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The Witch Collector
Discover the beginning of the epic romantasy series that has claimed hearts around the world.
The Witch Collector is the beginning of an epic romantasy tale that centers around Raina Bloodgood, a fierce, non-verbal heroine who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and star-crossed romance, all while coping with tremendous loss and a revelation of secrets and newfound powers that forever alter her world. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Callie Hart, and Devney Perry.
Every harvest moon, the Witch Collector rides into our valley and leads one of us to the home of the immortal Frost King, to remain forever.
Today is that day—Collecting Day.
But he will not come for me. I, Raina Bloodgood, have lived in this village for twenty-four years, and for all that time he has passed me by.
His mistake.
Raina Bloodgood has one kill the Frost King and the Witch Collector who stole her sister. On Collecting Day, she means to exact murderous revenge, but a more sinister threat sets fire to her world. Rising from the ashes is the Collector, Alexus Thibault, the man she vowed to slay and the only person who can help save her sister.
Thrust into an age-old story of ice, fire, and ancient gods, Raina must abandon vengeance and aid the Witch Collector or let their empire—and her sister—fall into enemy hands. But the lines between good and evil blur, and Raina has more to lose than she imagined. What is she to do when the Witch Collector is no longer the villain who stole her sister, but the hero who's stealing her heart?
The Witch Collector is the beginning of an epic romantasy tale that centers around Raina Bloodgood, a fierce, non-verbal heroine who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and star-crossed romance, all while coping with tremendous loss and a revelation of secrets and newfound powers that forever alter her world. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Callie Hart, and Devney Perry.
Every harvest moon, the Witch Collector rides into our valley and leads one of us to the home of the immortal Frost King, to remain forever.
Today is that day—Collecting Day.
But he will not come for me. I, Raina Bloodgood, have lived in this village for twenty-four years, and for all that time he has passed me by.
His mistake.
Raina Bloodgood has one kill the Frost King and the Witch Collector who stole her sister. On Collecting Day, she means to exact murderous revenge, but a more sinister threat sets fire to her world. Rising from the ashes is the Collector, Alexus Thibault, the man she vowed to slay and the only person who can help save her sister.
Thrust into an age-old story of ice, fire, and ancient gods, Raina must abandon vengeance and aid the Witch Collector or let their empire—and her sister—fall into enemy hands. But the lines between good and evil blur, and Raina has more to lose than she imagined. What is she to do when the Witch Collector is no longer the villain who stole her sister, but the hero who's stealing her heart?
- GenresRomantasy
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
About the author
Charissa Weaks
18 books3,419 followersCHARISSA WEAKS is an international bestselling author of romantic and historical fantasy. She crafts stories with time travel, magick, myth, history, a dash of spice, and the occasional apocalyptic quest.
Her debut novel The Witch Collector—the first of five books planned in the Witch Walker series—earned a Best of BookTok flag and is published in several languages.
Charissa resides just south of Nashville with her family and wrinkly English Bulldog. When she’s not writing, you can find her lost in a good book or digging through four-hundred-year-old texts for research.
To keep up with her writing endeavors and to gain access to writing freebies and book giveaways, follow her on Instagram, sign up for her newsletter, or join her Facebook group, Charissa's Rebel Readers.
Her debut novel The Witch Collector—the first of five books planned in the Witch Walker series—earned a Best of BookTok flag and is published in several languages.
Charissa resides just south of Nashville with her family and wrinkly English Bulldog. When she’s not writing, you can find her lost in a good book or digging through four-hundred-year-old texts for research.
To keep up with her writing endeavors and to gain access to writing freebies and book giveaways, follow her on Instagram, sign up for her newsletter, or join her Facebook group, Charissa's Rebel Readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 10, 2026
Thank you RBmedia for the ALC of this second edition of The Witch Collector. I read this book about 3 years ago for the first time and LOVED it. I was so excited to have the chance to re-read it on audio and it did not disappoint. Listening really remedied the slower pace at the beginning. The burn is so slow it hurts and the story and magic system are both so captivating. Alexus remains one of my favorite MMCs of all time. I have so much love for this series. I absolutely loved every minute of this.
March 23, 2026
Such a great series!! This is the second edition, self published by the author.This is the first book that I have read with a non-verbal FMC. I love when disabilities or chronic illness/pain is represented… makes the story feel a bit more real to those of us that deal with those things. Enemies to reluctant allies to lovers. Such a delicious slow burn. Fast paced, intriguing plot with lots of twists. Still giving this one a 5 ⭐️.
March 16, 2026
Raina is one of my favorite fmcs, she’s strong willed and determined but understands when she needs help. Alexus is experienced and uses that to get Raina to trust him and teach her to use her magic. Their journey through the woods is filled with chaos, adventure, and them slowly falling for each other.
I enjoyed Nephele and Coldens parts in this book, I felt like this added more to the story and we learn about their relationship/friendship in addition to Alexus and Raina. Alexus remains swoony, I love how he had to be 100% on the same page as Raina and was blunt about it so she knew how he felt.
As someone who’s read and listened to the indie versions of this book this was updated very nicely! I feel like the book has been “cleaned up”, some parts felt more condensed and to the point without taking away important information from the book.
Thank you so much Tantor media and Charissa Weaks for the advance listener copy!
I enjoyed Nephele and Coldens parts in this book, I felt like this added more to the story and we learn about their relationship/friendship in addition to Alexus and Raina. Alexus remains swoony, I love how he had to be 100% on the same page as Raina and was blunt about it so she knew how he felt.
As someone who’s read and listened to the indie versions of this book this was updated very nicely! I feel like the book has been “cleaned up”, some parts felt more condensed and to the point without taking away important information from the book.
Thank you so much Tantor media and Charissa Weaks for the advance listener copy!
April 9, 2026
3.75⭐️🎧 Good audiobook, though I recommend having a written copy close since the FMC uses sign language and distinguishing between inner dialogue and conversation might be difficult with audio only. Once you get around 35% through, the story really kicks up with the addition of another POV and the found family/side characters really tying you to the story. Definitely worth the read and I look forward to the rest of the series
May 11, 2026
Carissa Weaks - The Witch Collector (Witch Walker, knjiga 1.od 5.)
''Mother used to say that grief always strikes when we least espect it, and that we rarely realize how those we love inhabit even the most seemingly inconsequential parts of our lives. It's in those moments tat the pain of their absense strikes so much deeper, because the time we took for granted suddenly shines in sharp relief.''
Postoje knjige koje čitate… i postoje one koje Vas uzmu, zaviju u tišinu zime i više Vas ne puste iste.
The Witch Collector pripada toj drugoj vrsti - koja ne traži pažnju, već je uzima, polako, ali neumoljivo, dok ne shvatite da više ne čitate priču, već živite u njoj.
Sve počinje u svetu gde svaka godina nosi isti strah. Žetva ne znači samo plodove - već i gubitak. Jer tada dolazi Sakupljač veštica. Dolazi po one koji imaju dar, po one koji nikada nisu tražili svoju moć, ali su njome obeleženi. Rejna to zna bolje od svih. Njena sestra Nefel odvedena je pre mnogo godina, ostavljajući iza sebe prazninu koja nikada nije zarasla. Od tog trenutka, Rejna ne živi - ona čeka. Sprema se. Zaklinje se.
Zaklinje se da će pronaći njega. Da će upotrebiti bodež koji njen otac nije bez razloga nazvao „ubica bogova“. Da će ubiti čoveka ili besmrtnog o kome kruže priče tamnije od noći.
Ali svet nikada ne čeka da Vi budete spremni.
Pre nego što uspe da ode, pre nego što krene putem osvete, njeno selo biva progutano plamenom.
Mračne sile Istlenda ne ostavljaju ništa iza sebe osim pepela. Sve što je volela - nestaje u noći iznenadnog napada, tik pred sam dolazak Aleksusa, sakupljača veštica.
Ono što je zanimljivo jeste da je ovo dualni POV, dakle imamo i Rejnina i Aleksusova poglavlja iz njihovog ugla.
Aleksus je zapravo na put krenuo znajući da ide baš po Rejnu,
devojku koja je nema, koristi znakovni jezik ali do sada nije obeležena kao da ima moć.
Postoji nešto što Aleksus zna što se neće videti u ovoj knjizi, zato su njegovi postupci dosta nepredvidivi i čudni od samog početka.
On ide ka njoj da je ubedi da pođe sa njim. Ona ga čeka sa namerom da ga ubije.
Oboje bivaju iznenađeni mračnim silama Istlenda koje su spalile sva sela kroz koja su prošla, sa gavranom na ramenima i moćima nikad vidjenim do tada.
Rejna odjednom sve gubi.
''You try so hard to hide it''she says, ''yet a mother knows her child bettret than all else. Do not let your loathing lead you-or us -to trouble, Raina. If you're going to promise me anything, promise me that.''
Ovo nije priča koja se razvija blago. Ovo je priča koja Vas baca u svet ledenih kraljevstava, drevnih bogova, runa koje pulsiraju moći, veštica, iscelitelja i ljudi koji nose darove koje ne razumeju do kraja. Ovo je svet gde politika tinja ispod svakog susreta, gde se moć ne pokazuje otvoreno, već se oseća u svakom pogledu, svakoj odluci, svakom ćutanju.
The Witch Collector nije samo romantasy. Nije samo priča o neprijateljima koji postaju nešto više. Ovo je slojevita, intenzivna, duboko napisana priča koja balansira između New Adult senzibiliteta i ozbiljne, gotovo teške high fantasy konstrukcije.
Ovde se emocija ne odvaja od sveta - ona je njegov deo. Kao i intriga. Kao i rat.
Rejna je srce ove priče .Ona je nema. Njena tišina nije slabost, već oružje. Ona govori rukama, pogledom, prisustvom koje ne može biti ignorisano. I upravo u toj tišini leži njena snaga - jer ona ne mora da izgovori bol da bi bio stvaran. Ona ga nosi. Ona ga pretvara u pokret, u odluku, u borbu. A i ona ima svoje tajne, neke koje je sama shvatila i sakrila, kao što je njena moć da predvidi blisku budućnost.... a neke će tek otkriti nakon napada Istlenda.
A onda dolazi on.
Sakupljač veštica.
Kao neko ko razbija granice između neprijatelja i saveznika, između tame i svetla. Jer u ovom svetu, ništa nije jednostavno. Ni on. Ni ona. Ni ono što ih povezuje.
Jer šta učiniti kada onaj koga ste zakleli da ćete ubiti postane jedini koji može da spasi sve što je ostalo? Šta učiniti kada istina počne da razara sve ono u šta ste verovali? Kada linija između dobra i zla postane tanka kao led koji puca pod nogama?
A najopasnije pitanje dolazi tiho.
Šta učiniti kada neprijatelj prestane da bude neprijatelj - i počne da vam uzima srce?
Ova knjiga nosi hladnoću zime, ali i vatru koja tinja ispod nje.
Donekle mi je žao što nisam je stavila u zimsko štivo jer je savršena za hladne dane.
Proza je bogata, atmosferska, gotovo opipljiva - kao da svaka rečenica ima težinu sveta koji nosi. Likovi nisu samo likovi - oni su slojevi, kontradikcije, odluke koje bole.
Odlično konstruisani, a ono što osvežava je da iako Reina koristi znakovni jezik, ona zapravo odlično komunicira i vrlo zrelo prosudjuje i ljude i situacije.
Nema dramskih natezanja već je radnja izuzetno bogata događajima i ne ostavlja prostor za razvlačenje i zastajanje .
I možda je upravo to ono što ostaje nakon poslednje stranice.
Ne radnja. Ne zaplet.
Već osećaj.
Kao da ste hodali kroz sneg koji škripi pod nogama, dok negde u daljini gori svet koji više ne može da bude isti.
''You'll never move forward if you never leave things behind ''
Vrlo sam prijatno iznenađena knjigom, iako sam ušla u priču sa malim očekivanjima, a desilo se da zanemarim sve obaveze i prepustim se ovoj pustolovini do smeha, suza, do momenata kad izostavljam i san da bi znala šta se dalje dešava.
Likova je mnogo, iako dominiraju ovo dvoje o kojima sam pisala, a uložen je trud i u fina objašnjavanja geografskih pojmova, mesta, sela, gradova i svega što je ubačeno u politiku koja se sa ovom knjigom zapravo tek otvara.
Jedva čekam da pređem na nastavak. Koliko mi je poznato tri knjige su izašle plus novela, a od 2025. su još uvek u isčekivanju još dve knjige u serijalu.
''At least the last thing i will every lay my eyes upon in this long life is a powerful woman of both beaury and fury. A soul delicate yet wild and so deeply moving-even if she does wish me dead.''
''Mother used to say that grief always strikes when we least espect it, and that we rarely realize how those we love inhabit even the most seemingly inconsequential parts of our lives. It's in those moments tat the pain of their absense strikes so much deeper, because the time we took for granted suddenly shines in sharp relief.''
Postoje knjige koje čitate… i postoje one koje Vas uzmu, zaviju u tišinu zime i više Vas ne puste iste.
The Witch Collector pripada toj drugoj vrsti - koja ne traži pažnju, već je uzima, polako, ali neumoljivo, dok ne shvatite da više ne čitate priču, već živite u njoj.
Sve počinje u svetu gde svaka godina nosi isti strah. Žetva ne znači samo plodove - već i gubitak. Jer tada dolazi Sakupljač veštica. Dolazi po one koji imaju dar, po one koji nikada nisu tražili svoju moć, ali su njome obeleženi. Rejna to zna bolje od svih. Njena sestra Nefel odvedena je pre mnogo godina, ostavljajući iza sebe prazninu koja nikada nije zarasla. Od tog trenutka, Rejna ne živi - ona čeka. Sprema se. Zaklinje se.
Zaklinje se da će pronaći njega. Da će upotrebiti bodež koji njen otac nije bez razloga nazvao „ubica bogova“. Da će ubiti čoveka ili besmrtnog o kome kruže priče tamnije od noći.
Ali svet nikada ne čeka da Vi budete spremni.
Pre nego što uspe da ode, pre nego što krene putem osvete, njeno selo biva progutano plamenom.
Mračne sile Istlenda ne ostavljaju ništa iza sebe osim pepela. Sve što je volela - nestaje u noći iznenadnog napada, tik pred sam dolazak Aleksusa, sakupljača veštica.
Ono što je zanimljivo jeste da je ovo dualni POV, dakle imamo i Rejnina i Aleksusova poglavlja iz njihovog ugla.
Aleksus je zapravo na put krenuo znajući da ide baš po Rejnu,
devojku koja je nema, koristi znakovni jezik ali do sada nije obeležena kao da ima moć.
Postoji nešto što Aleksus zna što se neće videti u ovoj knjizi, zato su njegovi postupci dosta nepredvidivi i čudni od samog početka.
On ide ka njoj da je ubedi da pođe sa njim. Ona ga čeka sa namerom da ga ubije.
Oboje bivaju iznenađeni mračnim silama Istlenda koje su spalile sva sela kroz koja su prošla, sa gavranom na ramenima i moćima nikad vidjenim do tada.
Rejna odjednom sve gubi.
''You try so hard to hide it''she says, ''yet a mother knows her child bettret than all else. Do not let your loathing lead you-or us -to trouble, Raina. If you're going to promise me anything, promise me that.''
Ovo nije priča koja se razvija blago. Ovo je priča koja Vas baca u svet ledenih kraljevstava, drevnih bogova, runa koje pulsiraju moći, veštica, iscelitelja i ljudi koji nose darove koje ne razumeju do kraja. Ovo je svet gde politika tinja ispod svakog susreta, gde se moć ne pokazuje otvoreno, već se oseća u svakom pogledu, svakoj odluci, svakom ćutanju.
The Witch Collector nije samo romantasy. Nije samo priča o neprijateljima koji postaju nešto više. Ovo je slojevita, intenzivna, duboko napisana priča koja balansira između New Adult senzibiliteta i ozbiljne, gotovo teške high fantasy konstrukcije.
Ovde se emocija ne odvaja od sveta - ona je njegov deo. Kao i intriga. Kao i rat.
Rejna je srce ove priče .Ona je nema. Njena tišina nije slabost, već oružje. Ona govori rukama, pogledom, prisustvom koje ne može biti ignorisano. I upravo u toj tišini leži njena snaga - jer ona ne mora da izgovori bol da bi bio stvaran. Ona ga nosi. Ona ga pretvara u pokret, u odluku, u borbu. A i ona ima svoje tajne, neke koje je sama shvatila i sakrila, kao što je njena moć da predvidi blisku budućnost.... a neke će tek otkriti nakon napada Istlenda.
A onda dolazi on.
Sakupljač veštica.
Kao neko ko razbija granice između neprijatelja i saveznika, između tame i svetla. Jer u ovom svetu, ništa nije jednostavno. Ni on. Ni ona. Ni ono što ih povezuje.
Jer šta učiniti kada onaj koga ste zakleli da ćete ubiti postane jedini koji može da spasi sve što je ostalo? Šta učiniti kada istina počne da razara sve ono u šta ste verovali? Kada linija između dobra i zla postane tanka kao led koji puca pod nogama?
A najopasnije pitanje dolazi tiho.
Šta učiniti kada neprijatelj prestane da bude neprijatelj - i počne da vam uzima srce?
Ova knjiga nosi hladnoću zime, ali i vatru koja tinja ispod nje.
Donekle mi je žao što nisam je stavila u zimsko štivo jer je savršena za hladne dane.
Proza je bogata, atmosferska, gotovo opipljiva - kao da svaka rečenica ima težinu sveta koji nosi. Likovi nisu samo likovi - oni su slojevi, kontradikcije, odluke koje bole.
Odlično konstruisani, a ono što osvežava je da iako Reina koristi znakovni jezik, ona zapravo odlično komunicira i vrlo zrelo prosudjuje i ljude i situacije.
Nema dramskih natezanja već je radnja izuzetno bogata događajima i ne ostavlja prostor za razvlačenje i zastajanje .
I možda je upravo to ono što ostaje nakon poslednje stranice.
Ne radnja. Ne zaplet.
Već osećaj.
Kao da ste hodali kroz sneg koji škripi pod nogama, dok negde u daljini gori svet koji više ne može da bude isti.
''You'll never move forward if you never leave things behind ''
Vrlo sam prijatno iznenađena knjigom, iako sam ušla u priču sa malim očekivanjima, a desilo se da zanemarim sve obaveze i prepustim se ovoj pustolovini do smeha, suza, do momenata kad izostavljam i san da bi znala šta se dalje dešava.
Likova je mnogo, iako dominiraju ovo dvoje o kojima sam pisala, a uložen je trud i u fina objašnjavanja geografskih pojmova, mesta, sela, gradova i svega što je ubačeno u politiku koja se sa ovom knjigom zapravo tek otvara.
Jedva čekam da pređem na nastavak. Koliko mi je poznato tri knjige su izašle plus novela, a od 2025. su još uvek u isčekivanju još dve knjige u serijalu.
''At least the last thing i will every lay my eyes upon in this long life is a powerful woman of both beaury and fury. A soul delicate yet wild and so deeply moving-even if she does wish me dead.''
March 10, 2026
So many thoughts are racing through my brain right now!
Such a fast paced wonderful romantasy!
Talk about a ssssllloooowwww burn!
When will I ever learn not to start books where the series is still going????
Phew, now that I got some of those thoughts out, I loved this book. I felt immediately connected with Raina and felt so bad for her. Losing her sister and then her father. I didn't blame her one bit for hating the Witch Collector and the Frost King. Raina is such a strong individual, she thrives even being nonverbal in a world where many do not bother to learn her sign language and even without her witches marks, she knows she has power and plans to use everything she has to save her sister. Of course, it doesn't quite go to plan when the Eastlanders attack when the Witch Collector arrives. Instead of ending the Witch Collector, Raina saves him and journeys with him to Winterhold to find her sister.
I also appreciated the view point of the Witch Collector, Alexus, this helped me understand the reality of the Witch Collector and the Frost King, and I loved knowing his thoughts for Raina from the beginning. The fact that Alexus learned sign language from Nephele and could communicate with Raina melted my heart.
I enjoyed Raina and Alexus' banter in the beginning and how they came to understand each other and their perspectives. While it was a very slow burn, it was worth the wait!
The action was constant as was getting puzzle pieces to see how it all fit together, it kept me immersed in the story and I could not stop until I finished the book!
Of course, the story left on a cliff-hanger, so I immediately purchased the sequels but I see we are still waiting for book 4! I hope it comes out soon since I will be reading book 2 and 3 ASAP!
The audiobook was amazing, the narrators did a great job with their characters and I enjoyed the chapters from Nephele and Colden as well!
Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, an Charissa Weaks for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Such a fast paced wonderful romantasy!
Talk about a ssssllloooowwww burn!
When will I ever learn not to start books where the series is still going????
Phew, now that I got some of those thoughts out, I loved this book. I felt immediately connected with Raina and felt so bad for her. Losing her sister and then her father. I didn't blame her one bit for hating the Witch Collector and the Frost King. Raina is such a strong individual, she thrives even being nonverbal in a world where many do not bother to learn her sign language and even without her witches marks, she knows she has power and plans to use everything she has to save her sister. Of course, it doesn't quite go to plan when the Eastlanders attack when the Witch Collector arrives. Instead of ending the Witch Collector, Raina saves him and journeys with him to Winterhold to find her sister.
I also appreciated the view point of the Witch Collector, Alexus, this helped me understand the reality of the Witch Collector and the Frost King, and I loved knowing his thoughts for Raina from the beginning. The fact that Alexus learned sign language from Nephele and could communicate with Raina melted my heart.
I enjoyed Raina and Alexus' banter in the beginning and how they came to understand each other and their perspectives. While it was a very slow burn, it was worth the wait!
The action was constant as was getting puzzle pieces to see how it all fit together, it kept me immersed in the story and I could not stop until I finished the book!
Of course, the story left on a cliff-hanger, so I immediately purchased the sequels but I see we are still waiting for book 4! I hope it comes out soon since I will be reading book 2 and 3 ASAP!
The audiobook was amazing, the narrators did a great job with their characters and I enjoyed the chapters from Nephele and Colden as well!
Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, an Charissa Weaks for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
March 9, 2026
Once there was a (secretly) powerful witch named Raina who lived in a small, cold village with her family. Every day, she plots revenge against the men who took her sister Nephele eight years ago: the Frost King Colden and his henchman, the Witch Collector.
On Collecting Day, when her plan is finally about to come to a head, everything changes, and Raina is forced to form a very tenuous alliance with the very man she vowed to kill.
As she travels with the Collector named Alexus, Raina begins to uncover new revelations about the history of her kingdom, the King, and Alexus himself. The bond they start to build is formed brick by brick, and as their trust grows, so do their reluctant feelings for each other.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I could see Raina’s true character from the beginning, so I never had the “why is she doing that?” frustration I sometimes get with fantasy romance novels. Alexus comes across as incredibly stoic at first, but when his walls begin to crack under Raina’s empathy and tenderness, the character progression feels natural and believable. By the end, it feels less like reading about fictional characters and more like watching two people you already understand grow together.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy vibrant world-building, twist-filled plots, and enemies-to-lovers romance.
The audiobook narrators truly bring the story to life. The heartbreak Raina experiences at the beginning is perfectly captured in the emotion and intensity of the female narrator’s performance, while Alexus’s inner struggles with his past are beautifully conveyed by the male narrator.
My only minor complaint was the pacing when the narration switched between voices. I usually listen at a slightly faster speed, but I found myself needing to slow it down for the male narrator.
On Collecting Day, when her plan is finally about to come to a head, everything changes, and Raina is forced to form a very tenuous alliance with the very man she vowed to kill.
As she travels with the Collector named Alexus, Raina begins to uncover new revelations about the history of her kingdom, the King, and Alexus himself. The bond they start to build is formed brick by brick, and as their trust grows, so do their reluctant feelings for each other.
I enjoyed this book immensely. I could see Raina’s true character from the beginning, so I never had the “why is she doing that?” frustration I sometimes get with fantasy romance novels. Alexus comes across as incredibly stoic at first, but when his walls begin to crack under Raina’s empathy and tenderness, the character progression feels natural and believable. By the end, it feels less like reading about fictional characters and more like watching two people you already understand grow together.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy vibrant world-building, twist-filled plots, and enemies-to-lovers romance.
The audiobook narrators truly bring the story to life. The heartbreak Raina experiences at the beginning is perfectly captured in the emotion and intensity of the female narrator’s performance, while Alexus’s inner struggles with his past are beautifully conveyed by the male narrator.
My only minor complaint was the pacing when the narration switched between voices. I usually listen at a slightly faster speed, but I found myself needing to slow it down for the male narrator.
March 10, 2026
Thank you Tantor Audio and Charissa Weaks for an advance copy of this audiobook.
I have read a previous version of this book and appreciated the audio version with the new chapters included. Nephele’s added POV does help round out this story. There were some moments with the audio when the male POV chapters seemed louder than the female POV chapters. It was a little jarring at first but after a bit I barely noticed.
This is an interesting start to a series. There was a significant amount of world building but it was woven into the characters getting to know each other, and did not feel like a huge info dump. My favorite thing about this book was Raina is nonverbal and even the villains never treated her as less due to this. Raina is fierce and powerful. I really enjoyed what she brought to the story. She wasn’t a door mat and pushed back if someone was going against what she thought was right. The push and pull between Raina and Alexus was delicious. Though the third time of “will they won’t they” it was getting a little stale. Overall, this was highly enjoyable and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
What I liked
- Raina vs the crows
- Raina showing up to the sword fight with a scythe
- Alexus’ fanboy level of adoration for Raina
- Helena’s unwavering support and affection for Raina
What I didn’t like
- The spice not quite spicin’ time and time again
- The time in the magical woods taking sooo long. I was tired of reading it. The characters were tired. Heck, even the horses were tired.
I have read a previous version of this book and appreciated the audio version with the new chapters included. Nephele’s added POV does help round out this story. There were some moments with the audio when the male POV chapters seemed louder than the female POV chapters. It was a little jarring at first but after a bit I barely noticed.
This is an interesting start to a series. There was a significant amount of world building but it was woven into the characters getting to know each other, and did not feel like a huge info dump. My favorite thing about this book was Raina is nonverbal and even the villains never treated her as less due to this. Raina is fierce and powerful. I really enjoyed what she brought to the story. She wasn’t a door mat and pushed back if someone was going against what she thought was right. The push and pull between Raina and Alexus was delicious. Though the third time of “will they won’t they” it was getting a little stale. Overall, this was highly enjoyable and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
What I liked
- Raina vs the crows
- Raina showing up to the sword fight with a scythe
- Alexus’ fanboy level of adoration for Raina
- Helena’s unwavering support and affection for Raina
What I didn’t like
- The spice not quite spicin’ time and time again
- The time in the magical woods taking sooo long. I was tired of reading it. The characters were tired. Heck, even the horses were tired.
May 21, 2026
Raina is a mute who can weave spells by singing them with her hands. What a different way to give power to sign language! Raina has made a whole lot of assumptions about the frost king and his witch collector because her sister was taken 8 years prior. Over time she finds out her assertions were completely wrong. Alexus (the witch collector) is doing his job to keep the kingdom safe. His POVs throughout give a lot of depth and explanation to what is going on. He definitely falls first and their relationship develops sssslllooowww. But the payoff in the end is so worth it.
The shadow prince of the east has stolen power. Throughout he seems invincible as he wipes out innocents just for existing. There is no lack of violence within these pages. It does not exactly end 0n a cliffhanger but is to be continued. I will read the next one to find out what happens to Alexus and Raina.
Why I couldn’t give that 5th star? A good portion of the book is spent in a frozen construct in the Frostwater Wood with Alexus and Raina trudging through. And I mean trudging, because for a bit that’s what I felt like reading it at one point. Also, Alexus gets hurt, and has to be healed 3x - after the 2nd time he looked much weaker than he allegedly was supposed to be. The Northlanders get their asses handed to them by someone without a name. That just got a bit old. It’s worth the read in the end…just hoping for a bit more of a badass than what was delivered here.
The shadow prince of the east has stolen power. Throughout he seems invincible as he wipes out innocents just for existing. There is no lack of violence within these pages. It does not exactly end 0n a cliffhanger but is to be continued. I will read the next one to find out what happens to Alexus and Raina.
Why I couldn’t give that 5th star? A good portion of the book is spent in a frozen construct in the Frostwater Wood with Alexus and Raina trudging through. And I mean trudging, because for a bit that’s what I felt like reading it at one point. Also, Alexus gets hurt, and has to be healed 3x - after the 2nd time he looked much weaker than he allegedly was supposed to be. The Northlanders get their asses handed to them by someone without a name. That just got a bit old. It’s worth the read in the end…just hoping for a bit more of a badass than what was delivered here.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Finished The Witch Collector ALC this morning and I’m honestly a little conflicted.
I really enjoyed the story itself, but the narration made it a bit of a struggle for me. The female narrator sounded very nasal, almost like she had a cold, and when she voiced male characters she emphasized the first letter of nearly every word, which was quite distracting. The male narrator felt rushed and somewhat monotonous, often reading without much emotion. At times it sounded like he was salivating or spitting directly into the mic. And when he voiced female characters… it genuinely reminded me of King Fergus from Brave mimicking Merida’s protests about marriage.
That said, I did enjoy the story. I’m not the biggest fan of insta-love (and you have to admit - this one happens in literally a matter of days), but I still found myself invested. I especially appreciated the disability representation and how it was woven into the magic system - it felt unique and thoughtful.
I connected easily with the characters, and the yearning and tension between them were definitely palpable. The world itself was really intriguing too, and I’d love to learn more about it as the series continues.
I’m definitely excited to dive into the next book… but I think I’ll be eyeball reading that one this time. 🙃
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the ALC.
I really enjoyed the story itself, but the narration made it a bit of a struggle for me. The female narrator sounded very nasal, almost like she had a cold, and when she voiced male characters she emphasized the first letter of nearly every word, which was quite distracting. The male narrator felt rushed and somewhat monotonous, often reading without much emotion. At times it sounded like he was salivating or spitting directly into the mic. And when he voiced female characters… it genuinely reminded me of King Fergus from Brave mimicking Merida’s protests about marriage.
That said, I did enjoy the story. I’m not the biggest fan of insta-love (and you have to admit - this one happens in literally a matter of days), but I still found myself invested. I especially appreciated the disability representation and how it was woven into the magic system - it felt unique and thoughtful.
I connected easily with the characters, and the yearning and tension between them were definitely palpable. The world itself was really intriguing too, and I’d love to learn more about it as the series continues.
I’m definitely excited to dive into the next book… but I think I’ll be eyeball reading that one this time. 🙃
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the ALC.
March 16, 2026
Listening to the 2nd edition of
The Witch Collector
was a sure thing for me cos this was my 3rd time reading/listening but my first for the 2nd edition. Back in 2023, I had read and then later listened to The Witch Collector and both times, it's been a 5⭐ read for me.
This series has been such a favorite of mine. I love how unique it feels in a sea of romantasy that sometimes feels like we are reading the same tropes over and over. I truly love the complexity of the plot involving gods and kings and at the center of it all, there are several love stories but for this book specifically, we get Raina and Alexus. For someone jumping in for the first time, know you are getting a story that has only been strengthened by the experience Charissa has deep into writing this series. I really enjoyed the addition of Nephele's POV sprinkled in the book. Because it's been over 2 years since I read the original edition, I honestly couldn't pick out the additions in Raina and Alexus' chapters.
Some highlights for me:
✨ Non-verbal FMC who uses sign language
✨ Witches' magic show up as marks on their body
✨ 1-sided enemies to lovers (she starts out wanting to end him!)
✨ MC who's so down bad for the FMC
Thank you so much to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for providing a copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
This series has been such a favorite of mine. I love how unique it feels in a sea of romantasy that sometimes feels like we are reading the same tropes over and over. I truly love the complexity of the plot involving gods and kings and at the center of it all, there are several love stories but for this book specifically, we get Raina and Alexus. For someone jumping in for the first time, know you are getting a story that has only been strengthened by the experience Charissa has deep into writing this series. I really enjoyed the addition of Nephele's POV sprinkled in the book. Because it's been over 2 years since I read the original edition, I honestly couldn't pick out the additions in Raina and Alexus' chapters.
Some highlights for me:
✨ Non-verbal FMC who uses sign language
✨ Witches' magic show up as marks on their body
✨ 1-sided enemies to lovers (she starts out wanting to end him!)
✨ MC who's so down bad for the FMC
Thank you so much to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for providing a copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
March 17, 2026
✨ Audio ARC generously provided by NetGalley & Tantor Audio✨
I first read the original edition of the Witch Collector several years ago, and was thrilled to receive an ARC of the updated edition. Charissa and her team have done a wonderful job of finessing this already great story.
In a sea of romantasy novels, the Witch Collector has always stood out in my memory as a unique exception to many of the unwritten rules of the genre.
Raina is a witch with no voice among a people who channel their magic through song. Already at a disadvantage, she has had to master both her powers (and day-to-day communication) through a unique form of sign language. This laid the groundwork for a fascinating, resourceful and stubborn character.
While the enemies-to-lovers-journey-on-horseback-reluctant-allies trope is a bit tired, I enjoyed the cast of characters and overarching story. The addition of more Nephele content to this revised edition helps to break up the monotony of ye-olde-roadtrip and helped offer more valuable perspective.
As an audiobook, while I prefer duet narration wherever possible, both Tim and Meg are great narrators, and really helped bring the story to life.
Overall, I really enjoyed this rewrite, and will absolutely be revisiting the remainder of the series.
I first read the original edition of the Witch Collector several years ago, and was thrilled to receive an ARC of the updated edition. Charissa and her team have done a wonderful job of finessing this already great story.
In a sea of romantasy novels, the Witch Collector has always stood out in my memory as a unique exception to many of the unwritten rules of the genre.
Raina is a witch with no voice among a people who channel their magic through song. Already at a disadvantage, she has had to master both her powers (and day-to-day communication) through a unique form of sign language. This laid the groundwork for a fascinating, resourceful and stubborn character.
While the enemies-to-lovers-journey-on-horseback-reluctant-allies trope is a bit tired, I enjoyed the cast of characters and overarching story. The addition of more Nephele content to this revised edition helps to break up the monotony of ye-olde-roadtrip and helped offer more valuable perspective.
As an audiobook, while I prefer duet narration wherever possible, both Tim and Meg are great narrators, and really helped bring the story to life.
Overall, I really enjoyed this rewrite, and will absolutely be revisiting the remainder of the series.
March 17, 2026
I really enjoyed most of this book. The pacing was good, even during the introductory phase and the characters and the world well developed. The plot was fast and engaging. The lore was easy to follow and understand, revealing just how enough to answer the reader’s questions while holding back just enough to give us a nice surprise at the end.
The part of this story that I struggled with was the climax. There was a lot happening and some of the POV switches confused me. I also kept zoning out because the scene was too long for my short attention span. Ultimately I had to listen to these chapters several times before I felt I had a good grasp on all the moving parts.
Additionally there was a smut scene near the end that felt like it unnecessarily held up the ending of the story without adding much. Ultimately, there was enough here to hook me into reading the sequel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this audio arc in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed the female narrator and wish she’d narrated the whole book rather than switching Narrators when the POV switched.
The part of this story that I struggled with was the climax. There was a lot happening and some of the POV switches confused me. I also kept zoning out because the scene was too long for my short attention span. Ultimately I had to listen to these chapters several times before I felt I had a good grasp on all the moving parts.
Additionally there was a smut scene near the end that felt like it unnecessarily held up the ending of the story without adding much. Ultimately, there was enough here to hook me into reading the sequel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this audio arc in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed the female narrator and wish she’d narrated the whole book rather than switching Narrators when the POV switched.
April 13, 2026
Bare with me...
The story starts out talking about this terrible witch collector and a king that is also terrible with no description as to why besides that they take the witches of the vale and use them for their own resources. However the stories and tales being told are so falsely depicted its like that story that gets flipped 50 times before it lands upon your own ears. Raina has no real reason to hate the king or the witch collector other than the fact that her sister was taken but later find out she wanted to be there all along.
Raina has blood for the witch collector and the frost king to the point of making a deviststingly short coming plan to kill them. And then she finally meets the witch collector and he is smitten over her immediately saying that he has watched for the entirety of his years collecting witches. What im getting at here is the entire first half was confusing af. Its like the author just haphazardly threw together ideas without actually having a concrete story behind it.
But.... the second half seems to just weave a beautiful blanket of words and understanding. Overall if you can get thru the first half its worth it but godspeed.
The story starts out talking about this terrible witch collector and a king that is also terrible with no description as to why besides that they take the witches of the vale and use them for their own resources. However the stories and tales being told are so falsely depicted its like that story that gets flipped 50 times before it lands upon your own ears. Raina has no real reason to hate the king or the witch collector other than the fact that her sister was taken but later find out she wanted to be there all along.
Raina has blood for the witch collector and the frost king to the point of making a deviststingly short coming plan to kill them. And then she finally meets the witch collector and he is smitten over her immediately saying that he has watched for the entirety of his years collecting witches. What im getting at here is the entire first half was confusing af. Its like the author just haphazardly threw together ideas without actually having a concrete story behind it.
But.... the second half seems to just weave a beautiful blanket of words and understanding. Overall if you can get thru the first half its worth it but godspeed.
March 9, 2026
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for an ALC to listen to and review before publishing.
There are several reasons why I am excited for Charissa Weaks's re-release of The Witch Collector, but the main reason is that I get to yell about it from the rooftops all over again. (Did I ever really stop? Good point.)
The audiobook for The Witch Collector is one of my favorites. I absolutely adore both Meg Sylvan and Tim Campbell as narrators and feel as though they do a great job with this duel narration. They are each able to deliver differing performances for all of the characters that allow the reader to become immersed in the story without being jarred out of the flow when switching between speakers. Not every narrator can do this, and they do a phenomenal job.
The Witch Collector is one of my favorite Romantasy reads with a unique magic system, a diverse cast of characters, and immaculate world building. The addition of the Nephele chapters puts this already fantastic book even that higher on my list of favorites.
There are several reasons why I am excited for Charissa Weaks's re-release of The Witch Collector, but the main reason is that I get to yell about it from the rooftops all over again. (Did I ever really stop? Good point.)
The audiobook for The Witch Collector is one of my favorites. I absolutely adore both Meg Sylvan and Tim Campbell as narrators and feel as though they do a great job with this duel narration. They are each able to deliver differing performances for all of the characters that allow the reader to become immersed in the story without being jarred out of the flow when switching between speakers. Not every narrator can do this, and they do a phenomenal job.
The Witch Collector is one of my favorite Romantasy reads with a unique magic system, a diverse cast of characters, and immaculate world building. The addition of the Nephele chapters puts this already fantastic book even that higher on my list of favorites.
March 13, 2026
A great start to this Romantasy fantasy series! I had not read the previously published version of this story but really enjoyed this one.
Raina has spent her life plotting how she is going to get revenge for the kidnapping of her sister by the Witch Collector. As her own magic, at least what is known, is very weak as Raina can not speak, her sister was taken in her place. However, when she is later still taken by the Witch Collector, she starts to find that everything, including her sister, may not be how it has always appeared.
I enjoyed the narration of this story. If you love a SLOW-BURN, you will love this!
Thank you Netgalley, Charissa Weaks and Tanton Audio for this ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Raina has spent her life plotting how she is going to get revenge for the kidnapping of her sister by the Witch Collector. As her own magic, at least what is known, is very weak as Raina can not speak, her sister was taken in her place. However, when she is later still taken by the Witch Collector, she starts to find that everything, including her sister, may not be how it has always appeared.
I enjoyed the narration of this story. If you love a SLOW-BURN, you will love this!
Thank you Netgalley, Charissa Weaks and Tanton Audio for this ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 19, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC of this book. I read this book last year and fell in love with the characters and the series itself. When the author announced a second edition for book one and I saw that an audiobook was available I jumped on the chance to listen to this story. I loved this when I read it, but it was even better as audio!! Both narrators are great, but Meg Sylvan is AMAZING! I felt the emotions when reading the first time around because the writing is so good, but hearing it, I was brought to tears more than once. Meg pulls you in and you hear the joy, the sadness, the anger and the desperation in her voice as she reads. She truly elevates this book and I’m even more obsessed with Alexus and Raina💙
March 23, 2026
4.5 Stars
I listened to the previous audio, and am so glad I jumped on the rerelease! Stil a great story, but some of the updates made it even better!
This story is so unique and incredibly captivating.
The world building and character development are so strong. There is a lot to learn throughout the plot but it is so wonderfully uncovered in small doses.
With a non verbal FMC this story tackles magic and obstacles in such inspirational ways. The characters are very likeable and relatable; their relationships evolve throughout and become so special. The romance is a tension-filled slow-burn that is absolutely worth the wait.
I am absolutely looking forward to book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC copy.
I listened to the previous audio, and am so glad I jumped on the rerelease! Stil a great story, but some of the updates made it even better!
This story is so unique and incredibly captivating.
The world building and character development are so strong. There is a lot to learn throughout the plot but it is so wonderfully uncovered in small doses.
With a non verbal FMC this story tackles magic and obstacles in such inspirational ways. The characters are very likeable and relatable; their relationships evolve throughout and become so special. The romance is a tension-filled slow-burn that is absolutely worth the wait.
I am absolutely looking forward to book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC copy.
April 12, 2026
Just....phenomenal. This is one of my absolute favorite series, and getting to revisit the second edition of the first book in new updated audio made me SO HAPPY. Charissa Weaks has such a beautiful talent for writing. Vivid description, intense emotions, complex characters, detailed storybuilding, and fantastic world creation.
The voice actors, Meg Sylvan and Tim Campbell, did a great job. This is recorded with duet narration, and the performances they gave absolutely brought the story to life. This is one that I know I will revisit again to reread (especially as the rest of the series is updated and completed!) Amazing, 10/10, I recommend this series 100 times over.
Thank you to the publisher for an ALC. All opinions are my own.
The voice actors, Meg Sylvan and Tim Campbell, did a great job. This is recorded with duet narration, and the performances they gave absolutely brought the story to life. This is one that I know I will revisit again to reread (especially as the rest of the series is updated and completed!) Amazing, 10/10, I recommend this series 100 times over.
Thank you to the publisher for an ALC. All opinions are my own.
March 31, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to listen to this ARC audiobook.
I really enjoyed the characters and their development in this book. The non-verbal FMC was depicted so eloquently. Her disability was woven into the story and helped drive the plot, rather than hindering and/or anchoring it down.
I deducted a star because the middle of the book was sloooow. Just 75 chapters of conversation and riding through the woods. Even after all of that, I still didn’t feel like the history with the God-knife and the magic system was explained clearly enough.
Overall it was a great read and I am interested to see where the next book goes!
I really enjoyed the characters and their development in this book. The non-verbal FMC was depicted so eloquently. Her disability was woven into the story and helped drive the plot, rather than hindering and/or anchoring it down.
I deducted a star because the middle of the book was sloooow. Just 75 chapters of conversation and riding through the woods. Even after all of that, I still didn’t feel like the history with the God-knife and the magic system was explained clearly enough.
Overall it was a great read and I am interested to see where the next book goes!
March 14, 2026
Thanks NetGalley for the ALC of the audiobook.
I have been a fan of this book for a while, and the audiobook is wonderfully done.
Hooked from the first moment. Raina is a mute witch within a society of singers- magic is spun through singing. While she is able to produce magic through sign language, she does not have witch marks on her. This makes her safe from being collected by the Witch Collector. Until her village is attacked and she finds herself travelling with him.
The unique magic system is great, as is the romance and kind MMC. Chefs kiss!
I have been a fan of this book for a while, and the audiobook is wonderfully done.
Hooked from the first moment. Raina is a mute witch within a society of singers- magic is spun through singing. While she is able to produce magic through sign language, she does not have witch marks on her. This makes her safe from being collected by the Witch Collector. Until her village is attacked and she finds herself travelling with him.
The unique magic system is great, as is the romance and kind MMC. Chefs kiss!
March 31, 2026
Intriguing!!
I really liked this one!! It was a good mix of all the feels, and the world building is great! I can picture everything in my mind’s eye, and the story had a nice pace all through. I have terrible memory, so it was a little difficult with all the names 🙈 And so many of the names didn’t give away the gender, so it got confusing at times.. But I can’t wait to start the next one🥹
I really liked this one!! It was a good mix of all the feels, and the world building is great! I can picture everything in my mind’s eye, and the story had a nice pace all through. I have terrible memory, so it was a little difficult with all the names 🙈 And so many of the names didn’t give away the gender, so it got confusing at times.. But I can’t wait to start the next one🥹
March 11, 2026
I forgot just how good this series is and the newly released audiobook makes it even better. I love these characters and the absolute beast of world building this book has, some of the best in the romantasy genre. There is so much to unpack in these books and I’m so happy to be back in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the ALC of this book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the ALC of this book!
March 25, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC
I loved this! The narration by Tim Campbell and Meg Sylvan brought the world and characters to life, and made this such a fun listen. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
I loved this! The narration by Tim Campbell and Meg Sylvan brought the world and characters to life, and made this such a fun listen. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
March 5, 2026
a journey worth reading
From start to finish this book was captivating. The love the humor the anguish.
100% worth it I’m already buying the 2nd book
From start to finish this book was captivating. The love the humor the anguish.
100% worth it I’m already buying the 2nd book
March 18, 2026
love it!
A beautiful world with wonderful and inspiring characters. I appreciate the thought and detail that went into this book and can’t wait to read the next!
A beautiful world with wonderful and inspiring characters. I appreciate the thought and detail that went into this book and can’t wait to read the next!
April 2, 2026
Wow
You had me caught up in this story from the begining to end. I can't wait to read the next book. Amazing and disruptive made my heart pound.
You had me caught up in this story from the begining to end. I can't wait to read the next book. Amazing and disruptive made my heart pound.
April 4, 2026
This book was not for me, I felt like it was a bit of a slow read. The reviews i read said it was a spicy book and was definitely not..I guess compared to what? but I personally did not connect with this book
April 13, 2026
20/10 could not put down.
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