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Only Spell Deep
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Expected 17 Mar 26Rebecca meets The Craft in this dark, atmospheric novel of one witch rediscovering her power while on the run from another willing to kill her for it.
Judeth Cole has always had certain uncanny abilities. But when she arrived at Solidago - her grandfather’s estate by the sea - she was forced to keep them secret. There she lived a harsh life under his rule and the haunting legacy of her late grandmother, Aurelia. Until the fateful day she ignited a fire with her magic. It was the last time she saw her family alive.
Seventeen years later, she’s living in Seattle as Jude Clark, and failing at life, when she makes a last detour through her favorite bookstore, selecting a book to read as she waits to die. But when she pulls it from the shelf, an invitation to her for a clandestine midnight meeting slips out.
Jude is quickly swept up into a world of secrets and magic, discovering a circle of powerful new companions led by the mysterious, enigmatic Arla. The source of their magic, Arla tells her, is a goddess, trapped and bound, that they call The Fathom. But Jude swiftly realizes Arla wants this power all to herself, and that she’s willing to kill for it.
Terrified, Jude turns to Levi Orman, the handsome bookseller who’s seen her at her worst. With his help, she begins a research journey that leads her from the crystal waters of the Mediterranean to the icy waves of the Greenland Sea and back to Solidago, the house she swore to never return to. With the Fathom threatening to break free and Arla on the hunt, Jude must finally face her past to save her future.
Ava Morgyn's Only Spell Deep is a novel that takes readers on a journey into a dark, glittering world of magic, a place where power should never be caged and misplaced trust can have deadly consequences.
Judeth Cole has always had certain uncanny abilities. But when she arrived at Solidago - her grandfather’s estate by the sea - she was forced to keep them secret. There she lived a harsh life under his rule and the haunting legacy of her late grandmother, Aurelia. Until the fateful day she ignited a fire with her magic. It was the last time she saw her family alive.
Seventeen years later, she’s living in Seattle as Jude Clark, and failing at life, when she makes a last detour through her favorite bookstore, selecting a book to read as she waits to die. But when she pulls it from the shelf, an invitation to her for a clandestine midnight meeting slips out.
Jude is quickly swept up into a world of secrets and magic, discovering a circle of powerful new companions led by the mysterious, enigmatic Arla. The source of their magic, Arla tells her, is a goddess, trapped and bound, that they call The Fathom. But Jude swiftly realizes Arla wants this power all to herself, and that she’s willing to kill for it.
Terrified, Jude turns to Levi Orman, the handsome bookseller who’s seen her at her worst. With his help, she begins a research journey that leads her from the crystal waters of the Mediterranean to the icy waves of the Greenland Sea and back to Solidago, the house she swore to never return to. With the Fathom threatening to break free and Arla on the hunt, Jude must finally face her past to save her future.
Ava Morgyn's Only Spell Deep is a novel that takes readers on a journey into a dark, glittering world of magic, a place where power should never be caged and misplaced trust can have deadly consequences.
1 pages, Audio CD
Expected publication March 17, 2026
19 people are currently reading
15707 people want to read
About the author
Ava Morgyn
5 books513 followersAva Morgyn grew up falling in love with all the wrong characters in all the wrong stories, then studied English Writing & Rhetoric at St. Edward’s University. She is a lover of witchcraft, tarot, and powerful women with bad reputations, and she currently resides in Houston, surrounded by antiques and dog hair. When not at her laptop spinning darkly hypnotic tales, she writes for her blog on child loss (forloveofevelyn.com), hunts for vintage treasures, and reads the darkest books she can find.
She is the author of YA novels Resurrection Girls and The Salt in Our Blood, and paranormal women's fiction The Witches of Bone Hill, from St. Martin's Griffin.
She is the author of YA novels Resurrection Girls and The Salt in Our Blood, and paranormal women's fiction The Witches of Bone Hill, from St. Martin's Griffin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 21, 2025
I read Ava Morgan's two previous novels (The Witches of Bone Hill and The Bane Witch) as ARCs, and they led to her quickly becoming one of my new favorite witchy writers. Only Spell Deep continues with the whole “witches who return home and learn to embrace their powers” trope that Morgan does so well, but I have to admit that it's my least favorite of her three books that I've read. That's not to say that isn't worth a read — the premise is outstanding and the subject matter fantastically dark — but it just didn't grip me in quite the same way that her two previous novels did.
But first things first: the publisher's blurb states that this book is “Rebecca meets The Craft,” but is it really? Eh, well … mostly? I mean, The Craft? Definitely. There's no Neve Campbell in this one, but I doubt that anyone who watched The Craft dozens of times in the late 90s (that'd be me) is going to have any issue recognizing the similarities. Rebecca, though? Eh … maybe? I can certainly see where the idea is coming from — there's an oppressive remote estate with dramatic cliffs and fire is involved — but the plot lines diverge pretty heavily and Solidago doesn't play much of a role in the present-day timeline. But still, it's one of my favorite 90s films combined with one of my favorite novels, and you'll get no complaints from me there.
The setting, too, is really well done. There's not only the Manderley-esque Solidago that's fantastically gothic-y with its oppressive presence and dark history, but Morgan also does a wonderful job of bringing the city of Seattle to life. The entire novel is atmospheric and gritty and I loved that bits and pieces of the history of Seattle were woven into the story.
However, with that said, the middle of this novel drags. It was never to the point of being unreadable, but from about 40-70% there isn't a whole lot that happens. There's some romance stuff going on and the characters talk about magic and they do some research involving magic, but no one really does much to push the plot forward in any measurable sense. There's a lot of description and dialogue, but there's not a whole lot of action. The beginning is completely enthralling and the ending is almost unputdownable (albeit perhaps a little predictable) so they make up for the middle in a lot of ways, but just be forewarned that it's an extremely slow burn for a while there.
Overall, though, this was a largely enjoyable read. Ava Morgan still writes witches really well, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
3.55 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Griffin for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is March 17, 2026.
But first things first: the publisher's blurb states that this book is “Rebecca meets The Craft,” but is it really? Eh, well … mostly? I mean, The Craft? Definitely. There's no Neve Campbell in this one, but I doubt that anyone who watched The Craft dozens of times in the late 90s (that'd be me) is going to have any issue recognizing the similarities. Rebecca, though? Eh … maybe? I can certainly see where the idea is coming from — there's an oppressive remote estate with dramatic cliffs and fire is involved — but the plot lines diverge pretty heavily and Solidago doesn't play much of a role in the present-day timeline. But still, it's one of my favorite 90s films combined with one of my favorite novels, and you'll get no complaints from me there.
The setting, too, is really well done. There's not only the Manderley-esque Solidago that's fantastically gothic-y with its oppressive presence and dark history, but Morgan also does a wonderful job of bringing the city of Seattle to life. The entire novel is atmospheric and gritty and I loved that bits and pieces of the history of Seattle were woven into the story.
However, with that said, the middle of this novel drags. It was never to the point of being unreadable, but from about 40-70% there isn't a whole lot that happens. There's some romance stuff going on and the characters talk about magic and they do some research involving magic, but no one really does much to push the plot forward in any measurable sense. There's a lot of description and dialogue, but there's not a whole lot of action. The beginning is completely enthralling and the ending is almost unputdownable (albeit perhaps a little predictable) so they make up for the middle in a lot of ways, but just be forewarned that it's an extremely slow burn for a while there.
Overall, though, this was a largely enjoyable read. Ava Morgan still writes witches really well, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
3.55 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Griffin for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is March 17, 2026.
November 19, 2025
3.5☆
In Only Spell Deep Jude fell down a dangerous and dark rabbit hole when she received the first black, gold embossed invitation. We follow Jude through various tests set for her by a formidable opponent and we also revisit her past through her memories.
The mythology examined in this novel is great, but I craved more. I would have traded much of Jude's work troubles for more information about the various Goddesses mentioned. After all, it is a novel centered on a particular Goddess.
The final conflict was a bit rushed and disappointing given how much Jude had to endure, discover and connect in order to get there.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my opinions of this novel. Thank you to the author, publisher and Goodreads for this opportunity.
All in all Only Spell Deep was an enjoyable read. I would recommend it.
In Only Spell Deep Jude fell down a dangerous and dark rabbit hole when she received the first black, gold embossed invitation. We follow Jude through various tests set for her by a formidable opponent and we also revisit her past through her memories.
The mythology examined in this novel is great, but I craved more. I would have traded much of Jude's work troubles for more information about the various Goddesses mentioned. After all, it is a novel centered on a particular Goddess.
The final conflict was a bit rushed and disappointing given how much Jude had to endure, discover and connect in order to get there.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my opinions of this novel. Thank you to the author, publisher and Goodreads for this opportunity.
All in all Only Spell Deep was an enjoyable read. I would recommend it.
September 28, 2025
thank you to netgalley and st. martin's griffin for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
wow, that was... i'm not sure if i have the words for that honestly.
this was hard for me when i first started... i was asking more questions than i was getting answers and the poor Jude honestly felt about as lost as i felt, which in turn made this book better because ALL THE PIECES CLICK EVENTUALLY!
there was still some open-ended ones and ones left for you to question, but honestly, it goes in with the story of the goddesses and the Fathom itself. you just have to trust the process.
the last 20% of this book had my literal heart racing the entire time and i had to finish to know what happened, i could not stop. plus the suspense was KILLER. i mean i was a little scared reading this at night figuring out what happens next but i. could. not. put. this. down.
levi, i don't know. i'm still a little meh about him. like he fit in the story, don't get me wrong... and like he only had the ick factor one time, but their 'love story' just didn't sit right with me and they did the deed but that's literally it, how it was written basically even though it extended several paragraphs... and i just simply felt like it could have done without.
overall, a good story about witches, suspense, and remember, everyone always has a secret.
wow, that was... i'm not sure if i have the words for that honestly.
this was hard for me when i first started... i was asking more questions than i was getting answers and the poor Jude honestly felt about as lost as i felt, which in turn made this book better because ALL THE PIECES CLICK EVENTUALLY!
there was still some open-ended ones and ones left for you to question, but honestly, it goes in with the story of the goddesses and the Fathom itself. you just have to trust the process.
the last 20% of this book had my literal heart racing the entire time and i had to finish to know what happened, i could not stop. plus the suspense was KILLER. i mean i was a little scared reading this at night figuring out what happens next but i. could. not. put. this. down.
levi, i don't know. i'm still a little meh about him. like he fit in the story, don't get me wrong... and like he only had the ick factor one time, but their 'love story' just didn't sit right with me and they did the deed but that's literally it, how it was written basically even though it extended several paragraphs... and i just simply felt like it could have done without.
overall, a good story about witches, suspense, and remember, everyone always has a secret.
August 26, 2025
I love Ava Morgyn so much. Her books are like being hugged by a flannel blanket in patchouli scented forest at dusk.
The setting had me googling if these places existed because I wanted to move there. The characters were a mix of feminine rage and fire magic swirled up in the broken heart of an heiress.
The romantic interest? A hot hipster book slinging history nerd? Are you for real! Yes please.
The villain, the magic system, the goddess - all so well done. Without giving anything away- I want to move into Medusa and go trapsing through underground basements.
The setting had me googling if these places existed because I wanted to move there. The characters were a mix of feminine rage and fire magic swirled up in the broken heart of an heiress.
The romantic interest? A hot hipster book slinging history nerd? Are you for real! Yes please.
The villain, the magic system, the goddess - all so well done. Without giving anything away- I want to move into Medusa and go trapsing through underground basements.
October 16, 2025
If you are looking for a witchy, culty, spooky season read this could be a good pick!
Hmm I have qualms with this book 😂 When the book first started I was enraptured with the mystery behind the fire, the deaths of the FMC family and the unusual qualities surrounding the “home” and her refusal to return to it. Given it was such a heavy opening topic I assumed moving forward the book would be about the relationship between the FMC and the home..however there was very little mention until we got a small scene at the end, apart from giving us some background story im not sure what the relevance was to her family history or the home, the family/home history and her present day experiences with her relationships and power abilities seemed like two seperate novels that could have been split apart into two different books.
I did like the FMC and her character development, finding her confidence, entering a healthy supportive relationship and honing her magical abilities. This was probably my favourite theme in the book. What I do think was totally unnecessary for the plot was the history of SA and incest relations… it just seemed like a wild card thrown in for shock factor.
Despite the book being 350 it took me a LONG time to read, there was SO much description, for every 5 pages of descriptive text there was probably 1 page of dialogue, which resulted in me skim reading through to the end. It really slowed the pacing down and just wasn’t necessary. Some people perhaps will enjoy this writing style, i however was more interested in trying to figure out what was happening in the actual plot between the character and the mysterious being.
Overall I’d have to give this a 3⭐️. The plot had potential but was drowned in a lot of extra unnecessary components. A book i would recommend others to try, but not one i would reread.
“ Rebecca meets The Craft in this dark, atmospheric novel of one witch rediscovering her power while on the run from another willing to kill her for it.”
Expect:
Gothic vibes
Feminine rage
Non toxic love interest
Toxic friends and family (warning: child abuse, SA, incest).
Thank you for the gifted copy!
Hmm I have qualms with this book 😂 When the book first started I was enraptured with the mystery behind the fire, the deaths of the FMC family and the unusual qualities surrounding the “home” and her refusal to return to it. Given it was such a heavy opening topic I assumed moving forward the book would be about the relationship between the FMC and the home..however there was very little mention until we got a small scene at the end, apart from giving us some background story im not sure what the relevance was to her family history or the home, the family/home history and her present day experiences with her relationships and power abilities seemed like two seperate novels that could have been split apart into two different books.
I did like the FMC and her character development, finding her confidence, entering a healthy supportive relationship and honing her magical abilities. This was probably my favourite theme in the book. What I do think was totally unnecessary for the plot was the history of SA and incest relations… it just seemed like a wild card thrown in for shock factor.
Despite the book being 350 it took me a LONG time to read, there was SO much description, for every 5 pages of descriptive text there was probably 1 page of dialogue, which resulted in me skim reading through to the end. It really slowed the pacing down and just wasn’t necessary. Some people perhaps will enjoy this writing style, i however was more interested in trying to figure out what was happening in the actual plot between the character and the mysterious being.
Overall I’d have to give this a 3⭐️. The plot had potential but was drowned in a lot of extra unnecessary components. A book i would recommend others to try, but not one i would reread.
“ Rebecca meets The Craft in this dark, atmospheric novel of one witch rediscovering her power while on the run from another willing to kill her for it.”
Expect:
Gothic vibes
Feminine rage
Non toxic love interest
Toxic friends and family (warning: child abuse, SA, incest).
Thank you for the gifted copy!
Want to read
December 30, 2025This sounds right up my alley.
Thank you, St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin, for sending me this ARC. Can't wait to dive into this world.
Pub Date: Mar 17, 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤💫
Thank you, St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin, for sending me this ARC. Can't wait to dive into this world.
Pub Date: Mar 17, 2026
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤💫
October 14, 2025
3.5-4 Stars!
Sometimes reviews are hard because you just can't find all the right words to describe the crazy, messed up ride you just took with a book.
This, is one of those times.
I'm not going to lie, the first half of this book was...slow. A little strange, and sometimes even downright confusing. I wasn't sure what was happening, where this book was taking me and, while it did all work out in the end, I think the best part of this book, was in, fact, the ending.
The last third of this book saved it all. Things came together. Pieces clicked and made sense and you finally, finally got some much-needed answers. Not to mention the heart-pounding danger, and mystery of it all. The darkness.
Overall, this was a good read that you just need to give it time, to come together, make sense, and really capture your attention. The storyline is pretty fantastical and unique.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Sometimes reviews are hard because you just can't find all the right words to describe the crazy, messed up ride you just took with a book.
This, is one of those times.
I'm not going to lie, the first half of this book was...slow. A little strange, and sometimes even downright confusing. I wasn't sure what was happening, where this book was taking me and, while it did all work out in the end, I think the best part of this book, was in, fact, the ending.
The last third of this book saved it all. Things came together. Pieces clicked and made sense and you finally, finally got some much-needed answers. Not to mention the heart-pounding danger, and mystery of it all. The darkness.
Overall, this was a good read that you just need to give it time, to come together, make sense, and really capture your attention. The storyline is pretty fantastical and unique.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
October 5, 2025
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC of this book. I actually ARC read “The Bane Witch” the year before so I was familiar with her work. Her style is definitely gritty, moody, dark. And there is a mountain of TWs. I think I went into this one thinking it would be romantasy - and it’s not (for me at least). So I think that in turn is why it wasn’t my cup of tea - also I’m not known to love flourished, descriptive embellished writing styles and this was definitely that.
Judeth comes from a dark, traumatic past. Moving to her grandfathers estate, the Solidago, as a child with her mother after her father passed starting a chain reaction more devastating than anyone could predict. Her grandfather was a terrible man, obsessed with her now deceased grandmother, controlling and possessive. But in one act of fury - everything Jude knows burns away. See, the women in Jude’s lineage are all elemental witches. Each having magic of their own which in some cases turned against them - so her mother warned her to never trust her magic and to not use it. After that horrible night, the story jumps forward 13 years, Jude is no longer a teenager but a grown woman on the edge. Recently having lost her pregnancy, her boyfriend and all hope - Jude has given up. Until an eerie invitation invites her into a new world of magic, witches, monsters and goddesses. But as Jude becomes more enthralled in this world, she sees the darkness creeping in and a deadly plot underway. And don’t get me started on what’s hidden in the basement. Add in a cute supportive book shop owner who she grows close with and a supportive cast of quirky outcasts and the story takes flight.
Judeth comes from a dark, traumatic past. Moving to her grandfathers estate, the Solidago, as a child with her mother after her father passed starting a chain reaction more devastating than anyone could predict. Her grandfather was a terrible man, obsessed with her now deceased grandmother, controlling and possessive. But in one act of fury - everything Jude knows burns away. See, the women in Jude’s lineage are all elemental witches. Each having magic of their own which in some cases turned against them - so her mother warned her to never trust her magic and to not use it. After that horrible night, the story jumps forward 13 years, Jude is no longer a teenager but a grown woman on the edge. Recently having lost her pregnancy, her boyfriend and all hope - Jude has given up. Until an eerie invitation invites her into a new world of magic, witches, monsters and goddesses. But as Jude becomes more enthralled in this world, she sees the darkness creeping in and a deadly plot underway. And don’t get me started on what’s hidden in the basement. Add in a cute supportive book shop owner who she grows close with and a supportive cast of quirky outcasts and the story takes flight.
September 7, 2025
Thank you to @avamorgyn #avamorgyn @stmartinspress #stmartinspress and @netgalley #netgalley for this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
This was a fun read and definitely out of my normal genres.
This definitely has mystery so that kept me reading.
I really liked Judith/Jude and it was interesting to see her develop into a character that kept me wanting more and of course this book delivered.
Witchcraft, destiny, power, and yes romance all to be had in this book.
The writing was wonderful and totally encompassing. Which I've been told is definitely what makes the writing of @avamorgyn Ava Morgyn so popular.
Definitely a book I would and will recommend. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a fun read and definitely out of my normal genres.
This definitely has mystery so that kept me reading.
I really liked Judith/Jude and it was interesting to see her develop into a character that kept me wanting more and of course this book delivered.
Witchcraft, destiny, power, and yes romance all to be had in this book.
The writing was wonderful and totally encompassing. Which I've been told is definitely what makes the writing of @avamorgyn Ava Morgyn so popular.
Definitely a book I would and will recommend. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 27, 2025
3.7/5
This book hooked me right from the beginning, Ava Morgyn has a real talent for closing lines that make you want to keep reading after the end of every chapter.
Without spoilers: the writing is compelling, even when I wasn’t sure how I felt about Judeth our female lead (however that’s a “me problem” rather than a fault in the book). I found her a little frustrating at times or hard to connect with but that’s also what made her feel raw and human by the end of the novel.
Overall, it’s a dark, twisty read with striking prose, and I think readers who enjoy dark, feminist-leaning fantasy with mystery elements would enjoy this book. I’m already adding Ava Morgyn’s other books to my TBR List.
With that said, PLEASE also be mindful of the trigger/content warnings. Take care!
✨Thank you to the Publishers and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions made are my own.
This book hooked me right from the beginning, Ava Morgyn has a real talent for closing lines that make you want to keep reading after the end of every chapter.
Without spoilers: the writing is compelling, even when I wasn’t sure how I felt about Judeth our female lead (however that’s a “me problem” rather than a fault in the book). I found her a little frustrating at times or hard to connect with but that’s also what made her feel raw and human by the end of the novel.
Overall, it’s a dark, twisty read with striking prose, and I think readers who enjoy dark, feminist-leaning fantasy with mystery elements would enjoy this book. I’m already adding Ava Morgyn’s other books to my TBR List.
With that said, PLEASE also be mindful of the trigger/content warnings. Take care!
✨Thank you to the Publishers and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions made are my own.
June 18, 2025
Blurb to come!
August 21, 2025
Old wounds and family curses burn through the pages of this book and I couldn’t put it down!
“Only Spell Deep” is an odd title for a book filled with so much depth one could get lost inside of it. Switch more than one skeleton in the closet, Jude has abandoned her family estate and tried her best to stay under the radar but when an mysterious invitation encourages her to embrace the magic she has long kept hidden she finds the strength to confront her fears and embrace a life she was always worthy of having.
Wow this book is not for the faint of heart! Please pay attention to trigger warnings prior to your read!
That being said this felt a little bit like if Practical Magic had a darker cousin. We all hear of love spells and man did this take a horrific turn on that request. The abuses the Cole women faced is not to be taken lightly and their desire to save their daughters at their own risk adds another tragic layer to this story. There are many villains but the need for control and ownership over something, or someone, was the biggest antagonist here.
That being said the magic was rather light. We get moments of sparks and water, and a painting I need to borrow for a friend but this isn’t a book about spells it’s more the consequence of dabbling where you don’t understand and again what happens when you cage something that was never supposed to be locked away. Jude buried her gifts after the night she lost everything and you completely understand her apprehension to rejoin this world that took everything from her but she is so much bigger than her fears and much more powerful than whatever magic flows through her and that journey was one of my favorites. The moments she reaches out for connection and holds her ground are commendable and you want nothing but happiness for her.
A very good book that may be hard for some readers but man I found myself completely consumed with this story!
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
“Only Spell Deep” is an odd title for a book filled with so much depth one could get lost inside of it. Switch more than one skeleton in the closet, Jude has abandoned her family estate and tried her best to stay under the radar but when an mysterious invitation encourages her to embrace the magic she has long kept hidden she finds the strength to confront her fears and embrace a life she was always worthy of having.
Wow this book is not for the faint of heart! Please pay attention to trigger warnings prior to your read!
That being said this felt a little bit like if Practical Magic had a darker cousin. We all hear of love spells and man did this take a horrific turn on that request. The abuses the Cole women faced is not to be taken lightly and their desire to save their daughters at their own risk adds another tragic layer to this story. There are many villains but the need for control and ownership over something, or someone, was the biggest antagonist here.
That being said the magic was rather light. We get moments of sparks and water, and a painting I need to borrow for a friend but this isn’t a book about spells it’s more the consequence of dabbling where you don’t understand and again what happens when you cage something that was never supposed to be locked away. Jude buried her gifts after the night she lost everything and you completely understand her apprehension to rejoin this world that took everything from her but she is so much bigger than her fears and much more powerful than whatever magic flows through her and that journey was one of my favorites. The moments she reaches out for connection and holds her ground are commendable and you want nothing but happiness for her.
A very good book that may be hard for some readers but man I found myself completely consumed with this story!
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
October 16, 2025
I wanted to like this book as soon as I saw the cover. I was drawn to the dark, witchy vibes and gothic atmosphere. The premise was unique and the beginning seemed promising, teasing at a compelling and mysterious backstory for the main character. I loved the locations, from the oppressive cliffside mansion to the mysterious club to the abandoned parts of the Seattle underground.
Unfortunately, I just didn’t enjoy the story. It seemed to drag on, even though it was under 400 pages. The prose was a bit contrived at times, and the “reveals” weren’t surprising or exciting. The characters seemed flat, the relationships unconvincing. I just didn’t care about any of them.
Overall, I found this had a strong gothic atmosphere, but weak characters. A final note: there are trigger warnings for some very serious topics that you may want to consult before reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / St. Martin's Griffin for the ARC.
Unfortunately, I just didn’t enjoy the story. It seemed to drag on, even though it was under 400 pages. The prose was a bit contrived at times, and the “reveals” weren’t surprising or exciting. The characters seemed flat, the relationships unconvincing. I just didn’t care about any of them.
Overall, I found this had a strong gothic atmosphere, but weak characters. A final note: there are trigger warnings for some very serious topics that you may want to consult before reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / St. Martin's Griffin for the ARC.
September 7, 2025
I’ve previously loved Ava Morgyn’s witchy books, “The Bane Witch” and “The Witches of Bone Hill”, but “Only Spell Deep” seemed a little different. The flawed main character is Judeth Cole, now living her life as Jude Clark, an introverted copywriter in Seattle. As a teenager, she fled her predator grandfather’s massive estate Solidago in Oregon (after he sexually assaulted her best friend), using her suppressed fire magic to burn the place down (also immolating her mother and several servants). She actually inherited the ruin (which was rebuilt) but she refused to take possession of the fortune and chose foster care instead. Jude landed on her feet as an adult, has a boring but steady job and a tiny condo, but after a tragic miscarriage ended her relationship with lackluster Roger, she’s been out of sorts, but still magically repressed.
Until she meets the enigmatic and arrogant Arla, owner of a super exclusive club, Medusa, and her group of singly magically talented “friends” — Brennan Twig, Rocco, and Cadence. Arla wants to recruit (or collect) Jude into her group (named Fathom), but none of these cohorts are sympathetic characters. They present themselves as limited in their magical skills — a catalyst, water diviner, dream spinner, night bearer, and oracle, but together all are trying to basically torture Jude into using her fire/electrical magic as they “initiate” her into something she pretty much senses isn’t something she really wants.
The initiation is also a kind of a game. It does intrigue Jude enough to investigate and she finds an ally in Levi, a bookstore owner, who helps her with the clues. The story also involves underground Seattle, a real place usually only known through touristy excursions and the vulnerability of areaways, spaces under sidewalks that raised foot traffic in the 1800s. The author has added more than a bit of horror to the tour and Jude’s particular excursion is looking a lot like a Midsommar fest with a goldenrod crown.
The initial premise seemed to be about a love spell gone wrong, and I thought we’d be headed in the direction of getting resolution/revenge for Jude’s matriarchal line, but then the story exploded into a tale of primordial goddesses which threw me for a loop. The writing is exquisite and enchanting, but I wish I could have submerged myself more into the characters, most of whom fell flatter than I wanted them to be. 3.5 stars.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Levi has sparkling blue green eyes, and Arla has lake green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Goldenrod has a significant part in the book. Its Latin name, Solidago, explains the name of the estate Jude has escaped from. Brendan’s telekinetic ability to feel sad and make houseplants droop is disturbing.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Griffin and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Until she meets the enigmatic and arrogant Arla, owner of a super exclusive club, Medusa, and her group of singly magically talented “friends” — Brennan Twig, Rocco, and Cadence. Arla wants to recruit (or collect) Jude into her group (named Fathom), but none of these cohorts are sympathetic characters. They present themselves as limited in their magical skills — a catalyst, water diviner, dream spinner, night bearer, and oracle, but together all are trying to basically torture Jude into using her fire/electrical magic as they “initiate” her into something she pretty much senses isn’t something she really wants.
The initiation is also a kind of a game. It does intrigue Jude enough to investigate and she finds an ally in Levi, a bookstore owner, who helps her with the clues. The story also involves underground Seattle, a real place usually only known through touristy excursions and the vulnerability of areaways, spaces under sidewalks that raised foot traffic in the 1800s. The author has added more than a bit of horror to the tour and Jude’s particular excursion is looking a lot like a Midsommar fest with a goldenrod crown.
The initial premise seemed to be about a love spell gone wrong, and I thought we’d be headed in the direction of getting resolution/revenge for Jude’s matriarchal line, but then the story exploded into a tale of primordial goddesses which threw me for a loop. The writing is exquisite and enchanting, but I wish I could have submerged myself more into the characters, most of whom fell flatter than I wanted them to be. 3.5 stars.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Levi has sparkling blue green eyes, and Arla has lake green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Goldenrod has a significant part in the book. Its Latin name, Solidago, explains the name of the estate Jude has escaped from. Brendan’s telekinetic ability to feel sad and make houseplants droop is disturbing.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Griffin and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
October 30, 2025
Only Spells Deep plunges into the dark life of Judeth Cole, a witch who has spent years suppressing the magical abilities that tragically erupted and killed her family during a traumatic childhood at the seaside estate of Solidago. When a mysterious invitation draws her back into the world of magic, Jude joins a coven led by the enigmatic, Arla. But everything is not as it seems, and Jude finds she must confront her traumatic past and reacclimate to her magic to save her own future.
The author describes this book in the acknowledgements as an “utterly unhinged, goddess-monster fever dream” that is “dark, convoluted, and quite impossible to tame” and I couldn’t agree more.
This book was a true blend of horror and fantasy, and it gets DARK. I appreciate the willingness to dive into the uncomfortable and unsettling – family trauma, mental health, SA, and gory deaths included.
However, I did struggle to keep up with the direction of this book at times – we had a lot of cool ideas, but the narrative felt inconsistent and lacked cohesion. I also felt the romantic subplot was very underdeveloped; Levi felt less like a love interest and more like a plot device.
Thank you to the team at St. Martin’s Press for providing an early copy for review. All opinions are my own.
The author describes this book in the acknowledgements as an “utterly unhinged, goddess-monster fever dream” that is “dark, convoluted, and quite impossible to tame” and I couldn’t agree more.
This book was a true blend of horror and fantasy, and it gets DARK. I appreciate the willingness to dive into the uncomfortable and unsettling – family trauma, mental health, SA, and gory deaths included.
However, I did struggle to keep up with the direction of this book at times – we had a lot of cool ideas, but the narrative felt inconsistent and lacked cohesion. I also felt the romantic subplot was very underdeveloped; Levi felt less like a love interest and more like a plot device.
Thank you to the team at St. Martin’s Press for providing an early copy for review. All opinions are my own.
December 9, 2025
Judeth has faced many horrors in her life and after she escapes her past and her magic, she attempts and fails to live a normal life. She is recruited to a coven of sorts that tests her abilities but also challenges who she is.
Only Spell Deep is a genre bending stand-alone novel that builds on myths and legends while creating magic in our world. It is a great combination of fantasy and mystery. This is my first book by Ava Morgyn and I would really like to read her other works.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Griffin for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Only Spell Deep is a genre bending stand-alone novel that builds on myths and legends while creating magic in our world. It is a great combination of fantasy and mystery. This is my first book by Ava Morgyn and I would really like to read her other works.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Griffin for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2025
There was a lot going on in this book. I definitely preferred the first half and didn’t love the direction of the second half. I really liked the other 2 books I’ve read by this author and will definitely read more.
October 15, 2025
I didn’t like this nearly as much as I’d hoped that I would. My first read from this author was The Bane Witch, and I was immediately sucked into that story and so invested. I never got that same feeling this book. At no point was I very invested in what was going to happen, I was always just sort of reading to finish it. I read a chapter here and there and it took me 3 weeks to complete because I never cared to pick it up.
* thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
* thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
August 29, 2025
Only Spell Deep by Ava Morgan. I want to start by stating that I highly recommend that every reader review the content warnings before proceeding. That said, Only Spell Deep is a deep, dark, and twisty read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2025
I went into Only Spell Deep with really high expectations. I loved Ava Morgan’s previous two books,
The Bane Witch
, especially, so I was ready to be swept away again. But this one ended up being just okay for me.
The book starts very slowly. Morgan is known for her slow-burn style, but this was slow even by her standards. The one thing that absolutely did shine, though, was her beautifully dark writing. She gives Seattle this gritty, eerie underbelly that feels so on brand for her—moody, atmospheric, slightly dangerous in that deliciously magical way.
My biggest struggle was the pacing. The first 65% barely seemed to move the plot forward, and then suddenly the story takes off at a sprint. I almost DNF’d at 30%. Then again at 40%. Then I took a break at 61% and debated not returning at all. Honestly, the only reason I kept going was because I loved her last two books so much.
I also never really connected with the characters this time around. Jude, our main character, didn’t land for me, and it was hard to care deeply about anyone in her orbit. Even the romance, which Morgan usually threads seamlessly into her stories, felt surprisingly flat. Levi never quite came off the page, and their relationship felt more superficial than meaningful. And the spice… it just didn’t work for me here. It didn’t add anything to the story or deepen the bond between them in any meaningful way.
I also went in expecting the same kind of powerful, feminist energy the first two books had, those witchy women flipping the patriarchy the magical bird. This book is about female power, but in a different way—not necessarily in a bad way, it just needed a more cohesive plot to support it.
Another thing I kept stumbling on was how many names sounded similar—Dara, Arla, Mira, Anneli, Aurelia. I was constantly stopping to remember who was who.
And some of Jude’s choices felt… off. She reads like someone who should be smarter than the decisions she makes, but the plot needed her to go a certain direction, so she made choices that didn’t feel believable. It also clashed a bit with Morgan’s writing style, which assumes a pretty intelligent, attentive reader, yet the main character wasn’t always operating on that same level.
Overall, the book still has Morgan’s signature atmosphere and dark charm, but the pacing issues, the character disconnect, and the romance that never fully took shape made this one harder for me to love. I’m still absolutely a fan of the author and hoping the next story captures the magic of her first two.
Thank you St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
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I hope you enjoyed this review! This review and many more appear on my blog, Hooks, Books, & Wanderlust, where you'll find book reviews, lists, crochet tutorials & patterns, as well as camping, hiking and travel adventures.
Come hang out with me on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Blog | Email
The book starts very slowly. Morgan is known for her slow-burn style, but this was slow even by her standards. The one thing that absolutely did shine, though, was her beautifully dark writing. She gives Seattle this gritty, eerie underbelly that feels so on brand for her—moody, atmospheric, slightly dangerous in that deliciously magical way.
My biggest struggle was the pacing. The first 65% barely seemed to move the plot forward, and then suddenly the story takes off at a sprint. I almost DNF’d at 30%. Then again at 40%. Then I took a break at 61% and debated not returning at all. Honestly, the only reason I kept going was because I loved her last two books so much.
I also never really connected with the characters this time around. Jude, our main character, didn’t land for me, and it was hard to care deeply about anyone in her orbit. Even the romance, which Morgan usually threads seamlessly into her stories, felt surprisingly flat. Levi never quite came off the page, and their relationship felt more superficial than meaningful. And the spice… it just didn’t work for me here. It didn’t add anything to the story or deepen the bond between them in any meaningful way.
I also went in expecting the same kind of powerful, feminist energy the first two books had, those witchy women flipping the patriarchy the magical bird. This book is about female power, but in a different way—not necessarily in a bad way, it just needed a more cohesive plot to support it.
Another thing I kept stumbling on was how many names sounded similar—Dara, Arla, Mira, Anneli, Aurelia. I was constantly stopping to remember who was who.
And some of Jude’s choices felt… off. She reads like someone who should be smarter than the decisions she makes, but the plot needed her to go a certain direction, so she made choices that didn’t feel believable. It also clashed a bit with Morgan’s writing style, which assumes a pretty intelligent, attentive reader, yet the main character wasn’t always operating on that same level.
Overall, the book still has Morgan’s signature atmosphere and dark charm, but the pacing issues, the character disconnect, and the romance that never fully took shape made this one harder for me to love. I’m still absolutely a fan of the author and hoping the next story captures the magic of her first two.
Thank you St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
-------------
I hope you enjoyed this review! This review and many more appear on my blog, Hooks, Books, & Wanderlust, where you'll find book reviews, lists, crochet tutorials & patterns, as well as camping, hiking and travel adventures.
Come hang out with me on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Blog | Email
September 3, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Griffin for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Ava Morgyn’s “Only Spell Deep” is a dark, atmospheric tale of trauma, feminine rage, and the dangerous allure of buried magic. At its heart is Jude, a woman still haunted by her past, both the abuse she suffered at her grandfather’s hands and the guilt she carries over a devastating fire. She sees herself as monstrous, but as the story unfolds, she’s given the chance to reclaim her power and rediscover a life she was always worthy of.
The book dives into some very heavy themes, including childhood sexual abuse, suicide, and generational trauma. These elements are handled with raw intensity, and readers should pay close attention to the trigger warnings before beginning. Morgyn doesn’t shy away from the shadows; this is not a cozy witchy read, but one where magic and suffering are deeply entangled. The abuse endured by the Cole women and their desperate attempts to protect their daughters add a tragic, generational weight to the story.
Jude’s journey is both painful and inspiring. Her relationships with her coven members where each member is distinct, magical, and flawed provide a found-family element that softens the darkness. The coven’s leader, Arla, is particularly compelling, though her motives may not be entirely pure. There’s also Levi, a gentle, green-flag love interest who balances Jude’s sharp edges with kindness, though I did find his perfection a little too convenient and wished for more depth in his backstory. The romance moves quickly but doesn’t overshadow the central themes of survival, rage, and healing.
Morgyn’s prose is striking and immersive, often closing chapters with lines that demand you keep turning the page. The setting feels so vivid and uncanny that readers might find themselves googling the places to see if they truly exist. With primordial goddesses, Medusa-like imagery, and whispers of dark water magic, the mythological undercurrents give the story a sense of ancient, feminine power.
That said, I found myself struggling with the shifting timelines and fragmented structure, which can make the story feel disorienting at times. The magic itself is less about flashy spells and more about consequences, secrets, and what happens when power is abused or caged.
Overall, “Only Spell Deep” reads like if “Practical Magic” had a darker, more gothic sister—one stitched with grief, rage, and resilience. It is a book full of pain, yes, but also of reclamation, connection, and the unyielding strength of women who refuse to be broken. For readers who crave feminist-leaning dark fantasy with an edge of gothic mystery, Ava Morgyn delivers a haunting story you won’t soon forget.
Ava Morgyn’s “Only Spell Deep” is a dark, atmospheric tale of trauma, feminine rage, and the dangerous allure of buried magic. At its heart is Jude, a woman still haunted by her past, both the abuse she suffered at her grandfather’s hands and the guilt she carries over a devastating fire. She sees herself as monstrous, but as the story unfolds, she’s given the chance to reclaim her power and rediscover a life she was always worthy of.
The book dives into some very heavy themes, including childhood sexual abuse, suicide, and generational trauma. These elements are handled with raw intensity, and readers should pay close attention to the trigger warnings before beginning. Morgyn doesn’t shy away from the shadows; this is not a cozy witchy read, but one where magic and suffering are deeply entangled. The abuse endured by the Cole women and their desperate attempts to protect their daughters add a tragic, generational weight to the story.
Jude’s journey is both painful and inspiring. Her relationships with her coven members where each member is distinct, magical, and flawed provide a found-family element that softens the darkness. The coven’s leader, Arla, is particularly compelling, though her motives may not be entirely pure. There’s also Levi, a gentle, green-flag love interest who balances Jude’s sharp edges with kindness, though I did find his perfection a little too convenient and wished for more depth in his backstory. The romance moves quickly but doesn’t overshadow the central themes of survival, rage, and healing.
Morgyn’s prose is striking and immersive, often closing chapters with lines that demand you keep turning the page. The setting feels so vivid and uncanny that readers might find themselves googling the places to see if they truly exist. With primordial goddesses, Medusa-like imagery, and whispers of dark water magic, the mythological undercurrents give the story a sense of ancient, feminine power.
That said, I found myself struggling with the shifting timelines and fragmented structure, which can make the story feel disorienting at times. The magic itself is less about flashy spells and more about consequences, secrets, and what happens when power is abused or caged.
Overall, “Only Spell Deep” reads like if “Practical Magic” had a darker, more gothic sister—one stitched with grief, rage, and resilience. It is a book full of pain, yes, but also of reclamation, connection, and the unyielding strength of women who refuse to be broken. For readers who crave feminist-leaning dark fantasy with an edge of gothic mystery, Ava Morgyn delivers a haunting story you won’t soon forget.
September 13, 2025
I've only read one other Ava Morgyn book, the Witches of Bone Hill, and I immediately became a fan, so when I saw the arc for this story become available I was thrilled. Only Spell Deep centers our witchy protagonist Judeth Cole, who comes from tragic beginnings and trauma, and lives a particularly mundane life. This all changes when Judeth finds a mysterious note in the pages of a book at a secondhand store that complicates everything. Following the mysterious note Judeth is launched back into a world of magic, mystery, and secrets that she had up until this point been repressing and ignoring for seventeen years. As Judeth learns more about her mysterious peers, she begins to realize that all is not what it seems.
The first 30% of this book was slow for me, we get a lot of background and build up to the exciting stuff. Judeth gets her letter, and goes on a sort of treasure hunt/ trail to reawaken her long silenced magical abilities and prove herself as useful to her magical cohort. In all honesty, I didn't rock with this particular aspect too much, I felt really disconnected from the story in the beginning, and I wasn't so sure about Judeth as an MC, however by 60% things really picked up in an interesting way. I really enjoyed the magic and witchiness of this story and the references to old gods/ primordial power and magical chaos. It was unique and really pulled me in, I don't want to say too much and spoil anything, but the story went in a direction that I really could not have predicted.
The vibe of this story is overall much darker than I anticipated, storylines include child death, miscarriage, sexual assault, incest, and murder among others. I'm not opposed to reading about these topics or engaging with stories that include them, but heads up to those who are! There was also a romantic subplot that felt sort of rushed and underdeveloped, but I didn't hate it, just felt a little sidenote-y. The resolution of the story made me really happy considering all the darkness and tragedy of the beginning- don't get me wrong, this story has an abundance of tragedy, but the ending feels like a nice deep exhale after holding your breath. In summary, I liked it, slow start, satisfying ending and as always with Ava Morgyn the writing was suberb! 4 out of 5 stars! Thanks again to netgalley for this ARC!
The first 30% of this book was slow for me, we get a lot of background and build up to the exciting stuff. Judeth gets her letter, and goes on a sort of treasure hunt/ trail to reawaken her long silenced magical abilities and prove herself as useful to her magical cohort. In all honesty, I didn't rock with this particular aspect too much, I felt really disconnected from the story in the beginning, and I wasn't so sure about Judeth as an MC, however by 60% things really picked up in an interesting way. I really enjoyed the magic and witchiness of this story and the references to old gods/ primordial power and magical chaos. It was unique and really pulled me in, I don't want to say too much and spoil anything, but the story went in a direction that I really could not have predicted.
The vibe of this story is overall much darker than I anticipated, storylines include child death, miscarriage, sexual assault, incest, and murder among others. I'm not opposed to reading about these topics or engaging with stories that include them, but heads up to those who are! There was also a romantic subplot that felt sort of rushed and underdeveloped, but I didn't hate it, just felt a little sidenote-y. The resolution of the story made me really happy considering all the darkness and tragedy of the beginning- don't get me wrong, this story has an abundance of tragedy, but the ending feels like a nice deep exhale after holding your breath. In summary, I liked it, slow start, satisfying ending and as always with Ava Morgyn the writing was suberb! 4 out of 5 stars! Thanks again to netgalley for this ARC!
October 19, 2025
This was a huge miss for me.
The premise was intriguing and after the prologue I was eagerly turning the page to find out what had happened at the house. Since that’s what I thought the story was going to be about. Solidago, the big mansion on the cliff filled with abusive adults and a 16 year old fire witch. Instead, it was a total jumbled mess of every idea the author ever had.
Jude was completely unbelievable and all of her relationships felt comically forced. Levi is the bookshop owner who she’s only ever smiled at but because he’s nice to her the night she’s at her lowest, they become a couple. Aaron is the only coworker who has ever tried to talk to her and then they’re insta-besties. Arla is rich and seeming powerful (also a witch!) so Jude falls totally under her influence even though she’s openly questioning everything and Arla is making her do a bunch of dumb tasks to prove herself “worthy”.
She’s tasked to spy on Brennan for revealing his magic to normies and turns him in to Arla even though she’s knows he’s going to suffer the consequences. She claims he’s one of her friends yet betrays him with barely a second thought. And then 2 chapters later Jude is telling Levi all about her magic and setting shit on fire in her bosses office.
I could go on with paragraphs of the inconsistencies and/or irrelevancies but I’m just going to list them:
Solidago
Roger
Miscarriage
Terms of the inheritance
Jude’s mother
Dara
The Twins
Medusa
The tunnels under Seattle
Levi
Aaron
Flooding of the condo
Embezzlement
How the fathom was trapped
SA
Incest
Physical abuse
Emotional abuse
Honestly there are more but I can’t even remember them all now.
It was just a mess.
The fathom was interesting and the only reason I didn’t give this one star.
Also, heed the content warning at the beginning. There is a lot that is stuffed in this and none of it felt necessary.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
The premise was intriguing and after the prologue I was eagerly turning the page to find out what had happened at the house. Since that’s what I thought the story was going to be about. Solidago, the big mansion on the cliff filled with abusive adults and a 16 year old fire witch. Instead, it was a total jumbled mess of every idea the author ever had.
Jude was completely unbelievable and all of her relationships felt comically forced. Levi is the bookshop owner who she’s only ever smiled at but because he’s nice to her the night she’s at her lowest, they become a couple. Aaron is the only coworker who has ever tried to talk to her and then they’re insta-besties. Arla is rich and seeming powerful (also a witch!) so Jude falls totally under her influence even though she’s openly questioning everything and Arla is making her do a bunch of dumb tasks to prove herself “worthy”.
She’s tasked to spy on Brennan for revealing his magic to normies and turns him in to Arla even though she’s knows he’s going to suffer the consequences. She claims he’s one of her friends yet betrays him with barely a second thought. And then 2 chapters later Jude is telling Levi all about her magic and setting shit on fire in her bosses office.
I could go on with paragraphs of the inconsistencies and/or irrelevancies but I’m just going to list them:
Solidago
Roger
Miscarriage
Terms of the inheritance
Jude’s mother
Dara
The Twins
Medusa
The tunnels under Seattle
Levi
Aaron
Flooding of the condo
Embezzlement
How the fathom was trapped
SA
Incest
Physical abuse
Emotional abuse
Honestly there are more but I can’t even remember them all now.
It was just a mess.
The fathom was interesting and the only reason I didn’t give this one star.
Also, heed the content warning at the beginning. There is a lot that is stuffed in this and none of it felt necessary.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Witchy goddess tale set in present-day Seattle (with flashbacks to a sppoky Oregonian coastal manion)? These are the vibes I'm looking for in a story! And for the most part, it delivered. We meet Jude on the lowest day of her adult life, which also happens to be the same day she's mysteriously contact by a magical cult calling themselves The Fathom--water-shaper Arla (the leader), telekenetic Brennan, psychopathic "twins" Twig (master of shadows) and Rock (dream shifter), and Cadence (psychic). Jude is able to manipulate fire and electricity, something that nearly led to her death as a teen when she set fire to the prison-like mansion she was living in with her mother and monstrous grandfather; both died in the fire, leading to Jude's lifelong guilt. As she passes test after test from The Fathom, she is brought into the cult's secrets and begins to suspect that Arla's plans are nefarious--and that the source of their power may be too terrible to contemplate, and too magificient to be held captive for long.
It's an interesting story that centers strong, powerful women wielding magical energies to shape their lives, often with chaotic or destructive consequences. This part of the novel was fascinating.
However, other than Arla, Brennan, and Jude herself, most of the characters are one-note. I kept forgetting Levi-the-love-interest's name because he kept popping up more as a plot device than an actual character. And this is a story clearly told by a Seattle visitor, not a Seattle resident. I get why it was set here--there's a very specific aspect of the city's architectural history that makes a difference to the story--but if you've spent any considerable time in the city, it's noticeably off.
All of this to say it was an engaging fantasy read with a few flaws, but none that should prevent you from picking this up and enjoying some witchy machinations.
3.5/5 stars
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
It's an interesting story that centers strong, powerful women wielding magical energies to shape their lives, often with chaotic or destructive consequences. This part of the novel was fascinating.
However, other than Arla, Brennan, and Jude herself, most of the characters are one-note. I kept forgetting Levi-the-love-interest's name because he kept popping up more as a plot device than an actual character. And this is a story clearly told by a Seattle visitor, not a Seattle resident. I get why it was set here--there's a very specific aspect of the city's architectural history that makes a difference to the story--but if you've spent any considerable time in the city, it's noticeably off.
All of this to say it was an engaging fantasy read with a few flaws, but none that should prevent you from picking this up and enjoying some witchy machinations.
3.5/5 stars
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Ava Morgyn has quickly become one of my go to authors for witchy reads. I was beyond ecstatic to see what Morgyn had whipped up for us this time. This book is a little dark, unhinged, deeply troubling, and terrifyingly descriptive. I love a good setting, the descriptions, the mood, the atmosphere, all hit the right marks. I was there, I could smell the rot, I could hear the roar of the fire, and the burn of the flame. The characters are all dark. Their pasts are horrifying and you do not want to even think about what they went through.
Solidago is an estate by the sea. It looks stunning, the setting superb, but really it is a box that he built to keep his prize in. No matter how hard she fought to get out, he finally broke her spirit and her wings. Judeth Cole's grandfather-built Solidago for her grandmother. Her mother broke away from her father's wealth and made it on her own. Had her own family, until her husband passed away. Leaving her with no choice but to return with Judeth. Her mother changed once she walked through those doors. Judeth not understanding why until she was older. When the night everything fell around her and her magic leapt from her fingers. Causing the fire that took not only Solidago, but everyone who was there. Seventeen years later and Judeth is now Jude. Eking out a life and planning out how to take her own life. When she picks up a book with an invitation. Was this meant for her? As she steps out of her own shadow and into a world of magic that is being twisted this way and that. Will she ever find her way out?
This was a slow burn that is highly descriptive and detailed. Which I personally love. It made the setting come to life in my mind. The slinky club vibrating before her eyes, the basement that squeezes out every bit of light. I did not have a connection to the characters, which left me feeling a little empty. Thank you to Ava Morgyn and St. Martin's Griffin for my gifted copy.
Solidago is an estate by the sea. It looks stunning, the setting superb, but really it is a box that he built to keep his prize in. No matter how hard she fought to get out, he finally broke her spirit and her wings. Judeth Cole's grandfather-built Solidago for her grandmother. Her mother broke away from her father's wealth and made it on her own. Had her own family, until her husband passed away. Leaving her with no choice but to return with Judeth. Her mother changed once she walked through those doors. Judeth not understanding why until she was older. When the night everything fell around her and her magic leapt from her fingers. Causing the fire that took not only Solidago, but everyone who was there. Seventeen years later and Judeth is now Jude. Eking out a life and planning out how to take her own life. When she picks up a book with an invitation. Was this meant for her? As she steps out of her own shadow and into a world of magic that is being twisted this way and that. Will she ever find her way out?
This was a slow burn that is highly descriptive and detailed. Which I personally love. It made the setting come to life in my mind. The slinky club vibrating before her eyes, the basement that squeezes out every bit of light. I did not have a connection to the characters, which left me feeling a little empty. Thank you to Ava Morgyn and St. Martin's Griffin for my gifted copy.
September 13, 2025
Only Spell Deep by Ava Morgyn is a witchy story about ancient feminine power and its monstrous inner potential.
Jude Clark spends her life suppressing the haunting memories of her tragic upbringing which unknowingly pushes her magic deep with herself. When she becomes caught up in a strange coven, her past and its murky connections to something dark and primordial unleashes a force so powerful, it brings up something she thought was buried, something that needs her to embrace her magic.
I liked the originality of an ancient goddess as the source of magic for the witches/supernatural characters in this story. It connected to the idea of the unconscious, sacred feminine, and the darker aspects of cult worship. With that being said, it felt like I was reading two different stories. Jude's strange and abusive family and her coven life. I would have liked more background info on Jude and her family as it didn't connect as seamlessly with the coven aspects which felt sort of random and unimportant. The plot was a little all over the place and the ideas disjointed. I think if this story was written in the style of a Gothic it would have worked better rather than as an urban fantasy.
Like I mentioned, I did appreciate the original plot but it could have been streamlined to focus on Jude's family with the goddess as the haunting supernatural force rather than bring in the coven, its club, and weirdness. But like I said, I really liked the ancient goddess storyline.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Jude Clark spends her life suppressing the haunting memories of her tragic upbringing which unknowingly pushes her magic deep with herself. When she becomes caught up in a strange coven, her past and its murky connections to something dark and primordial unleashes a force so powerful, it brings up something she thought was buried, something that needs her to embrace her magic.
I liked the originality of an ancient goddess as the source of magic for the witches/supernatural characters in this story. It connected to the idea of the unconscious, sacred feminine, and the darker aspects of cult worship. With that being said, it felt like I was reading two different stories. Jude's strange and abusive family and her coven life. I would have liked more background info on Jude and her family as it didn't connect as seamlessly with the coven aspects which felt sort of random and unimportant. The plot was a little all over the place and the ideas disjointed. I think if this story was written in the style of a Gothic it would have worked better rather than as an urban fantasy.
Like I mentioned, I did appreciate the original plot but it could have been streamlined to focus on Jude's family with the goddess as the haunting supernatural force rather than bring in the coven, its club, and weirdness. But like I said, I really liked the ancient goddess storyline.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 18, 2025
Rating- 3.5 Stars
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an ARC copy!!
Only Spell Deep follows Judeth, a budding witch who was raised to completely suppress her powers. When a group of witches comes in contact with Judeth, putting her through a magical and strange initiation, she finds herself challenged. Judeth must grapple with her past, her family, her childhood, and her own power. Will she rise above the waves or be drowned out?
The vibes were very spooky and atmospheric the entire way through the book! I loved the incorporation of mythology into the story as well -it added another delicious layer to the plot. I'm a fiend for mythology, so it was all right up my alley! Plus, who doesn't love a vengeful goddess? Ava Morgyn's prose was also very lovely! It was rich and deep and descriptive without being overwhelming.
Now for some of my dislikes... The romance felt very lackluster to me. Levi felt very...flat...as a love interest. I really feel like the story could've done without a romance at all and been all the stronger for it. The mystery or sort of mystery of the plot was also a bit of a pro and a con for me. On one hand, I liked seeing the clues that the coven gave to Judeth. They were fun to follow and sort of sleuth after. But on the other hand, I feel like Judeth wasn't able to solve a single clue on her own. She went to Levi for pretty much every single thing. For a strong female character, she had like so little intelligence.
Overall, I enjoyed this! The vibes and atmosphere made up for the disappointing romance.
Pick this one up if you like mythology, witches, or spooky atmospheres!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an ARC copy!!
Only Spell Deep follows Judeth, a budding witch who was raised to completely suppress her powers. When a group of witches comes in contact with Judeth, putting her through a magical and strange initiation, she finds herself challenged. Judeth must grapple with her past, her family, her childhood, and her own power. Will she rise above the waves or be drowned out?
The vibes were very spooky and atmospheric the entire way through the book! I loved the incorporation of mythology into the story as well -it added another delicious layer to the plot. I'm a fiend for mythology, so it was all right up my alley! Plus, who doesn't love a vengeful goddess? Ava Morgyn's prose was also very lovely! It was rich and deep and descriptive without being overwhelming.
Now for some of my dislikes... The romance felt very lackluster to me. Levi felt very...flat...as a love interest. I really feel like the story could've done without a romance at all and been all the stronger for it. The mystery or sort of mystery of the plot was also a bit of a pro and a con for me. On one hand, I liked seeing the clues that the coven gave to Judeth. They were fun to follow and sort of sleuth after. But on the other hand, I feel like Judeth wasn't able to solve a single clue on her own. She went to Levi for pretty much every single thing. For a strong female character, she had like so little intelligence.
Overall, I enjoyed this! The vibes and atmosphere made up for the disappointing romance.
Pick this one up if you like mythology, witches, or spooky atmospheres!
August 26, 2025
Drown in the deep...
Before I get into the nitty gritty, as a warning... please do take heed of the trigger warnings in the front of this book BEFORE you dive headfirst into it. It is a very dark, very heavy book emotion-wise.
I'm sorry, I really wanted to love this more than I did. I was drawn forward by the elements of darkness, of the witchy feel, and the magic, and the overall dark, gothic feel of the novel. I loved the concept of a goddess in the deep like the Fathom that we were introduced to and that the story slowly build itself around.... of our main character, and the thought of a world of magic and secrets hidden within the world that we know today.
Maybe it is my neurodivergent mind, but I found this storyline really hard to grasp, and really hard to keep track of what exactly was going on. I found the random flashes from modern to past random at best, and sometimes utterly confusing for me. I had to take multiple breaks to give my brain a rest. I give massive kudos to the world, to the dark magic, and the clandestine secrets it holds...
The message that power is deadly in the wrong hands... and trust is something easily broken... I loved that...but this was not for me.
Thank you to Wednesday Books, St. Martin's Press as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa...
Before I get into the nitty gritty, as a warning... please do take heed of the trigger warnings in the front of this book BEFORE you dive headfirst into it. It is a very dark, very heavy book emotion-wise.
I'm sorry, I really wanted to love this more than I did. I was drawn forward by the elements of darkness, of the witchy feel, and the magic, and the overall dark, gothic feel of the novel. I loved the concept of a goddess in the deep like the Fathom that we were introduced to and that the story slowly build itself around.... of our main character, and the thought of a world of magic and secrets hidden within the world that we know today.
Maybe it is my neurodivergent mind, but I found this storyline really hard to grasp, and really hard to keep track of what exactly was going on. I found the random flashes from modern to past random at best, and sometimes utterly confusing for me. I had to take multiple breaks to give my brain a rest. I give massive kudos to the world, to the dark magic, and the clandestine secrets it holds...
The message that power is deadly in the wrong hands... and trust is something easily broken... I loved that...but this was not for me.
Thank you to Wednesday Books, St. Martin's Press as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa...
October 4, 2025
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley for review.
Ok, so I finished the book, which is worth 2 stars on it's own. The story was ok, but the fmc was a little bland and hard to relate to. At times, the writing was juvenile and clumsy, and the plot was a little scattered and disjointed. Despite all that, I was able to get through the whole story.
The most interesting thing, for me, was Solidago, the estate Judeth inherits from her grandfather. Uncovering the secrets of the estate and Judeth's history there was interesting enough to keep me reading but the backstory with Judeth's grandfather was a little hard to get through. Some of it felt like it was put in more for shock value than for furthering the plot. I'm not a fan of this current trend of authors throwing controversial tropes into plots just to cash in on the "Booktok Famous" trend.
Judeth's personality was a bit wobbly and inconsistent. She cycles through coming off as cold and indifferent, childish and whiny, or wounded and quietly kind. All of this would be fine if those traits were a little more connected to her as a character but most of the time her personality is inconsistent and it makes it hard to feel any kind of connection with her.
I think the story has a lot of potential, but could have benefitted from a more seasoned author or a more discerning editor. I will say it scratched the October spooky vibes itch.
Ok, so I finished the book, which is worth 2 stars on it's own. The story was ok, but the fmc was a little bland and hard to relate to. At times, the writing was juvenile and clumsy, and the plot was a little scattered and disjointed. Despite all that, I was able to get through the whole story.
The most interesting thing, for me, was Solidago, the estate Judeth inherits from her grandfather. Uncovering the secrets of the estate and Judeth's history there was interesting enough to keep me reading but the backstory with Judeth's grandfather was a little hard to get through. Some of it felt like it was put in more for shock value than for furthering the plot. I'm not a fan of this current trend of authors throwing controversial tropes into plots just to cash in on the "Booktok Famous" trend.
Judeth's personality was a bit wobbly and inconsistent. She cycles through coming off as cold and indifferent, childish and whiny, or wounded and quietly kind. All of this would be fine if those traits were a little more connected to her as a character but most of the time her personality is inconsistent and it makes it hard to feel any kind of connection with her.
I think the story has a lot of potential, but could have benefitted from a more seasoned author or a more discerning editor. I will say it scratched the October spooky vibes itch.
October 24, 2025
To begin, Only Spell Deep follows the main character, Judeth, a witchy witch who was brought up to completely suppress her powers and dislike herself. Throughout the story, other witches get in contact with her, inviting her into an initiation. Throughout the novel, Judeth comes to terms with her past, her family, her childhood, and her own power.
I started this book in the beginning of October this year to give myself a good spooky book, and the vibes didn't disappoint! I loved the atmosphere throughout the story. The ARC description mentioned "Rebecca" mixed with the Craft (two of my favorites), but I didn't really get that much "Rebecca", other than the setting on a cliff and that there is a fire. The Craft? Maybe...? I did love the mythology into the story as it added to the plot.
I don't personally loooove romance novels, so when I do read something with that, I like it to be full throttle. The romance felt a little lackluster to me? I didn't feel like Levi was super dimensional. I personally think that the book could have done without the romance bit, but that's just my opinion! I think the mysterious bits of the novel were good, and I liked seeing the clues that the coven gave to Judeth. They kept me engaged with reading and I kept just wanting to find out more and follow what they were saying. Overall, I enjoyed this! Totally a fun October spooky book to let you escape into a fun witchy world full of mythology, a fun setting and magic.
I started this book in the beginning of October this year to give myself a good spooky book, and the vibes didn't disappoint! I loved the atmosphere throughout the story. The ARC description mentioned "Rebecca" mixed with the Craft (two of my favorites), but I didn't really get that much "Rebecca", other than the setting on a cliff and that there is a fire. The Craft? Maybe...? I did love the mythology into the story as it added to the plot.
I don't personally loooove romance novels, so when I do read something with that, I like it to be full throttle. The romance felt a little lackluster to me? I didn't feel like Levi was super dimensional. I personally think that the book could have done without the romance bit, but that's just my opinion! I think the mysterious bits of the novel were good, and I liked seeing the clues that the coven gave to Judeth. They kept me engaged with reading and I kept just wanting to find out more and follow what they were saying. Overall, I enjoyed this! Totally a fun October spooky book to let you escape into a fun witchy world full of mythology, a fun setting and magic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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