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The Hour of Witches #4
Witch Summoned
I really need to run when the past comes knocking.
Just when I thought my troubles were behind me, who should invade my pub but the same fae duchess who accused me of murder? Now she needs help, but I trust her about as much as I do an unlabelled bottle behind the bar.
She wants Trace to use his stolen souls to save the wall that divides the mundane world from the supernatural. On the surface, her plan benefits everyone. Trace needs a safe place to release the souls, and if the wall falls, we’re talking diplomatic disaster. But the risks are high, and failure could mean Trace’s death. Not that she’s giving us a choice.
Although the realm is an incredible place, it doesn’t take long to realize there’s more going on than the duchess claimed. Something is following us, I have no idea if we can trust our guide, and the amount of magic everywhere we go is testing Trace's control over his guests.
Our window for success is closing quickly, and if we fail, we’ll face a magical rupture that could change the world forever.
Just when I thought my troubles were behind me, who should invade my pub but the same fae duchess who accused me of murder? Now she needs help, but I trust her about as much as I do an unlabelled bottle behind the bar.
She wants Trace to use his stolen souls to save the wall that divides the mundane world from the supernatural. On the surface, her plan benefits everyone. Trace needs a safe place to release the souls, and if the wall falls, we’re talking diplomatic disaster. But the risks are high, and failure could mean Trace’s death. Not that she’s giving us a choice.
Although the realm is an incredible place, it doesn’t take long to realize there’s more going on than the duchess claimed. Something is following us, I have no idea if we can trust our guide, and the amount of magic everywhere we go is testing Trace's control over his guests.
Our window for success is closing quickly, and if we fail, we’ll face a magical rupture that could change the world forever.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2026
About the author
Krista Walsh
46 books208 followersKnown for witty, vivid characters, Krista Walsh never has more fun than getting them into trouble and taking her time getting them out.
When not writing, she can be found walking, reading, gaming, or watching a film – anything to get lost in a good story.
She currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario
When not writing, she can be found walking, reading, gaming, or watching a film – anything to get lost in a good story.
She currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh boy, this book starts off with a very distinct "be careful what you put out there" vibe! And I love it! Because, yes, Alyssa is going about her days... doing normal stuff and relishing every second. She's been through the mill with one traumatic catastrophe after the other, running the bar with her best friend Simon, is a good kind of normal. Still not ideal, just a breather from what's lurking in her head, waiting for the other shoe to drop. And lo and behold, Trace is barely back from catching the bad guys and weird happens.... The very Godfatherish Fae duchess, Dara, reappears, with a request. Pfft, more of an ultimatum, thus it begins anew... As Trace says, "the universe likes to keep our lives interesting.” Needless to say, I found it more than interesting, this book, as with all of this author's books, I'm riveted!
The wall between the realms is in danger of collapsing, the queen's magic sustains it but Meril's magic has gone wonky and desperate times call for desperate measures. Trace is running out of time, his battle to contain the souls within him is reaching fever pitch. Trace and Alyssa have been searching for a way to release the souls and Dara's request might just be the answer. So , with much apprehension, they venture into the mirror realm. Except... Dara isn't forthcoming, she conceals so much, they face innumerous dangers once more. What was a simple "go to the mirror realm, cast a ritual, release the souls, repair the wall", was anything but! My goodness, did they go through the ringer!
The dynamic between Trace and Alyssa is beautiful, full of love, compassion, caring and protectiveness. They have each other's backs, at every turn, even getting into fiercely dangerous situations for the other and hell did Ms Walsh depict this superbly! Both are so immensely likeable, relatable and, honestly, divine. Together and apart. Each with their own set of anxiety, they plod on. But they're not alone. Their friends are there when they need them, the Mooney family is steadfast in support, and Krista does family and found family like no other author. Realistically. Emotionally. Heck, the emotional turmoil both Trace and Alyssa experience would bring anyone to their knees! Not them, they are the epitome of "together we stand, together we overcome" Although, it WAS touch and go on a few occasions, so much so, my pulse rate ran into dangerous territory!
I love the distinctive flavour of Krista's characters, never knowing what or who she'll grace me with as she introduces new characters. A raven, in the guise of Archimedes, had me full on giggling, he's hilarious! Oh heavens did I love the effervescence of Meg! As for Eddie, he blew hot and cold until I decided I REALLY liked his abrasive manner. The existing characters are just as appealing, Chip is a real hoot, brilliant but oh do I love his snark, he's also so nonchalant but is the bestest of friends to Trace, his mate Am is niceness personified, Simon is complexity personified, oh heck, they're all so incredibly well fleshed out, irrespective of how much on page time they get. That's the beauty and brilliance of this author, she give each character a voice, she gives them an identity, good or bad, but always with entire spectrum.
Kept in suspense, tightly wrapped, throughout the book, Krista tightens the noose around my neck, without my realising it, until I'm gasping for breath, the stakes ramping up higher and higher with each chapter, the pounding of my heart escalating. But hells bells, that final battle scene... nothing prepared me for that! I was genuinely afraid from the impactful vividry of the action. This book held me in its grip and wouldn't let go! From start to finish! I wanted to sob at the end....THE BOOK ENDED and I am desperate for more!
The wall between the realms is in danger of collapsing, the queen's magic sustains it but Meril's magic has gone wonky and desperate times call for desperate measures. Trace is running out of time, his battle to contain the souls within him is reaching fever pitch. Trace and Alyssa have been searching for a way to release the souls and Dara's request might just be the answer. So , with much apprehension, they venture into the mirror realm. Except... Dara isn't forthcoming, she conceals so much, they face innumerous dangers once more. What was a simple "go to the mirror realm, cast a ritual, release the souls, repair the wall", was anything but! My goodness, did they go through the ringer!
The dynamic between Trace and Alyssa is beautiful, full of love, compassion, caring and protectiveness. They have each other's backs, at every turn, even getting into fiercely dangerous situations for the other and hell did Ms Walsh depict this superbly! Both are so immensely likeable, relatable and, honestly, divine. Together and apart. Each with their own set of anxiety, they plod on. But they're not alone. Their friends are there when they need them, the Mooney family is steadfast in support, and Krista does family and found family like no other author. Realistically. Emotionally. Heck, the emotional turmoil both Trace and Alyssa experience would bring anyone to their knees! Not them, they are the epitome of "together we stand, together we overcome" Although, it WAS touch and go on a few occasions, so much so, my pulse rate ran into dangerous territory!
I love the distinctive flavour of Krista's characters, never knowing what or who she'll grace me with as she introduces new characters. A raven, in the guise of Archimedes, had me full on giggling, he's hilarious! Oh heavens did I love the effervescence of Meg! As for Eddie, he blew hot and cold until I decided I REALLY liked his abrasive manner. The existing characters are just as appealing, Chip is a real hoot, brilliant but oh do I love his snark, he's also so nonchalant but is the bestest of friends to Trace, his mate Am is niceness personified, Simon is complexity personified, oh heck, they're all so incredibly well fleshed out, irrespective of how much on page time they get. That's the beauty and brilliance of this author, she give each character a voice, she gives them an identity, good or bad, but always with entire spectrum.
Kept in suspense, tightly wrapped, throughout the book, Krista tightens the noose around my neck, without my realising it, until I'm gasping for breath, the stakes ramping up higher and higher with each chapter, the pounding of my heart escalating. But hells bells, that final battle scene... nothing prepared me for that! I was genuinely afraid from the impactful vividry of the action. This book held me in its grip and wouldn't let go! From start to finish! I wanted to sob at the end....THE BOOK ENDED and I am desperate for more!
July 23, 2026
Every time I think the books in this series can't get any better, the next one knocks me on my butt. This one knocked me on my butt then kept scooting me across the floor. I think that metaphor got away from me. Sorry.
The descriptions of the land behind the wall were so vibrant I could almost see it. There's a new kind of magic that Alyssa and Trace encounter multiple times, and it was quite scary. The suspense behind all of it had me holding my breath and reading quicker, and I think that's a sign of a great book. So great that I'm rereading it so I can really immerse myself in it!
The descriptions of the land behind the wall were so vibrant I could almost see it. There's a new kind of magic that Alyssa and Trace encounter multiple times, and it was quite scary. The suspense behind all of it had me holding my breath and reading quicker, and I think that's a sign of a great book. So great that I'm rereading it so I can really immerse myself in it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alyssa has had a quiet few months and she is waiting for other shoe to drop when Dara, the fae duchess arrives unannounced at Mooney's. The barrier between the realms is unstable and she wants to use the souls inside Trace to fix it, even if it's temporary. Hesitant to help Dara, but realizing it's the best solution to both of their problems, Alyssa and Trace cross the border knowing it will be dangerous. But they didn't realize just how dangerous since no one will tell them anything. When they are attacked and end up bringing the enemy back to the human realm with them, they must enlist the rest of the Mooney family and more to help them before the wall fails.
Alyssa has been relaxed but also looking over her shoulder. She can't believe that they have been left alone after Trace took the souls. She is definitely someone who gets into her own head, but she is working on that. Trace is a protector and that shows even with the souls he carries. He won't just hand them over to the fae and wants to make sure they will be safe. He is definitely struggling though, esp since the entered the fae realm. The interactions/relationship between the 2 is perfect. Even though they have their hiccups, they move past it. I loved most of the side characters, esp Archie. There were mentions of characters from a previous series and now I need to get to those books soon!
This was a fast paced trip to another realm to deal with some deadly fae. I was definitely on the edge of my seat as curses were being thrown around! The stakes were high and everyone in the Mooney clan showed up. There were some casualties, esp in the property dept. I couldn't believe how crazy that last battle was and was even more aghast at that ending! I could not believe how much went on in this book and I was so excited to dive back into this world! I love Krista's writing and recommend starting this series if you haven't already!
Alyssa has been relaxed but also looking over her shoulder. She can't believe that they have been left alone after Trace took the souls. She is definitely someone who gets into her own head, but she is working on that. Trace is a protector and that shows even with the souls he carries. He won't just hand them over to the fae and wants to make sure they will be safe. He is definitely struggling though, esp since the entered the fae realm. The interactions/relationship between the 2 is perfect. Even though they have their hiccups, they move past it. I loved most of the side characters, esp Archie. There were mentions of characters from a previous series and now I need to get to those books soon!
This was a fast paced trip to another realm to deal with some deadly fae. I was definitely on the edge of my seat as curses were being thrown around! The stakes were high and everyone in the Mooney clan showed up. There were some casualties, esp in the property dept. I couldn't believe how crazy that last battle was and was even more aghast at that ending! I could not believe how much went on in this book and I was so excited to dive back into this world! I love Krista's writing and recommend starting this series if you haven't already!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was so excited to be back in Alyssa’s world! Not only do I enjoy reading about Alyssa, I adore the side characters. In this latest, an old nemesis is back for more, and Alyssa and Trace must make a journey to try and fix his souls problem. You know nothing goes right, and all the Mooney clan has to get involved. I find this author’s writing so engaging, and I enjoyed every minute of this latest. That cliffhanger was a doozy, and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next installment. Fans of this author and series will be well satisfied. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
September 24, 2026
I swear, every time I come back to this series, I feel like I’m welcomed back by my favorite people with a big hug, and I get to hear the amazing stories they have to share. Just as if I was a guest at Mooney’s!
I also love how the world has officially expanded into the fae realm! And, of course, with more and more diabolical plots unfolding that honestly had me guessing until the end. The Hour of Witches series is such an amazing blend of deep character depth, detailed worldbuilding, intimate romance, and spell-flinging action that every time I finish a book, I instantly need more.
I also love how the world has officially expanded into the fae realm! And, of course, with more and more diabolical plots unfolding that honestly had me guessing until the end. The Hour of Witches series is such an amazing blend of deep character depth, detailed worldbuilding, intimate romance, and spell-flinging action that every time I finish a book, I instantly need more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book 4 in the series and I'm pretty sure Alyssa and Trace are my favorite book couple ever. As with the previous books in the series, the story is fast paced and action filled.
I was hoping that Gramps would've been more on the mend in this one, but it wasn't so 🥺
Gideon, a character from another series related to this one, was so mysterious and I've got to go and read his trilogy soon!
I received a free advance copy from the author.
I was hoping that Gramps would've been more on the mend in this one, but it wasn't so 🥺
Gideon, a character from another series related to this one, was so mysterious and I've got to go and read his trilogy soon!
I received a free advance copy from the author.
September 25, 2026
This is an amazing new chapter in the story of Alyssa, Trace and Alyssa’s family the Mooney clan. The stakes have gotten even higher when Dara the fae Dutchess who accused Alyssa of a murder she did not do, shows up again. This time she insists Alyssa and Trace cross the wall to complete a ritual to release the spirits Trace has been keeping safe. This ritual is intended to repair the wall maintained between the fae realm and the human world of Canada. The story is fast paced and ends with a dramatic cliff hanger. I highly recommend this story.
October 2, 2026
After a short reprieve from the chaos that took over their lives, Alyssa and Trace are right back in the thick of things in book 4. No one fights alone should be the mantra for the Mooney coven because at every turn they are tested by something new and (impossibly) worse than before. Hold on tight for the latest adventure because it just keeps getting better.
Warning that this book does end in a bit of a cliff hanger, but can’t wait for the next installment!
Warning that this book does end in a bit of a cliff hanger, but can’t wait for the next installment!
October 3, 2026
After several months of living a quiet, normal life, Alyssa and Trace are presented with an offer they can’t refuse. Travel to the Realm, release the souls, fix the wall. Simple, right? Wrong!
Alyssa and Trace are great main characters. She just wants to live a simple life, but handles herself well in the difficult situations that she finds herself in. He is more adventurous, but not arrogant. Their relationship feels natural and authentic. Alyssa’s family again feature in this book, and I loved how everyone pulls together to do what is necessary.
The story was engaging and fun, with a good balance of humour, action, tension and spark. I look forward to seeing more of these characters and watching their relationships grow.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alyssa and Trace are great main characters. She just wants to live a simple life, but handles herself well in the difficult situations that she finds herself in. He is more adventurous, but not arrogant. Their relationship feels natural and authentic. Alyssa’s family again feature in this book, and I loved how everyone pulls together to do what is necessary.
The story was engaging and fun, with a good balance of humour, action, tension and spark. I look forward to seeing more of these characters and watching their relationships grow.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2026
Great fun!
Although books about witches are not my favourite genre, I did very much enjoy reading this one, and loved the slightly new direction it took! What a fascinating place!
Although books about witches are not my favourite genre, I did very much enjoy reading this one, and loved the slightly new direction it took! What a fascinating place!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews