Where We Begin Again

by Sofia L. Reynoso, Opal Hearst (Editor), Jacob Robert (Editor)

414 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2026

Reviews

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was genuinely blown away by this novel—especially knowing it’s written by a 21-year-old debut author. Sofia L. Reynoso has crafted a story that feels incredibly polished, immersive, and beautifully written.

Set in Magnolia Bay, Louisiana, the story follows Josephine Reyes, who lives on the struggling side of town, helping run her family’s flower shop—once an apothecary with a mysterious past. Raised in the Catholic faith, Josephine begins to experience strange sensations and dreams that hint at something deeper within her. When her path crosses with Matthew Vieaux, the wealthy and guarded heir to a powerful family cursed by a dark, centuries-old legacy, their connection sparks something dangerous and undeniable. As secrets unravel, Josephine is forced to confront truths about her identity, her faith, and the world around her.

The writing in this book is absolutely stunning—rich, descriptive, and almost poetic. The setting was so vivid that I felt completely transported to Magnolia Bay, surrounded by magnolias, moss-draped trees, and lingering secrets.
The characters were equally compelling—layered, complex, and engaging. Even as someone who doesn’t typically gravitate toward vampire stories, I was hooked from the very first page. The pacing kept me fully invested, and the blend of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements was incredibly well done.

This is an impressive debut, and I truly hope it continues as a series. I will absolutely be watching to see what Reynoso writes next.

[Karalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took a long time to finish this, at first it was because I was busy, then it was just because every chapter started making me cry for some reason and I needed to emotionally prepare myself. It was definitely the relationship between Josephine and Matthew that did it for me, they are just so soft, so sweet. Once they let each other in, their love was just so gentle and patient. I couldn't help but tear up at that. It was exactly the type of romance I needed right now.
I loved how the details are described, everything feels delicate and magical from Josies perspective. I can imagine this town exactly and it sounds beautiful I need to be there now. Booking a flight to Louisiana as we speak.
I felt good about the ending, I was terrified at first because I grew very attached to Matthew but I was excited when I realized what was gonna happen, I've been having a hard time picturing Josies powers, but it's definitely reminding me of rapunzel in its own unique way and that helps me imagine it.
I can't wait for more possible books with these characters, I would love to see other perspectives and stories.

[Lily Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is written so beautifully in a way I did not know I needed. The writing is detailed and almost poetic but still really easy to get lost in.

It feels like a mix of that Twilight type of fantasy romance and the rich atmospheric style Anne Rice is known for, with a bit of suspense woven in. It is not told in first person, which actually made the flow feel really smooth and immersive in a different way.

The romance, tension, and overall mood pull you in and make it hard to put down.

If you like fantasy romance with suspense and beautifully written storytelling, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Ella Sharp · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a lovely book, and the writing itself felt almost poetic at times. I just found myself wishing for a deeper connection to the characters—I wanted more development so I could really understand and feel invested in them. Even so, the beauty of the writing still stood out.

[Jean Petrovic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story very well written