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Belladonna Moon
Not yet published
Expected 12 Feb 26The only differences between medicine and poison are dosage and intent.
Savannah, 1749. Mercy Penrose helps her mother run an apothecary. She specializes in elemental magic and uses it to create the best medicinal salves, oils, and teas in the colony. The trick is only using enough of her magic to help without raising her witch-fearing neighbor's suspicions.
Then, one morning, Mercy returns home to find her parents murdered. The killer wanted her family's magical artifacts and grimoires, but she can't tell this to the man in charge of the investigation without risking burning at the stake. That only leaves one solutions. It's up to Mercy to find her parents' killer and bring them to justice.
Her investigation gets complicated when she meets Kit Arkill, a bounty hunter sent to capture or kill the two witches responsible for the Salem witch trials. The two realize they're after the same people and decide to work together. But joining forces might still not be enough, as one of the witches they're hunting can shapeshift. Every neighbor that Mercy knows and trusts is now in question.
Follow Mercy and Kit as they try to hunt down two dangerous killers. Mercy was trained to heal, not fight, but the world should know better than to underestimate a witch comfortable in her own power...
Savannah, 1749. Mercy Penrose helps her mother run an apothecary. She specializes in elemental magic and uses it to create the best medicinal salves, oils, and teas in the colony. The trick is only using enough of her magic to help without raising her witch-fearing neighbor's suspicions.
Then, one morning, Mercy returns home to find her parents murdered. The killer wanted her family's magical artifacts and grimoires, but she can't tell this to the man in charge of the investigation without risking burning at the stake. That only leaves one solutions. It's up to Mercy to find her parents' killer and bring them to justice.
Her investigation gets complicated when she meets Kit Arkill, a bounty hunter sent to capture or kill the two witches responsible for the Salem witch trials. The two realize they're after the same people and decide to work together. But joining forces might still not be enough, as one of the witches they're hunting can shapeshift. Every neighbor that Mercy knows and trusts is now in question.
Follow Mercy and Kit as they try to hunt down two dangerous killers. Mercy was trained to heal, not fight, but the world should know better than to underestimate a witch comfortable in her own power...
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 12, 2026
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Want to read
December 25, 2025I’m so excited for this book 🤩 can’t wait for it to release 👏👏
January 24, 2026
ARC Review:
I enjoyed this short story. It was quick, to the point and had a satisfying ending. Mercy is a strong-willed and independent witch, who takes NO BS. I liked that her character never deviated from her true self, never wavered, and no one could convince her to change her morals or try to change her. The beginning of the story does a good job setting up the city of Savannah, and how society must have been back then. I really appreciate the detail to the factual history of Savannah, Georgia. I also used to go to college and live there, so it’s beauty is recognizable in any more, and I could literally smell the city. Brought back memories. I absolutely was a fan of the sub romance, and that it didn’t take over the story. (I need a break from romantasy) lol. But Kit is the idea of the PERFECT demon book boyfriend. He was a breath of fresh air from the usual MMC we get. And the fact that he is basically a feminist. All the side characters had their moments and I really love Elsie. A mama bear literally. There isn’t much world building to be done, especially, if you know the city of Savannah. But nothing complex, or apparently obvious to the characters of the story where an explanation is needed. The way the magic system works seems comparable to most with magic based on elements and the combinations of witches and wizards. Throw in the shifters, and Alphas and it’s easy to follow. The author does well with her prose, although there were some parts that needed re-reading for clarification on whom actually says a certain line, and certain lines there were words being repeated twice. But it didn’t stop the flow of the scene. If you want a novella with a mystery, magic, and a lot of flowers, make sure to pick this up when it releases February 12, 2026!!
I enjoyed this short story. It was quick, to the point and had a satisfying ending. Mercy is a strong-willed and independent witch, who takes NO BS. I liked that her character never deviated from her true self, never wavered, and no one could convince her to change her morals or try to change her. The beginning of the story does a good job setting up the city of Savannah, and how society must have been back then. I really appreciate the detail to the factual history of Savannah, Georgia. I also used to go to college and live there, so it’s beauty is recognizable in any more, and I could literally smell the city. Brought back memories. I absolutely was a fan of the sub romance, and that it didn’t take over the story. (I need a break from romantasy) lol. But Kit is the idea of the PERFECT demon book boyfriend. He was a breath of fresh air from the usual MMC we get. And the fact that he is basically a feminist. All the side characters had their moments and I really love Elsie. A mama bear literally. There isn’t much world building to be done, especially, if you know the city of Savannah. But nothing complex, or apparently obvious to the characters of the story where an explanation is needed. The way the magic system works seems comparable to most with magic based on elements and the combinations of witches and wizards. Throw in the shifters, and Alphas and it’s easy to follow. The author does well with her prose, although there were some parts that needed re-reading for clarification on whom actually says a certain line, and certain lines there were words being repeated twice. But it didn’t stop the flow of the scene. If you want a novella with a mystery, magic, and a lot of flowers, make sure to pick this up when it releases February 12, 2026!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Belladonna Moon is an upcoming novel that is truly intriguing. It takes place in the mid eighteenth century and takes place in a time where people were people were still weary of people using herbs as medcine and the Salem Witch Trials were still a delicate topic. I will admit was very intrigued with how this story I very much admired the fmc and her ability to get things done.
We are introduced to Mercy who spends her days working alongside her mother in an apothecary. She pratices magic in using small amounts in order to keep the suspicions of her neighbors at bay. However, one day she returns to find her parents dead and the reason is that the intruder wanted the magical artifacts. But finding the killer will be impossible with the law and she could possibly incriminate herself with being burned on the stake. Will she find a way to peacefully bring justice?
We are introduced to Mercy who spends her days working alongside her mother in an apothecary. She pratices magic in using small amounts in order to keep the suspicions of her neighbors at bay. However, one day she returns to find her parents dead and the reason is that the intruder wanted the magical artifacts. But finding the killer will be impossible with the law and she could possibly incriminate herself with being burned on the stake. Will she find a way to peacefully bring justice?
January 19, 2026
This was an exceptionally well paced book for how quick of a read it was! No part of the story felt rushed, including the growing tension between characters. I felt like I was sent back in time, effortlessly envisioning 1700’s Savannah, and was impressed by the history of magic. The investigation has us suspecting everyone, and trusting no one, all while delivering funny conversations and creative terminology (maybe too much, but the glossary index was helpful) that is giving off warm detective novel vibes. I do think some of the chapters were longer than necessary, but overall this was a really fun read!
January 20, 2026
Set in the 1700’s in Savannah this story takes you on quite the adventure! A murder mystery with enemies to more, witches, daemons, shapeshifters, closed door.. this book was a refreshing historical fantasy with a unique plot and storyline! I love that it’s a standalone book that ties up all the loose ends beautifully. The book is well paced, with a good backstory and likable characters. I appreciate the yearning without the spicy scenes. And thank you sooo much for the glossary page at the beginning of the book cause it definitely helped😂🫶🏽
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
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Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Belladonna Moon by J.E. Brand
Thank you to the author for the ARC: Please check out Belladonna Moon when it is released February 12, 2026!
Belladonna Moon is one of those rare historical fantasies where you can feel the care and research on every page. The setting is richly detailed and historically grounded, which makes the magic feel authentic rather than ornamental. The witchcraft here is rooted in folklore, superstition, and consequence — herbs, rituals, whispered fears — all woven seamlessly into daily life. The atmosphere is dark, immersive, and undeniably witchy without ever feeling exaggerated.
One of the standout elements for me was the romance between Mercy and Kit, particularly how accurate and restrained the courting style feels for the time period. Their relationship unfolds slowly and deliberately, shaped by social expectations, propriety, and unspoken rules rather than modern impulses. The tension lives in glances, restraint, and moments that feel small but carry enormous weight. It made their connection feel more intimate and believable, and honestly far more romantic because of it.
What also surprised me in the best way was how fast-paced and well-constructed the murder mystery is. The investigation never drags or feels secondary to the atmosphere. Each clue feels intentional, the stakes escalate naturally, and the resolution is thoughtfully earned rather than rushed. It adds a sharp sense of momentum to an otherwise quiet, simmering story and keeps the tension taut throughout.
That same respect for the era extends across every layer of the book. The balance between history and mysticism is handled with confidence — neither overshadows the other. The magic has rules, the choices have consequences, and the emotional stakes feel grounded in the reality of the setting rather than convenience.
This is a quiet, atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page. If you love historically accurate witch stories, subtle slow-burn romance, and a setting alive with superstition, danger, and mystery, Belladonna Moon is an easy five stars. A beautifully crafted, deeply immersive read that fully commits to its world.
Thank you to the author for the ARC: Please check out Belladonna Moon when it is released February 12, 2026!
Belladonna Moon is one of those rare historical fantasies where you can feel the care and research on every page. The setting is richly detailed and historically grounded, which makes the magic feel authentic rather than ornamental. The witchcraft here is rooted in folklore, superstition, and consequence — herbs, rituals, whispered fears — all woven seamlessly into daily life. The atmosphere is dark, immersive, and undeniably witchy without ever feeling exaggerated.
One of the standout elements for me was the romance between Mercy and Kit, particularly how accurate and restrained the courting style feels for the time period. Their relationship unfolds slowly and deliberately, shaped by social expectations, propriety, and unspoken rules rather than modern impulses. The tension lives in glances, restraint, and moments that feel small but carry enormous weight. It made their connection feel more intimate and believable, and honestly far more romantic because of it.
What also surprised me in the best way was how fast-paced and well-constructed the murder mystery is. The investigation never drags or feels secondary to the atmosphere. Each clue feels intentional, the stakes escalate naturally, and the resolution is thoughtfully earned rather than rushed. It adds a sharp sense of momentum to an otherwise quiet, simmering story and keeps the tension taut throughout.
That same respect for the era extends across every layer of the book. The balance between history and mysticism is handled with confidence — neither overshadows the other. The magic has rules, the choices have consequences, and the emotional stakes feel grounded in the reality of the setting rather than convenience.
This is a quiet, atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page. If you love historically accurate witch stories, subtle slow-burn romance, and a setting alive with superstition, danger, and mystery, Belladonna Moon is an easy five stars. A beautifully crafted, deeply immersive read that fully commits to its world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Set in the beautiful city of Savannah, Belladonna Moon takes us on a well-paced adventure to solve the mystery of the murder of Mercy's parents - and possibly find love along the way. This book does a great job expanding the universe of Magics that Brand has built through her Witch's March series, and gives us the perspective of someone learning about the history and lore of not only her family, but a world that she didn't even know she was fully a part of until now.
One thing I love about Brand's books, and this book in particular, is her attention to detail and historical accuracy. The spell's etymologies, the floral symbology, and the accuracy of Savannah itself all lend itself to an immersion of a world that feels real and tangible.
Belladonna Moon features a classic enemies to lovers trope, but done in a way that I have rarely seen. The main piece that was nice about this relationship is that neither person compromised who they were for it to work. Mercy stayed fiercely independent and strong-willed, and Kit stayed passionate about his goals and intentions. I thought it was a genuine connection. The two protagonists felt like their love was legitimate - not forced for the sake of novel romance. Normally you see concessions to who a character is or some softening that diminishes from the person they were before they met their love interest (or when the feelings started to materialize). I'm happy the characters stayed true to themselves and were able to come together in a way that allowed that. It demonstrated extremely well the power of a relationship between two incredibly independent individuals - where they are together by choice not because they NEED the other, but because they truly WANT them.
All in all a very pleasant read that I would highly recommend!
One thing I love about Brand's books, and this book in particular, is her attention to detail and historical accuracy. The spell's etymologies, the floral symbology, and the accuracy of Savannah itself all lend itself to an immersion of a world that feels real and tangible.
Belladonna Moon features a classic enemies to lovers trope, but done in a way that I have rarely seen. The main piece that was nice about this relationship is that neither person compromised who they were for it to work. Mercy stayed fiercely independent and strong-willed, and Kit stayed passionate about his goals and intentions. I thought it was a genuine connection. The two protagonists felt like their love was legitimate - not forced for the sake of novel romance. Normally you see concessions to who a character is or some softening that diminishes from the person they were before they met their love interest (or when the feelings started to materialize). I'm happy the characters stayed true to themselves and were able to come together in a way that allowed that. It demonstrated extremely well the power of a relationship between two incredibly independent individuals - where they are together by choice not because they NEED the other, but because they truly WANT them.
All in all a very pleasant read that I would highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun read! From the first pages, I was hooked by the Salem witch trial vibes mixed with witches, apothecaries, and magic.
The atmosphere was rich and witchy without feeling heavy, and the story stayed entertaining the whole way through. But my favorite part, hands down, was the relationship between Mercy and Kit. Their dynamic added so much heart, tension, and humor to the story.
Overall, this was a wildly enjoyable ride and a perfect pick if you love magic, dark historical vibes, and characters you actually care about. I flew through it and had a great time doing it. Would absolutely recommend!
The atmosphere was rich and witchy without feeling heavy, and the story stayed entertaining the whole way through. But my favorite part, hands down, was the relationship between Mercy and Kit. Their dynamic added so much heart, tension, and humor to the story.
Overall, this was a wildly enjoyable ride and a perfect pick if you love magic, dark historical vibes, and characters you actually care about. I flew through it and had a great time doing it. Would absolutely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book! It was a great way to start the new year. For me— the story was new and refreshing, and I easily got lost in it. The history and characters were unique compared to other books I’m used to reading.
I especially enjoyed the tension and mystery in this book. Every time Mercy was speaking with a friend or someone she trusted, I quickly began to question if they were who they said they were.
If you want a quick read and a portal into the past with magic and a charging MMC , this is a great book to pick up!
I received an ARC copy.
I especially enjoyed the tension and mystery in this book. Every time Mercy was speaking with a friend or someone she trusted, I quickly began to question if they were who they said they were.
If you want a quick read and a portal into the past with magic and a charging MMC , this is a great book to pick up!
I received an ARC copy.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews