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Twice Bitten: An absolutely addictive urban fantasy mystery

Not yet published
Expected 10 Aug 26
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331 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication August 10, 2026

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About the author

S.E. Babin

110 books434 followers

S.E. Babin has a passion for writing books with a paranormal twist. Whether it's romance or mystery, she loves taking the norm and turning it into the extraordinary. Her love of reading turned into a curious exploration to see whether or not she could write her own novel.

Beginning with random, terrible poetry and a slightly popular reimagining of Beowulf's Grendel in her high school English class, Sheryl spent way too much time in the library, killing any chance of her becoming a cheerleader or anything even remotely cool. Find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SEBabin. She loves to hear from readers!

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
20 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 9, 2026
I was so excited to get this book from NetGalley and Second Sky. From the description I could tell it was right up my alley with vampires, werewolves, unknown powers, and a love triangle. From the moment I started this book, I couldn’t put it down. I didn’t want to go to sleep and when I finally relented, I even dreamt about the story and then immediately started reading again when I woke up- it was that addictive!

The FMC was absolutely perfect- strong, fierce, and funny. She is very likeable and easy to root for her. The whole time I was just as invested as her in finding out her mysterious past and what her ancestry might mean. The entire book kept me guessing and the ending has me wanting the next book ASAP. I absolutely loved the fun addition of Edmund, the mysterious sentient spirit(?) attached to her home. Their banter was a highlight for me, and I found myself worried for him at one point in the story. Who doesn’t love a witty, protective spirit who can run your baths and kick people out of your house with the floorboards?!

The author did a fantastic job knitting hints and clues throughout the book. There were a few times that I found myself a little bothered because the conversation that was supposed to happen never did (like Alex meeting the witches in the bar to ask about her implant and then never talking about it once) or that something seemed to have happened to her implant in the final fight but it was never mentioned, even just a tease, in the final few chapters that could lead up to suspense of what it might mean if it had been destroyed during that fight and her developing powers. Regardless, it wasn’t even to take away from the overall plot.

I had never read anything from this author, and I will definitely be checking out her other books now!
Profile Image for Cassandra Garcia.
107 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Listen I do not know if it is because I've been reading nothing but high fantasy lately but this book drew me in. It was a refreshingly easy read and I devoured it. I did not want to put it down. I finished it in less then 24 hrs. 

Vampires, Witches, Fae, Goblins, Pixies, an entire supernatural filled world what more could a Fantasy girlie ask for?

The FMC is likeable and you will easily commiserate with her. The side characters are also entertaining, the house having its own spirit Edmund was a nice touch and a good tool to lend a companion to a main character who is usually one of solitude. The plot moves along and the intrigue keeps you guessing. The character growth with her trying to trust people is also nicely done. She is betrayed multiple times but in the end she does end up opening herself up to a few side characters and realizing that she is not entirely alone. That ending also has me ready for the next book asap. Ive never read this author but I think I'll go see if she has other published works.

There were a few inconsistencies that will probably be taken care of in the finalized copy, like the first Vampire we see saying put his drink on the Primes tab but then she takes his money. Unless that was a joke or a power play that I miss read.

There was a little repetition with describing that vampires can hear your heartbeat and know if your scared and a few other things but not big issues. 

Overall I really enjoyed this book and cant will be reading the next.
Profile Image for PK Amaral.
37 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 13, 2026
I am so grateful to NetGalley and S.E. Babin for the opportunity to read this ARC! The first hook in this book was the dedication - anyone, like myself, who can relate to having an "unmanageable TBR" will appreciate it. First, there are so many situations that happen in the book, and there are quite a few supernatural beings that appear, so be prepared! The FMC, Alex, is a hedge witch whose mother has disappeared and she does not know who her father is/was. Alex works at a coffee shop and is extremely likeable, despite not having very many friends. I connected with her instantly and loved that she was running a (possibly illegal) side hustle out of her basement. She has two kind and funny co-workers, steals syrup for a pixie, and a supernatural being assists with technology at her house. The trouble beings when a creepy, vampire customer takes a strong liking to Alex and we begin to suspect that there may be more to our FMC than meets the eye. The vampire is cruel and stalks her relentlessly until she has a violent encounter with the two main MMCs. The story really takes off from here! Her chaotic journey has her dealing with these royalty figures, but Alex doesn't trust either of them and rightfully so, because their motives are unclear. Luckily, Alex has her friends, her fierce personality, and doesn't give in to anyone's demands. The ending will have you gasping and I can't wait to see how this storyline continues!
13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
July 11, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Second Sky for this ARC. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where the rest of the series takes me. Twice Bitten was such an easy read, and if I didn't go to work I feel like I could've done this in one sitting!

The FMC was so feisty and funny! She stood up for herself and didn't back down when two strong MMCs forced their way into her life. The whole way through (and still now!) I was so invested to find out her hidden past and what that means for her power.

It was a testament to the authors writing, because I'm still wary of Silas and Alric. Alex isnt very trusting and I am the opposite when it comes to fictional men! Usually I'm like "Girl, you can trust him!". So, the fact that I'm dubious about these two, especially the Vamp, means the Author did something right!!

Also, have to say, adore Edmund. Where can I get one. He was witty, smart and protective (of the Wi-Fi!) and just what Alex needed.

This fantasy had it all, Witches, Vamps, Werewolves, Goblins, Pixies, Fae! I could go on. A must-read and has also had me looking into the authors past works because I always need easy, well written reads!! Can't wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Entisar Ali.
65 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book absolutely swept me away—I started it intending to read a chapter and ended up binging almost the whole thing in one sitting. The pacing is addictive, the humor had me laughing out loud (seriously, don't read this with a drink in hand), and the romance is exactly the kind of slow-burn magic that makes you fall completely in love with the story.
Our leading lady is fierce, funny, and easy to root for—the kind of strong female lead that makes a book impossible to put down. Add in worldbuilding that's genuinely stellar and side characters you can't help but adore, and you've got a series that hooks you early and never lets go.
I only stopped reading when I physically fell asleep, and I picked it right back up the moment I woke up. This is a must-read—entertaining from start to finish, and I'm already itching to dive into the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Becky.
411 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 28, 2026
I've read several books by S.E. Babin and have enjoyed them, so I was excited to pick up Twice Bitten when I saw it on NetGalley. Unfortunately, this one didn't quite work for me.

My first disappointment was that the story didn't really match either the blurb or the title. I went in expecting one type of story, but what I got felt quite different, which made it difficult to connect with the book.

The biggest issue for me, though, was the characterization. The characters didn't seem to have much depth, and I had a hard time becoming invested in them. The female main character, in particular, felt inconsistent. I think she was meant to come across as a tough, independent loner who didn't need anyone, but she repeatedly made TSTL (too stupid to live) decisions that undermined that image and made her frustrating to follow.

While this book wasn't a good fit for me, I'll still check out future books by this author because I've enjoyed their previous work.
Profile Image for Katy Chadwick.
6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 1, 2026
Received as an ARC via Netgalley & SecondSky; thank you!

As the title says; Addictive! This is my first introduction to the author and let me tell you, I’ll be going back for more!
A wonderful dive in to the world of witchcraft, vampires and shifters; a fabulous easy read that was devoured in a day (sadly sleep slowed me down).

The FMC is a baddass who constantly stands up for herself and lovingly bickers with the sentient being who inhabits her house (give us more of this in upcoming books please!!).
We watch Alex- our fmc- go from being a barista with an illegal side hustle who avoids relationships and friendships, slowly opening up to several side characters by the end. I liked how this was portrayed considering all of the chaos and betrayal Alex undergoes.

Overall I enjoyed this book and now i’m off to search for more of S.E.Babin’s work.





Profile Image for Penny.
3,326 reviews91 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
July 3, 2026
Ever since I first read this author, I will read anything she puts on so was very excited to see a new series. I immediately dived in and was drawn in with no hesitation. I will admit that the first little bit did get a little slow for me which is a little surprising for me. However, once we got past this little bit of slowness, the book never let me go. Alex, our main character, has a lot of traumatization from her past, and the events of this book probably gave her even more. I don’t want to say too much as I’m not sure what could spoil this, but the very end of this left me salivating to read the next one. If you’re a fan of this author, you’ll love this latest. If you haven’t read her, run, don’t walk, to start her. Highly Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Profile Image for Elle.
63 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 7, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book - to the point where I was mad I had to go to bed before finishing it. I’m not normally the biggest fan I have a love triangle but the focus on the romance was definitely a secondary part of the book in comparison to the plot - a plot which I absolutely loved!

Alex is a likeable FMC, and as someone who has definitely been guilty of isolating themselves, her choices made sense, but it was great to see her growing open up as the story went on.

The author does a phenomenal job to weave the secrets and hints throughout the story, whilst keeping you invested - I will be eagerly waiting for the next book to come out because I still have so many questions and I must know the answers!!
Profile Image for Suzi.
1,115 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 14, 2026
I truly enjoyed the ARC of Twice Bitten. Alex’s journey from a seemingly low-powered hedge witch to someone so much more kept me hooked from start to finish. The mystery surrounding her mother—and the absence of any clues about her father adds such an intriguing layer. I love how
Alex has to keep her powers under wraps while living in that sentient home; it’s like her world is as complex as she is.

The unexpected tensions with the vampire and werewolf leaders were a brilliant twist. I found myself on the edge of my seat as Alex navigated their scrutiny. You’ve crafted an excellent story that flows beautifully, and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment of the series.

Thanks for such a thrilling read!
Profile Image for Sue Reads.
22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
July 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’ve read several books by S.E. Babin and have enjoyed them, so I was excited to pick up Twice Bitten, and this was such a fun read!

I loved the mix of witches, vampires, werewolves, and all the supernatural chaos. Alex was a great FMC to follow, and I really enjoyed uncovering the mystery behind her powers and her past. The story kept me curious, and I had a great time watching Alex navigate everything being thrown her way.

There were a few moments where I wanted a little more depth in the world-building and characters, but overall this was an entertaining read filled with magic, mystery, and twists. I’m excited to see where the series goes next!

Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

1,326 reviews38 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 13, 2026
Exciting start to a new fantasy series. Alex is a hedge witch with a lot of knowledge around her green magic. She’s hidden her nature and worked hard to save to open a magic apothecary beside the coffee shop she’s been working in. A chance meeting with two supernatural leaders causes major problems. Two very different males, neither have Alex’s best interest at heart. But Alex is very
much more than they expect.

All long with Alex there are a number of fun characters human and supernatural to enjoy. Lots of humour too.

Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine.
Profile Image for Shannon Mungo.
254 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 24, 2026
This was absolutely fantastic! A paranormal romance filled with mystery, magic and power.

This was non stop action & adventure. Somehow the author managed to give us information on how the power dynamics and different types of creatures work in this book without being large informational dumps.

I absolutely loved Edmund! 😍

Our fmcs finds herself in a little predicament and she isnt sure who to trust.

I love how she finds herself in danger and manages to fight her way out by herself. What a badass 👏 👏 👏

I will absolutely be continuing this series. This book was like 500 pages but flew by. It's one of those books that suck you in! I need more!!!
Profile Image for Tara.
176 reviews9 followers
July 19, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley

I just started getting into supernatural books and I’m loving the vampire werewolf stories. When I saw the cover of this, I was intrigued by the cover and then I was reading the synopsis and found out that it was about vampires, witches and werewolves, and I said yes, sign me up.

This will be my first book by this author, but I devoured this book and enjoyed every moment of it I feel this book had it all humor, a good storyline, great characters that will definitely be an author that I would keep on my supernatural side
Profile Image for Jeong Sieun Alexandrine.
472 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 12, 2026
ARC review through Netgalley thanks to the Second Sky team and the author ☆
Listen : I was sold at -> Urban Fantasy. Bitten by both a werewolf and a vampire. Witch FMC.
It did NOT disappoint ! By the gods and goddesses above , this was a thrilling Rollercoaster of emotions ~
You do not know who to trust till the very end and the cliffhanger was perfectly executed. I am so hooked and can't wait for the next installment 👏👀
Profile Image for BookishKB.
1,554 reviews392 followers
Read
July 6, 2026
🩸🌒 Twice Bitten 🌒🩸

📖 Bookish Thoughts

My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.

✨ What to Expect
• Urban Fantasy
• Love Triangle
• Vampires
• Werewolves
• Hidden Magic
• Magical Mystery
• Witch FMC
_ _ _

📅 Pub Date: August 10, 2026
Thank you to Second Sky and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Profile Image for CassieCruel.
101 reviews44 followers
July 2, 2026
**I was bitten by a vampire AND a werewolf. Now everyone wants a piece of me.**

Wow!! Another great addition to the S.E Babin legacy

With a BA heroine going into her new powers, and possibility for a found family?

Give me the next already!!
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 14, 2026
This book draws you in from the very first chapter. The FMC is witty and the banter throughout the book kept me laughing every chapter. And the cliff hanger at the end…I hope book two comes out soon!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews