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No Charm Done
May the best witch win in this sapphic enemies-to-lovers romcom, where rival witches hex for the affections of the new boy in school… but are vexed by their interest in each other.
Welcome to Thornhaven, a quaint coastal town where witches hide in plain sight.
Lily Allerton is descended from Thornhaven’s most illustrious magical family. When her tarot cards tell her that acquiring a boyfriend is essential for a successful senior year, she decides to do whatever it takes to bag the cute new boy at school—including overcoming her total lack of interest in him. Determined to make her parents proud, appear “normal” (the fact that she’s never liked a boy is a closely guarded secret), and stay on top of the popular-kid food chain, future valedictorian Lily makes sure that nothing stands in the way of her goals.
But Chrysanthemum Quinn might.
When Chrys moved to town three years ago, she had high hopes that she’d no longer be the outcast with weird powers—hopes that Lily quickly dashed by ostracizing her from the other witches at school. She was too poor, too grunge, and too sarcastic for Lily’s tastes, with a major resting witch face. Nothing like a proper Thornhaven witch. Since then, she and Lily have despised each other and competed relentlessly. Chrys is going to beat Lily for valedictorian—and if Lily wants the new boy, then Chrys is going to win him first.
But when Lily’s and Chrys’s attempts to hex each other create a curse that threatens the town, they’ll have to put aside their animosity to stop it… and reckon with some deeply buried emotions. Because breaking the curse will take more than magic—it’ll take acknowledging that it’s not the boy either of them wants.
This fresh, playful, witchy romcom from USA Today Bestselling author Tori Anne Martin (This Spells Disaster) is sure to appeal to fans of sapphic charmers like I Kissed Shara Wheeler and She Gets the Girl.
Welcome to Thornhaven, a quaint coastal town where witches hide in plain sight.
Lily Allerton is descended from Thornhaven’s most illustrious magical family. When her tarot cards tell her that acquiring a boyfriend is essential for a successful senior year, she decides to do whatever it takes to bag the cute new boy at school—including overcoming her total lack of interest in him. Determined to make her parents proud, appear “normal” (the fact that she’s never liked a boy is a closely guarded secret), and stay on top of the popular-kid food chain, future valedictorian Lily makes sure that nothing stands in the way of her goals.
But Chrysanthemum Quinn might.
When Chrys moved to town three years ago, she had high hopes that she’d no longer be the outcast with weird powers—hopes that Lily quickly dashed by ostracizing her from the other witches at school. She was too poor, too grunge, and too sarcastic for Lily’s tastes, with a major resting witch face. Nothing like a proper Thornhaven witch. Since then, she and Lily have despised each other and competed relentlessly. Chrys is going to beat Lily for valedictorian—and if Lily wants the new boy, then Chrys is going to win him first.
But when Lily’s and Chrys’s attempts to hex each other create a curse that threatens the town, they’ll have to put aside their animosity to stop it… and reckon with some deeply buried emotions. Because breaking the curse will take more than magic—it’ll take acknowledging that it’s not the boy either of them wants.
This fresh, playful, witchy romcom from USA Today Bestselling author Tori Anne Martin (This Spells Disaster) is sure to appeal to fans of sapphic charmers like I Kissed Shara Wheeler and She Gets the Girl.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 7, 2025
19 people are currently reading
4751 people want to read
About the author
Tori Anne Martin
3 books150 followersTori Anne Martin is a USA Today bestselling author of witchy romance and fantasy for teens and adults, as well as the author of a book series (or two) under not-so-secret identities. She lives in northern New England, along with her partner and their two cats, where she collects pen names, tattoos, and hoodies in shades of gray and black. If you can’t find her reading a book, it’s because she’s lost in the woods.
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Want to read
June 16, 2025When Lily’s and Chrys’s attempts to hex each other create a curse that threatens the town, they’ll have to put aside their animosity to stop it… and reckon with some deeply buried emotions. Because breaking the curse will take more than magic—it’ll take acknowledging that it’s not the boy either of them wants.
August 23, 2025
⋆｡°✩ 𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 ⋆｡°✩
4.5 stars | a cute YA witchy sapphic romance | 1/3 spice, 0.5/3 violence, profanity, no trigger warnings that I could think of | easy writing style, awesome setting, and hot girls
✎₊˚⊹ 𝕤𝕪𝕟𝕠𝕡𝕤𝕚𝕤 ✎₊˚⊹
Lily Allerton, the popular girl, and Chrysanthemum Quinn, the lone wolf, have hated each other since Chrys moved to the quaint, witch-filled town of Thornhaven three years ago. They’ve engaged in constant, silent competition, over grades, science fairs, and even a boy; but no longer. When two simultaneous hexes get out of control, the girls wake something that can only be stopped by the ones responsible for creating it. So Lily and Chrys, reluctantly, choose to work together to stop the thing that far overshadows their feud; but as they work towards defeating this dark force, together they realize that maybe they aren’t so different after all…
*:･ﾟ✧♡ 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 *:･ﾟ✧♡
First off, I loved Chrysanthemum (furthermore known as Chrys in this review) soooooooo much. Like, Lily was nice, although I sort of liked her the less we got into the book which wasn’t the goal, I still liked her just not as much as the beginning but whatever, but like Chrys was just sooooo much better. She was hotter (in my head I guess but still), nicer (goth girl didn't indicate mean girl and I love that for her), and more relatable (a few close friends and no others + books; reminds me a little of myself lol). She was a lot better than Lily in my opinion.
I did like Lily, as I said, and the tarot card thing was a nice plot point (until the end but I’ll touch on that later), I just liked Chrys more.
Okay and their relationship was so cute!!! It was truly enemies-to-lovers, and like the constant tension was just so perfect. Lily realizing that she likes girls while Chrys simultaneously reignites feelings for Lily, and they both have no idea about the other??!!
In love with them.
‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.
The end.
It was pretty good, satisfying enough, BUT, the tarot cards. I’m not going to spoil it, but what happened there with Lily and Chrys and whatever unrelated to the main conflict was not my favorite. Like, I get that they themselves needed conflict, I understand that, but this particular conflict felt so forced. And while it was tying up a loose end rather than having nothing to stand on (which I do appreciate) it still just felt too quick, and I just don’t think it quite fit as well into the story.
* ੈ✩‧₊˚ 𝕨𝕣𝕒𝕡-𝕦𝕡 * ੈ✩‧₊˚
All-in-all, a really cute romance with a witchy twist!!! If you're looking for a cute, out-of-the-box romance, a super fall-coded book, or just an adorable sapphic read, I'd definitely recommend this book!!!
⋆˚⚡︎˖° 𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕖 ⋆˚⚡︎˖°
No Charm Done releases October 7, 2025!!!
˙⋆.˚𐙚 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ˙⋆.˚𐙚
Thank you so much to the publisher, Holiday House; the author, Tori Anne Martin; and to NetGalley for giving me a free e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
All thoughts are my own <3
now playing:
» Force of Nature «
Melina KB
0:12 ─〇───── 2:28
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
4.5 stars | a cute YA witchy sapphic romance | 1/3 spice, 0.5/3 violence, profanity, no trigger warnings that I could think of | easy writing style, awesome setting, and hot girls
✎₊˚⊹ 𝕤𝕪𝕟𝕠𝕡𝕤𝕚𝕤 ✎₊˚⊹
Lily Allerton, the popular girl, and Chrysanthemum Quinn, the lone wolf, have hated each other since Chrys moved to the quaint, witch-filled town of Thornhaven three years ago. They’ve engaged in constant, silent competition, over grades, science fairs, and even a boy; but no longer. When two simultaneous hexes get out of control, the girls wake something that can only be stopped by the ones responsible for creating it. So Lily and Chrys, reluctantly, choose to work together to stop the thing that far overshadows their feud; but as they work towards defeating this dark force, together they realize that maybe they aren’t so different after all…
*:･ﾟ✧♡ 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 *:･ﾟ✧♡
First off, I loved Chrysanthemum (furthermore known as Chrys in this review) soooooooo much. Like, Lily was nice, although I sort of liked her the less we got into the book which wasn’t the goal, I still liked her just not as much as the beginning but whatever, but like Chrys was just sooooo much better. She was hotter (in my head I guess but still), nicer (goth girl didn't indicate mean girl and I love that for her), and more relatable (a few close friends and no others + books; reminds me a little of myself lol). She was a lot better than Lily in my opinion.
I did like Lily, as I said, and the tarot card thing was a nice plot point (until the end but I’ll touch on that later), I just liked Chrys more.
Okay and their relationship was so cute!!! It was truly enemies-to-lovers, and like the constant tension was just so perfect. Lily realizing that she likes girls while Chrys simultaneously reignites feelings for Lily, and they both have no idea about the other??!!
In love with them.
‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.
The end.
It was pretty good, satisfying enough, BUT, the tarot cards. I’m not going to spoil it, but what happened there with Lily and Chrys and whatever unrelated to the main conflict was not my favorite. Like, I get that they themselves needed conflict, I understand that, but this particular conflict felt so forced. And while it was tying up a loose end rather than having nothing to stand on (which I do appreciate) it still just felt too quick, and I just don’t think it quite fit as well into the story.
* ੈ✩‧₊˚ 𝕨𝕣𝕒𝕡-𝕦𝕡 * ੈ✩‧₊˚
All-in-all, a really cute romance with a witchy twist!!! If you're looking for a cute, out-of-the-box romance, a super fall-coded book, or just an adorable sapphic read, I'd definitely recommend this book!!!
⋆˚⚡︎˖° 𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕖 ⋆˚⚡︎˖°
No Charm Done releases October 7, 2025!!!
˙⋆.˚𐙚 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ˙⋆.˚𐙚
Thank you so much to the publisher, Holiday House; the author, Tori Anne Martin; and to NetGalley for giving me a free e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
All thoughts are my own <3
now playing:
» Force of Nature «
Melina KB
0:12 ─〇───── 2:28
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
August 12, 2025
Tori Anne Martin’s No Charm Done is pure autumn magic a sapphic enemies to lovers romcom that’s as cozy as a pumpkin spice latte with just enough sharp wit to keep you on your toes. Set in the charming coastal witch town of Thornhaven, the story follows Lily Allerton, a perfectionist valedictorian hopeful desperate to appear “normal,” and Chrys Quinn, the grungy, sarcastic outcast she’s been rivals with for years. When their hex happy competition over a new boy spirals into a town-threatening curse, the two must put aside their rivalry to save Thornhaven and maybe admit their feelings for each other.With snappy banter, enchanting magic, and slow-burn romance, this book is the perfect read for crisp fall nights especially for fans of I Kissed Shara Wheeler and She Gets the Girl. I absolutely adored every page.
Want to read
April 15, 2025"May the best witch win in this sapphic enemies-to-lovers romcom, where rival witches hex for the affections of the new boy in school… but are vexed by their interest in each other."
August 18, 2025
this is one of the best enemies to lovers book i’ve read. chrys and lily i will always think about you!!! genuinely so good i could not put it down!!! definitely read this when it comes out in october !!!
September 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Holiday House for a complimentary early release copy of No Charm Done by Tori Anne Martin.
I feel that my feelings regarding No Charm Done are a bit mixed, I liked the romance between Lily and Chrys, It didn’t feel overdone and it was definitely cutesy in a way that I enjoy. I liked the scenery of the book, I loved the fall and Halloween vibes as they made for a great atmosphere. I was invested in the curse/hex stuff and I found the magic of this world to be interesting. However I feel that this book didn’t really catch my attention until about the sixty percent mark. When I first started reading I didn’t enjoy either of these characters, both of them come across as really full of themselves and I found their bickering to be annoying.
Once the romance starts to get involved I enjoyed the book a lot more, I thought they made a good pair and made each other better but then the third act break up comes in and it ruined things for me, it’s was very sudden & rushed but it reminded me of how these characters were in the beginning and I didn’t like it. It felt like things had already wrapped up and the book was going to focus more on the main characters personal lives and romance. I felt that the break up should have happened sooner or not at all. Overall I’m landing on a 2.5 rating.
I feel that my feelings regarding No Charm Done are a bit mixed, I liked the romance between Lily and Chrys, It didn’t feel overdone and it was definitely cutesy in a way that I enjoy. I liked the scenery of the book, I loved the fall and Halloween vibes as they made for a great atmosphere. I was invested in the curse/hex stuff and I found the magic of this world to be interesting. However I feel that this book didn’t really catch my attention until about the sixty percent mark. When I first started reading I didn’t enjoy either of these characters, both of them come across as really full of themselves and I found their bickering to be annoying.
Once the romance starts to get involved I enjoyed the book a lot more, I thought they made a good pair and made each other better but then the third act break up comes in and it ruined things for me, it’s was very sudden & rushed but it reminded me of how these characters were in the beginning and I didn’t like it. It felt like things had already wrapped up and the book was going to focus more on the main characters personal lives and romance. I felt that the break up should have happened sooner or not at all. Overall I’m landing on a 2.5 rating.
September 30, 2025
3.5⭐
*thank you to Holiday House & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review*
If you’re looking for a cozy sapphic YA witchy romance for autumn, this is a great read ✨
I loved the low-stakes forced collaboration plot line, the magical mishaps, and the rivals-to-lovers arc between Lucy and Chrys, it gave me exactly the kind of fun, autumnal read I was hoping for. The setting was perfectly whimsy and made me want to curl up with a pumpkin chai while reading.
The writing was playful and charming, and the sapphic rep was well done, especially in the way it handled Lucy’s experience with comphet (her picking a random boy to have a crush on and being like “ah yes, perfect,” was so incredibly relatable). Some parts felt a little rushed (especially the third-act breakup and resolution), and some of the verbiage / pop culture references seemed a bit out of place, but overall it was lighthearted, cozy, and brimming with Halloween-townesque energy.
*thank you to Holiday House & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review*
If you’re looking for a cozy sapphic YA witchy romance for autumn, this is a great read ✨
I loved the low-stakes forced collaboration plot line, the magical mishaps, and the rivals-to-lovers arc between Lucy and Chrys, it gave me exactly the kind of fun, autumnal read I was hoping for. The setting was perfectly whimsy and made me want to curl up with a pumpkin chai while reading.
The writing was playful and charming, and the sapphic rep was well done, especially in the way it handled Lucy’s experience with comphet (her picking a random boy to have a crush on and being like “ah yes, perfect,” was so incredibly relatable). Some parts felt a little rushed (especially the third-act breakup and resolution), and some of the verbiage / pop culture references seemed a bit out of place, but overall it was lighthearted, cozy, and brimming with Halloween-townesque energy.
December 15, 2025
Very cute, YA sapphic romance.
October 21, 2025
4/5 ☆ This story was ALMOST perfect but that 3rd act breakup always leaves a sour taste for me... Otherwise it was an adorably witchy and autumnal book, perfectly fitting the cozy vibes I was looking for this spooky season and the rivals to romance was so good I was hooked.
October 5, 2025
an absolutely adorable, pumpkin-spice flavored, spooky lil ya sapphic witch romance 🥹 this was genuinely such an enjoyable read. it gave me the autumn vibes i was looking for, it gave me all the sapphic feels i was looking for, and it gave me all the spook i was looking for with just the right amount of stakes—not too high, not too low.
honestly, it gave me the nostalgia of watching a brand new disney channel movie on release night when i was a kid. very sky high and halloweentown vibes 🙂↕️
i absolutely adored the storyline of this one. the way that the romance was tied into each of the girls’ insecurities and the areas where they needed to grow, and how that all came together to develop while they worked toward solving the main conflict was impeccable. it all flowed together so well and made for such a well-rounded story that i also came away from feeling like i’d learned something about the world, myself. if only our world was magical, too 🪄
the ONLY complaint i have is the third-act conflict. it was made slightly better with the fact that it was roped into the main conflict, and solving one solved the other, but it just felt unnecessary. i felt like the final resolution could have happened with or without the conflict between the girls. but i am also not a huge third-act girlie, so take that with your grain of salt 🧂
in kate’s keys,
— opposites attract, sunshine x grumpy, overachiever to feel loved x overachiever to feel accepted, and ALL that kind of goodness 🤌
— another extremely unique magic system (i am loving all of these)
— academic rivals to reluctant allies to lovers
— “oh no, do we have to work together to save the town?”
8/10✨
thank you to netgalley, holiday house, and tori anne martin for providing me with an e-arc for review 🫶
honestly, it gave me the nostalgia of watching a brand new disney channel movie on release night when i was a kid. very sky high and halloweentown vibes 🙂↕️
i absolutely adored the storyline of this one. the way that the romance was tied into each of the girls’ insecurities and the areas where they needed to grow, and how that all came together to develop while they worked toward solving the main conflict was impeccable. it all flowed together so well and made for such a well-rounded story that i also came away from feeling like i’d learned something about the world, myself. if only our world was magical, too 🪄
the ONLY complaint i have is the third-act conflict. it was made slightly better with the fact that it was roped into the main conflict, and solving one solved the other, but it just felt unnecessary. i felt like the final resolution could have happened with or without the conflict between the girls. but i am also not a huge third-act girlie, so take that with your grain of salt 🧂
in kate’s keys,
— opposites attract, sunshine x grumpy, overachiever to feel loved x overachiever to feel accepted, and ALL that kind of goodness 🤌
— another extremely unique magic system (i am loving all of these)
— academic rivals to reluctant allies to lovers
— “oh no, do we have to work together to save the town?”
8/10✨
thank you to netgalley, holiday house, and tori anne martin for providing me with an e-arc for review 🫶
October 26, 2025
this was so cutey omg. i loved this so much, im such a sucker for baby gays 😭 i love me a good lesbian YA sometimes, i think partly bc i wish i had come out in highschool and gotten that experience but alas. so i live vicariously through YA sapphics
BUT ANYWAYS. i didn’t lovveeee lily at the beginning but i ended up loving her and understanding her when her sweet side would show, but damn did she drive me crazy at the beginning with the tarot reading and luke😂 i will say tho i am glad she didn’t spend forever chasing after luke, i kinda hate that trope when they spend the whole book chasing the guy bc i don’t like men obviously 😂
i loved chrys from the beginning, the guarded sweet soul that just wanted to fit in and not understanding why she was snubbed for no reason, i just fell for her and felt for her all at the same time.
the plot was fun, ive been enjoyed the magic and witchy spells this month so this did not disappoint, and the banter within them trying to break the curse was really funny, and each other finally seeing that the other isn’t actually that bad was just sweet.
there were a few things that didn’t quite hit, like lily not having more of a conversation with her parents, and i wish we had gotten an epilogue to see what they did after school, and chrys mom, and things like that. i wish we had gotten to see more of their romantic relationship😢
BUT. overall, i really love this book and will definitely be reading more by this author ❤️🔥
BUT ANYWAYS. i didn’t lovveeee lily at the beginning but i ended up loving her and understanding her when her sweet side would show, but damn did she drive me crazy at the beginning with the tarot reading and luke😂 i will say tho i am glad she didn’t spend forever chasing after luke, i kinda hate that trope when they spend the whole book chasing the guy bc i don’t like men obviously 😂
i loved chrys from the beginning, the guarded sweet soul that just wanted to fit in and not understanding why she was snubbed for no reason, i just fell for her and felt for her all at the same time.
the plot was fun, ive been enjoyed the magic and witchy spells this month so this did not disappoint, and the banter within them trying to break the curse was really funny, and each other finally seeing that the other isn’t actually that bad was just sweet.
there were a few things that didn’t quite hit, like lily not having more of a conversation with her parents, and i wish we had gotten an epilogue to see what they did after school, and chrys mom, and things like that. i wish we had gotten to see more of their romantic relationship😢
BUT. overall, i really love this book and will definitely be reading more by this author ❤️🔥
September 26, 2025
The gorgeous cover of No Charm Done immediately caught my eye, and the story inside lived up to the promise.
This sapphic enemies-to-lovers romcom is set in Thornhaven, a cozy coastal town where witches hide in plain sight. Lily and Chrys have been rivals for years, competing over everything from grades to popularity, but when a magical hex gone wrong threatens their entire town, they’re forced to work together. Lily’s polished determination clashes wonderfully with Chrys’s sharp-edged sarcasm, and watching their relationship shift from snark and competition into something deeper was a delight. The slow-burn romance felt both believable and sweet, with each girl challenging the other in ways that made them stronger.
The fall atmosphere is pitch-perfect—Halloween vibes, small-town magic, and just enough danger to keep things moving without losing the cozy tone. While some of the plot threads didn’t feel fully tied up and the pacing took a bit to settle, I was fully invested by the halfway mark and enjoyed the ride through to the end.
Charming, witchy, and heartfelt, No Charm Done is a great seasonal read for anyone looking for rivals-to-lovers romance with plenty of magic woven in.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Release Date: October 7, 2025
This sapphic enemies-to-lovers romcom is set in Thornhaven, a cozy coastal town where witches hide in plain sight. Lily and Chrys have been rivals for years, competing over everything from grades to popularity, but when a magical hex gone wrong threatens their entire town, they’re forced to work together. Lily’s polished determination clashes wonderfully with Chrys’s sharp-edged sarcasm, and watching their relationship shift from snark and competition into something deeper was a delight. The slow-burn romance felt both believable and sweet, with each girl challenging the other in ways that made them stronger.
The fall atmosphere is pitch-perfect—Halloween vibes, small-town magic, and just enough danger to keep things moving without losing the cozy tone. While some of the plot threads didn’t feel fully tied up and the pacing took a bit to settle, I was fully invested by the halfway mark and enjoyed the ride through to the end.
Charming, witchy, and heartfelt, No Charm Done is a great seasonal read for anyone looking for rivals-to-lovers romance with plenty of magic woven in.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Release Date: October 7, 2025
October 11, 2025
⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭒ ⭒
3.75 stars
♰ Ughhhhh this was in line to be one of the best sapphic books I’ve read and then the third-act breakup happened
☽𖤐☾ Third-act breakups are a huge pet peeve of mine already, but on rare occasions, I can ignore them (it’s happened only twice and for good reasons).
☽𖤐☾ But henni, this was the dumbest reason for a breakup, so I had to reduce the rating. Unfortunately, I couldn’t let that slide 😭😭
☽𖤐☾ Aside from that, this book was so good!! The romance between the two girls was perfect. The way they started off as enemies, then friends, then lovers was so wonderfully done
☽𖤐☾ Especially in Lily’s POV! I loved how she thought she was anxious and scared the whole time, but it was really just her having a crush😭😂
☽𖤐☾ Their first kiss had me squealing and twirling my cooch hairs 😭 I loved this book so much before the third-act breakup.
If you don’t gaf and can stomach TAB, then this will be your shit fr!! Highly recommend.
3.75 stars
♰ Ughhhhh this was in line to be one of the best sapphic books I’ve read and then the third-act breakup happened
☽𖤐☾ Third-act breakups are a huge pet peeve of mine already, but on rare occasions, I can ignore them (it’s happened only twice and for good reasons).
☽𖤐☾ But henni, this was the dumbest reason for a breakup, so I had to reduce the rating. Unfortunately, I couldn’t let that slide 😭😭
☽𖤐☾ Aside from that, this book was so good!! The romance between the two girls was perfect. The way they started off as enemies, then friends, then lovers was so wonderfully done
☽𖤐☾ Especially in Lily’s POV! I loved how she thought she was anxious and scared the whole time, but it was really just her having a crush😭😂
☽𖤐☾ Their first kiss had me squealing and twirling my cooch hairs 😭 I loved this book so much before the third-act breakup.
If you don’t gaf and can stomach TAB, then this will be your shit fr!! Highly recommend.
October 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Holiday House for the ARC!
Absolutely loved this witchy sapphic romance! I loved Lily and Chrys relationship from enemies to lovers. They worked so well together in such a way that felt their gradual romance was natural. I loved how they had so much ground to bond over and eventually from snippy comments to flirty banter they united.
I will say however, that the book would have done with betting cut back a bit. Some things could have wrapped up a lot quicker to prevent the book feeling a bit flat and making the ending feel 'meh'.
Absolutely loved this witchy sapphic romance! I loved Lily and Chrys relationship from enemies to lovers. They worked so well together in such a way that felt their gradual romance was natural. I loved how they had so much ground to bond over and eventually from snippy comments to flirty banter they united.
I will say however, that the book would have done with betting cut back a bit. Some things could have wrapped up a lot quicker to prevent the book feeling a bit flat and making the ending feel 'meh'.
August 3, 2025
3.5
Thank you Holiday House and NetGalley for providing an eArc.
**review contains spoilers**
No Charm Done is a charming, playful, rom-com about two young witches who are forced to work together to undo a hex while also fighting off growing affections.
Overall I enjoyed my time reading this. Its a lighthearted, cozy, spooky read perfect for the upcoming autumn season. It reminded me of Disney's Halloween town; just a cute fun time with some spooky hijinks as result of the hex and dark magic.
I recommend getting a PSL while reading~
here are a few tags the author marketed the book with on her Instagram:
"-Sapphic & Ace Rep
-Rivals to Romance (feuding witches who are absolutely NOT suppressing feelings for each other)
-Halloween Vibes
-Magical Island
-Out of Control Hex
-Tarot Mis-reading"
so if any of that interests you, then totally check it out.
****
Now for some of the cons and spoilers:
I was not the biggest fan of having the inciting incident involving a boy. I think the already established feud between Lucy and Chrys was enough to propel the story forward. Luke essentially disappears from the plot and I thought he was going to play a more significant part in the story but he didn't. I understand that part of his presence was to explore Lucy's sexuality but based on how the story plays out, he wasn't necessary.
Their punishment was a slap on the wrist.
I also expected them to do most of their bonding and recontexualizing of each other to happen during that time but they so quickly start hanging out outside of their punishment; hanging out at Lily's house. Their rivalry dissolved way too quickly
I personally hated the tarot card misreading plot line. you'd think a talented and apparently smart witch as Lucy would know how tarot works lol
Since they are the only ones who can see the hex lines/cracks, I don't understand why the entire school couldn't just be a magic school full of witches.
The magic wasn't very original so it made alot of the book feel kind of lackluster. I never really thought about it that deeply before this book but I've come to realize that I vastly prefer to read about more unique magic.
The angst could have gone a little harder. When Chrys calls Lily out for her unfair treatment towards her, they make up pretty quickly. It happens again after the third act break up. I get that part of it was because they had 'bigger fish to fry' but their anger never felt like it took root. And sure they are teens and their feelings can be ever changing but it kind of felt like their feelings were a bit invalidating because they never got to sit in it that long before good fluffy feelings took over. I prefer a little more angst and the potential was there but it didn't land for me. But it could have!
Why didn't the story lead up to another magic fair? Their rivalry started with one, it would have made sense to end with one
I wanted to see more more development between Lily and her parents, especially her dad. He's the one who is present at the start but then he sort of disappears as a looming presence. Her mom instead apologizes for him and both of their negligence is swept under the rug because Lily now sees that they are "trying". Where? I didn't see it. I was expecting her to stand up to them and finally making them SEE her, that she is good enough as she is. Never happens.
It's like the story falls apart once they realize they want to kiss each other. It becomes a totally different story half way through. so weird.
Chrys and Lucy find out that something in their ancestors past caused their Hex to go off the rails, and I was so expecting that to be more of a thing. But, no, its just random lore that gets mentioned once and tossed to the wind
There are are few pop culture references that felt like they dated the work further than it had to. It's a very minor thing but it stuck out enough for me to be distracted by it and question when the story was supposed to be taking place. I always assume contemporaries take place in the year they are published unless stated otherwise. There was one reference to LoTR to explain the creepy vibe brought on by the hex on school grounds that but I thought Stranger Things would have been a better reference. Not saying that the target audience isn't watching or like LoTR but its definitely something I associate more with an older generation.
Also what was Lily's deal with how Chrys dressed? She compared her to Wednesday Addams and I don't think that's a negative comparison but she used it to make fun of her. But from what I see Wendesday is such an adored character, so it was strange to use her as a way to insult the other character. All this to say that some parts felt like it was written by someone who hasn't been a teen in a while and at some points it was a little distracting but something I think could have been easily fixed.
The third act breakup was weak. Lucy has anxiety and that leads her to act on extremes but it could have gone a little harder than her just telling Chrys them being together was a mistake
This book having charm in the title with the book is mostly about a hex is funny to me
I hated that the non witchy folk were called "normies"
okay I think I've said enough
overall I think the book could have gone a little deeper but despite that it was still a fine read
Thank you Holiday House and NetGalley for providing an eArc.
**review contains spoilers**
No Charm Done is a charming, playful, rom-com about two young witches who are forced to work together to undo a hex while also fighting off growing affections.
Overall I enjoyed my time reading this. Its a lighthearted, cozy, spooky read perfect for the upcoming autumn season. It reminded me of Disney's Halloween town; just a cute fun time with some spooky hijinks as result of the hex and dark magic.
I recommend getting a PSL while reading~
here are a few tags the author marketed the book with on her Instagram:
"-Sapphic & Ace Rep
-Rivals to Romance (feuding witches who are absolutely NOT suppressing feelings for each other)
-Halloween Vibes
-Magical Island
-Out of Control Hex
-Tarot Mis-reading"
so if any of that interests you, then totally check it out.
****
Now for some of the cons and spoilers:
I was not the biggest fan of having the inciting incident involving a boy. I think the already established feud between Lucy and Chrys was enough to propel the story forward. Luke essentially disappears from the plot and I thought he was going to play a more significant part in the story but he didn't. I understand that part of his presence was to explore Lucy's sexuality but based on how the story plays out, he wasn't necessary.
Their punishment was a slap on the wrist.
I also expected them to do most of their bonding and recontexualizing of each other to happen during that time but they so quickly start hanging out outside of their punishment; hanging out at Lily's house. Their rivalry dissolved way too quickly
I personally hated the tarot card misreading plot line. you'd think a talented and apparently smart witch as Lucy would know how tarot works lol
Since they are the only ones who can see the hex lines/cracks, I don't understand why the entire school couldn't just be a magic school full of witches.
The magic wasn't very original so it made alot of the book feel kind of lackluster. I never really thought about it that deeply before this book but I've come to realize that I vastly prefer to read about more unique magic.
The angst could have gone a little harder. When Chrys calls Lily out for her unfair treatment towards her, they make up pretty quickly. It happens again after the third act break up. I get that part of it was because they had 'bigger fish to fry' but their anger never felt like it took root. And sure they are teens and their feelings can be ever changing but it kind of felt like their feelings were a bit invalidating because they never got to sit in it that long before good fluffy feelings took over. I prefer a little more angst and the potential was there but it didn't land for me. But it could have!
Why didn't the story lead up to another magic fair? Their rivalry started with one, it would have made sense to end with one
I wanted to see more more development between Lily and her parents, especially her dad. He's the one who is present at the start but then he sort of disappears as a looming presence. Her mom instead apologizes for him and both of their negligence is swept under the rug because Lily now sees that they are "trying". Where? I didn't see it. I was expecting her to stand up to them and finally making them SEE her, that she is good enough as she is. Never happens.
It's like the story falls apart once they realize they want to kiss each other. It becomes a totally different story half way through. so weird.
Chrys and Lucy find out that something in their ancestors past caused their Hex to go off the rails, and I was so expecting that to be more of a thing. But, no, its just random lore that gets mentioned once and tossed to the wind
There are are few pop culture references that felt like they dated the work further than it had to. It's a very minor thing but it stuck out enough for me to be distracted by it and question when the story was supposed to be taking place. I always assume contemporaries take place in the year they are published unless stated otherwise. There was one reference to LoTR to explain the creepy vibe brought on by the hex on school grounds that but I thought Stranger Things would have been a better reference. Not saying that the target audience isn't watching or like LoTR but its definitely something I associate more with an older generation.
Also what was Lily's deal with how Chrys dressed? She compared her to Wednesday Addams and I don't think that's a negative comparison but she used it to make fun of her. But from what I see Wendesday is such an adored character, so it was strange to use her as a way to insult the other character. All this to say that some parts felt like it was written by someone who hasn't been a teen in a while and at some points it was a little distracting but something I think could have been easily fixed.
The third act breakup was weak. Lucy has anxiety and that leads her to act on extremes but it could have gone a little harder than her just telling Chrys them being together was a mistake
This book having charm in the title with the book is mostly about a hex is funny to me
I hated that the non witchy folk were called "normies"
okay I think I've said enough
overall I think the book could have gone a little deeper but despite that it was still a fine read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2025
A quirky beginning. Fell right into the plot easy, and the writing style flows nicely.
I loved that Sonia, Lily’s (MC) friend, held her accountable when treating Chrysanthemum (MC) poorly.
Was this cheesy? Yes. But that didn’t pull away from my enjoyment. It was a cute read overall, and it definitely feels like a Halloween hallmark movie.
If you love a good sapphic romance with witchy vibes, this is the perfect fall read to add to your TBR!
I loved that Sonia, Lily’s (MC) friend, held her accountable when treating Chrysanthemum (MC) poorly.
Was this cheesy? Yes. But that didn’t pull away from my enjoyment. It was a cute read overall, and it definitely feels like a Halloween hallmark movie.
If you love a good sapphic romance with witchy vibes, this is the perfect fall read to add to your TBR!
October 11, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Holiday House for an ARC of this book !
I requested this book because I was looking for an October read that was spooky and cute. Even though it delivered in those aspects, the overall plot fell flat for me. I did not feel engaged throughout my read and was even at times annoyed by the characters. I also did not like the fact that Lily developed feelings for Chrys after an hex turned against her. The romance did not hit at all for me. Overall, a pretty disappointing read for me.
I requested this book because I was looking for an October read that was spooky and cute. Even though it delivered in those aspects, the overall plot fell flat for me. I did not feel engaged throughout my read and was even at times annoyed by the characters. I also did not like the fact that Lily developed feelings for Chrys after an hex turned against her. The romance did not hit at all for me. Overall, a pretty disappointing read for me.
September 28, 2025
There was a lot of cute elements in this book such as the Halloween vibe / fall , witches and the enemies to lovers . But it overall fell flat for me , it took me more than half way through the book to be fully interested in the story ..
October 21, 2025
a cute little witchy rivals to lovers romance <3
this would be so fun as a movie tbh!!
~ sapphic, ace rep ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚
they give me apple and raven vibes from EAH lol
this would be so fun as a movie tbh!!
~ sapphic, ace rep ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚
they give me apple and raven vibes from EAH lol
November 12, 2025
~ RTC 🎃
December 8, 2025
If I had a nickel for every time I'd read a book about an alt lesbian with the last name Quinn and book-related specialties, I'd have two nickels in the last month.
If I had a nickel for every time I read a contemporary lesbian book where a major source of discord in the relationship was one of them getting too hidebound and stuck on a tarot reading, I'd have at least a quarter dollar.
If I had a nickel for every time I read a contemporary lesbian book where a major source of discord in the relationship was one of them getting too hidebound and stuck on a tarot reading, I'd have at least a quarter dollar.
September 20, 2025
There were a couple of things that I enjoyed in this book. However, there were many things that frustrated me. The beginning was good, and as an owner of two bunnies, I was very excited for Lily to have them as well (though they could have shown up more!).
Lily and Chrys' rivalry all being because of a misunderstanding was a little annoying but given that they are teenagers who can get superficial with stuff like that, I don't think it's very unlikely. That way, it also made more sense that their animosity faded quickly once they got to know each other.
The curse plotline was fine but during the middle of the book some parts of it felt very stretched out and boring. I kind of wish there had been more subplots that didn't center around our enemies turned friends.
My favourite part was once Lily and Chry kissed and turned into lovebirds, It was very adorable and I loved the way it was written, but unfortunately that means that I absolutely HATED the third act breakup that was forced upon them. I understand why it was done, given the curse 2.0 making an appearance, but I felt that it took away the little character development that Lily had gone through and I think it could've been handled differently.
All in all, I liked the worldbuilding and I enjoyed the couple that the two of them make, but I struggled through most of the book.
Lily and Chrys' rivalry all being because of a misunderstanding was a little annoying but given that they are teenagers who can get superficial with stuff like that, I don't think it's very unlikely. That way, it also made more sense that their animosity faded quickly once they got to know each other.
The curse plotline was fine but during the middle of the book some parts of it felt very stretched out and boring. I kind of wish there had been more subplots that didn't center around our enemies turned friends.
My favourite part was once Lily and Chry kissed and turned into lovebirds, It was very adorable and I loved the way it was written, but unfortunately that means that I absolutely HATED the third act breakup that was forced upon them. I understand why it was done, given the curse 2.0 making an appearance, but I felt that it took away the little character development that Lily had gone through and I think it could've been handled differently.
All in all, I liked the worldbuilding and I enjoyed the couple that the two of them make, but I struggled through most of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
This review is of a NetGalley ARC and contains mild spoilers.
Despite it being in the upper 90’s and even low 100’s around here lately, this book had me longing for a hot PSL and a cozy sweater. I appreciated the dual third person POV through the two young witches, Lily and Chrysanthemum, it was fun to see how alike they were even if they are slow to admit it! I was initially hesitant to request this ARC since I’m not always a fan of books that are heavy on romance, but this one utterly charmed me. The slow buildup to their relationship was enjoyable to experience because it wasn’t the only thing driving the plot. There was a lot of focus not only on the magic in their town going wonky but also the high school and interpersonal dynamics they had to overcome. Both the girls working to tear down their walls and realize how alike they both are was so heartwarming and made their eventual relationship feel earned.
As an asexual I really appreciated the brief mention of asexuality and how it was presented in a positive light. As a witch I loved how the author weaved real life aspects of witchcraft with the more fantastical aspects in a way that
felt very natural.
The island of Thornhaven was such a rich and inviting place, I hope to read more novels set in it in the future! There was such a strong sense of place and I like how the touristy areas were contrasted against places that were more for the locals as well as how that can sometimes overlap.
I don’t usually like a third act breakup, but this one felt very in character and helped drive the plot in a meaningful way. I really enjoyed reading his and look forward to more by this author!
Despite it being in the upper 90’s and even low 100’s around here lately, this book had me longing for a hot PSL and a cozy sweater. I appreciated the dual third person POV through the two young witches, Lily and Chrysanthemum, it was fun to see how alike they were even if they are slow to admit it! I was initially hesitant to request this ARC since I’m not always a fan of books that are heavy on romance, but this one utterly charmed me. The slow buildup to their relationship was enjoyable to experience because it wasn’t the only thing driving the plot. There was a lot of focus not only on the magic in their town going wonky but also the high school and interpersonal dynamics they had to overcome. Both the girls working to tear down their walls and realize how alike they both are was so heartwarming and made their eventual relationship feel earned.
As an asexual I really appreciated the brief mention of asexuality and how it was presented in a positive light. As a witch I loved how the author weaved real life aspects of witchcraft with the more fantastical aspects in a way that
felt very natural.
The island of Thornhaven was such a rich and inviting place, I hope to read more novels set in it in the future! There was such a strong sense of place and I like how the touristy areas were contrasted against places that were more for the locals as well as how that can sometimes overlap.
I don’t usually like a third act breakup, but this one felt very in character and helped drive the plot in a meaningful way. I really enjoyed reading his and look forward to more by this author!
October 29, 2025
Tori Anne Martin’s book No Charm Done starts off as a tale of a rivalry between two teen witches and quickly turns into a rom-com gone wrong. Chrysanthemum and Lily have always been at odds with each other but when the two of them hex one another so close to Samhain it creates a curse that only ending their distaste for one another can squelch. But is this just friendship that Lily and Chrys have formed or could it be…more?
Lily has always been the smartest, prettiest and most talented witch in Thornhaven. That all changed when Chrysanthemum (“Chrys” as she prefers to be called) moved to town and began challenging Lily’s queen bee status. Lily took it as a personal affront and, thus, their butting heads began. Their dislike for one another reaches a boiling point when Chrys hexes Lily and Lily gets back at Chrys by hexing her. They were warned against this negativity happening so close to Samhain (a celebration for the beginning of winter) as it is believed that this time of year the veil between the living and dead was at its thinnest. What happens next is a curse that will only be removed when these two put the animosity away and come together in witchy warmth. Along the way Lily realizes that she has actual feelings for Chrys and Chrys realizes she has actual feelings for Lily. This contradicts everything the two of them have been through over the years and also could derail Lily’s trajectory to be valedictorian - living up to her parents’ expectations.
Martin writes an intriguing story of rivals turned friends turned maybe more. It’s a fast read as you are invested in watching Lily and Chrys go from foes to a sickly sweet couple. Opposites attract and Martin does a beautiful job of finding where it unites for them. The magic these two possess as witches make them the perfect duo to tackle anything the universe can throw at them - even parental demands, a school dance and a dangerous curse only they can see. Martin even makes you want to grab a PSL with Chrys and Lily at the Black Cat and snag a sweet treat courtesy of Chrys’ mom.
When we were young and had a crush on someone it might have taken the form of anger or teasing. Author Tori Ann Martin reminds us of those younger days with No Charm Done in a way that makes for a fresh take. This Sapphic story makes for a playful and fun witchy rom-com.
Lily has always been the smartest, prettiest and most talented witch in Thornhaven. That all changed when Chrysanthemum (“Chrys” as she prefers to be called) moved to town and began challenging Lily’s queen bee status. Lily took it as a personal affront and, thus, their butting heads began. Their dislike for one another reaches a boiling point when Chrys hexes Lily and Lily gets back at Chrys by hexing her. They were warned against this negativity happening so close to Samhain (a celebration for the beginning of winter) as it is believed that this time of year the veil between the living and dead was at its thinnest. What happens next is a curse that will only be removed when these two put the animosity away and come together in witchy warmth. Along the way Lily realizes that she has actual feelings for Chrys and Chrys realizes she has actual feelings for Lily. This contradicts everything the two of them have been through over the years and also could derail Lily’s trajectory to be valedictorian - living up to her parents’ expectations.
Martin writes an intriguing story of rivals turned friends turned maybe more. It’s a fast read as you are invested in watching Lily and Chrys go from foes to a sickly sweet couple. Opposites attract and Martin does a beautiful job of finding where it unites for them. The magic these two possess as witches make them the perfect duo to tackle anything the universe can throw at them - even parental demands, a school dance and a dangerous curse only they can see. Martin even makes you want to grab a PSL with Chrys and Lily at the Black Cat and snag a sweet treat courtesy of Chrys’ mom.
When we were young and had a crush on someone it might have taken the form of anger or teasing. Author Tori Ann Martin reminds us of those younger days with No Charm Done in a way that makes for a fresh take. This Sapphic story makes for a playful and fun witchy rom-com.
November 17, 2025
No Charm Done initially drew me to it with it's absolutely gorgeous cover and intriguing synopsis. And it did somewhat live up to these, but it fell incredibly flat in some places that I can't ignore. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy as always, this did not affect my opinion.
Starting with what I did enjoy about the book, I did really like Chrys and Lily. Their banter back and forth and growing relationship and feelings towards each other was entertaining. I liked how naturally they grew to discover they actually enjoyed each others company and how quick they were to defend each other from their respective friends. The curse plot was also interesting to read. I thought it fit the simple plot very well and I liked that it didn't get overly complicated and overshadow things. Thornhaven was a cute and cozy small town and I liked the vibes of it a lot. I enjoyed how it described little subtle bits of magic placed all around if you knew how to look for them. And that there seemed to be a tight nit group of witches that mostly looked out for each other.
Now into things I didn't love. Lily and her parents had such a tension for most of the book, Lily feeling neglected and overshadowed by her younger sister, feeling like she didn't matter to them. It broke my heart for her honestly, that absolutely sucks. But this whole issue which seemed to fuel most of Lily's ambition and actions in the book was resolved and then glazed over with a few sentences. I feel like it should have been bigger than that, and it was really only her mother not even her father. And Chrys and her mom's issues with money felt much the same way. Although it wasn't as big a theme as Lily's rocky relationship with her parents. It was brought up a handful of times in regards to them going out to get coffee or social status but not a lot besides that. It felt like something just thrown in for kicks. And the biggest issue I had was the third act breakup. Historically, nobody really loves them that much but I usually don't mind them too horribly. But this one felt like it was only there just to have one, not because it developed anything further or helped the plot. It was really annoying and kind of regressed the character development a lot. If it hadn't of been in the story, this would've definitely gotten a 4 star from me. This was an enjoyable read, but not my absolute favorite ever.
Starting with what I did enjoy about the book, I did really like Chrys and Lily. Their banter back and forth and growing relationship and feelings towards each other was entertaining. I liked how naturally they grew to discover they actually enjoyed each others company and how quick they were to defend each other from their respective friends. The curse plot was also interesting to read. I thought it fit the simple plot very well and I liked that it didn't get overly complicated and overshadow things. Thornhaven was a cute and cozy small town and I liked the vibes of it a lot. I enjoyed how it described little subtle bits of magic placed all around if you knew how to look for them. And that there seemed to be a tight nit group of witches that mostly looked out for each other.
Now into things I didn't love. Lily and her parents had such a tension for most of the book, Lily feeling neglected and overshadowed by her younger sister, feeling like she didn't matter to them. It broke my heart for her honestly, that absolutely sucks. But this whole issue which seemed to fuel most of Lily's ambition and actions in the book was resolved and then glazed over with a few sentences. I feel like it should have been bigger than that, and it was really only her mother not even her father. And Chrys and her mom's issues with money felt much the same way. Although it wasn't as big a theme as Lily's rocky relationship with her parents. It was brought up a handful of times in regards to them going out to get coffee or social status but not a lot besides that. It felt like something just thrown in for kicks. And the biggest issue I had was the third act breakup. Historically, nobody really loves them that much but I usually don't mind them too horribly. But this one felt like it was only there just to have one, not because it developed anything further or helped the plot. It was really annoying and kind of regressed the character development a lot. If it hadn't of been in the story, this would've definitely gotten a 4 star from me. This was an enjoyable read, but not my absolute favorite ever.
October 5, 2025
Rating: 2.5
Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for the advanced reader’s copy! All opinions are my own.
No Charm Done is a book about two teens, Lily and Chrysanthemum (Chrys), living on the magical island of Thornhaven. The two have a rivalry that they must overcome when a curse threatens their island.
Firstly, this book had its really cute and sweet moments. Lily and Chrys’ interactions are so silly and engaging. Their relationship is really cute.
The book, though, suffered from a lack of development in terms of the plot, setting, characters, and magic system. The plot was a bit all over the place, and the main conflict (the curse) was often pushed to the background, even though it was a big deal. The setting was also not often described in the most detail, and for a magical island, it really felt like any normal town or school. The characters felt very surface level and tropey to me, and I feel like they could have been so much better with more depth. The magic system was also glossed over, and for a book about witches, I felt like there could have been a bit more details and exploration in what their magic means or does.
The main conflict also did not take off until after 100 or so pages, and the beginning really does drag, which made it hard to fall into this book.
Overall, this book felt very surface level with a rehashing of various common tropes and themes. The two characters are opposites in that Lily is preppy and rich, while Chrys is gothic and middle class. Lily is thought to be rich and stuck up, but she actually is just trying to impress her parents who are never around. Chrys is trying to get by and have enough money to get by, while not actually being mean regardless of her dark clothes. It just feels like a character archetype that has been done so often and better. Their rivalry is a misunderstanding and prejudice on their parts. And their middle ground is really just learning that the other is not who they thought they were. Their issues are resolved super easily just by them being together, and any conflicts really just fall flat easily.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cozy read that has low stakes and a cute romance. Lovers of queer witches and small towns might love this book as well.
Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for the advanced reader’s copy! All opinions are my own.
No Charm Done is a book about two teens, Lily and Chrysanthemum (Chrys), living on the magical island of Thornhaven. The two have a rivalry that they must overcome when a curse threatens their island.
Firstly, this book had its really cute and sweet moments. Lily and Chrys’ interactions are so silly and engaging. Their relationship is really cute.
The book, though, suffered from a lack of development in terms of the plot, setting, characters, and magic system. The plot was a bit all over the place, and the main conflict (the curse) was often pushed to the background, even though it was a big deal. The setting was also not often described in the most detail, and for a magical island, it really felt like any normal town or school. The characters felt very surface level and tropey to me, and I feel like they could have been so much better with more depth. The magic system was also glossed over, and for a book about witches, I felt like there could have been a bit more details and exploration in what their magic means or does.
The main conflict also did not take off until after 100 or so pages, and the beginning really does drag, which made it hard to fall into this book.
Overall, this book felt very surface level with a rehashing of various common tropes and themes. The two characters are opposites in that Lily is preppy and rich, while Chrys is gothic and middle class. Lily is thought to be rich and stuck up, but she actually is just trying to impress her parents who are never around. Chrys is trying to get by and have enough money to get by, while not actually being mean regardless of her dark clothes. It just feels like a character archetype that has been done so often and better. Their rivalry is a misunderstanding and prejudice on their parts. And their middle ground is really just learning that the other is not who they thought they were. Their issues are resolved super easily just by them being together, and any conflicts really just fall flat easily.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cozy read that has low stakes and a cute romance. Lovers of queer witches and small towns might love this book as well.
October 30, 2025
This focuses on a high school "enemies-to-lovers" trope; a trope that does not work well for a high school scenario. Although, the two characters in this book get as close as you can get surprisingly.
First off, this focuses on Lily, a witch from a well known family in this island who has sworn the opposing girl is her enemy and does tarot cards to read on her future for her senior year and has gotten a reading about falling in love with a boy. The other half focuses on Chrysanthemum, a witch who for the last three years is seen as somewhat of a outcast, she has her own friends, but does not interact with other witches as much. My biggest issue throughout this book, without getting into big spoilers is Lily's entire existence. The reasoning why Chrysanthemum is her enemy is honestly, pure stupidity even by teenage nonsense. The way she treats Chrysanthemum throughout the novel for the most part gets tiresome; even when she makes a mistake, instead of owning up to it, she blames it on Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemum on the other hand is more likeable, purely because she doesn't let Lily treat her like shit but she isn't a memorable character either.
The plot focuses on a curse/hex that was put upon and it was almost interesting, but honestly, the entirety of Lily genuinely hindered any sort of interest involving her. The curse gets fixed too quickly both times. It probably also didn't help that I am not the first or second lover of witches in general since I find a lot of them are quite the same both morally and physical wise.
Lastly, the romance wasn't overly great, especially since they became friends very fast considering what they have done and said towards each other not long ago. And the conflict they had (which was, as you guessed it! Lily started it) was one of the dumbest conflicts I have ever seen in a romance novel.
This is more like a 1.5 probably? Also did not realize until the author's note that Lily was asexual.
First off, this focuses on Lily, a witch from a well known family in this island who has sworn the opposing girl is her enemy and does tarot cards to read on her future for her senior year and has gotten a reading about falling in love with a boy. The other half focuses on Chrysanthemum, a witch who for the last three years is seen as somewhat of a outcast, she has her own friends, but does not interact with other witches as much. My biggest issue throughout this book, without getting into big spoilers is Lily's entire existence. The reasoning why Chrysanthemum is her enemy is honestly, pure stupidity even by teenage nonsense. The way she treats Chrysanthemum throughout the novel for the most part gets tiresome; even when she makes a mistake, instead of owning up to it, she blames it on Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemum on the other hand is more likeable, purely because she doesn't let Lily treat her like shit but she isn't a memorable character either.
The plot focuses on a curse/hex that was put upon and it was almost interesting, but honestly, the entirety of Lily genuinely hindered any sort of interest involving her. The curse gets fixed too quickly both times. It probably also didn't help that I am not the first or second lover of witches in general since I find a lot of them are quite the same both morally and physical wise.
Lastly, the romance wasn't overly great, especially since they became friends very fast considering what they have done and said towards each other not long ago. And the conflict they had (which was, as you guessed it! Lily started it) was one of the dumbest conflicts I have ever seen in a romance novel.
This is more like a 1.5 probably? Also did not realize until the author's note that Lily was asexual.
December 14, 2025
3.5⭐️
I really enjoyed this one (as you can probably see by the speed of which I read it). It’s giving if Halloweentown met AHS: Coven met Wednesday met Gilmore Girls met Legacies met ultimate sapphic rivals-to-lovers with a TOUCH of Shoni (wlw ship from The Wilds> ).
I had so much fun with such an adorable and exciting witchy sapphic romance.
The only points that made me hesitate with giving a higher rating was the pacing. In my opinion: I thought this one could’ve been muchhh longer.
There were moments when a new chapter started that left me feeling as though scenes were missing between the last chapter and current and it felt like the last 100 pages of the book went lightning fast with the plot while the rest was slow and gradual.
I also was left a bit underwhelmed by Luke’s whole presence in the book. I knew he was just mostly a plot device for Lily to figure out her sexuality and feelings for Chrys, but when Luke texted Chrys that he needed to speak to her and ask about the Ball and we NEVER find out what he said, it definitely bothered me a bit😭I was just hoping for a bigger type of moment with Lily and Chrys reconciling and Lily’s whole discovery of misreading her tarot cards (which Lily girl…c’mon, I was saying “idiot” over and over when she kept misinterpreting it and self-sabotaging💀)
However, this book truly has some of my FAVORITE banter that I’ve read. It was fun, comical, adorable, gay-panic-inducing, etc.. And the MAGIC? Yeah, I ate that up just like I knew I would😁🤍
While the miscommunication trope is my least favorite trope to ever exist, I enjoyed it when it happened just to get to read more of Chrys’ hilarious one-liners and the girls’ banter returning.
Reading this gave me the fall vibes I’ve been missing since October flew by too fast for my liking.
I love Lily, I love Chrysanthemum, and I want to live in Thornhaven now.
I really enjoyed this one (as you can probably see by the speed of which I read it). It’s giving if Halloweentown met AHS: Coven met Wednesday met Gilmore Girls met Legacies met ultimate sapphic rivals-to-lovers with a TOUCH of Shoni (wlw ship from The Wilds> ).
I had so much fun with such an adorable and exciting witchy sapphic romance.
The only points that made me hesitate with giving a higher rating was the pacing. In my opinion: I thought this one could’ve been muchhh longer.
There were moments when a new chapter started that left me feeling as though scenes were missing between the last chapter and current and it felt like the last 100 pages of the book went lightning fast with the plot while the rest was slow and gradual.
I also was left a bit underwhelmed by Luke’s whole presence in the book. I knew he was just mostly a plot device for Lily to figure out her sexuality and feelings for Chrys, but when Luke texted Chrys that he needed to speak to her and ask about the Ball and we NEVER find out what he said, it definitely bothered me a bit😭I was just hoping for a bigger type of moment with Lily and Chrys reconciling and Lily’s whole discovery of misreading her tarot cards (which Lily girl…c’mon, I was saying “idiot” over and over when she kept misinterpreting it and self-sabotaging💀)
However, this book truly has some of my FAVORITE banter that I’ve read. It was fun, comical, adorable, gay-panic-inducing, etc.. And the MAGIC? Yeah, I ate that up just like I knew I would😁🤍
While the miscommunication trope is my least favorite trope to ever exist, I enjoyed it when it happened just to get to read more of Chrys’ hilarious one-liners and the girls’ banter returning.
Reading this gave me the fall vibes I’ve been missing since October flew by too fast for my liking.
I love Lily, I love Chrysanthemum, and I want to live in Thornhaven now.
October 6, 2025
ARC Book Review| No Charm Done Written by Tori Anne Martin| Published by Holiday House
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
No Charm Done by Tori Anne Martin is a delightfully witchy sapphic romcom that mixes high school rivalry, magical chaos, and slow-burn romance in the most addictive way.
Set in Thornhaven, a coastal town where witch enclaves live in plain sight, the story follows Lily Allerton, a perfectionist from a prestigious magical family, and Chrys Quinn, the sarcastic outcast she has spent years competing with. When a spell war over a boy (who neither of them actually likes) goes wrong, the two witches are forced to work together to undo the hex they accidentally unleashed and face the sparks that have always burned between them.
Martin captures the perfect balance of teen drama, queer awakening, and magical mischief, with humor and heartfelt emotion woven throughout. I wish this book was around when I was in high school and trying to navigate what being bi meant, Martin truly captures all the emotions I felt and can help any woman that is confused with her sexuality. Lily and Chrys’s chemistry crackles with tension and longing, and their shift from enemies to something more tender is both swoon-worthy and satisfying.
The pacing drags a little in the middle and I didn’t enjoy that certain loose ends were tied too quickly, but overall this story delivers plenty of charm, heart, and queer magic. It is a cozy, witchy romcom about self-discovery, first love, and realizing that your nemesis might be exactly who you were looking for all along.I truly felt as I was sipping a warm apple cider, cozy, sizzling, and the perfect amount of sugar and spice.
Perfect for fans of I Kissed Shara Wheeler x Mean Girls x Hocus Pocus and anyone who loves magical rivals turned lovers. ✨
Lastly, I want to thank Tori Anne Martin for providing me an ARC via Netgalley all thoughts are my own! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
No Charm Done by Tori Anne Martin is a delightfully witchy sapphic romcom that mixes high school rivalry, magical chaos, and slow-burn romance in the most addictive way.
Set in Thornhaven, a coastal town where witch enclaves live in plain sight, the story follows Lily Allerton, a perfectionist from a prestigious magical family, and Chrys Quinn, the sarcastic outcast she has spent years competing with. When a spell war over a boy (who neither of them actually likes) goes wrong, the two witches are forced to work together to undo the hex they accidentally unleashed and face the sparks that have always burned between them.
Martin captures the perfect balance of teen drama, queer awakening, and magical mischief, with humor and heartfelt emotion woven throughout. I wish this book was around when I was in high school and trying to navigate what being bi meant, Martin truly captures all the emotions I felt and can help any woman that is confused with her sexuality. Lily and Chrys’s chemistry crackles with tension and longing, and their shift from enemies to something more tender is both swoon-worthy and satisfying.
The pacing drags a little in the middle and I didn’t enjoy that certain loose ends were tied too quickly, but overall this story delivers plenty of charm, heart, and queer magic. It is a cozy, witchy romcom about self-discovery, first love, and realizing that your nemesis might be exactly who you were looking for all along.I truly felt as I was sipping a warm apple cider, cozy, sizzling, and the perfect amount of sugar and spice.
Perfect for fans of I Kissed Shara Wheeler x Mean Girls x Hocus Pocus and anyone who loves magical rivals turned lovers. ✨
Lastly, I want to thank Tori Anne Martin for providing me an ARC via Netgalley all thoughts are my own! 💜
October 8, 2025
Two witch rivals on this small island. In a curse that takes over the town what could go wrong?
What I liked about the story was the Halloween aspect with magic the coven and how they celebrate Halloween. And that with their coven, they know they have to be closer to other witches so the power is more greater than they can feel it. What I personally didn’t like about these two were they didn’t have a romance. It took towards the end of the book where they actually connected and confess their feelings with each other. I do like the fact that they did resolve all their issues. And then they got to know each other more as a person. Not as how they saw them through each other‘s eyes. For Lily‘s character I personally didn’t like her because she was selfish throughout the whole book, especially in the third act. I give her credit though she does try and not be selfish and open up and actually see the person in front of her and not what she made up in her head. For Chrysanthemum what I like about her is she tries to make a better future for herself. She works hard for everything that she has. Both of them together they do solve the problem that’s happening in town. And that leads them to grow closer together. I do like the fact that they notice little details about each other. That one has like the other for a long time. But now the other is realizing oh I do like her, but there brain never wanted to see it that way. The book ending was fine not the greatest. Because there was another big problem for their relationship. But I did like the fact that they did get their happy ending with each other.
What I liked about the story was the Halloween aspect with magic the coven and how they celebrate Halloween. And that with their coven, they know they have to be closer to other witches so the power is more greater than they can feel it. What I personally didn’t like about these two were they didn’t have a romance. It took towards the end of the book where they actually connected and confess their feelings with each other. I do like the fact that they did resolve all their issues. And then they got to know each other more as a person. Not as how they saw them through each other‘s eyes. For Lily‘s character I personally didn’t like her because she was selfish throughout the whole book, especially in the third act. I give her credit though she does try and not be selfish and open up and actually see the person in front of her and not what she made up in her head. For Chrysanthemum what I like about her is she tries to make a better future for herself. She works hard for everything that she has. Both of them together they do solve the problem that’s happening in town. And that leads them to grow closer together. I do like the fact that they notice little details about each other. That one has like the other for a long time. But now the other is realizing oh I do like her, but there brain never wanted to see it that way. The book ending was fine not the greatest. Because there was another big problem for their relationship. But I did like the fact that they did get their happy ending with each other.
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