble in a snow storm, and our leading gent Sebastian swoops in to save the day. We get a sprig of delicious insta-love with our couple, who fall under the spell of the snowy and beautiful town and quickly become obsessed with each other. I’m always ready for a romance to get down to BUSINESS, and this book was spicy and fun. Gemma truly goes through it over the course of the story, between following her heart or her head, while still reeling from her grandmother’s passing. I definitely felt for her and the pull of her priorities. Sebastian was our typical golden retriever MMC, which is someone I’m always going to fall for. The plot was cute and the setting was one I would love to visit myself! I really liked the witchy bits and bobs, combining two of my favorite holidays!
There were some developments I think the author could have ironed out a little bit, in the character development, dialogue and overall flow. There were some points where the dialogue swung back and forth a bit erratically. Overall, this was a cute and fun read.
What I Loved About This Story:
✨So much holiday magic
✨Always a fan of insta-love
✨Down-bad and adorable MMC
✨Positively delicious spicy spice!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via the author but my review is all my own.
2/5🌶️
I was so delighted to be able to read S.R. Hartley’s debut novel. We thrown into a magical Christmasy land of Frankenmuth, Michigan, as our leading lady Gemma is caught with car trouble in a snow storm, and our leading gent Sebastian swoops in to save the day. We get a sprig of delicious insta-love with our couple, who fall under the spell of the snowy and beautiful town and quickly become obsessed with each other. I’m always ready for a romance to get down to BUSINESS, and this book was spicy and fun. Gemma truly goes through it over the course of the story, between following her heart or her head, while still reeling from her grandmother’s passing. I definitely felt for her and the pull of her priorities. Sebastian was our typical golden retriever MMC, which is someone I’m always going to fall for. The plot was cute and the setting was one I would love to visit myself! I really liked the witchy bits and bobs, combining two of my favorite holidays!
There were some developments I think the author could have ironed out a little bit, in the character development, dialogue and overall flow. There were some points where the dialogue swung back and forth a bit erratically. Overall, this was a cute and fun read.
What I Loved About This Story:
✨So much holiday magic
✨Always a fan of insta-love
✨Down-bad and adorable MMC
✨Positively delicious spicy spice!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via the author but my review is all my own.
Read
December 8, 2025DNF at 70%. A really cool concept and plenty of green flag moments, but the inconsistencies in the writing made it hard to follow, and I got to the point where I wasn’t enjoying myself. 😕
November 29, 2025
13 Wishes
By: S.R. Hartley
5⭐️
Thank you S.R. Hartley for the opportunity to read your book early!! I absolutely loved it.
Such a cute Christmas🎄🎅🏻 story with some witchy/ trust the universe vibes! (Next hallmark movie, yes please!!) Gemma and Sebastian are couples goals for sure.
Sebastian 🧔🏻♂️- He never faltered once in how he felt about Gemma, always stayed true to himself and was so patient with her! (Plus the 🌶️spice🌶️ was great, not so much that it took over the story, but just enough that you could feel the love and possessiveness he has for her)
Gemma 🧙🏻♀️- she has had so much happen in such a short time (don’t wanna spoil them) which gave her a lot to think through and she was confused between what her 💖heart wanted (the magic 🧞♀️🪄) and what her 🧠brain was telling her (to be logical and think every decision through)
Over all a really great read (took me about 5 hours) and a great holiday story! (Also a good quick read if you are between books or waiting for your next tbr from the library)
By: S.R. Hartley
5⭐️
Thank you S.R. Hartley for the opportunity to read your book early!! I absolutely loved it.
Such a cute Christmas🎄🎅🏻 story with some witchy/ trust the universe vibes! (Next hallmark movie, yes please!!) Gemma and Sebastian are couples goals for sure.
Sebastian 🧔🏻♂️- He never faltered once in how he felt about Gemma, always stayed true to himself and was so patient with her! (Plus the 🌶️spice🌶️ was great, not so much that it took over the story, but just enough that you could feel the love and possessiveness he has for her)
Gemma 🧙🏻♀️- she has had so much happen in such a short time (don’t wanna spoil them) which gave her a lot to think through and she was confused between what her 💖heart wanted (the magic 🧞♀️🪄) and what her 🧠brain was telling her (to be logical and think every decision through)
Over all a really great read (took me about 5 hours) and a great holiday story! (Also a good quick read if you are between books or waiting for your next tbr from the library)
December 20, 2025
13 Wishes by S.R. Hartley is the book I didn’t know I desperately needed for that perfect moment between pumpkin-spice autumn and twinkling-light winter. It threads the needle between fall witchiness and full-blown Christmas magic so effortlessly that I found myself wanting to reread it with a mug of cider in one hand and hot cocoa in the other.
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem with more baggage than her broomstick can carry, crash-lands, literally and emotionally, in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a town that takes Christmas so seriously it might as well be a year-round snow globe. The atmosphere is so vivid you can practically smell the gingerbread and hear the sleigh bells echoing off the page. Every side character feels like they wandered straight out of a holiday cookie tin: sweet, warm, and impossible to resist. And then there’s Sebastian.
Ah, Sebastian. The chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who shows up like a walking Hallmark fantasy, except better, because his charm feels genuinely heart-melting and not the slightest bit manufactured. Watching Gemma tumble into an unexpected, slow-burn, snow-dusted romance with him while she’s wrestling with the ghost of an old proposal is the kind of emotional indulgence that makes this book feel like a warm blanket.
But what gives 13 Wishes its real sparkle is the layer of family magic woven through Gemma’s story. Her promise to her grams, the 13 Wishes ritual, and the quest to find the place where her magic truly sings adds depth and tenderness beneath all the yuletide cheer. The question isn’t just whether she’ll fall for Sebastian, but whether Frankenmuth is the place she’s been searching for all along.
This book is charming, atmospheric, romantic, and just the right amount of witchy. If you’re looking for a story that bridges autumn’s mystery with winter’s wonder, something to ease you from falling leaves into falling snow, 13 Wishes is pure seasonal perfection. I adored every page.
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem with more baggage than her broomstick can carry, crash-lands, literally and emotionally, in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a town that takes Christmas so seriously it might as well be a year-round snow globe. The atmosphere is so vivid you can practically smell the gingerbread and hear the sleigh bells echoing off the page. Every side character feels like they wandered straight out of a holiday cookie tin: sweet, warm, and impossible to resist. And then there’s Sebastian.
Ah, Sebastian. The chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who shows up like a walking Hallmark fantasy, except better, because his charm feels genuinely heart-melting and not the slightest bit manufactured. Watching Gemma tumble into an unexpected, slow-burn, snow-dusted romance with him while she’s wrestling with the ghost of an old proposal is the kind of emotional indulgence that makes this book feel like a warm blanket.
But what gives 13 Wishes its real sparkle is the layer of family magic woven through Gemma’s story. Her promise to her grams, the 13 Wishes ritual, and the quest to find the place where her magic truly sings adds depth and tenderness beneath all the yuletide cheer. The question isn’t just whether she’ll fall for Sebastian, but whether Frankenmuth is the place she’s been searching for all along.
This book is charming, atmospheric, romantic, and just the right amount of witchy. If you’re looking for a story that bridges autumn’s mystery with winter’s wonder, something to ease you from falling leaves into falling snow, 13 Wishes is pure seasonal perfection. I adored every page.
January 6, 2026
Perfect Witchy Hallmark Christmas Feeling
This was so cute! I had such a fun time while reading this! Gemma was so relatable with her fears and hesitations, and Sebastian was just the most perfect MMC. He never lost his patience with Gemma, had faith in their feelings for one another, and I absolutely loved how he never judged her beliefs and practices. This also had a big emotional punch. Gemma’s vulnerabilities were so real, I think we all have those hesitations, especially when you fall in love with, “The One” It’s scary! So seeing that and seeing how real that was played out in the story, had me tearing up a few times because my heart just hurt for them both. But the HEA is so worth it and so hard won! Also, I’ve never heard of a Christmas Light Maze and it is now on my bucket list to go to one!
This was so cute! I had such a fun time while reading this! Gemma was so relatable with her fears and hesitations, and Sebastian was just the most perfect MMC. He never lost his patience with Gemma, had faith in their feelings for one another, and I absolutely loved how he never judged her beliefs and practices. This also had a big emotional punch. Gemma’s vulnerabilities were so real, I think we all have those hesitations, especially when you fall in love with, “The One” It’s scary! So seeing that and seeing how real that was played out in the story, had me tearing up a few times because my heart just hurt for them both. But the HEA is so worth it and so hard won! Also, I’ve never heard of a Christmas Light Maze and it is now on my bucket list to go to one!
January 1, 2026
Tropes:
🎄 Golden Retriever MMC
🎄 Witchy FMC
🎄 Dual POV
🎄 Found Family
🎄 Small Town Romance
🎄 He Falls First & Hard
🎄 Happily Ever After
I Loved:
🌟 Debut Author & Book
🌟 Modern Day Witch
🌟 Short, Sweet & Spicy
🌟 Sledding Scene
🌟 Grinchy x Cheery
Favorite Quote:
“His eyes sparkle as if I’m the prettiest ornament he has ever seen.”
Summary:
Gemma is traveling to see her ex-boyfriend, Keith, when her car breaks down on the side of the road. He recently proposed to her, but she was reluctant to leave her sick grandma in Salem. After her grandma dies, Gemma seeks comfort in the past and wants to reconcile. As she waits soaked in mud, a Good Samaritan (who is the town mechanic, owns a Christmas tree farm, wears ugly sweaters and is just an all-around good guy) picks her up.
From there, she teaches him her witchy ways - tarot cards, simmer pots, 13 wishes… and he shows her a traditional Christmas, complete with sexy sledding and some Christmas light bondage. They are the true definition of being a Grinchy x Cheery pair - but in the end, where will the magic lead her?
🎄 Golden Retriever MMC
🎄 Witchy FMC
🎄 Dual POV
🎄 Found Family
🎄 Small Town Romance
🎄 He Falls First & Hard
🎄 Happily Ever After
I Loved:
🌟 Debut Author & Book
🌟 Modern Day Witch
🌟 Short, Sweet & Spicy
🌟 Sledding Scene
🌟 Grinchy x Cheery
Favorite Quote:
“His eyes sparkle as if I’m the prettiest ornament he has ever seen.”
Summary:
Gemma is traveling to see her ex-boyfriend, Keith, when her car breaks down on the side of the road. He recently proposed to her, but she was reluctant to leave her sick grandma in Salem. After her grandma dies, Gemma seeks comfort in the past and wants to reconcile. As she waits soaked in mud, a Good Samaritan (who is the town mechanic, owns a Christmas tree farm, wears ugly sweaters and is just an all-around good guy) picks her up.
From there, she teaches him her witchy ways - tarot cards, simmer pots, 13 wishes… and he shows her a traditional Christmas, complete with sexy sledding and some Christmas light bondage. They are the true definition of being a Grinchy x Cheery pair - but in the end, where will the magic lead her?
December 6, 2025
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Unfortunately, 13 Wishes didn’t resonate with me. I struggled to connect with Gemma, her character, motivations, and decisions. Never in a million years would you catch me picking up and moving to follow an ex-boyfriend who proposed to me and then left (alright, yes, she said no to his proposal, but that also says something there). I didn’t connect with Gemma’s character and didn’t like the pacing of her relationship with Sebastian. She’s chasing after her ex, but she winds up sleeping with a guy she just met en route to see said ex?
Aside from the scenic feeling small town, which was a place I’d love to visit, and Gemma’s friendship with Jess, there wasn’t a lot that interested me about this book. It felt very lukewarm. I didn’t hate it, but I also didn’t love anything about it. There were aspects that annoyed me, and other scenes or themes that left me feeling nothing.
Sebastian was clearly the sunshiney golden retriever type, which should have complimented Gemma well. I just didn’t feel enough depth or emotion from either one of them to really believe in their relationship.
December 6, 2025
''Why do I suddenly feel like finding you on the side of the road might have been a Christmas gift placed there just for me?"
Are your looking for the perfect sweet and spicy holiday book thats is both bingeable and has a blonde MMC that youll love ?!
Well...look no further.
*cheers with eggnog
This is a quick, cozy, and perfect book to get anyone in the holiday spirit.
You'll find:
Small town romance
Hallmark movie vibes
Lot's of holiday magic
Fated mates
Grumpy X Sunshine
Instant love
Spicy Christmas decorating
Lots of heart
Warning : This may very well put you in the holiday mood! It may also produce severe cravings for eggnog.
Are your looking for the perfect sweet and spicy holiday book thats is both bingeable and has a blonde MMC that youll love ?!
Well...look no further.
*cheers with eggnog
This is a quick, cozy, and perfect book to get anyone in the holiday spirit.
You'll find:
Small town romance
Hallmark movie vibes
Lot's of holiday magic
Fated mates
Grumpy X Sunshine
Instant love
Spicy Christmas decorating
Lots of heart
Warning : This may very well put you in the holiday mood! It may also produce severe cravings for eggnog.
December 14, 2025
this was such a cute quick read. i loved the holiday vibes combined with witchy elements, it was so fun! i really felt for gemma and how she was just trying to find herself after the loss of her grandma. my heart really went out to her. but at the same time i also wanted to shake her and tell her to wake up because her dream man and dream place to live was right in front of her.
sebastian was so amazing and i love how he fell head over heels for gemma right away and just wanted her to stay. he was even risking getting his heart broken again just for her. he was seriously the best and i also loved his sister and how supportive and welcoming she was to gemma.
i also loved the atmosphere of this book. it was a perfect read for this time of year! i can’t wait to read whatever s.r hartley writes next!!
sebastian was so amazing and i love how he fell head over heels for gemma right away and just wanted her to stay. he was even risking getting his heart broken again just for her. he was seriously the best and i also loved his sister and how supportive and welcoming she was to gemma.
i also loved the atmosphere of this book. it was a perfect read for this time of year! i can’t wait to read whatever s.r hartley writes next!!
December 10, 2025
If you need an easy, sucks you in, short holiday read this one does not disappoint! It's giving hallmark after dark vibes.
Sebastian is a cinnamon roll MMC but has a dominant side that comes out to play in some very fun and delicious ways. I loved his character and his story. Also his property sounds like dream goals.
Gemma is a witchy girl of German heritage who is dealing with her life being in shambles and trying to find her way. When her heart and her mind are torn in different directions she faces struggles choosing what path to take. The found family aspect here is adorable and heart warming.
Any holiday loving reader will find something to love here!
Sebastian is a cinnamon roll MMC but has a dominant side that comes out to play in some very fun and delicious ways. I loved his character and his story. Also his property sounds like dream goals.
Gemma is a witchy girl of German heritage who is dealing with her life being in shambles and trying to find her way. When her heart and her mind are torn in different directions she faces struggles choosing what path to take. The found family aspect here is adorable and heart warming.
Any holiday loving reader will find something to love here!
December 4, 2025
Did I binge-read this so I could add another read book to my November Wrapped? Yes, yes I did, but it was so worth it! A million thank yous to S.R. Hartley for allowing me to ARC read 13 Wishes! I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it's a 5 out of 5 star read! 13 Wishes was a cute, silly, book full of fun, witty banter and spice that is to die for! From chapter 1, I was hooked!
While reading, it was impossible not to fall in love with every character. From our MCs, Gemma and Sebastian, to even the side characters! I mean, we have a badass witch from Salem and the man who is the literal embodiment of Christmas from what is essentially Christmas town. What's not to love about that? They both fell hard and fast, even if there was a bit of denial at first, and I was fully rooting for them! 13 Wishes is also Dual POV which we all know is my favorite! I genuinely had so much fun with this read, and I highly recommend it! It was a fantastic read to kick off the holiday season with!
While reading, it was impossible not to fall in love with every character. From our MCs, Gemma and Sebastian, to even the side characters! I mean, we have a badass witch from Salem and the man who is the literal embodiment of Christmas from what is essentially Christmas town. What's not to love about that? They both fell hard and fast, even if there was a bit of denial at first, and I was fully rooting for them! 13 Wishes is also Dual POV which we all know is my favorite! I genuinely had so much fun with this read, and I highly recommend it! It was a fantastic read to kick off the holiday season with!
December 16, 2025
Oh my goodness, I loved this quick, sweet, and spicy little romance. It was exactly what I needed for this time of year and delivered all the cozy holiday magic I was craving.
🖤 Witchy / magical vibes
🎄 Small Christmas town
🔥 Insta-love, insta-spice
I’m not usually a huge fan of insta-love, but give me a soulmate, destined-to-be-together kind of romance and I’m all in. Add in a touch of magic and an unexpected Christmas love story, and it honestly doesn’t get better than this.
Perfect if you’re looking for a fast, festive read with heart, heat, and a little holiday sparkle. ✨📚
If you need me this Christmas, I’ll be dancing in my robe in the moonlight 🌓
🖤 Witchy / magical vibes
🎄 Small Christmas town
🔥 Insta-love, insta-spice
I’m not usually a huge fan of insta-love, but give me a soulmate, destined-to-be-together kind of romance and I’m all in. Add in a touch of magic and an unexpected Christmas love story, and it honestly doesn’t get better than this.
Perfect if you’re looking for a fast, festive read with heart, heat, and a little holiday sparkle. ✨📚
If you need me this Christmas, I’ll be dancing in my robe in the moonlight 🌓
December 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
“𝑾𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆, 𝑮𝒆𝒎𝒎𝒂, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒎 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔.”
I had such a fun time reading this one, I loved the chemistry + banter between Gemma and Sebastian.
𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 ⁀➴
🤍 Small town
💫 Christmas romance
🤍 Insta love
💫 He falls first
I would have rated this one higher, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the insta-love, and at times I felt so bad for Sebastian. He’s such a golden retriever MMC, yearning for her so hard 🥹
I did really adore the ending!
Definitely worth picking up for a quick, holiday romance 💝
𝐹𝒶𝓋 𝒬𝓊𝑜𝓉𝑒𝓈 ⁀➴
ﾟ✧ “𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐 𝑰 𝒔𝒖𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆?”
ﾟ✧ “𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔… 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒍. 𝑶𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
ﾟ✧ “𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑰’𝒎 𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
“𝑾𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆, 𝑮𝒆𝒎𝒎𝒂, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒎 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔.”
I had such a fun time reading this one, I loved the chemistry + banter between Gemma and Sebastian.
𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 ⁀➴
🤍 Small town
💫 Christmas romance
🤍 Insta love
💫 He falls first
I would have rated this one higher, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the insta-love, and at times I felt so bad for Sebastian. He’s such a golden retriever MMC, yearning for her so hard 🥹
I did really adore the ending!
Definitely worth picking up for a quick, holiday romance 💝
𝐹𝒶𝓋 𝒬𝓊𝑜𝓉𝑒𝓈 ⁀➴
ﾟ✧ “𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐 𝑰 𝒔𝒖𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆?”
ﾟ✧ “𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔… 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒍. 𝑶𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
ﾟ✧ “𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑰’𝒎 𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
January 1, 2026
I was lucky to get this as an ARC but I am a little late reading it. I absolutely loved it though! I am really enjoying cosy romances much more than I used to.
I loved the setting of this one and the witchy vibes. It was super cute and cosy!
I liked all the characters although found myself getting a little bit stressed with Gemma at times.
I found that it took me away into this magical place where dreams come true and I was a pile of mush in places.
I thought it was well written and easy to read with lots of lovely descriptions. If you are looking for something cosy, christmassy and light hearted I highly recommend it. I think it will be one that stays in my head for a while!
I loved the setting of this one and the witchy vibes. It was super cute and cosy!
I liked all the characters although found myself getting a little bit stressed with Gemma at times.
I found that it took me away into this magical place where dreams come true and I was a pile of mush in places.
I thought it was well written and easy to read with lots of lovely descriptions. If you are looking for something cosy, christmassy and light hearted I highly recommend it. I think it will be one that stays in my head for a while!
November 29, 2025
currently reading? more like devoured in a few hours! i just finished 13 wishes by @s.r.hartley.author and let me tell you, i could not put this book down.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
gemma is leaving salem in search of her magic, certain she’ll find it in seattle… until her car breaks down in frankenmuth, a perpetually christmasy town in michigan. what she discovers there changes everything. changes her.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
gemma is leaving salem in search of her magic, certain she’ll find it in seattle… until her car breaks down in frankenmuth, a perpetually christmasy town in michigan. what she discovers there changes everything. changes her.
December 14, 2025
This is a great christmas holiday read.
It follows Gemma a witchy wonder who sets off to try and rekindle her relationship with a guy that never truly deserved her. On her way, she breaks down and is rescued by Sebastian. While stuck waiting for her car to be fixed over the busy Christmas holiday, she starts to discover all the things that have been missing in her life since her grandma passed. She is faced with the dilemma of playing life safe and sticking to what she knows or taking a risk for true happiness.
The pace is great, the plot is easy to follow, and the spice is 🔥 Would recommend if you like forced proximity, found family, high angst, witchy vibes, and emotionally available men.
***Thank you to S.R.Hartley for the ARC. The above review is my honest opinion and has not been influenced in any way.
It follows Gemma a witchy wonder who sets off to try and rekindle her relationship with a guy that never truly deserved her. On her way, she breaks down and is rescued by Sebastian. While stuck waiting for her car to be fixed over the busy Christmas holiday, she starts to discover all the things that have been missing in her life since her grandma passed. She is faced with the dilemma of playing life safe and sticking to what she knows or taking a risk for true happiness.
The pace is great, the plot is easy to follow, and the spice is 🔥 Would recommend if you like forced proximity, found family, high angst, witchy vibes, and emotionally available men.
***Thank you to S.R.Hartley for the ARC. The above review is my honest opinion and has not been influenced in any way.
December 1, 2025
The absolute perfect holiday read , add this to your holiday tbr asap!! I loved every second of this book and loved the entwining of witchy/pagan customs with the christmas I know and love. This book gave me total everything happens for a reason vibes from chapter one on and that is a saying I truly live by so I loved seeing it in this book.
Just remember everything does always happen for a reason and always make wishes and manifest.
Just remember everything does always happen for a reason and always make wishes and manifest.
December 2, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and I am so glad I did! The story that unfolded was emotional, beautiful, and spiiiiiiicy. I fell in love with Sebastian and Gemma, and I know you will too!!
December 17, 2025
I thought this was super cute and spicy! 🤭
Definitely a Christmas vibe! Check it out!
Definitely a Christmas vibe! Check it out!
December 11, 2025
2.5⭐️
🌶️
Thank you for gifting me this copy to read early.
I feel like I couldn’t really get into the story and stay in it. Gemma spent way too much of the book harping on about her ex which just annoyed me and made me struggle to keep reading and watch her treat Sebastian poorly.
The story starts because her now deceased grandma told her to “find her own magic” yet Gemma constantly describes Sebastian, the town and specific moments as magical but still strongly believes she needs to travel to a man who seems to show her no interest and doesn’t like her as a person? That to me didn’t really make sense. There were also a few inconsistencies in scenes with clothing and Gemma definitely has a uti and a rash from bodily fluids left to dry on her stomach 🤨🤭
I liked the overall story of two strangers meeting and feeling like they connected and them getting to know each other and her helping look after him
🌶️
Thank you for gifting me this copy to read early.
I feel like I couldn’t really get into the story and stay in it. Gemma spent way too much of the book harping on about her ex which just annoyed me and made me struggle to keep reading and watch her treat Sebastian poorly.
The story starts because her now deceased grandma told her to “find her own magic” yet Gemma constantly describes Sebastian, the town and specific moments as magical but still strongly believes she needs to travel to a man who seems to show her no interest and doesn’t like her as a person? That to me didn’t really make sense. There were also a few inconsistencies in scenes with clothing and Gemma definitely has a uti and a rash from bodily fluids left to dry on her stomach 🤨🤭
I liked the overall story of two strangers meeting and feeling like they connected and them getting to know each other and her helping look after him
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 3 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level
I didn't enjoy this as much as I wanted to. The FMC is just stringing along the mmc the whole time and the good/fated witchy vibes were barely a blip in this story. She was still so messed up from a previous relationship, so the angst was there and written almost to annoyance. When these two finally get their HEA, it was too quick to forgive after stringing him along and being in such close proximity. This story needed just more than given in the pages.
I do appreciate being able to arc read before release. Thank you author.
For me, this is a no to read, but may be completely for someone else.
🌶 - Spice Level
I didn't enjoy this as much as I wanted to. The FMC is just stringing along the mmc the whole time and the good/fated witchy vibes were barely a blip in this story. She was still so messed up from a previous relationship, so the angst was there and written almost to annoyance. When these two finally get their HEA, it was too quick to forgive after stringing him along and being in such close proximity. This story needed just more than given in the pages.
I do appreciate being able to arc read before release. Thank you author.
For me, this is a no to read, but may be completely for someone else.
January 6, 2026
✪RATING✪
↣🌟🌟🌟🌟✨｜4.5 Stars
✿MY THOUGHTS✿
↣13 Wishes is a debut novel by S.R. Hartley, the book is a cute, cozy and quick read filled with festive christmas and witchy magic.
The book is a perfect mix of everything. In this book, we following our main characters Gemma who is a witch from Salem and Sebastian who is a tree farmer from this small town of Michigan where everyday is Christmas.
This book definitely didn't disappoint!! It was definitely a rollercoaster of every emotion. I cried.. I laughed. I felt every emotion while reading this book.
Our FMC Gemma, she was the most stubborn character i seen yet i still loved her and she still made me laugh alot. I think author have captured her emotions so perfectly!! Then there is our MMC Sebastian, THE WAY THIS MAN LOVED GEMMA!! THE WAY HE WAS SOOOO PATIENT WITH HER! Despite she just couldn't make up her mind which is understandable why. Yeah at times i wanted to just smack her for the things she just can't see xD
I absolutely loved these both. Their relationship, Their banter, It was sooo beautiful.
Also the spice omg!! The use of Christmas decoration mhmmm... If you read the book you know exactly which scenes am speaking of.. Yup!! It was soooo HOOOOT!
Overall the book was written beautifully. I would highly recommend picking 13 Wishes by S.R. Hartley If you love holiday And Christmas vibes, witchy magic, And also SPICY!
And not to Mention, Jess. Omg i love this Woman!! She was the best wingwoman. The relationship Jess and Gemma have the girly best friend type. It was sooooo cute.
And not just that but... I think author did an absolutely fabulous job in developing all the characters and Their emotions in this book especially Sebastian and Gemma.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be apart of the Arc team for this beautiful book!
You'll love this book If you love:
↣small town
↣christmas/holiday vibes
↣witchy magic
↣spicy romcom
↣found family
↣making wishes
↣cinnamonroll mmc
↣witchy fmc
↣bondage & Praise
Spoiler? Possibly?
♥Fav Quotes♥
↣“Your eyes… It’s like I’ve looked into them a thousand times before, like you’re not a stranger at all. Or maybe I’ve just wished for someone exactly like you,”
↣“I wish for Gemma to stay, to fall madly in love with me, and for me to live out the next year of my life being incredibly happy doing whatever it takes for her to keep loving me.”
↣“I think I fell a little too hard the first night I met you, and it scared the shit out of me. And each day since, I haven’t been able to stop myself from falling a little more. You’re everything I always wished for.”
↣🌟🌟🌟🌟✨｜4.5 Stars
✿MY THOUGHTS✿
↣13 Wishes is a debut novel by S.R. Hartley, the book is a cute, cozy and quick read filled with festive christmas and witchy magic.
The book is a perfect mix of everything. In this book, we following our main characters Gemma who is a witch from Salem and Sebastian who is a tree farmer from this small town of Michigan where everyday is Christmas.
This book definitely didn't disappoint!! It was definitely a rollercoaster of every emotion. I cried.. I laughed. I felt every emotion while reading this book.
Our FMC Gemma, she was the most stubborn character i seen yet i still loved her and she still made me laugh alot. I think author have captured her emotions so perfectly!! Then there is our MMC Sebastian, THE WAY THIS MAN LOVED GEMMA!! THE WAY HE WAS SOOOO PATIENT WITH HER! Despite she just couldn't make up her mind which is understandable why. Yeah at times i wanted to just smack her for the things she just can't see xD
I absolutely loved these both. Their relationship, Their banter, It was sooo beautiful.
Also the spice omg!! The use of Christmas decoration mhmmm... If you read the book you know exactly which scenes am speaking of.. Yup!! It was soooo HOOOOT!
Overall the book was written beautifully. I would highly recommend picking 13 Wishes by S.R. Hartley If you love holiday And Christmas vibes, witchy magic, And also SPICY!
And not to Mention, Jess. Omg i love this Woman!! She was the best wingwoman. The relationship Jess and Gemma have the girly best friend type. It was sooooo cute.
And not just that but... I think author did an absolutely fabulous job in developing all the characters and Their emotions in this book especially Sebastian and Gemma.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be apart of the Arc team for this beautiful book!
You'll love this book If you love:
↣small town
↣christmas/holiday vibes
↣witchy magic
↣spicy romcom
↣found family
↣making wishes
↣cinnamonroll mmc
↣witchy fmc
↣bondage & Praise
Spoiler? Possibly?
♥Fav Quotes♥
↣“Your eyes… It’s like I’ve looked into them a thousand times before, like you’re not a stranger at all. Or maybe I’ve just wished for someone exactly like you,”
↣“I wish for Gemma to stay, to fall madly in love with me, and for me to live out the next year of my life being incredibly happy doing whatever it takes for her to keep loving me.”
↣“I think I fell a little too hard the first night I met you, and it scared the shit out of me. And each day since, I haven’t been able to stop myself from falling a little more. You’re everything I always wished for.”
December 6, 2025
Well, isn’t this exactly the kind of story holiday romances are made of?! I picked up 13 Wishes and my smile didn’t leave my face until I reluctantly set it down after the most perfect happily ever after.
This read caught my eye immediately. I’m obsessed with the witchy vibes. Give me crystals, tarot cards, and a little magic and I’m a happy camper. Beneath the fun and romance, it’s a touching story about embracing yourself, following your heart, and discovering where you truly belong. The way this author mixes fate, heart, and a touch of enchantment just hits differently.
Gemma is on a journey to find her own magic. After the passing of her grandmother, she heads from Salem to Seattle, hoping to reconnect with her ex. She’s a little adrift, searching for a place that sparks and feels like home. But Gemma’s journey takes an unexpected turn when her car breaks down outside Frankenmuth. Luckily, before hypothermia sets in, she’s rescued by her knight in shining red pickup, Sebastian. Suddenly, she’s in a perky little Christmas town, stuck with a hot stranger and feeling a chemistry that’s instant, confusing, yet entirely undeniable.
Gemma can’t help but fall for the town and Sebastian’s family. She shares her traditions and celebrates an enchanting Christmas, all while trying to convince herself that her heart still belongs somewhere else. She keeps Sebastian at arm’s length, certain her future is already written. The push and pull forces her to question everything. But slowly, she begins to realize that maybe this is exactly where she’s meant to be. Everything aligns in the sweetest way, giving her a chance at the spark she’s been searching for: her place, her people, her destiny.
And Sebastian. Oh my heart. If golden retriever energy were a person, it would be him. He’s been hurt before, but when he falls for Gemma, he falls completely. He’s the falls first, falls harder, falls hardest kind of hero. A true gentleman with just enough of a naughty side to make him irresistible. He’s emotionally open, respects her feelings even when it hurts, and sees her as his fate, his forever. He balances giving her space with fighting for the love he knows is meant to be.
Even writing this review makes me smile. This book doesn’t just deliver a cute holiday romance. It delivers heart, giving us all the warmth, banter, wonder, and that unforgettable kind of love that feels like it was always written in the stars. An absolute must read for the season.
This read caught my eye immediately. I’m obsessed with the witchy vibes. Give me crystals, tarot cards, and a little magic and I’m a happy camper. Beneath the fun and romance, it’s a touching story about embracing yourself, following your heart, and discovering where you truly belong. The way this author mixes fate, heart, and a touch of enchantment just hits differently.
Gemma is on a journey to find her own magic. After the passing of her grandmother, she heads from Salem to Seattle, hoping to reconnect with her ex. She’s a little adrift, searching for a place that sparks and feels like home. But Gemma’s journey takes an unexpected turn when her car breaks down outside Frankenmuth. Luckily, before hypothermia sets in, she’s rescued by her knight in shining red pickup, Sebastian. Suddenly, she’s in a perky little Christmas town, stuck with a hot stranger and feeling a chemistry that’s instant, confusing, yet entirely undeniable.
Gemma can’t help but fall for the town and Sebastian’s family. She shares her traditions and celebrates an enchanting Christmas, all while trying to convince herself that her heart still belongs somewhere else. She keeps Sebastian at arm’s length, certain her future is already written. The push and pull forces her to question everything. But slowly, she begins to realize that maybe this is exactly where she’s meant to be. Everything aligns in the sweetest way, giving her a chance at the spark she’s been searching for: her place, her people, her destiny.
And Sebastian. Oh my heart. If golden retriever energy were a person, it would be him. He’s been hurt before, but when he falls for Gemma, he falls completely. He’s the falls first, falls harder, falls hardest kind of hero. A true gentleman with just enough of a naughty side to make him irresistible. He’s emotionally open, respects her feelings even when it hurts, and sees her as his fate, his forever. He balances giving her space with fighting for the love he knows is meant to be.
Even writing this review makes me smile. This book doesn’t just deliver a cute holiday romance. It delivers heart, giving us all the warmth, banter, wonder, and that unforgettable kind of love that feels like it was always written in the stars. An absolute must read for the season.
November 30, 2025
✨13 Wishes✨
By S. R. Hartley
Release Date December 6
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 Stars) - It was amazing!!
Warning: This book may cause excessive Christmas cheer and spontaneous holiday shopping! ✨🎄
Tropes for the holiday spirit:
* Small Town Romance
* Cinnamon Roll MMC
* Witchy Magic & Yule Rituals
* Fated Love
* Forced Proximity
* Grinchy X Cheery
* Found Family
I absolutely devoured 13 Wishes and my heart is officially several sizes bigger. S. R. Hartley has crafted the perfect spicy, witchy rom-com that is an absolute must-read for the holiday season. The book balances a cozy, sweet vibe with some serious spice under the mistletoe, creating a truly delightful reading experience.
The Premise:
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem, finds herself unexpectedly stranded in Frankenmuth, Michigan—a town where every single day is Christmas. Overflowing with eggnog and people who are "sickly sweet," it's her own personal holiday paradise nightmare. To make matters worse, she's on her way to her ex-boyfriend, second-guessing her decision to turn down his proposal.
Enter Sebastian, the handsome, chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who helps her on the side of the road. He’s a total cinnamon roll who is determined to make Gemma believe in wishes (and maybe love) again. As the holiday magic takes hold, Gemma has to decide if this festive, small-town boy is where all her wishes were meant to come true.
My Thoughts:
The character dynamics here are everything. The Grinchy Gemma vs. Cheery Sebastian trope is executed perfectly, offering both deep character development and lighthearted fun. I loved the blend of witchy magic and the genuine Christmas spirit; it never felt cheesy, just purely magical. The forced proximity plot device worked wonders, making the fated love energy palpable from their first meeting.
And for those who like it spicy—Hartley delivers! The chemistry between Gemma and Sebastian is off the charts.
Final Verdict:
If you need a perfect festive read that’s both deep and delightfully spicy, this is it. Add it to your Christmas list immediately! 🎁
10/10 Would recommend to family and friends
By S. R. Hartley
Release Date December 6
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 Stars) - It was amazing!!
Warning: This book may cause excessive Christmas cheer and spontaneous holiday shopping! ✨🎄
Tropes for the holiday spirit:
* Small Town Romance
* Cinnamon Roll MMC
* Witchy Magic & Yule Rituals
* Fated Love
* Forced Proximity
* Grinchy X Cheery
* Found Family
I absolutely devoured 13 Wishes and my heart is officially several sizes bigger. S. R. Hartley has crafted the perfect spicy, witchy rom-com that is an absolute must-read for the holiday season. The book balances a cozy, sweet vibe with some serious spice under the mistletoe, creating a truly delightful reading experience.
The Premise:
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem, finds herself unexpectedly stranded in Frankenmuth, Michigan—a town where every single day is Christmas. Overflowing with eggnog and people who are "sickly sweet," it's her own personal holiday paradise nightmare. To make matters worse, she's on her way to her ex-boyfriend, second-guessing her decision to turn down his proposal.
Enter Sebastian, the handsome, chivalrous Christmas tree farmer who helps her on the side of the road. He’s a total cinnamon roll who is determined to make Gemma believe in wishes (and maybe love) again. As the holiday magic takes hold, Gemma has to decide if this festive, small-town boy is where all her wishes were meant to come true.
My Thoughts:
The character dynamics here are everything. The Grinchy Gemma vs. Cheery Sebastian trope is executed perfectly, offering both deep character development and lighthearted fun. I loved the blend of witchy magic and the genuine Christmas spirit; it never felt cheesy, just purely magical. The forced proximity plot device worked wonders, making the fated love energy palpable from their first meeting.
And for those who like it spicy—Hartley delivers! The chemistry between Gemma and Sebastian is off the charts.
Final Verdict:
If you need a perfect festive read that’s both deep and delightfully spicy, this is it. Add it to your Christmas list immediately! 🎁
10/10 Would recommend to family and friends
December 3, 2025
Rating 4.75 ⭐️
This book is pure holiday magic with a witchy twist, and I devoured every single page.
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem, wasn’t exactly feeling “merry and bright” when she got stranded in Frankenmuth—a town so aggressively festive it practically jingles. But the moment Sebastian, the chivalrous Christmas tree farmer with a smile that could thaw a blizzard, pulls over to help, you just know Gemma’s in trouble… the best kind.
She’s supposed to be sorting out her complicated ex and the proposal she already said no to, but instead she finds herself wrapped up in a flannel-wearing, sweet-as-cinnamon-rolls small-town hero who knows his way around a tree farm and a bedroom. Or… a truck. The spice? Absolutely spicing.
What really makes this story shine are the layers of cozy witchy magic woven into the romance. The 13 Wishes tradition from Gemma’s grams adds depth and heart, grounding the holiday cheer in themes of grief, healing, and finding the place where your magic truly sings. Watching Gemma honor her promise—and slowly realize that Frankenmuth might actually be where her heart’s been leading her all along—was so satisfying.
The town itself feels like stepping inside a glittering snow globe: charming events, twinkly lights, and traditions that make you want to pack your bags and move in. The characters are wonderfully relatable, especially the side ones from a hilarious sister turned bestie, to a witchy shop owner.
And Gemma finally choosing herself—and choosing Sebastian? My whole heart melted. She deserved every drop of happiness this story gave her.
A unique, witchy, wildly festive holiday romance that sparkles with charm, swoony moments, and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for anyone who wants their Christmas reads with a dash of magic, quite a few laughs, and a whole lot of heart.
Thank you so much to S.R Hartley for having me on your team! This book was everything I hoped it would be and more!
This book is pure holiday magic with a witchy twist, and I devoured every single page.
Gemma, a tarot-reading witch from Salem, wasn’t exactly feeling “merry and bright” when she got stranded in Frankenmuth—a town so aggressively festive it practically jingles. But the moment Sebastian, the chivalrous Christmas tree farmer with a smile that could thaw a blizzard, pulls over to help, you just know Gemma’s in trouble… the best kind.
She’s supposed to be sorting out her complicated ex and the proposal she already said no to, but instead she finds herself wrapped up in a flannel-wearing, sweet-as-cinnamon-rolls small-town hero who knows his way around a tree farm and a bedroom. Or… a truck. The spice? Absolutely spicing.
What really makes this story shine are the layers of cozy witchy magic woven into the romance. The 13 Wishes tradition from Gemma’s grams adds depth and heart, grounding the holiday cheer in themes of grief, healing, and finding the place where your magic truly sings. Watching Gemma honor her promise—and slowly realize that Frankenmuth might actually be where her heart’s been leading her all along—was so satisfying.
The town itself feels like stepping inside a glittering snow globe: charming events, twinkly lights, and traditions that make you want to pack your bags and move in. The characters are wonderfully relatable, especially the side ones from a hilarious sister turned bestie, to a witchy shop owner.
And Gemma finally choosing herself—and choosing Sebastian? My whole heart melted. She deserved every drop of happiness this story gave her.
A unique, witchy, wildly festive holiday romance that sparkles with charm, swoony moments, and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for anyone who wants their Christmas reads with a dash of magic, quite a few laughs, and a whole lot of heart.
Thank you so much to S.R Hartley for having me on your team! This book was everything I hoped it would be and more!
December 9, 2025
Gemma is your not so typical Salem witchy girl. After her Grams passes away and her potential fiance leaves her to pursue his career she is left in the upcoming holiday season to determine what she should do. With her heart slowly healing from the loss of her Grams she decides to make the drive to reconnect with her ex to see if there is still a chance.
Fate has other plans.
On a cold December evening Gemma ends up with a broken down vehicle with no idea where she is at. She begins the snowy muddy trek towards the nearest city. On her way she comes across a friendly helping hand Sebastian... and this is where the story begins.
A halloween loving witchy woman finds herself in Frankenmuth, Michigan... a place where every day feels like Christmas. In fact the place is like the set of a Hallmark movie with even Sebastian being the local Christmas tree farmer.
What ensues is moments of sugar cookie sweetness to spicy temptations and tension. Gemma tries to deny her attraction and draw to Sebastian but as they spend more time together it becomes harder to say goodbye. Gemma is torn after the conversation with her ex and wonders where she belongs to the point she what is the true meaning of home and where you belong.
13 Wishes is endearing, funny, sexy, emotional, relatable, and sweet.
Gemma's memories of moments she shared with her Grams while she goes through her winter traditions and teaches Sebastian were touching and refreshing to find in a romance novel. The FMC and MMC are adorable and relatable and the side characters, especially Jess, are a delight.
Gemma's memories, a Sexy Santa, and a scene with Christmas lights and ribbon you wont be able to forget are what make 13 wishes a book that possesses the magic and mischief we as readers need this holiday season. Until later... happy reading!
Fate has other plans.
On a cold December evening Gemma ends up with a broken down vehicle with no idea where she is at. She begins the snowy muddy trek towards the nearest city. On her way she comes across a friendly helping hand Sebastian... and this is where the story begins.
A halloween loving witchy woman finds herself in Frankenmuth, Michigan... a place where every day feels like Christmas. In fact the place is like the set of a Hallmark movie with even Sebastian being the local Christmas tree farmer.
What ensues is moments of sugar cookie sweetness to spicy temptations and tension. Gemma tries to deny her attraction and draw to Sebastian but as they spend more time together it becomes harder to say goodbye. Gemma is torn after the conversation with her ex and wonders where she belongs to the point she what is the true meaning of home and where you belong.
13 Wishes is endearing, funny, sexy, emotional, relatable, and sweet.
Gemma's memories of moments she shared with her Grams while she goes through her winter traditions and teaches Sebastian were touching and refreshing to find in a romance novel. The FMC and MMC are adorable and relatable and the side characters, especially Jess, are a delight.
Gemma's memories, a Sexy Santa, and a scene with Christmas lights and ribbon you wont be able to forget are what make 13 wishes a book that possesses the magic and mischief we as readers need this holiday season. Until later... happy reading!
December 18, 2025
13 Wishes is a magical, spicy, festive, and cosy read that fits beautifully into the holiday season.
Gemma is a tarot-reading witch navigating grief, regret, and the weight of choices made for love and family. After staying behind to care for her grandmother while her ex moved forward with his career, Gemma finds herself questioning whether she sacrificed too much. Her journey to reconnect with her past takes an unexpected turn when she becomes stranded in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a town that feels like Christmas wrapped around you every single day.
The warmth of Frankenmuth absolutely stole my heart. The people, the atmosphere, and the sense of community felt so alive that I genuinely wanted to jump on a plane from Australia and live there. There was something deeply comforting about the town, like being held by festive magic and found family all at once.
What I loved most was that the fairytale quality of this story was not driven purely by the witchy elements. While the magic is present and meaningful, especially through the ritual of the 13 Wishes, it felt grounded and emotionally real rather than over-the-top. The heart of the story lived in connection, healing, and allowing yourself permission to want joy again.
The romance begins with instant attraction and gently unfolds into something tender, spicy, and deeply satisfying. I found myself fully invested, cheering them on, and yes, tearing up during the 13 Wishes moments. Those scenes landed beautifully and held a lot of emotional weight for me.
This is a perfect festive read, whether you are leaning into Halloween vibes, Christmas magic, or both at once. It felt like two holidays woven into one heartfelt, cozy, and romantic story.
I received this book as an ARC, however, this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
Gemma is a tarot-reading witch navigating grief, regret, and the weight of choices made for love and family. After staying behind to care for her grandmother while her ex moved forward with his career, Gemma finds herself questioning whether she sacrificed too much. Her journey to reconnect with her past takes an unexpected turn when she becomes stranded in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a town that feels like Christmas wrapped around you every single day.
The warmth of Frankenmuth absolutely stole my heart. The people, the atmosphere, and the sense of community felt so alive that I genuinely wanted to jump on a plane from Australia and live there. There was something deeply comforting about the town, like being held by festive magic and found family all at once.
What I loved most was that the fairytale quality of this story was not driven purely by the witchy elements. While the magic is present and meaningful, especially through the ritual of the 13 Wishes, it felt grounded and emotionally real rather than over-the-top. The heart of the story lived in connection, healing, and allowing yourself permission to want joy again.
The romance begins with instant attraction and gently unfolds into something tender, spicy, and deeply satisfying. I found myself fully invested, cheering them on, and yes, tearing up during the 13 Wishes moments. Those scenes landed beautifully and held a lot of emotional weight for me.
This is a perfect festive read, whether you are leaning into Halloween vibes, Christmas magic, or both at once. It felt like two holidays woven into one heartfelt, cozy, and romantic story.
I received this book as an ARC, however, this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
December 8, 2025
5⭐️/1.5🌶️
I picked up this book because I grew up in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Using just the German town’s Christmas affiliation, S.R. Hartley writes this cute small town Christmas romance between a Christmas tree farmer and a witchy woman from Salem who just lost her grams and is trying to drive across the country to see if she can salvage her relationship with her ex. But her car breaks down, and a very attractive man saves the day.
Gemma now has a choice to make: return to Salem, continue to Seattle to reunite with her ex (who proposed and she turned down), or stay in Frankenmuth with her new found family.
Gemma doesn’t know what to do, but she’s afraid of falling in love with Sebastian after their glorious one-night-stand. Even though all signs (from grams?) point to her having a wonderful life in this small Christmas town, she is torn between listening to her heart or her head. Her head says don’t stay, but her heart — her heart says she could be really happy if she stays.
Sebastian is perfect. He’s the dreamy guy that makes us feel warm and fuzzy and says things like, “We all have our quirks, Gemma. If we didn’t, life would be extremely boring, wouldn’t it?” And his quirks? They are a little kinky. But he’s also funny, sexy, and very thoughtful — everything her ex wasn’t. Sebastian fell hard and fast for Gemma. He would give her the world, if only she chose to stay. If only she chose him.
This story is funny and witty while still being emotionally deep with all the feels of falling in love. It makes you feel like you’re drinking a cup of cocoa next to the fire while cuddling in the arms of your own love. The perfect balance between sweet and funny, I cannot recommend this book enough!
I picked up this book because I grew up in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Using just the German town’s Christmas affiliation, S.R. Hartley writes this cute small town Christmas romance between a Christmas tree farmer and a witchy woman from Salem who just lost her grams and is trying to drive across the country to see if she can salvage her relationship with her ex. But her car breaks down, and a very attractive man saves the day.
Gemma now has a choice to make: return to Salem, continue to Seattle to reunite with her ex (who proposed and she turned down), or stay in Frankenmuth with her new found family.
Gemma doesn’t know what to do, but she’s afraid of falling in love with Sebastian after their glorious one-night-stand. Even though all signs (from grams?) point to her having a wonderful life in this small Christmas town, she is torn between listening to her heart or her head. Her head says don’t stay, but her heart — her heart says she could be really happy if she stays.
Sebastian is perfect. He’s the dreamy guy that makes us feel warm and fuzzy and says things like, “We all have our quirks, Gemma. If we didn’t, life would be extremely boring, wouldn’t it?” And his quirks? They are a little kinky. But he’s also funny, sexy, and very thoughtful — everything her ex wasn’t. Sebastian fell hard and fast for Gemma. He would give her the world, if only she chose to stay. If only she chose him.
This story is funny and witty while still being emotionally deep with all the feels of falling in love. It makes you feel like you’re drinking a cup of cocoa next to the fire while cuddling in the arms of your own love. The perfect balance between sweet and funny, I cannot recommend this book enough!
December 9, 2025
Witchy Magic and Holiday Romance
13 Wishes by S.R. Hartley pulled me straight into Frankenmuth in a way that felt almost cinematic. From the moment Gemma stepped into that year-round Christmas town, I felt like I had been transported right beside her, the cold air kissing my cheeks, the smell of gingerbread drifting from every corner, sleigh bells chiming softly in the background. Hartley doesn’t just describe a setting; she builds an atmosphere so rich it settles into your bones. The lights, the snow, the warmth of strangers… it all feels alive and humming with magic.
Gemma’s journey hit me harder than I expected. There’s something so raw and human about questioning your choices, your path, your future—especially in a place built on joy you’re not sure you deserve. I felt every emotion with her: the confusion, the nostalgia, the grief for her grams, and the flicker of hope she tries so hard not to trust. The 13 Wishes ritual adds a soft, aching heartbeat to the entire story, grounding it in family and legacy.
And then there’s Sebastian, the exact kind of man who makes small towns feel like destiny. He’s warm in all the places Gemma is guarded, patient where she’s unsure, and just bold enough to push her toward the life she keeps imagining but is scared to claim. Every interaction with him feels like stepping into a patch of sunlight. Their chemistry is gentle, magnetic, and threaded with that slow-burn tension that makes your chest tighten.
By the time I finished the book, I felt like Frankenmuth had wrapped me in a blanket of witchy magic, holiday wonder, emotional healing, and romance all woven together. I laughed, I cried, I swooned… and I didn’t want to leave.
13 Wishes by S.R. Hartley pulled me straight into Frankenmuth in a way that felt almost cinematic. From the moment Gemma stepped into that year-round Christmas town, I felt like I had been transported right beside her, the cold air kissing my cheeks, the smell of gingerbread drifting from every corner, sleigh bells chiming softly in the background. Hartley doesn’t just describe a setting; she builds an atmosphere so rich it settles into your bones. The lights, the snow, the warmth of strangers… it all feels alive and humming with magic.
Gemma’s journey hit me harder than I expected. There’s something so raw and human about questioning your choices, your path, your future—especially in a place built on joy you’re not sure you deserve. I felt every emotion with her: the confusion, the nostalgia, the grief for her grams, and the flicker of hope she tries so hard not to trust. The 13 Wishes ritual adds a soft, aching heartbeat to the entire story, grounding it in family and legacy.
And then there’s Sebastian, the exact kind of man who makes small towns feel like destiny. He’s warm in all the places Gemma is guarded, patient where she’s unsure, and just bold enough to push her toward the life she keeps imagining but is scared to claim. Every interaction with him feels like stepping into a patch of sunlight. Their chemistry is gentle, magnetic, and threaded with that slow-burn tension that makes your chest tighten.
By the time I finished the book, I felt like Frankenmuth had wrapped me in a blanket of witchy magic, holiday wonder, emotional healing, and romance all woven together. I laughed, I cried, I swooned… and I didn’t want to leave.
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