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Hexcellent Start
Is there anything more painful than fearing your own mind?
Charlotte Adams has a system.
A carefully constructed plan to keep herself as isolated from the world around her as is physically possible. To keep everyone safe.
From her.
Rage has burned underneath Charlotte’s skin for as long as she can remember and she has done everything in her power to make sure she keeps it locked up in a tiny little box.
Until her carefully constructed walls come crumbling down.
Her birth family, the Pruitt witches of local legend, comes crashing into her life with the force of a hurricane, as does a quirky sunshine-infused librarian named Aria.
With everything she’s ever known tearing apart at the seams, how long until she breaks?
How long until this tentative romantic connection falls apart?
How long until her family sees she’s really a monster?
With an unquenchable evil thirsting to end her family line, Charlotte must find out once and for all. Is she the monster she’s always thought?
Or could she be the hero?
Charlotte Adams has a system.
A carefully constructed plan to keep herself as isolated from the world around her as is physically possible. To keep everyone safe.
From her.
Rage has burned underneath Charlotte’s skin for as long as she can remember and she has done everything in her power to make sure she keeps it locked up in a tiny little box.
Until her carefully constructed walls come crumbling down.
Her birth family, the Pruitt witches of local legend, comes crashing into her life with the force of a hurricane, as does a quirky sunshine-infused librarian named Aria.
With everything she’s ever known tearing apart at the seams, how long until she breaks?
How long until this tentative romantic connection falls apart?
How long until her family sees she’s really a monster?
With an unquenchable evil thirsting to end her family line, Charlotte must find out once and for all. Is she the monster she’s always thought?
Or could she be the hero?
300 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2026
About the author
Zoe Shae
5 books69 followersZoe Shae has always been fascinated by stories. Whether she was creating them with her father, or reading them, they have always been a constant. Creating them now is a dream come true.
Zoe enjoys writing, singing, reading, info-dumping about her special interests, and spending time with her family.
You can follow Zoe on social media everywhere at @AuthorZoeShae.
Zoe enjoys writing, singing, reading, info-dumping about her special interests, and spending time with her family.
You can follow Zoe on social media everywhere at @AuthorZoeShae.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 ⭐
Hexcellent Start is a paranormal romance that follows Charlotte, a water witch who has spent years fearing her own power. She’s convinced that if people truly see her, they’ll leave, so she isolates herself to avoid hurting others or getting hurt. But when her long-lost birth family suddenly enters her life, everything she thought she had under control begins to unravel. And in the middle of all that chaos, she meets Aria, a sunshine, slightly chaotic air witch and librarian who completely shakes up Charlotte’s world and starts breaking down every wall she’s ever built. But when danger starts circling her family, Charlotte is forced to confront both her powers and herself. Can she learn to embrace who she is, even when her mind keeps telling her otherwise?
At first, based on the cover, I expected a light, cute YA romance, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The characters seem to be in their thirties, and the tone leans more emotional and introspective. Once I started reading, it became clear that this would be a heartfelt journey full of growth and unexpected turns, and it truly delivered on that.
Charlotte was such a strong emotional core for this story. The way she sees herself as something dangerous, someone who needs to keep her distance, really hurts to read, but in a very real, relatable way. Her isolation, her fear of connection, and that constant feeling of being “too different” felt incredibly human. It also gave space for a neurodivergent reading of her character, which I personally appreciated a lot. It felt handled with care and respect. Watching her slowly grow, accept herself, and stop seeing her power as something to fear was honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
And then there’s Aria. She’s warm, patient, and exactly the kind of presence Charlotte needs. I loved how she never judged Charlotte and instead made her feel seen and understood. The way she respected boundaries and encouraged Charlotte to embrace herself was simply beautiful. I did find myself wishing Aria had a bit more of her own arc outside of supporting Charlotte, just to give her character more balance, but I still really liked what we got from her overall.
The romance is soft, intimate, and very emotionally driven. Their chemistry is there from the start, and their connection builds naturally through understanding each other. That said, the pacing of their relationship felt a little quick for my taste at times. Once the story leans into the idea that their bond might be somewhat destined, it makes more sense, but I still would’ve loved a slower build.
The birth family storyline was interesting, though I didn’t feel as emotionally connected to it as I expected. Charlotte goes along with things a bit more easily than I thought she would, and because of that, the relationships didn’t always feel as deeply developed, especially considering how much she ends up risking for them. Even her relationship with her grandmother felt like it could have been explored more, so overall that aspect came across as a bit rushed.
I also noticed that her relationship with her adoptive parents kind of fades into the background. Since it’s something she cares about earlier in the story, I expected it to come back more strongly later on, but it felt like that thread didn’t fully carry through. So that part felt a little unfinished.
Overall, this is a very emotional, character-driven story about identity, self-acceptance, and learning to embrace what makes you different. It touches on grief, family, and belonging, all wrapped in a tender romance and a deeply personal journey. If you’re in the mood for something introspective with heart, this one might really work for you!
A big thank you to the author for the eARC—I really appreciate the chance to read this early!
Hexcellent Start is a paranormal romance that follows Charlotte, a water witch who has spent years fearing her own power. She’s convinced that if people truly see her, they’ll leave, so she isolates herself to avoid hurting others or getting hurt. But when her long-lost birth family suddenly enters her life, everything she thought she had under control begins to unravel. And in the middle of all that chaos, she meets Aria, a sunshine, slightly chaotic air witch and librarian who completely shakes up Charlotte’s world and starts breaking down every wall she’s ever built. But when danger starts circling her family, Charlotte is forced to confront both her powers and herself. Can she learn to embrace who she is, even when her mind keeps telling her otherwise?
At first, based on the cover, I expected a light, cute YA romance, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The characters seem to be in their thirties, and the tone leans more emotional and introspective. Once I started reading, it became clear that this would be a heartfelt journey full of growth and unexpected turns, and it truly delivered on that.
Charlotte was such a strong emotional core for this story. The way she sees herself as something dangerous, someone who needs to keep her distance, really hurts to read, but in a very real, relatable way. Her isolation, her fear of connection, and that constant feeling of being “too different” felt incredibly human. It also gave space for a neurodivergent reading of her character, which I personally appreciated a lot. It felt handled with care and respect. Watching her slowly grow, accept herself, and stop seeing her power as something to fear was honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
And then there’s Aria. She’s warm, patient, and exactly the kind of presence Charlotte needs. I loved how she never judged Charlotte and instead made her feel seen and understood. The way she respected boundaries and encouraged Charlotte to embrace herself was simply beautiful. I did find myself wishing Aria had a bit more of her own arc outside of supporting Charlotte, just to give her character more balance, but I still really liked what we got from her overall.
The romance is soft, intimate, and very emotionally driven. Their chemistry is there from the start, and their connection builds naturally through understanding each other. That said, the pacing of their relationship felt a little quick for my taste at times. Once the story leans into the idea that their bond might be somewhat destined, it makes more sense, but I still would’ve loved a slower build.
The birth family storyline was interesting, though I didn’t feel as emotionally connected to it as I expected. Charlotte goes along with things a bit more easily than I thought she would, and because of that, the relationships didn’t always feel as deeply developed, especially considering how much she ends up risking for them. Even her relationship with her grandmother felt like it could have been explored more, so overall that aspect came across as a bit rushed.
I also noticed that her relationship with her adoptive parents kind of fades into the background. Since it’s something she cares about earlier in the story, I expected it to come back more strongly later on, but it felt like that thread didn’t fully carry through. So that part felt a little unfinished.
Overall, this is a very emotional, character-driven story about identity, self-acceptance, and learning to embrace what makes you different. It touches on grief, family, and belonging, all wrapped in a tender romance and a deeply personal journey. If you’re in the mood for something introspective with heart, this one might really work for you!
A big thank you to the author for the eARC—I really appreciate the chance to read this early!
April 19, 2026
Advanced copy review
Ok so I will start by saying that I haven’t read the previous two books in this series (because as a lesbian I have made a commitment to myself to not read heteronormative novels—representation matters), so I can’t speak for how the previous novels were structured. That said, this novel is super insta-love. We don’t really see a falling for each other process, they are just automatically in love with each other. Now, we are told later that there is a Pruitt witch soulmate thing and their insta-love is slightly explained by this. Since all the witches have this, maybe the other two novels were insta-love too. Personally, this isn’t my thing. I want to see the process of feelings developing, but hey, we can’t all like the same things.
I had a pretty hard time getting into this book (partially the insta-love, partially the main character’s super intense and repetitive negativity) and almost DNF’d a few times, but once I made it past the halfway point, I got pulled into all the drama with her birth family and wanted to see what would happen.
Speaking of Charlotte’s (MC) negativity, we’re never really given any reason why she has such negative self talk. I mean REALLY negative. We know she never felt understood fully by her adoptive family, she mentions how she has built these walls up around herself to protect other people, but why? Why does she feel the need to do so? Why does she think she is a monster? What happened in her past to land in this conclusion? Being angry often didn’t quite explain that for me.
Coming back to the romance…I will say that their sex scenes gave me the ick overall. I know that we’re all a little different in the bedroom than we are in ‘normal’ life, but Charlotte becomes a completely different and grossly (IMO) possessive person. The line, “You’re pussy is mine now. If you even look at another person, I’ll drown them,” gave me a visceral reaction and made me want to crawl out of my skin. I cannot imagine a lesbian saying this to another lesbian in bed, but again, maybe that’s just me. I was also pretty bumped by their referring to their strap on as ‘he.’ Like…why?! There isn’t a missing man in lesbian sex! This has such crappy heteronormative vibes and not something I want to read in a lesbian romance. Honestly, all of their sex scenes gave a weird heteronormative vibe to me…
All that said, I did really enjoy the not romance side of the story line—adopted witch meets her birth family to find out all these secrets and drama behind the scenes…super interesting! I really enjoyed seeing her relationship with her birth sisters grow and learning the back story there. I also LOVED her relationship with her adoptive brother, which seemed so sweet and genuine.
Side note: I was so freakin glad to see Charlotte go to therapy in real time in the book.
Overall, the story was entertaining and interesting once I got into it. If I let go of the insta love (and skim the sex scenes), I did like Charlotte and Aria’s relationship. Aria seems like such a genuinely sweet soul and I love how she helps Charlotte see that she’s a human who deserves to be loved (and recognize she just struggles with overstimulation).
3.25/5
Ok so I will start by saying that I haven’t read the previous two books in this series (because as a lesbian I have made a commitment to myself to not read heteronormative novels—representation matters), so I can’t speak for how the previous novels were structured. That said, this novel is super insta-love. We don’t really see a falling for each other process, they are just automatically in love with each other. Now, we are told later that there is a Pruitt witch soulmate thing and their insta-love is slightly explained by this. Since all the witches have this, maybe the other two novels were insta-love too. Personally, this isn’t my thing. I want to see the process of feelings developing, but hey, we can’t all like the same things.
I had a pretty hard time getting into this book (partially the insta-love, partially the main character’s super intense and repetitive negativity) and almost DNF’d a few times, but once I made it past the halfway point, I got pulled into all the drama with her birth family and wanted to see what would happen.
Speaking of Charlotte’s (MC) negativity, we’re never really given any reason why she has such negative self talk. I mean REALLY negative. We know she never felt understood fully by her adoptive family, she mentions how she has built these walls up around herself to protect other people, but why? Why does she feel the need to do so? Why does she think she is a monster? What happened in her past to land in this conclusion? Being angry often didn’t quite explain that for me.
Coming back to the romance…I will say that their sex scenes gave me the ick overall. I know that we’re all a little different in the bedroom than we are in ‘normal’ life, but Charlotte becomes a completely different and grossly (IMO) possessive person. The line, “You’re pussy is mine now. If you even look at another person, I’ll drown them,” gave me a visceral reaction and made me want to crawl out of my skin. I cannot imagine a lesbian saying this to another lesbian in bed, but again, maybe that’s just me. I was also pretty bumped by their referring to their strap on as ‘he.’ Like…why?! There isn’t a missing man in lesbian sex! This has such crappy heteronormative vibes and not something I want to read in a lesbian romance. Honestly, all of their sex scenes gave a weird heteronormative vibe to me…
All that said, I did really enjoy the not romance side of the story line—adopted witch meets her birth family to find out all these secrets and drama behind the scenes…super interesting! I really enjoyed seeing her relationship with her birth sisters grow and learning the back story there. I also LOVED her relationship with her adoptive brother, which seemed so sweet and genuine.
Side note: I was so freakin glad to see Charlotte go to therapy in real time in the book.
Overall, the story was entertaining and interesting once I got into it. If I let go of the insta love (and skim the sex scenes), I did like Charlotte and Aria’s relationship. Aria seems like such a genuinely sweet soul and I love how she helps Charlotte see that she’s a human who deserves to be loved (and recognize she just struggles with overstimulation).
3.25/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hexcellent Start is the third book in The Pruitt Witch series by Zoe Shae. This one is a standalone that includes spoilers for the previous books. The lovely setting is in small-town Ohio in the spring, and the imagery creates a cozy feel from the beginning. The plot alternates between light, fluffy elements and darker ones, mirroring the personalities of the two main love interests. The cover is cute and conveys the brighter side of the story.
The narrative is told from Charlotte's perspective, and I enjoyed reading her thoughts on Aria, especially the little glimpses of her insecurities that slip through her outgoing personality.
The overarching plot is engaging, even if some points are predictable.
The relationship between Aria and Charlotte begins rather quickly and is intense. This is not my usual fare, but I like their dynamic, and they are super cute together, with a mix of sweet and possessive vibes. There are several intimate scenes. Although they demonstrate the growing trust and vulnerability between Aria and Charlotte, I did not find all of them necessary. That said, I recognize that preferences for such scenes vary among readers.
Although Aria is talkative, social, and energetic, she is a calming presence that balances Charlotte's quiet, anxious, and easily overwhelmed personality.
Over time, Charlotte begins to understand her needs, as well as how to own her powers and take up space.
I appreciate the mental health rep, particularly its therapy-positive approach.
There is a surprisingly emotional final battle. I like the Pruitt family bond and legacy, and the conclusion to this installment is satisfying.
I give this 3.75 stars, rounded up.
Quoteworthy:
"You’re the goddamn sun and I’m lucky to be in your orbit. Got it?”
"Being a librarian comes with a side of nerd that you can’t quite suppress.”
“I’d rather drown this whole goddamn town than tell you to stop.”
“I’ll probably need three to five business days just lying in a warm bath to recover, but for now—” She lifts her head to meet my gaze. “— cuddles are good.”
“There is nothing wrong with you. You are exactly who you are meant to be, and that person is loveable. That person is worth knowing.”
#smalltown #Ohio #oppositesattract #grumpysunshine #instalove #fatedmates #soulmates #smut #mentalhealthrep #sensoryprocessingdisorder #anxiety #panicattacks #healthycoping #therapypositive #witches #urbanfantasy #graphicdesigner #librarian #touchheranddie #possessive #spicy #goodgirl #sharingmagic #strapscene #witchlegacy
I received a review copy from the author. This is my honest opinion.
The narrative is told from Charlotte's perspective, and I enjoyed reading her thoughts on Aria, especially the little glimpses of her insecurities that slip through her outgoing personality.
The overarching plot is engaging, even if some points are predictable.
The relationship between Aria and Charlotte begins rather quickly and is intense. This is not my usual fare, but I like their dynamic, and they are super cute together, with a mix of sweet and possessive vibes. There are several intimate scenes. Although they demonstrate the growing trust and vulnerability between Aria and Charlotte, I did not find all of them necessary. That said, I recognize that preferences for such scenes vary among readers.
Although Aria is talkative, social, and energetic, she is a calming presence that balances Charlotte's quiet, anxious, and easily overwhelmed personality.
Over time, Charlotte begins to understand her needs, as well as how to own her powers and take up space.
I appreciate the mental health rep, particularly its therapy-positive approach.
There is a surprisingly emotional final battle. I like the Pruitt family bond and legacy, and the conclusion to this installment is satisfying.
I give this 3.75 stars, rounded up.
Quoteworthy:
"You’re the goddamn sun and I’m lucky to be in your orbit. Got it?”
"Being a librarian comes with a side of nerd that you can’t quite suppress.”
“I’d rather drown this whole goddamn town than tell you to stop.”
“I’ll probably need three to five business days just lying in a warm bath to recover, but for now—” She lifts her head to meet my gaze. “— cuddles are good.”
“There is nothing wrong with you. You are exactly who you are meant to be, and that person is loveable. That person is worth knowing.”
#smalltown #Ohio #oppositesattract #grumpysunshine #instalove #fatedmates #soulmates #smut #mentalhealthrep #sensoryprocessingdisorder #anxiety #panicattacks #healthycoping #therapypositive #witches #urbanfantasy #graphicdesigner #librarian #touchheranddie #possessive #spicy #goodgirl #sharingmagic #strapscene #witchlegacy
I received a review copy from the author. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a fun paranormal romance series! Every time I finish a book, I’m convinced it’s my favorite…until I read the next one.
In HEXCELLENT START, Charlotte is the long-lost Pruitt sister. Shes organized, always has a plan and struggles when things change. Her life is turned upside down with the arrival of a sunshine-filled librarian and the emergence of her birth family. Charlotte does her best to navigate these new relationships while learning to accept who she truly is.
Charlotte and Aria’s relationship was incredibly sweet. For the first time, Charlotte feels truly seen, and that’s the real magic. Speaking of magic, Shae has such a lyrical way of capturing its beauty and complexity. And the one-liners throughout the series killed me.
My favorite part was the sister group chat. Literally so funny. (I love all three, but Laura is my girl. She’s so funny.)
I really appreciated Charlotte’s neurodivergent representation. My daughter has a sensory disorder, so this hit close to home. It’s something that requires a lot of understanding and tools, and I don’t often see it represented in books. It meant a lot to see it included here.
Highly recommend for fans of small town, spicy paranormal romances. You’ll gobble this series up!
What You’ll Find:
🌊Water magic
💖Sapphic romance
🧩Complicated family
🏘️Small town
☀️Grumpy/Sunshine
🫂Anxiety + Sensory Disorder rep
In HEXCELLENT START, Charlotte is the long-lost Pruitt sister. Shes organized, always has a plan and struggles when things change. Her life is turned upside down with the arrival of a sunshine-filled librarian and the emergence of her birth family. Charlotte does her best to navigate these new relationships while learning to accept who she truly is.
Charlotte and Aria’s relationship was incredibly sweet. For the first time, Charlotte feels truly seen, and that’s the real magic. Speaking of magic, Shae has such a lyrical way of capturing its beauty and complexity. And the one-liners throughout the series killed me.
My favorite part was the sister group chat. Literally so funny. (I love all three, but Laura is my girl. She’s so funny.)
I really appreciated Charlotte’s neurodivergent representation. My daughter has a sensory disorder, so this hit close to home. It’s something that requires a lot of understanding and tools, and I don’t often see it represented in books. It meant a lot to see it included here.
Highly recommend for fans of small town, spicy paranormal romances. You’ll gobble this series up!
What You’ll Find:
🌊Water magic
💖Sapphic romance
🧩Complicated family
🏘️Small town
☀️Grumpy/Sunshine
🫂Anxiety + Sensory Disorder rep
April 10, 2026
What a super fun witchy trilogy! I flew through these fun (a bit spicy!) romances! The story follows the Pruitt witch family who has a history of powerful witches. They are interconnected and a continued storyline.
It begins with Spell Ya Later. The first book follows Hazel as she steps out of her comfort zone and explores her powers that have been stifled her whole life. She meets her human soulmate and the adventure begins! She explores her air magic with the help of her beloved grandmother. I loved her grandmother who runs a local witchy shop.
Next in the story is Laura in Witchy Woman. She is a powerful fire witch who is a bit angry and very sassy! She too meets her soulmate; a persistent earth witch who won’t give up on her. The family must continue their mission to save their mother in spite of all the crap she has put them through. A secret is revealed at the end which leads to the next book.
The latest book is out very soon. Hexcellent Start is out April 21. This might be my favorite. It is a sapphic romance of a reclusive water witch and a sunshine earth witch. This one was a lot spicier I think then the others but I loved it. Charlotte is so strong, in spite of her fears and trauma. I also adored her soulmate Aria!!!
I look forward to reading more by this author! If you have KU, you’re in luck! Binge them all!
It begins with Spell Ya Later. The first book follows Hazel as she steps out of her comfort zone and explores her powers that have been stifled her whole life. She meets her human soulmate and the adventure begins! She explores her air magic with the help of her beloved grandmother. I loved her grandmother who runs a local witchy shop.
Next in the story is Laura in Witchy Woman. She is a powerful fire witch who is a bit angry and very sassy! She too meets her soulmate; a persistent earth witch who won’t give up on her. The family must continue their mission to save their mother in spite of all the crap she has put them through. A secret is revealed at the end which leads to the next book.
The latest book is out very soon. Hexcellent Start is out April 21. This might be my favorite. It is a sapphic romance of a reclusive water witch and a sunshine earth witch. This one was a lot spicier I think then the others but I loved it. Charlotte is so strong, in spite of her fears and trauma. I also adored her soulmate Aria!!!
I look forward to reading more by this author! If you have KU, you’re in luck! Binge them all!
April 16, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
📚 Book 3 in the Pruitt Witches series
📅 Out April 21, 2026 | KU & Paperback
Being back in this world felt like coming home. Cozy, a little chaotic, and packed with that lovable family dysfunction this series does so well. After the ending of Witchy Woman, I was so happy we got to really know Charlotte.
Charlotte is neurodivergent, keeps to herself, and honestly felt so real. And her meet cute with Aria was adorable. Aria is a librarian who’s immediately drawn to her, and their connection builds in such a soft genuine way.
Charlotte is adopted, and the storyline of her meeting her biological family hit in the heart. It isn’t easy for her, but watching the three sisters (all so different) slowly pull her in and make space for her was beautiful. The witchy elements really shined with all the Pruitt witches when together. The more Charlotte lets people in, the more she starts to find herself, and I loved seeing her fall for someone who doesn’t want to “fix” her, just love her exactly as she is. 🥹
This book gave heartfelt moments, laugh out loud scenes, and some spicy open door spice!!. The ending was so satisfying, seeing the sisters’ journeys come together and each get their HEA made my heart so happy.
What you’ll find:
✨ small town vibes
✨ elemental magic (she's a witch)
✨ sapphic romance
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ spicy open door scenes
✨ neurodivergent rep
Thank you so much, Zoe, for the ARC! I cannot wait to read more of your books to come!
📚 Book 3 in the Pruitt Witches series
📅 Out April 21, 2026 | KU & Paperback
Being back in this world felt like coming home. Cozy, a little chaotic, and packed with that lovable family dysfunction this series does so well. After the ending of Witchy Woman, I was so happy we got to really know Charlotte.
Charlotte is neurodivergent, keeps to herself, and honestly felt so real. And her meet cute with Aria was adorable. Aria is a librarian who’s immediately drawn to her, and their connection builds in such a soft genuine way.
Charlotte is adopted, and the storyline of her meeting her biological family hit in the heart. It isn’t easy for her, but watching the three sisters (all so different) slowly pull her in and make space for her was beautiful. The witchy elements really shined with all the Pruitt witches when together. The more Charlotte lets people in, the more she starts to find herself, and I loved seeing her fall for someone who doesn’t want to “fix” her, just love her exactly as she is. 🥹
This book gave heartfelt moments, laugh out loud scenes, and some spicy open door spice!!. The ending was so satisfying, seeing the sisters’ journeys come together and each get their HEA made my heart so happy.
What you’ll find:
✨ small town vibes
✨ elemental magic (she's a witch)
✨ sapphic romance
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ spicy open door scenes
✨ neurodivergent rep
Thank you so much, Zoe, for the ARC! I cannot wait to read more of your books to come!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I know the romantic focus is on but my favorite relationship in this book is the sibling banter with Robb! I did not read the other two books in the series before this one, but I want to go back and do so now. I'm hoping that would fill in some gaps about
This book is sapphic, sweet AND spicy, with a tasty helping of magical drama on top.
5 fave lines from the book (in page order) I put it under spoiler tag in case you don't want to read straight from the text before getting into it, but it doesn't kill any plot IMO.
Honorable mention: so many good descriptions of water!
Thanks to the author for the chance to read & review this book early!
This book is sapphic, sweet AND spicy, with a tasty helping of magical drama on top.
5 fave lines from the book (in page order) I put it under spoiler tag in case you don't want to read straight from the text before getting into it, but it doesn't kill any plot IMO.
Honorable mention: so many good descriptions of water!
Thanks to the author for the chance to read & review this book early!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2026
🩷📚🤎ARC Review🖤📚🩷
Thank you Zoe Shae for this ARC of Hexcellent Start! I have cherished this entire series and it’s bittersweet that it’s complete 🥹
This one was such an ode to love, to the found family that turned into a bonus family and the heart that Zoe gave these characters and this story was so beautiful!
I absolutely adored Charolette and Aria, the way that they kinda just stumbled into each other and the spark and the passion that they share was pure magic!
The entire story/world of the Pruitt/Adams family felt so real, the way that Zoe brought these characters to life was in such a way that they almost became my bonus family. I felt Charlottes struggles with her Sensory Processing and the way she felt like she was loosing her brother. To the “stuff” with Elizabeth, the way she made me feel like I was a character that was part of their story was masterful!
Tropes:
🩷FF Relationship
🖤Shy/Sensory Overloaded FMC
📚Librarian FMC
🩷Soulmates
🖤Found Family
📚Bonus Family
🩷No 3rd Act Break Up
🖤Passionate
Thank you Zoe Shae for this ARC of Hexcellent Start! I have cherished this entire series and it’s bittersweet that it’s complete 🥹
This one was such an ode to love, to the found family that turned into a bonus family and the heart that Zoe gave these characters and this story was so beautiful!
I absolutely adored Charolette and Aria, the way that they kinda just stumbled into each other and the spark and the passion that they share was pure magic!
The entire story/world of the Pruitt/Adams family felt so real, the way that Zoe brought these characters to life was in such a way that they almost became my bonus family. I felt Charlottes struggles with her Sensory Processing and the way she felt like she was loosing her brother. To the “stuff” with Elizabeth, the way she made me feel like I was a character that was part of their story was masterful!
Tropes:
🩷FF Relationship
🖤Shy/Sensory Overloaded FMC
📚Librarian FMC
🩷Soulmates
🖤Found Family
📚Bonus Family
🩷No 3rd Act Break Up
🖤Passionate
April 9, 2026
Did anyone expect anything but a fun sweet 'n spicy romance from Zoe Shae?! These two were the cutest final addition in the Pruitt Witches series 🤭
We have our brooding, reclusive neurodivergent witch who accidentally stumbles upon her sunshine librarian witch who just so happens to be her soulmate. I love when a grumpy character goes all gooey and soft hearted for their person. The spice was spicing with micro tropes like 'grab the headboard' and toys as teammates. I highly recommend reading this as a series as both of her sisters have gorgeous romance storylines that weave into this story too.
I love a good paranormal romance and Zoe Shae writes them like magic, I cannot wait to read what else she has cooking up 💜
Tropes:
✨Smalltown
✨Elemental Magic (She’s a witch)
✨Sapphic Romance
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Spiiiiiiicy Open Door Scenes
✨”Put your hands on the headboard.”
Thank you so much to Zoe Shae for this lovely arc 🤍
We have our brooding, reclusive neurodivergent witch who accidentally stumbles upon her sunshine librarian witch who just so happens to be her soulmate. I love when a grumpy character goes all gooey and soft hearted for their person. The spice was spicing with micro tropes like 'grab the headboard' and toys as teammates. I highly recommend reading this as a series as both of her sisters have gorgeous romance storylines that weave into this story too.
I love a good paranormal romance and Zoe Shae writes them like magic, I cannot wait to read what else she has cooking up 💜
Tropes:
✨Smalltown
✨Elemental Magic (She’s a witch)
✨Sapphic Romance
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Spiiiiiiicy Open Door Scenes
✨”Put your hands on the headboard.”
Thank you so much to Zoe Shae for this lovely arc 🤍
April 22, 2026
This was my first sapphic romance and it definitely won't be my last! This whole series was so good. Hexcellent Start is book 3 in the Pruitt Witches series and it wraps up so well. Not only did it finish the overall story line, but Zoe also put 3 epilogues at the end, one for each witch.
Charlotte is a shut in who thinks she is a monster. Aria is sunshine personified. Aria helps Charlotte figure out why she is the way she is and helps her love herself and see her love for others. I don't want to give away too much, but I loved reading this series!!
✨FF
✨Fated Mates
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Elemental Magic
✨Mental Health Rep
✨Interconnected Series (you need to read the other 2 for parts of this book to make sense)
✨Single POV
✨HEA
✨🌶️🌶️
#ARCreader
#releaseday
#bookstagram
#sapphicromance
#grumpyxsunshine
(I received this book as an ARC and the thoughts are completely my own.)
Charlotte is a shut in who thinks she is a monster. Aria is sunshine personified. Aria helps Charlotte figure out why she is the way she is and helps her love herself and see her love for others. I don't want to give away too much, but I loved reading this series!!
✨FF
✨Fated Mates
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Elemental Magic
✨Mental Health Rep
✨Interconnected Series (you need to read the other 2 for parts of this book to make sense)
✨Single POV
✨HEA
✨🌶️🌶️
#ARCreader
#releaseday
#bookstagram
#sapphicromance
#grumpyxsunshine
(I received this book as an ARC and the thoughts are completely my own.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did ARC read this.
Ooo my girl is BACK! I’ve been waiting for this book for months! In some ways, I’m lucky I got in late... because any longer and I would have been fit to burst. This is the final book in the Pruitt Witches series. Spell Ya Later and Witchy Woman were wonderful, but you if you know me, you know I’m a sucker for a sapphic MC. The added anxiety and neurodivergency rep is so nice. I loved the other two, and I know I’m biased, but I think this was the best one so far. I love that I can see the growth from Sugar through every book, and I’m super excited to see what the upcoming werewolf series looks like too. Zoe Shae has quickly become one of my favorite indie authors and not just because she’s so nice. If you haven’t read any of her books, you should.
Ooo my girl is BACK! I’ve been waiting for this book for months! In some ways, I’m lucky I got in late... because any longer and I would have been fit to burst. This is the final book in the Pruitt Witches series. Spell Ya Later and Witchy Woman were wonderful, but you if you know me, you know I’m a sucker for a sapphic MC. The added anxiety and neurodivergency rep is so nice. I loved the other two, and I know I’m biased, but I think this was the best one so far. I love that I can see the growth from Sugar through every book, and I’m super excited to see what the upcoming werewolf series looks like too. Zoe Shae has quickly become one of my favorite indie authors and not just because she’s so nice. If you haven’t read any of her books, you should.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Charlotte is the half sister of Hazel and Laura and they have only been told by their mother she is out there and they have to use a spell to find her.
Charlotte is a quiet, Water witch who spends her days in (mostly) isolation so her power doesn't get out of control. She was raised in her loving adoptive family who supported her but gained another family in the sisters and Grandma. Along with finding Aria- her "Sunshine" soulmate.
Aria was so good at figuring out what Charlotte needed right away to deal with being around so much noise and chaos and she was just really sweet.
The end teared me up 😭. It's a good but very bittersweet ending. I absolutely loved that the author gave 3 epilogues for each one of the sisters.
Charlotte is a quiet, Water witch who spends her days in (mostly) isolation so her power doesn't get out of control. She was raised in her loving adoptive family who supported her but gained another family in the sisters and Grandma. Along with finding Aria- her "Sunshine" soulmate.
Aria was so good at figuring out what Charlotte needed right away to deal with being around so much noise and chaos and she was just really sweet.
The end teared me up 😭. It's a good but very bittersweet ending. I absolutely loved that the author gave 3 epilogues for each one of the sisters.
April 21, 2026
Hexcellent Start was pure perfection. My wife and I loved this entire series, and Zoe truly delivered with this final installment of the trilogy.
The representation alone was beautifully done. From the neurodivergent FMC to the heartfelt sapphic love story, every page left me in awe. I’m always a little nervous going into the last book of a series, hoping it won’t feel rushed or leave loose ends, but there was nothing to worry about here.
Zoe has a gift for storytelling that pulls you in and makes you feel every emotion she puts on the page.
If you love a witchy romance filled with heart, wonder, family, and that signature spark Zoe brings to all her books, I highly recommend Hexcellent Start, and the entire Pruitt witches series.
The representation alone was beautifully done. From the neurodivergent FMC to the heartfelt sapphic love story, every page left me in awe. I’m always a little nervous going into the last book of a series, hoping it won’t feel rushed or leave loose ends, but there was nothing to worry about here.
Zoe has a gift for storytelling that pulls you in and makes you feel every emotion she puts on the page.
If you love a witchy romance filled with heart, wonder, family, and that signature spark Zoe brings to all her books, I highly recommend Hexcellent Start, and the entire Pruitt witches series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A charming, small town, sapphic witchy romance. Charlotte’s carefully curated life gets upended, changing in ways she thought would wreck her. Meeting Aria, full of sunshine, brings instant love. Discovering she is one of the famous Pruitt witches brings questions, danger, and action, but also family. I adored how the grumpy x sunshine trope was represented, I cherished the small vibes and not-in-your face witchy world, I appreciated the neurodivergent representation with Charlotte’s sensory disorder, but most of all, I loved the found family, soulmates, and sister tribe references.
4.25 stars
Thanks to the author and Booked With the Emilys for the gifted paperback.
4.25 stars
Thanks to the author and Booked With the Emilys for the gifted paperback.
April 21, 2026
I was so fortunate to receive an ARC of this book!
Honestly I couldn't put it down! I loved the dynamic between Charlotte and Aria. They seemed just absolutely perfect for each other and had my mouth wide open when Charlotte got a bit more out of her comfort zone, especially when she started thinking more about Aria. Girl the things she was thinking!! I highly recommend this book. It felt like the perfect mix of spice and plot, with the spice happening a bit more towards the middle of the book instead of right off the bat. The spice was written so well and I definitely enjoyed it! I'm so glad I signed up for the ARC!
Honestly I couldn't put it down! I loved the dynamic between Charlotte and Aria. They seemed just absolutely perfect for each other and had my mouth wide open when Charlotte got a bit more out of her comfort zone, especially when she started thinking more about Aria. Girl the things she was thinking!! I highly recommend this book. It felt like the perfect mix of spice and plot, with the spice happening a bit more towards the middle of the book instead of right off the bat. The spice was written so well and I definitely enjoyed it! I'm so glad I signed up for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!!! I absolutely devoured this book. 24 hours and I am done.
Zoe has done it again! This, the third and final book in the Pruitt Witches trilogy had me grinning from the start. It was cozy, cute and a perfect way to conclude the stories of Hazel, Laura and their newly discovered sister Charlotte.
I highly recommend this series if you want a cozy book to curl up with. 'Spell Ya Later', 'Witchy Woman' and now 'Hexellent Start' are everything you want in a book, a fabulous story, lots of emotions and some spice to help warm your heart.
Zoe has done it again! This, the third and final book in the Pruitt Witches trilogy had me grinning from the start. It was cozy, cute and a perfect way to conclude the stories of Hazel, Laura and their newly discovered sister Charlotte.
I highly recommend this series if you want a cozy book to curl up with. 'Spell Ya Later', 'Witchy Woman' and now 'Hexellent Start' are everything you want in a book, a fabulous story, lots of emotions and some spice to help warm your heart.
April 13, 2026
Ever wished you could get totally lost in a story where secrets and powerful magic are just waiting to be uncovered? Get ready to dive headfirst into a paranormal romance that’s going to sweep you off your feet!
It’s not just an escape; it’s a richly layered journey that promises a magical experience, a gripping intrigue, and connections so deep You really won't want to miss it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
It’s not just an escape; it’s a richly layered journey that promises a magical experience, a gripping intrigue, and connections so deep You really won't want to miss it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
As with all the books in the Pruitt Witches series I was extremely blessed to receive an eARC of "Hexcellent Start" as part of Zoe Shaes' street team. I was also lucky enough that I managed to win a signed physical copy from a giveaway she hosted. However, never let it be said that free books sway any of my ratings, because all opinions remain 100% my own.
And once again, she has cast a delicious spell. Hexcellent Start is the sassy, sapphic witchy finale to the series all of her devoted readers have wished for. As a neurospicy girly with generalized anxiety disorder there were quite a few elements to Charlotte that I could relate to; which you see done so rarely, and not always with such success. Zoe has managed to effortlessly and tastefully blend sensitive topics such as adoption, neurodivergency, unhealthy family dynamics, and in-depth discussions about mental health with magic, explicit sexual content, murder, violence and blood . So, the real world, in all its wonderful, messy glory.
The Pruitt Witches of Chagrin falls have thoroughly Charmed me - and if you love a good small town, witchy, black cat x sunshine love story with heat, murder and family drama, this one is for you.
Oh, and for my millennials out there, P³ would be proud 🥲 .
And once again, she has cast a delicious spell. Hexcellent Start is the sassy, sapphic witchy finale to the series all of her devoted readers have wished for. As a neurospicy girly with generalized anxiety disorder there were quite a few elements to Charlotte that I could relate to; which you see done so rarely, and not always with such success. Zoe has managed to effortlessly and tastefully blend sensitive topics such as adoption, neurodivergency, unhealthy family dynamics, and in-depth discussions about mental health with magic, explicit sexual content, murder, violence and blood . So, the real world, in all its wonderful, messy glory.
The Pruitt Witches of Chagrin falls have thoroughly Charmed me - and if you love a good small town, witchy, black cat x sunshine love story with heat, murder and family drama, this one is for you.
Oh, and for my millennials out there, P³ would be proud 🥲 .
Review of advance copy received from Author
Not my usual genre, but it was a very cute story with some spice in it and some drama with an HEA at the end. I enjoyed reading it.
April 21, 2026
Review of ARC received from author! Happy Release Day!!
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️’s, what an absolute joy it was to be back in this world!! Charlotte is an FMC that you want to root for and I really enjoyed her story and her growth. She and Aria are such a sweet couple and I loved getting to be back with the other Pruitt witches! The one think that prevented this from being a full 5 stars for me was just how quickly the overarching plot line was wrapped up, there was a lot of buildup but then I felt like it all concluded in one chapter. I wish this part was a little more fleshed out, the book could’ve been longer and I would not have been disappointed!! I really just love this series and will read anything from this author!
4.5 out of 5 ⭐️’s, what an absolute joy it was to be back in this world!! Charlotte is an FMC that you want to root for and I really enjoyed her story and her growth. She and Aria are such a sweet couple and I loved getting to be back with the other Pruitt witches! The one think that prevented this from being a full 5 stars for me was just how quickly the overarching plot line was wrapped up, there was a lot of buildup but then I felt like it all concluded in one chapter. I wish this part was a little more fleshed out, the book could’ve been longer and I would not have been disappointed!! I really just love this series and will read anything from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Hexcellent Start so much!!!
I was so excited to get into Charlotte and Aria's book and it did not disappoint!
I always love a grumpy sunshine romance.
Charlotte and Aria are perfect for each other!
I am so sad that this series is over, but I can't wait to read whatever Zoe publishes next!
Thank you so much Zoe for the ARC!
I was so excited to get into Charlotte and Aria's book and it did not disappoint!
I always love a grumpy sunshine romance.
Charlotte and Aria are perfect for each other!
I am so sad that this series is over, but I can't wait to read whatever Zoe publishes next!
Thank you so much Zoe for the ARC!
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