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Hexed For The Holiday: A Magical Paranormal Romance
A meddling ghost. A magical mishap. One secret that changes everything.
Ophelia Turner is working at her late mother’s shop, Hexed, when a snowstorm threatens to shut her in for the night. Before she can head home, a surprise Sam Watts stops in. He’s tall, handsome, very human—and sure, it’s cliché, but she’s been secretly in love with her childhood best friend since forever.
Sam has a secret of his own—one he’s kept near to his chest instead of telling his stunning, purple-haired, sassy best friend of a witch. He’s been gone for three months, but he’s never questioned where his home is.
Ophelia is excited to find out what's next for Sam, but she never expected a night with him to go like this...
Ophelia Turner is working at her late mother’s shop, Hexed, when a snowstorm threatens to shut her in for the night. Before she can head home, a surprise Sam Watts stops in. He’s tall, handsome, very human—and sure, it’s cliché, but she’s been secretly in love with her childhood best friend since forever.
Sam has a secret of his own—one he’s kept near to his chest instead of telling his stunning, purple-haired, sassy best friend of a witch. He’s been gone for three months, but he’s never questioned where his home is.
Ophelia is excited to find out what's next for Sam, but she never expected a night with him to go like this...
102 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
8 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
November 17, 2025
I had the privelege of being an ARC reader for this story!
It’s a cute little book! I honestly wish it was longer, as I really enjoyed the beginning of the book with Sam & Ophelia. I’d have loved to see more of their relationship before becoming lovers!
The only reason why I rated it 4 stars is because the spicy scenes didn’t seem to read truly authentic? Some of the dialogue just felt off & a bit forced. That being said, I’ll definitely be reading more of her books!
It’s a cute little book! I honestly wish it was longer, as I really enjoyed the beginning of the book with Sam & Ophelia. I’d have loved to see more of their relationship before becoming lovers!
The only reason why I rated it 4 stars is because the spicy scenes didn’t seem to read truly authentic? Some of the dialogue just felt off & a bit forced. That being said, I’ll definitely be reading more of her books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
I had the great privilege of getting an ARC of this book and I really enjoyed it! Since it’s a novella, it was a really quick read. I loved the quick relationship evolution between Ophelia and Sam and enjoyed the small paranormal aspects of the story.
This book has spice, friends-to-lovers, ghosts, and witchy elements that all result in a good little book.
This book has spice, friends-to-lovers, ghosts, and witchy elements that all result in a good little book.
November 26, 2025
3.5
Thanks to the author for an eARC to read and review!
I had fun with this one! There's spicy scenes, friends-to-lover, and fun magic all wrapped up in the snowed-in (or, rather, hexed-in) situation for Ophelia and Sam. I liked the quick pacing of the story, naturally for a novella, though I did find myself wishing we got a little more depth about Ophelia and Sam's relationship beyond just knowing they've been best friends for almost their entire lives. I just found myself wanting to know more about *why* they have romantic feelings for each other. That said, I enjoyed their romance otherwise!
The magic in here was so much fun, I think that was my favorite aspect! The way a little 'serum'/potion came into play was fun, a meddling ghost grandma trying to get the two to hook up made me want to giggle, and the magic Ophelia brings into play during the sex scenes kept up the paranormal/witchy aspects throughout the story. I did find myself pulled out of the story a bit during the sex scenes because of some of the inner monologue of Ophelia or Sam or the dialogue and actions feeling a bit forced or rushed.
Overall, it's a quick, cozy, yet spicy snowed-in romance with fun dashes of magic, great main characters (lots of explicit consent!), and fun side characters (shoutout to Grandma Mary and Junie, especially Junie at the end)! I'd be interested in reading more from the author and seeing how she could build more developed characters and expand a magical world/setting. I think the witchy/magic details had me hooked the most.
Thanks to the author for an eARC to read and review!
I had fun with this one! There's spicy scenes, friends-to-lover, and fun magic all wrapped up in the snowed-in (or, rather, hexed-in) situation for Ophelia and Sam. I liked the quick pacing of the story, naturally for a novella, though I did find myself wishing we got a little more depth about Ophelia and Sam's relationship beyond just knowing they've been best friends for almost their entire lives. I just found myself wanting to know more about *why* they have romantic feelings for each other. That said, I enjoyed their romance otherwise!
The magic in here was so much fun, I think that was my favorite aspect! The way a little 'serum'/potion came into play was fun, a meddling ghost grandma trying to get the two to hook up made me want to giggle, and the magic Ophelia brings into play during the sex scenes kept up the paranormal/witchy aspects throughout the story. I did find myself pulled out of the story a bit during the sex scenes because of some of the inner monologue of Ophelia or Sam or the dialogue and actions feeling a bit forced or rushed.
Overall, it's a quick, cozy, yet spicy snowed-in romance with fun dashes of magic, great main characters (lots of explicit consent!), and fun side characters (shoutout to Grandma Mary and Junie, especially Junie at the end)! I'd be interested in reading more from the author and seeing how she could build more developed characters and expand a magical world/setting. I think the witchy/magic details had me hooked the most.
December 29, 2025
A huge thank you to Courtney Corlew for sending me this eARC! I truly enjoyed every moment of it ☺️
Hexed For The Holiday is a fast‑paced, delightfully cozy novella following Ophelia, a witch who runs her late mother’s shop, Hexed. It’s the kind of charming little café-bookstore hybrid where you can curl up with a hot drink and lose yourself in a book or buy a hex or two. Who doesn’t love these kind of settings?
One snowy evening, as a storm rolls in, Ophelia gets an unexpected visit from Sam, her best friend’s brother and her long‑time crush. Just as they’re about to close up, Ophelia’s grandmother’s ghost hexes the door shut, trapping them inside together. What follows is a rising tide of tension, confessions, and chaos all because of an accidental spray of truth serum. The result is a fun, page‑turning cascade of delicious truths, chemistry, and magical details.
Hexed For The Holiday is the perfect quick read for the festive season. It’s warm, witchy, and wonderfully bingeable. If you’re close to hitting your Goodreads goal, this little gem will help you cross the finish line with a smile!
Tropes & Vibes:
❄️ friends‑to‑lovers
❄️ ghosts & witches
❄️ snowed‑in
❄️ open‑door spice
Hexed For The Holiday is a fast‑paced, delightfully cozy novella following Ophelia, a witch who runs her late mother’s shop, Hexed. It’s the kind of charming little café-bookstore hybrid where you can curl up with a hot drink and lose yourself in a book or buy a hex or two. Who doesn’t love these kind of settings?
One snowy evening, as a storm rolls in, Ophelia gets an unexpected visit from Sam, her best friend’s brother and her long‑time crush. Just as they’re about to close up, Ophelia’s grandmother’s ghost hexes the door shut, trapping them inside together. What follows is a rising tide of tension, confessions, and chaos all because of an accidental spray of truth serum. The result is a fun, page‑turning cascade of delicious truths, chemistry, and magical details.
Hexed For The Holiday is the perfect quick read for the festive season. It’s warm, witchy, and wonderfully bingeable. If you’re close to hitting your Goodreads goal, this little gem will help you cross the finish line with a smile!
Tropes & Vibes:
❄️ friends‑to‑lovers
❄️ ghosts & witches
❄️ snowed‑in
❄️ open‑door spice
November 24, 2025
Sam and Ophelia have been friends their whole lives, each of them has a secret, they are in love with each other. Sam comes back to town trying to talk himself into taking the first step. Through a series of mishaps the choice is taken out of his hands. The mishaps involve a truth hex made my Ophelia and her Ghost grandmothe locking them in.
This is a really fun read not to mention spicy. I loved it from start to finish.
This is a really fun read not to mention spicy. I loved it from start to finish.
December 3, 2025
What a fun novella, if you are in the mood for a fast pace, easy to read, cozy romance with just the right amount of spice this is the one for you.
The FMC who is a witch- but much more like sabarina vibes then scary- and her long term friend end up being hexed in (locked in) in her store by her ever wise grandma who is a ghost. Of course there is a truth serum, secret crushes and a HEA.
There is some light tw in the front to take note of, but all in all i definitely recommend reading this!
The FMC who is a witch- but much more like sabarina vibes then scary- and her long term friend end up being hexed in (locked in) in her store by her ever wise grandma who is a ghost. Of course there is a truth serum, secret crushes and a HEA.
There is some light tw in the front to take note of, but all in all i definitely recommend reading this!
November 19, 2025
My 1st paranormal romance did not disappoint! What happens when a witch and human end up snowed in because of a ghost? Just the right amount of spice with some exploring of kinks and finding out how long the truth serum is going to last! This is a quick read that will have you fall in love with Ophelia and Sam and want you learning more about their small mountain town!
November 20, 2025
Novellas are always a hit or miss for me because sometimes they feel like there is just not enough information given. I'm absolutely happy to report, Hexed for the Holiday was an absolute hit for me.
It's a quick, fun, and spicy read about a witch and her best friend admitting their feelings for each other. It was a great read to use as a palette cleanser from heavier books, and I would recommend if you're looking for a fun and happy read!
Huge thank you for an ARC copy!
It's a quick, fun, and spicy read about a witch and her best friend admitting their feelings for each other. It was a great read to use as a palette cleanser from heavier books, and I would recommend if you're looking for a fun and happy read!
Huge thank you for an ARC copy!
November 24, 2025
I had the privilege of being an ARC reader for this novella. It was a very quick read. I loved the relationship between Ophelia and Sam! It was quick, but laying down the base of a 20-year friendship didn’t make it feel too quick. The comfort and love they found with each other is endearing and made this novella even more cozy!
December 3, 2025
I give this novella a solid 4 stars.
The best friends to lovers was done perfectly well for a witchy romance.
The spice was definitely the main point of the book, but that made it tie into the plot rather than take away from it! so I really enjoyed that!
overall, I'm really happy I read this book.
The best friends to lovers was done perfectly well for a witchy romance.
The spice was definitely the main point of the book, but that made it tie into the plot rather than take away from it! so I really enjoyed that!
overall, I'm really happy I read this book.
November 23, 2025
I am so excited that I was selected to receive an ARC of this novella! I am always a sucker for a good holiday romance and this did not disappoint. Since it is a novella, it is rather short but I thought Corlew did a fantastic job keeping the relationship development on par with the pace of the story! We get a little mix of holiday surprise, childhood friends to lovers, spice, and a touch of witchy magic.
10/10 will be recommending to friends! Would read again!!
10/10 will be recommending to friends! Would read again!!
December 2, 2025
This was a fun fluffy romance. I typically read books with heavy themes but the paranormal/metaphysical aspects were familiar and fun.
The pacing was smooth and pretty quick. It’s definitely a nice book to read in between longer reads and especially nice for the holiday season!
The pacing was smooth and pretty quick. It’s definitely a nice book to read in between longer reads and especially nice for the holiday season!
November 21, 2025
It was a little fast paced for my taste.
November 19, 2025
Tropes are a Sassy Witch X Handsome Human, Childhood Best Friend, One Night Stands Married After A Month and A Testing Truth Serum.
They know each other since she moved to town, and in I night they've slept together and are in a relationship he moves in with her and they say to each other that they are in love in love with one another and that they love each other. Sam says that as soon as he can get a ring that they'll get married-but they won't have a proposal-so a month after he moved in with her they are married.
Even though he's my best friend, I never want him to think I'm falling for him. He doesn't need to know my biggest secret that I'm in love with him.
It's been a months since I've seen him, and I want nothing more than to jump into his arms, but I'm hesitant. Even though he's my best friend, I never want him to think I'm falling for him. He doesn't need to know my biggest secret that I 'm in love with him.
Sam wanted to see Ophelia before his own family. Sam is in love with freckles since his high-school. Sam does fotogrophy and was often on the go. But after his month trip he decided that he should move back for good. So he told her first to hear if it would be alright with her and she couldn't be happier about the good news.
Ophelia has taken over Hexed alca her mother's store since her mother has passed away. Ophelia is a witch who doesn' t use her powers that much. It is showing and she kind a used her power up to keep themselves warm until they can leave.
Quotes is "Come here." He spreads his arms wide. I can't resist his invilation, and I mold my 5ft9 frame into his At 6ft3 we fit together like puzzle pieces. My hand slide away from him, knowing it's not normal to hug anyone for this long. He pulls me into another hug, and I follow gladly, squeezing him tight to reasure my brain that Sam is indeed home and in mystore I smile into his chest and say "I missed you." "Missed ya too, Phee."
He calls her Ophelia, Freckles and Phee. She calls him Sam and Sammy-Poo.
"It's been a months since I've seen him, and I want nothing more than to jump into his arms, but I'm hesitant."
"Mine" He kisses my jaw. "My wife." "My witch." He sucks on my neck, hard enough to mark me wouldn't be the first time.
They know each other since she moved to town, and in I night they've slept together and are in a relationship he moves in with her and they say to each other that they are in love in love with one another and that they love each other. Sam says that as soon as he can get a ring that they'll get married-but they won't have a proposal-so a month after he moved in with her they are married.
Even though he's my best friend, I never want him to think I'm falling for him. He doesn't need to know my biggest secret that I'm in love with him.
It's been a months since I've seen him, and I want nothing more than to jump into his arms, but I'm hesitant. Even though he's my best friend, I never want him to think I'm falling for him. He doesn't need to know my biggest secret that I 'm in love with him.
Sam wanted to see Ophelia before his own family. Sam is in love with freckles since his high-school. Sam does fotogrophy and was often on the go. But after his month trip he decided that he should move back for good. So he told her first to hear if it would be alright with her and she couldn't be happier about the good news.
Ophelia has taken over Hexed alca her mother's store since her mother has passed away. Ophelia is a witch who doesn' t use her powers that much. It is showing and she kind a used her power up to keep themselves warm until they can leave.
Quotes is "Come here." He spreads his arms wide. I can't resist his invilation, and I mold my 5ft9 frame into his At 6ft3 we fit together like puzzle pieces. My hand slide away from him, knowing it's not normal to hug anyone for this long. He pulls me into another hug, and I follow gladly, squeezing him tight to reasure my brain that Sam is indeed home and in mystore I smile into his chest and say "I missed you." "Missed ya too, Phee."
He calls her Ophelia, Freckles and Phee. She calls him Sam and Sammy-Poo.
"It's been a months since I've seen him, and I want nothing more than to jump into his arms, but I'm hesitant."
"Mine" He kisses my jaw. "My wife." "My witch." He sucks on my neck, hard enough to mark me wouldn't be the first time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2025
I received an Advanced Copy of the book for a honest review.
Overall: A cute concept, a fun setting, a lot of spice, and a ghost grandma who honestly deserved more page time.
Hexed for the Holidays is a short, smutty, witchy holiday novella that gives exactly what it promises: fast feelings, forced proximity, and a blizzard’s worth of spice.
The premise is simple and fun: Ophe, a witch who owns a cozy coffee shop called Hexed, has been secretly in love with her best friend, Sam, for two decades - only to discover he’s been pining right back. Cue a meddling ghost grandma, a snowstorm, a magically locked shop, and a truth-serum mishap that forces everything into the open. From that moment on, the plot takes a back seat and the spice takes the wheel.
This definitely feels like a book written with BookTok catnip in mind - forced proximity, best-friends-to-lovers, one-bed (well ... one stormed-in shop), pining, magical meddling elder, and holiday warmth wrapped around very explicit scenes. Some readers will absolutely devour that combination. Others may wish there was a bit more worldbuilding or emotional depth before the smut avalanche kicks in.
For me, it read like a quick, festive palate cleanser - fun, chaotic, and intentionally over-the-top - but it does rely heavily on trope stacking and spicy scenes rather than developing the magic, the relationship history, or the characters themselves.
If you’re looking for a fast and filthy winter witch romance that doesn’t ask for a lot of brainpower, this will scratch the itch. If you prefer deeper fantasy or more emotional payoff, this may feel a bit too trope-heavy or rushed.
Overall: A cute concept, a fun setting, a lot of spice, and a ghost grandma who honestly deserved more page time.
Hexed for the Holidays is a short, smutty, witchy holiday novella that gives exactly what it promises: fast feelings, forced proximity, and a blizzard’s worth of spice.
The premise is simple and fun: Ophe, a witch who owns a cozy coffee shop called Hexed, has been secretly in love with her best friend, Sam, for two decades - only to discover he’s been pining right back. Cue a meddling ghost grandma, a snowstorm, a magically locked shop, and a truth-serum mishap that forces everything into the open. From that moment on, the plot takes a back seat and the spice takes the wheel.
This definitely feels like a book written with BookTok catnip in mind - forced proximity, best-friends-to-lovers, one-bed (well ... one stormed-in shop), pining, magical meddling elder, and holiday warmth wrapped around very explicit scenes. Some readers will absolutely devour that combination. Others may wish there was a bit more worldbuilding or emotional depth before the smut avalanche kicks in.
For me, it read like a quick, festive palate cleanser - fun, chaotic, and intentionally over-the-top - but it does rely heavily on trope stacking and spicy scenes rather than developing the magic, the relationship history, or the characters themselves.
If you’re looking for a fast and filthy winter witch romance that doesn’t ask for a lot of brainpower, this will scratch the itch. If you prefer deeper fantasy or more emotional payoff, this may feel a bit too trope-heavy or rushed.
December 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Courtney Corlew has written a wonderful novella just over 100 pages that is easy to read and easy to escape into. I quickly became intrigued with Ophelia and Sam. This story could have easily been longer, diving deeper into their friendship and what happened before this story took place. Nonetheless, I remained entertained and invested in seeing these two finally take the leap from friends to more.
I always enjoy friends to lovers stories as there is a different layer of knowing each other not found in other romances. I can’t explain it, but there is more depth and vulnerability in already trusting someone with your whole heart before you give it to them. I found Ophelia and Sam's relationship filled with longing, yearning, and desire that when it finally bubbled over, it was magical. Figuratively and literally.
The witchy vibes are wonderfully woven into the storyline and I love how Courtney brings Ophelia’s powers into play both practically and sexually. Sam and Ophelia were amazing characters that again I only wish I was able to get to know more of. If you are looking for a story with both holiday and paranormal vibes, this novella is recommended.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🔮Snowed In
❄️Witch x Human
🔮Shared Secrets
❄️Childhood Friends to Lovers
🔮Bondage and Wax Play
❄️Novella
Courtney Corlew has written a wonderful novella just over 100 pages that is easy to read and easy to escape into. I quickly became intrigued with Ophelia and Sam. This story could have easily been longer, diving deeper into their friendship and what happened before this story took place. Nonetheless, I remained entertained and invested in seeing these two finally take the leap from friends to more.
I always enjoy friends to lovers stories as there is a different layer of knowing each other not found in other romances. I can’t explain it, but there is more depth and vulnerability in already trusting someone with your whole heart before you give it to them. I found Ophelia and Sam's relationship filled with longing, yearning, and desire that when it finally bubbled over, it was magical. Figuratively and literally.
The witchy vibes are wonderfully woven into the storyline and I love how Courtney brings Ophelia’s powers into play both practically and sexually. Sam and Ophelia were amazing characters that again I only wish I was able to get to know more of. If you are looking for a story with both holiday and paranormal vibes, this novella is recommended.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🔮Snowed In
❄️Witch x Human
🔮Shared Secrets
❄️Childhood Friends to Lovers
🔮Bondage and Wax Play
❄️Novella
November 25, 2025
I enjoyed reading this story. The main characters were easy to understand and you felt like they could be your friends.
The writing style drew me in and made me want to read more (just another chapter, when I was tired).
I liked the mix of romance and witchness. It was a feel good, cute and humouring story.
The main female character was easy to like and you want her to have an happy ending. She came across like a well liked person, who would help anyone in anyway she could. You felt like she had some mystery about her and her magic.
The main male character was a green flag all the way. The way he was written was that he seemed to be a thoughtful guy, remembered every detail of their lives.
Wanting to make others happy. Also a family man.
He was easy to like and you felt like you wanted to know him in real life.
The spicy scenes were not too spicy, but you could use your imagination from the details. So this book is good for people who like some spice but who likes it mild.
I was given this book as an ARC copy, and I’m happy that I was. This was a nice, feel good story with a lovely couple, you can’t but help like.
I would recommend this book to others. I look forward to reading more stories from this author.
The writing style drew me in and made me want to read more (just another chapter, when I was tired).
I liked the mix of romance and witchness. It was a feel good, cute and humouring story.
The main female character was easy to like and you want her to have an happy ending. She came across like a well liked person, who would help anyone in anyway she could. You felt like she had some mystery about her and her magic.
The main male character was a green flag all the way. The way he was written was that he seemed to be a thoughtful guy, remembered every detail of their lives.
Wanting to make others happy. Also a family man.
He was easy to like and you felt like you wanted to know him in real life.
The spicy scenes were not too spicy, but you could use your imagination from the details. So this book is good for people who like some spice but who likes it mild.
I was given this book as an ARC copy, and I’m happy that I was. This was a nice, feel good story with a lovely couple, you can’t but help like.
I would recommend this book to others. I look forward to reading more stories from this author.
December 2, 2025
Este libro ha sido una lectura súper acogedora, perfecta para esas noches en las que solo quieres algo mágico, bonito y con chispa. La historia de Ophelia y Sam tiene ese encanto especial que mezcla amistad, tensión suave y un toque de caos brujil que lo hace irresistible.
Ophelia es un personaje que enamora rápido: divertida, un poco torpe a veces, llena de corazón y muy marcada por la ausencia de su madre. Me ha encantado cómo se refleja su inseguridad mezclada con ese poder interior que ni ella misma termina de creerse. Y luego está Sam, el típico “boy next door” pero con un toque dulce y misterioso que no te esperas. Su conexión se siente natural, cómoda, como si siempre hubieran estado destinados a reencontrarse.
La parte mágica es ligera pero muy presente, con ese humor adorable que solo puede surgir cuando los hechizos salen un poco… mal. El fantasma metomentodo es un puntazo y aporta escenas divertidas sin romper el ritmo. Aun así, el libro también tiene momentos emocionales que suman mucho, sobre todo cuando salen a la luz las cosas que ninguno de los dos se había atrevido a decir.
Ophelia es un personaje que enamora rápido: divertida, un poco torpe a veces, llena de corazón y muy marcada por la ausencia de su madre. Me ha encantado cómo se refleja su inseguridad mezclada con ese poder interior que ni ella misma termina de creerse. Y luego está Sam, el típico “boy next door” pero con un toque dulce y misterioso que no te esperas. Su conexión se siente natural, cómoda, como si siempre hubieran estado destinados a reencontrarse.
La parte mágica es ligera pero muy presente, con ese humor adorable que solo puede surgir cuando los hechizos salen un poco… mal. El fantasma metomentodo es un puntazo y aporta escenas divertidas sin romper el ritmo. Aun así, el libro también tiene momentos emocionales que suman mucho, sobre todo cuando salen a la luz las cosas que ninguno de los dos se había atrevido a decir.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2025
This novella is great because in this short amount of pages the author sets all the ingredients: Sam and Ophelia are childhood friends, they know each other since they were kids and the have been in love with each other for years. So this is not a instalove novella, because the love was there and the build up is justified. They have to spend one night locked up and with magic and her grandma ghost meddling, all the feelings come to light.
Tropes you can find in this novella:
- childhood friends to lovers
- secretly in love for too long
- locked up one night
- meddling family
- magic
- bdsm/ sex play
- dual 1st person POV
- no 3 rd act break-up
This novella has wide open scenes where they explore some things and , because they knew each other for years so that new confidence it’s great to witness.
My ratings:
4,25/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
( the only thing I do not enjoy are the bonus chapter that are only available in the author’s patreon, but if you’re part of it or could enjoy it!! Lucky you!! )
I’ve received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank the author, Courtney Corlew for letting me read this book in advance and allow me to give my honest opinion.
Tropes you can find in this novella:
- childhood friends to lovers
- secretly in love for too long
- locked up one night
- meddling family
- magic
- bdsm/ sex play
- dual 1st person POV
- no 3 rd act break-up
This novella has wide open scenes where they explore some things and , because they knew each other for years so that new confidence it’s great to witness.
My ratings:
4,25/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
( the only thing I do not enjoy are the bonus chapter that are only available in the author’s patreon, but if you’re part of it or could enjoy it!! Lucky you!! )
I’ve received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank the author, Courtney Corlew for letting me read this book in advance and allow me to give my honest opinion.
December 2, 2025
Hexed for the Holidays is an absolutely adorable paranormal novella with just the right mix of cozy holiday magic and unapologetic spice. Set in a world where witches and humans coexist, the story follows a witch who runs a little shop called Hexed—and her best friend who surprises her with an early visit home for the holidays.
Things get delightfully chaotic when her grandmother’s mischievous spirit locks them inside the shop, the power goes out, and the MMC stumbles across a truth-serum potion she’s been working on. What follows is a funny, heartfelt, and very steamy unraveling of all the things these two have been holding back from each other.
This novella is short and sweet—there’s no heavy drama, no dragged-out conflict, just a genuinely happy, charming story with a whole lot of chemistry. And yes, the spice is very spicy (definitely no fade-to-black), but it still manages to stay cute and warm and magical.
If you want a quick, festive, witchy read that delivers cozy vibes and heat, this is a perfect pick. I loved every minute of it.
Things get delightfully chaotic when her grandmother’s mischievous spirit locks them inside the shop, the power goes out, and the MMC stumbles across a truth-serum potion she’s been working on. What follows is a funny, heartfelt, and very steamy unraveling of all the things these two have been holding back from each other.
This novella is short and sweet—there’s no heavy drama, no dragged-out conflict, just a genuinely happy, charming story with a whole lot of chemistry. And yes, the spice is very spicy (definitely no fade-to-black), but it still manages to stay cute and warm and magical.
If you want a quick, festive, witchy read that delivers cozy vibes and heat, this is a perfect pick. I loved every minute of it.
December 2, 2025
I enjoyed this book overall! I really want the shop to exist in real life, bookstore meets coffee shop meets witchy store? sign me up right now!!
I enjoyed that this novella wasnt an instant love situation but established that the 2 have been friends for years! So many novellas do instant love or try to cram an entire story into a novella and this one instead established a history to the characters and even gave little bits of background here and there (like not sharing the extent of your magic with anyone) to explain any potential miscommunication.
Grandma ghost is probably my favorite character though because she is just so hilarious. I never thought a character that doesn't technically have any lines could be my favorite but here we are.
The only thing that I wasn't a huge fan of was how quickly things progressed after the whole situation in the shop as it just felt really fast, even if they were friends for years.
I will likely read this again next Christmas season because it was a cute and cozy yet spicy novella and I'm a fan :)
I received this as an ARC
I enjoyed that this novella wasnt an instant love situation but established that the 2 have been friends for years! So many novellas do instant love or try to cram an entire story into a novella and this one instead established a history to the characters and even gave little bits of background here and there (like not sharing the extent of your magic with anyone) to explain any potential miscommunication.
Grandma ghost is probably my favorite character though because she is just so hilarious. I never thought a character that doesn't technically have any lines could be my favorite but here we are.
The only thing that I wasn't a huge fan of was how quickly things progressed after the whole situation in the shop as it just felt really fast, even if they were friends for years.
I will likely read this again next Christmas season because it was a cute and cozy yet spicy novella and I'm a fan :)
I received this as an ARC
December 3, 2025
Well that escalated quickly.
Ophelia, a witch running her family's store/coffee shop is visited by her best friend's brother Sam (that also happens to be her other best friend) a day earlier than expected at the end of the night as she closes shop. While they're trying to hurry to pack a few orders before a snow storm rolls in, her grandma whose spirit roams the store hexes the door, forcing them to ride out the storm together.
While looking for candles in the back, Sam stumbles upon what he thinks is a perfume, but ends up being a truth serum that Ophelia has been working on formulating. And of course, they start sharing secrets they thought they'd take to the grave in order to not ruin their friendship: they're both in love with each other.
Because Hexed for the Holiday is a novella, a lot happens in a short period of time (only 100 or so pages), but it was well written and the spice delivered without being too much. I enjoyed it and am super curious to see how Junie's story plays out in the follow up. I'll definitely be on the lookout!
Ophelia, a witch running her family's store/coffee shop is visited by her best friend's brother Sam (that also happens to be her other best friend) a day earlier than expected at the end of the night as she closes shop. While they're trying to hurry to pack a few orders before a snow storm rolls in, her grandma whose spirit roams the store hexes the door, forcing them to ride out the storm together.
While looking for candles in the back, Sam stumbles upon what he thinks is a perfume, but ends up being a truth serum that Ophelia has been working on formulating. And of course, they start sharing secrets they thought they'd take to the grave in order to not ruin their friendship: they're both in love with each other.
Because Hexed for the Holiday is a novella, a lot happens in a short period of time (only 100 or so pages), but it was well written and the spice delivered without being too much. I enjoyed it and am super curious to see how Junie's story plays out in the follow up. I'll definitely be on the lookout!
December 4, 2025
A twist in Christmas novellas I wasn’t expecting.
Hexed for the Holiday delivered witchy chaos, meddling ghosts, and best-friends-to-lovers perfectio, all wrapped up in a cozy, spicy snowed-in night. Ophelia and Sam have been orbiting each other their whole lives, and this novella finally lets the truth spill… literally, thanks to a hex gone wrong and a ghost grandmother determined to play matchmaker.
For a shorter story, it still feels full: the chemistry is instant but earned, the magical mishaps add charm, and the paranormal touches blend seamlessly into their romance. I loved how the potion, the hex, and Grandma Mary kept the tension high and the plot moving. The spice? Fun, playful, and absolutely keeping the witchy vibes present.
The cozy, snowy, magic-kissed atmosphere makes this such an easy, enjoyable read. It’s the perfect palate cleanser: quick, fun, a little kinky, and overflowing with holiday magic. I’d definitely read more set in this small mountain town.
Hexed for the Holiday delivered witchy chaos, meddling ghosts, and best-friends-to-lovers perfectio, all wrapped up in a cozy, spicy snowed-in night. Ophelia and Sam have been orbiting each other their whole lives, and this novella finally lets the truth spill… literally, thanks to a hex gone wrong and a ghost grandmother determined to play matchmaker.
For a shorter story, it still feels full: the chemistry is instant but earned, the magical mishaps add charm, and the paranormal touches blend seamlessly into their romance. I loved how the potion, the hex, and Grandma Mary kept the tension high and the plot moving. The spice? Fun, playful, and absolutely keeping the witchy vibes present.
The cozy, snowy, magic-kissed atmosphere makes this such an easy, enjoyable read. It’s the perfect palate cleanser: quick, fun, a little kinky, and overflowing with holiday magic. I’d definitely read more set in this small mountain town.
December 2, 2025
-meddling ghost
-witch x human
-friends to lovers romance
-spicy
-novella (102 pages)
-Christmas romance
What would you do if your ghost of a grandma locked you (the witch) and a human (your bestfriend who you've loved for a long time) inside a cozy little bookstore?
This was a fun, spicy Christmas novella! It was fast paced and super fun! If you're looking for something that you can finish in an hour, have a great time, and enjoy all the spice, you'll want to check this one out!
I felt like the author did a good job in depicting the past and current relationship between these two. I really liked that we got snipets of them falling for each other. Often in best friends to lovers romances, you get chapters on chapters of the past and it gets kind of old, in my opinion. I liked that this didn't have that, yet I felt like I knew exactly who they were as kids and adults.
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the arc! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
-witch x human
-friends to lovers romance
-spicy
-novella (102 pages)
-Christmas romance
What would you do if your ghost of a grandma locked you (the witch) and a human (your bestfriend who you've loved for a long time) inside a cozy little bookstore?
This was a fun, spicy Christmas novella! It was fast paced and super fun! If you're looking for something that you can finish in an hour, have a great time, and enjoy all the spice, you'll want to check this one out!
I felt like the author did a good job in depicting the past and current relationship between these two. I really liked that we got snipets of them falling for each other. Often in best friends to lovers romances, you get chapters on chapters of the past and it gets kind of old, in my opinion. I liked that this didn't have that, yet I felt like I knew exactly who they were as kids and adults.
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the arc! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 18, 2025
3.5⭐️
Cute little novella with spice and some paranormal vibes (she’s a witch!)
Super quick to read as it’s 90 pages long.
It’s always tricky to rate novellas. This one was fun and I’m torn between 3 and 4 stars so for now I’m marking it as 3 goodreads stars.
It’s a novella so of course everything happens rather quick. But with that said I liked how it wasn’t exactly insta-love, as our main couple has been friends for 20+ years and have had mutual crushes for years as well.
It’s paranormal romance but with just the perfect amount of the witchy stuff. I’m not super into paranormal romances but this one I didn’t mind!
If you don’t know if witch trope is your vibe, this novella is a perfect way to test this trope.
Bonus points for dead meddling grandma (yes, dead but meddling 🤭)
(ARC copy provided by the author)
Cute little novella with spice and some paranormal vibes (she’s a witch!)
Super quick to read as it’s 90 pages long.
It’s always tricky to rate novellas. This one was fun and I’m torn between 3 and 4 stars so for now I’m marking it as 3 goodreads stars.
It’s a novella so of course everything happens rather quick. But with that said I liked how it wasn’t exactly insta-love, as our main couple has been friends for 20+ years and have had mutual crushes for years as well.
It’s paranormal romance but with just the perfect amount of the witchy stuff. I’m not super into paranormal romances but this one I didn’t mind!
If you don’t know if witch trope is your vibe, this novella is a perfect way to test this trope.
Bonus points for dead meddling grandma (yes, dead but meddling 🤭)
(ARC copy provided by the author)
November 19, 2025
Hexed for the Holidays was exactly the kind of cozy, magical escape I wanted. I absolutely loved this book! It takes all the charm of a classic holiday romance and gives it a fun paranormal twist that makes it feel fresh, whimsical, and with just enough spice to keep you wanting more.
The best-friends-to-lovers storyline was so sweet, and the chemistry between Sam and Ophelia had me genuinely rooting for them from the very beginning. The magic elements never overshadow the romance — instead, they just make the whole story even more enchanting. It’s cute in all the best ways, without ever feeling cheesy, and the emotional beats still land beautifully.
This is one of those books that leaves you smiling as you turn the pages. If you want something cozy, magical, funny, and full of heart for the holidays, Hexed for the Holidays is such a treat. I adored it!
The best-friends-to-lovers storyline was so sweet, and the chemistry between Sam and Ophelia had me genuinely rooting for them from the very beginning. The magic elements never overshadow the romance — instead, they just make the whole story even more enchanting. It’s cute in all the best ways, without ever feeling cheesy, and the emotional beats still land beautifully.
This is one of those books that leaves you smiling as you turn the pages. If you want something cozy, magical, funny, and full of heart for the holidays, Hexed for the Holidays is such a treat. I adored it!
November 22, 2025
✨Hexed for the Holidays✨ by Courtney Corlew
This was my first dive into the best-friend’s-brother trope, and even though it’s not usually at the top of my list, this story turned out to be such a surprise! I adored Grandma’s chaotic antics and the playful, spark-filled banter between Phee and Sam.
Can I just say how grateful I am for actual communication?? The truth-serum moment was such a fun way to let the characters open up and really explore their feelings. This was def a quick festive pallet cleanser. Overall, this was a cute, cozy read with the perfect sprinkle of holiday magic and spice. ✨🎄💕
✨Fav character: Sam
✨Fav quote:
~“Sure, Phee. As long as you’re my girl, I’ll have you either way. Ideally, both, because I like a little bit of bad mixed with a little bit of good.”
✨Fav scene: Grandmas Hex.
Can I just say how grateful I am for actual communication?? The truth-serum moment was such a fun way to let the characters open up and really explore their feelings. This was def a quick festive pallet cleanser. Overall, this was a cute, cozy read with the perfect sprinkle of holiday magic and spice. ✨🎄💕
✨Fav character: Sam
✨Fav quote:
~“Sure, Phee. As long as you’re my girl, I’ll have you either way. Ideally, both, because I like a little bit of bad mixed with a little bit of good.”
✨Fav scene: Grandmas Hex.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2025
🥰🩵🥰🩵 witchy, sexy, cool 🧙🏼♀️🔮📸
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the advance reader copy! I thoroughly enjoyed this story. My first impression was that I absolutely love the cover and synopsis and I can’t wait to read this story. I loved how the story was set up and the normalcy of witches in Starview. We quickly got to see that Ophelia and Sam are childhood friends who are secretly longing for each other (FYI my brain pictures them as Genevieve and Jared Padalecki for some reason and I’m not mad at it). I couldn’t wait for them to get their HEA and the way it happened was sooo funny. I love grandma Mary and would literally enjoy a novella of a meddling ghost. I’m excited for Junie’s story especially because it was hinted that she’ll basically be forever alone and she deserves happiness too 🩵 overall, this was a cute and enjoyable story.
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the advance reader copy! I thoroughly enjoyed this story. My first impression was that I absolutely love the cover and synopsis and I can’t wait to read this story. I loved how the story was set up and the normalcy of witches in Starview. We quickly got to see that Ophelia and Sam are childhood friends who are secretly longing for each other (FYI my brain pictures them as Genevieve and Jared Padalecki for some reason and I’m not mad at it). I couldn’t wait for them to get their HEA and the way it happened was sooo funny. I love grandma Mary and would literally enjoy a novella of a meddling ghost. I’m excited for Junie’s story especially because it was hinted that she’ll basically be forever alone and she deserves happiness too 🩵 overall, this was a cute and enjoyable story.
December 15, 2025
Hexed for the Holiday was such a fun, witchy little read. It’s short, cosy, and full of that holiday–paranormal chaos I love. Ophelia and Sam have been circling each other for years, but it takes a blizzard, a stuck door, and a very dramatic ghost grandma to finally push them together.
This novella is short, warm, and surprisingly spicy. Their chemistry felt so natural… soft, a bit awkward in the cutest way, then suddenly “oh wow this is getting hot.” I would’ve happily read another 100 pages of these two, but for a quick paranormal holiday romance, it hits exactly what it needs to.. charm, tension, magic, and heat.
Thank you to the author @courtneycorlewauthor for the gifted ARC!
Out now on KU & Amazon 💫🧡
Read if you like:
• Best friend’s older brother
• Forced proximity
• Snowed in
• Bondage and wax play
• Truth-serum confession
• Witchy holiday vibes
December 24, 2025
Equally split down the middle wirh my thoughts on this one.
Love the magic witch concept and loved how there was a meddling match maker grandma from the grave with the witchy element. Didn’t love how at times the dialogue didn’t smoothly flow and felt too obviously calculated. It felt kind of like how when you watch a movie and the actors are too focused on acting that you can obviously tell that they’re acting so you focus on that and aren’t able to fully get lost in the story versus when actors are so good and seamless with their roles that you forget that they’re acting while you watch a movie and can fully immerse yourself in the story. That’s how this felt sometimes.
Also, didn’t love that proposal in the epilogue. It happened in the middle of a spicy time which is just too unromantic for me.
Love the magic witch concept and loved how there was a meddling match maker grandma from the grave with the witchy element. Didn’t love how at times the dialogue didn’t smoothly flow and felt too obviously calculated. It felt kind of like how when you watch a movie and the actors are too focused on acting that you can obviously tell that they’re acting so you focus on that and aren’t able to fully get lost in the story versus when actors are so good and seamless with their roles that you forget that they’re acting while you watch a movie and can fully immerse yourself in the story. That’s how this felt sometimes.
Also, didn’t love that proposal in the epilogue. It happened in the middle of a spicy time which is just too unromantic for me.
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