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A Witch's Dissent
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 1, 2026
A Witch's Dissent is the second witchy sapphic romance by Sabrina Marley. This book is set in a small town in California in the mid-90s. The writing style makes it easy to imagine yourself there and then.
I was excited to read this one, and even though it had a slow start, I loved the peak '90s references, and I really enjoyed getting to know the main characters. Eliza is unassuming and quietly rebellious. She has a hidden strength. Isabel is '90s cool and straightforward.
Eliza and Isabel meet, and sparks fly immediately. Turns out Isabel is a witch in hiding, and Eliza is a member of a secret all-female witchy cult, whose leader is of questionable character.
The plot is even paced and interesting. I was drawn to the mystery surrounding the coven, and I became very attached to several of the characters. The main pairing seemed like a good match. It did get hot and heavy very quickly, but the chemistry was strong. The intimate scenes felt realistic as well.
The villain(s) were pretty nasty, and the protagonists were easy to root for. The boss battle made for a satisfying ending. Noel and Dorian, the horses, felt like characters in their own right, and I loved them as well.
The cover is lovely.
Quoteworthy:
"...Judith Butler, she calls gender a performance. And suggests that we’re only beholden to our given gender by society, not from some natural or innate influence.”
“You made me a mix tape?”
Overall, I enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading A Witch's Entanglement as well.
#California #smalltown #witches #cult #coven #urbanfantasy #mid90s
#POC #hispanic #interracialrelationship #oppositesattract #newadult #forbiddenmagic #forbiddenlove #pansexualrep #sweethorses #transrep #spicy #steamy #HEA
I received a review copy from the author. This is my honest opinion.
I was excited to read this one, and even though it had a slow start, I loved the peak '90s references, and I really enjoyed getting to know the main characters. Eliza is unassuming and quietly rebellious. She has a hidden strength. Isabel is '90s cool and straightforward.
Eliza and Isabel meet, and sparks fly immediately. Turns out Isabel is a witch in hiding, and Eliza is a member of a secret all-female witchy cult, whose leader is of questionable character.
The plot is even paced and interesting. I was drawn to the mystery surrounding the coven, and I became very attached to several of the characters. The main pairing seemed like a good match. It did get hot and heavy very quickly, but the chemistry was strong. The intimate scenes felt realistic as well.
The villain(s) were pretty nasty, and the protagonists were easy to root for. The boss battle made for a satisfying ending. Noel and Dorian, the horses, felt like characters in their own right, and I loved them as well.
The cover is lovely.
Quoteworthy:
"...Judith Butler, she calls gender a performance. And suggests that we’re only beholden to our given gender by society, not from some natural or innate influence.”
“You made me a mix tape?”
Overall, I enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading A Witch's Entanglement as well.
#California #smalltown #witches #cult #coven #urbanfantasy #mid90s
#POC #hispanic #interracialrelationship #oppositesattract #newadult #forbiddenmagic #forbiddenlove #pansexualrep #sweethorses #transrep #spicy #steamy #HEA
I received a review copy from the author. This is my honest opinion.
July 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This is a cute cozy witch fantasy romance. It takes place in the 90's, so there are a lot of cultural references to that time period.
Isabel and get family just moved to a small town from LA. Her family had to move suddenly due to their exposure of being witches. While in town, she quite literally runs into Eliza. She's from a women only witch community. They seem to be stuck in the past.
The fmcs are both in their late teenage era.
This story has intrigue, secret society/coven, and a mystery illness affecting the town. I will say I did very much enjoy all of the pop references to the time, it was nostalgic. Especially, when Bailey and Isabel were trying to bring the coven into the present day. I did like the main FMC characters as well. Where it fell short for me was a little in the pacing and the plot, not to say that others won't enjoy this more. Overall this was in my good book category, and I'd read more from this author.
Tropes and triggers: ancient magic, first love, fish out of water, forbidden romance, found family, murder mystery, new in town, mild misandry, secret society, witches
This is a cute cozy witch fantasy romance. It takes place in the 90's, so there are a lot of cultural references to that time period.
Isabel and get family just moved to a small town from LA. Her family had to move suddenly due to their exposure of being witches. While in town, she quite literally runs into Eliza. She's from a women only witch community. They seem to be stuck in the past.
The fmcs are both in their late teenage era.
This story has intrigue, secret society/coven, and a mystery illness affecting the town. I will say I did very much enjoy all of the pop references to the time, it was nostalgic. Especially, when Bailey and Isabel were trying to bring the coven into the present day. I did like the main FMC characters as well. Where it fell short for me was a little in the pacing and the plot, not to say that others won't enjoy this more. Overall this was in my good book category, and I'd read more from this author.
Tropes and triggers: ancient magic, first love, fish out of water, forbidden romance, found family, murder mystery, new in town, mild misandry, secret society, witches
June 30, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This is my first time reading anything by Sabrina Marley but definitely wont be my last!! Absolutely loved this book and if you love sapphic romance with witchy vibes you will definitely love this one!! The world building and character build up was great! I cant wait to read more by Sabrina!!
“As these two witches try to fight their passions for one another, Isabel begins to suspect the ancient coven leader, Roan, isn’t to be trusted. When Isabel’s vehement need to fight against oppression clashes against Eliza’s unyielding loyalty to her coven sisters, their love is put to the test—and nobody will come out unscathed”
“As these two witches try to fight their passions for one another, Isabel begins to suspect the ancient coven leader, Roan, isn’t to be trusted. When Isabel’s vehement need to fight against oppression clashes against Eliza’s unyielding loyalty to her coven sisters, their love is put to the test—and nobody will come out unscathed”
June 27, 2026
I love sapphic stories, and I love stories about witches, so when I was offered an eARC of A Witch’s Dissent by Sabrina Marley, I jumped at the chance.
This book takes place in the mid-90’s, so I was thrilled to see all the 90’s references (especially music) peppered throughout the book. (I would have been about the same age as the character of Bailey in the book around that time.) The author did an excellent job of making Thorn’s Edge feel so realistic. I felt like I was instantly transported there. I actually could see all the action and the setting in my mind as I was reading.
The story did start out a bit slow during the character building scenes in the beginning, but it did quickly pick up the pacing. The plot was a little predictable, but that didn’t deter me from reading on. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next for Eliza and Isabel. Would Eliza be able to escape the compound and Roan’s clutches? I also found that this book had the right amount of steamy scenes, and they weren’t in the book just to randomly be there. They actually fit with what was happening at the time.
I loved the characters of Isabel and Eliza and how each chapter was told from their point of view. Eliza’s naivety with Isabel’s street smarts made them such a cute couple! It was easy to understand what made Roan so magnetic to the sisters of the compound. Sometimes I even found myself drawn to her. Dorian was by far my favourite character. Even though he was only a minor character, that horse pulled at my heartstrings. (Also, Noel was the perfect horse for Eliza.)
If you’re after a witchy book with a fun meet cute, some steamy scenes, and an action filled sapphic love story, then you’ll definitely enjoy A Witch’s Dissent.
I’d give A Witch’s Dissent by Sabrina Marley 4.5⭐️ out of 5.
[eARC received from the author in exchange for my honest review.]
This book takes place in the mid-90’s, so I was thrilled to see all the 90’s references (especially music) peppered throughout the book. (I would have been about the same age as the character of Bailey in the book around that time.) The author did an excellent job of making Thorn’s Edge feel so realistic. I felt like I was instantly transported there. I actually could see all the action and the setting in my mind as I was reading.
The story did start out a bit slow during the character building scenes in the beginning, but it did quickly pick up the pacing. The plot was a little predictable, but that didn’t deter me from reading on. I found myself wanting to know what would happen next for Eliza and Isabel. Would Eliza be able to escape the compound and Roan’s clutches? I also found that this book had the right amount of steamy scenes, and they weren’t in the book just to randomly be there. They actually fit with what was happening at the time.
I loved the characters of Isabel and Eliza and how each chapter was told from their point of view. Eliza’s naivety with Isabel’s street smarts made them such a cute couple! It was easy to understand what made Roan so magnetic to the sisters of the compound. Sometimes I even found myself drawn to her. Dorian was by far my favourite character. Even though he was only a minor character, that horse pulled at my heartstrings. (Also, Noel was the perfect horse for Eliza.)
If you’re after a witchy book with a fun meet cute, some steamy scenes, and an action filled sapphic love story, then you’ll definitely enjoy A Witch’s Dissent.
I’d give A Witch’s Dissent by Sabrina Marley 4.5⭐️ out of 5.
[eARC received from the author in exchange for my honest review.]
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June 27, 2026Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book!
This book has a great premise, and while I didn’t personally enjoy the book itself, the author has a wonderful voice and great ideas for stories.
This book really struggles with pacing issues, and stuff I just wasn’t able to suspend my disbelief enough for. My biggest issue was that the first 25%+ of the book the main characters hadn’t met and it felt like everything dragged on. Then when they met it was insta-attraction/lust, which would probably be fine if it made any sense. Eliza grew up in basically a cult and it feels entirely implausible that she would be acting on those feelings 30% of the way in, the first time she hangs out with Iz. Which is the part I just couldn’t suspend my disbelief enough for.
It just felt like the author had to make cuts or something and felt the beginning was really important to keep the same.
If the author is reading this (which is entirely possible) I hope you keep writing, because I want to keep reading, even if this wasn’t my favorite book.
This book has a great premise, and while I didn’t personally enjoy the book itself, the author has a wonderful voice and great ideas for stories.
This book really struggles with pacing issues, and stuff I just wasn’t able to suspend my disbelief enough for. My biggest issue was that the first 25%+ of the book the main characters hadn’t met and it felt like everything dragged on. Then when they met it was insta-attraction/lust, which would probably be fine if it made any sense. Eliza grew up in basically a cult and it feels entirely implausible that she would be acting on those feelings 30% of the way in, the first time she hangs out with Iz. Which is the part I just couldn’t suspend my disbelief enough for.
It just felt like the author had to make cuts or something and felt the beginning was really important to keep the same.
If the author is reading this (which is entirely possible) I hope you keep writing, because I want to keep reading, even if this wasn’t my favorite book.
June 19, 2026
ARC Review for A Witch’s Dissent
Overall this was a joyful read! I loved the lore of this universe, Marley has a way of building details for the story as she goes so you continue to learn about the universe as you read. I think that the characters all felt fleshed out and developed, and the two narrative POVs felt distinct. I loved the plot of the narrative, and it kept me interested until the last minute. The relationship between Eliza and Isabel is very intense, and steers much of the narrative’s direction. Personally I felt their romance bloomed a little quick for me, but that also does happen in sapphic relationships in real life, so what can I say? Just not a slow burn development if that’s what you look for! A great read for anyone who loves witchy vibes, sapphic romance, forbidden Star crossed love, and found family.
Overall this was a joyful read! I loved the lore of this universe, Marley has a way of building details for the story as she goes so you continue to learn about the universe as you read. I think that the characters all felt fleshed out and developed, and the two narrative POVs felt distinct. I loved the plot of the narrative, and it kept me interested until the last minute. The relationship between Eliza and Isabel is very intense, and steers much of the narrative’s direction. Personally I felt their romance bloomed a little quick for me, but that also does happen in sapphic relationships in real life, so what can I say? Just not a slow burn development if that’s what you look for! A great read for anyone who loves witchy vibes, sapphic romance, forbidden Star crossed love, and found family.
June 13, 2026
I loved this book! The chemistry between Eliza and Isabel is instant and amazing!! Also just the plot as a whole was super good and well worth the read! The ending was so good and I definitely recommend reading!
July 1, 2026
Thanks a bunch to author Sabrina Marley for this ARC opportunity! I am thrilled to share my honest review!
The cover art of this book is so cute and totally captured my attention! I was a bit apprehensive about reading a witch story as I do tend to be drawn to contemporary or historical sapphic fiction but this story blurb was super intimidating and it takes place in the 90s which I loved! I'm so glad I took a chance because this book was very entertaining and felt like a mystery wrapped in an adventure and rooted in a love story. This is the first book that I've read by Sabrina Marley but I was very impressed and will look for more sapphic romance from her in the future. A Witch’s Dissent is a deliciously addictive story full of magic, mystery and fun 90s music and culture, crazy cove leaders, a white knuckle rescue mission and a really sweet love story that was so easy to fall for.
We meet Isabel, a fiery latina witch who has moved to the very small town of Thornes Edge with her brother, mom, dad and grandma from Los Angeles. They are a delightful magical family who was forced to leave LA because of some mean doctor who was quite dubious and extremely hateful. Nevertheless, the family is trying to find its footing and I took a real shine to them. They were so full of kindness and heart. They are exactly the type of loving family we all dream of. Sure, they forbade Isavle from using magic in order to stay safe but she doesn't listen and does it anyway…which is amusing. Isabel is strong willed, passionate, funny and loves wholeheartedly. I loved her! Eliza is a rebellious witch who pushes the limits of the very strict coven she was born and raised in. The Nightingale coven is a completely man free zone (okay that part doesn't sound so bad lol) run with almost military precision by their leader Roan, who is a total friggin sociopath! (That part of course sucks!). Eliza loves her coven sisters and for the most part enjoys her life but definitely wishes for more freedom. I found her kind heart and genuine sincerity to be quite endearing and found myself smitten with her early on.
Isabel and Eliza meet briefly when she falls out a tree...lol but then officially when Eliza is permitted to leave the confines of the coven in search of a fellow sister witch and their attraction is immediate and powerful. They had an intense spark right away and I was all about it! I loved this wonderful heat and super natural energy they had together and wasn't surprised at the very steamy interludes that followed. Their connection really jumped off the pages and I found them quite addicting to read about. Maybe it was that their magical witch powers seemed to intensify everything or perhaps it was just their extreme compatibility but I was rooting for them right from the jump. Once the two meet is really where the book picks up steam…in more ways than one. I very much enjoyed their intense connection and how quickly their bond developed. It was easy to love them separately because they were both truly lovable chargers but it was even easier to love them together. They added so much depth and sincerity to each other's lives and found each other at the exact right time. The spicy scenes were fantastic, well written and helped me to see how much passion the girls had for one another…well done Miss Marley!
I very much enjoyed Sabrina Marley’s writing style. She brought so much to life in this book with special attention to detail when it came to the magic and its importance. I felt the writing was powerful and yet easy to read. I enjoyed the world building element that helped me to visualize a crazy cove and also a reality where witches and magic fit sort of seamlessly into regular life. I can't lie, it made me wish I too held magical abilities. The main and secondary characters were done to perfection. I felt there was so much depth and complexity in everyone that I was never bored and very well entertained. Of course I was partial to Isabel and Eliza as the love story was the driving force behind the book for me but there was definitely a lot to like here. Honestly, this book gave me so much more than I bargained for. I went in thinking it'd be a sweet sapphic romance with a bit of witchy magic but it was so much more.
In the end, A Witch’s Dissent was a friggin thrill ride that kept me guessing and on the very edge of my seat until the very end. I loved the magic and adventure and crazy drama so much more than I thought possible. This book had a grip on me…almost like it put a spell on me or something…lol. But truly this is a wonderful sapphire romance with depth, spice, heart, spine tingling adventure and a happy ending that made me swoon! I think this is a must read and you wont regret doing so! I will absolutely keep an eye out for more from this author!
The cover art of this book is so cute and totally captured my attention! I was a bit apprehensive about reading a witch story as I do tend to be drawn to contemporary or historical sapphic fiction but this story blurb was super intimidating and it takes place in the 90s which I loved! I'm so glad I took a chance because this book was very entertaining and felt like a mystery wrapped in an adventure and rooted in a love story. This is the first book that I've read by Sabrina Marley but I was very impressed and will look for more sapphic romance from her in the future. A Witch’s Dissent is a deliciously addictive story full of magic, mystery and fun 90s music and culture, crazy cove leaders, a white knuckle rescue mission and a really sweet love story that was so easy to fall for.
We meet Isabel, a fiery latina witch who has moved to the very small town of Thornes Edge with her brother, mom, dad and grandma from Los Angeles. They are a delightful magical family who was forced to leave LA because of some mean doctor who was quite dubious and extremely hateful. Nevertheless, the family is trying to find its footing and I took a real shine to them. They were so full of kindness and heart. They are exactly the type of loving family we all dream of. Sure, they forbade Isavle from using magic in order to stay safe but she doesn't listen and does it anyway…which is amusing. Isabel is strong willed, passionate, funny and loves wholeheartedly. I loved her! Eliza is a rebellious witch who pushes the limits of the very strict coven she was born and raised in. The Nightingale coven is a completely man free zone (okay that part doesn't sound so bad lol) run with almost military precision by their leader Roan, who is a total friggin sociopath! (That part of course sucks!). Eliza loves her coven sisters and for the most part enjoys her life but definitely wishes for more freedom. I found her kind heart and genuine sincerity to be quite endearing and found myself smitten with her early on.
Isabel and Eliza meet briefly when she falls out a tree...lol but then officially when Eliza is permitted to leave the confines of the coven in search of a fellow sister witch and their attraction is immediate and powerful. They had an intense spark right away and I was all about it! I loved this wonderful heat and super natural energy they had together and wasn't surprised at the very steamy interludes that followed. Their connection really jumped off the pages and I found them quite addicting to read about. Maybe it was that their magical witch powers seemed to intensify everything or perhaps it was just their extreme compatibility but I was rooting for them right from the jump. Once the two meet is really where the book picks up steam…in more ways than one. I very much enjoyed their intense connection and how quickly their bond developed. It was easy to love them separately because they were both truly lovable chargers but it was even easier to love them together. They added so much depth and sincerity to each other's lives and found each other at the exact right time. The spicy scenes were fantastic, well written and helped me to see how much passion the girls had for one another…well done Miss Marley!
I very much enjoyed Sabrina Marley’s writing style. She brought so much to life in this book with special attention to detail when it came to the magic and its importance. I felt the writing was powerful and yet easy to read. I enjoyed the world building element that helped me to visualize a crazy cove and also a reality where witches and magic fit sort of seamlessly into regular life. I can't lie, it made me wish I too held magical abilities. The main and secondary characters were done to perfection. I felt there was so much depth and complexity in everyone that I was never bored and very well entertained. Of course I was partial to Isabel and Eliza as the love story was the driving force behind the book for me but there was definitely a lot to like here. Honestly, this book gave me so much more than I bargained for. I went in thinking it'd be a sweet sapphic romance with a bit of witchy magic but it was so much more.
In the end, A Witch’s Dissent was a friggin thrill ride that kept me guessing and on the very edge of my seat until the very end. I loved the magic and adventure and crazy drama so much more than I thought possible. This book had a grip on me…almost like it put a spell on me or something…lol. But truly this is a wonderful sapphire romance with depth, spice, heart, spine tingling adventure and a happy ending that made me swoon! I think this is a must read and you wont regret doing so! I will absolutely keep an eye out for more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Isabel, her brother, grandmother and parents moved suddenly from LA after her mother’s magic was discovered. Everyone in the family is to some extent magical, but the women are stronger. The family moved to Thorn’s Edge, a small town where nothing much seems to happen, and everything is too quiet. Until she meets Eliza
Eliza is a junior witch in the Nightingale coven, who are isolated away from other people; she only knows more about the outside world because a part of her duties is to meet with Bailey, a boy from the town of Thorn’s Edge nearby, and to buy the grain and other necessities they need in the coven. Bailey also keeps her supplied with contraband, such as comics and other non-coven sanctioned literature and music.
This is a cross between an adventure story and a sapphic romance. There are some very steamy parts, and also some anguish and violence. I found that because of the fantasy style of this story that the intense scenes didn’t hit so hard, which was a relief as I avoid violent stories. This is set in 1995, before the era of the internet and cellphones, which helps the story, because it’s harder for Isabel and her family to research the town and the coven. The Nightingale coven feels a lot like a cult, with a wild mad leader, but with the very dangerous addition of magic.
Both Isabel and Eliza are good strong characters. But if it wasn’t for the steamy scenes I felt as though this was a story for mid-teens, sometimes feeling a Nancy Drew vibe. That’s not a criticism, as this is something I would have loved when I was younger.
Overall, a good story, not emotionally deep, but the action and adventure made up for that.
Eliza is a junior witch in the Nightingale coven, who are isolated away from other people; she only knows more about the outside world because a part of her duties is to meet with Bailey, a boy from the town of Thorn’s Edge nearby, and to buy the grain and other necessities they need in the coven. Bailey also keeps her supplied with contraband, such as comics and other non-coven sanctioned literature and music.
This is a cross between an adventure story and a sapphic romance. There are some very steamy parts, and also some anguish and violence. I found that because of the fantasy style of this story that the intense scenes didn’t hit so hard, which was a relief as I avoid violent stories. This is set in 1995, before the era of the internet and cellphones, which helps the story, because it’s harder for Isabel and her family to research the town and the coven. The Nightingale coven feels a lot like a cult, with a wild mad leader, but with the very dangerous addition of magic.
Both Isabel and Eliza are good strong characters. But if it wasn’t for the steamy scenes I felt as though this was a story for mid-teens, sometimes feeling a Nancy Drew vibe. That’s not a criticism, as this is something I would have loved when I was younger.
Overall, a good story, not emotionally deep, but the action and adventure made up for that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25*
I really enjoyed this sapphic witchy romance novel! I loved the two main characters, Eliza and Isabel, and I liked the way the story alternated between their two POVs to keep the reader up to date with both characters which also let me see how they were both feeling, rather than one being left in the dark. Eliza had a very strict upbringing in a women's only compound that didn't allow much access to the outside world and the witches' believed everything their leader Roan told them and were scared to disobey her.
Eliza isn't as innocent as she makes out to be though because she regularly gets contraband from the local delivery boy Bailey and once she meets Isabel, all her beliefs and knowledge are thrown into question as some secrets are revealed and all she ever knew about the coven is turned upside down. I loved Eliza and Isabel's growing relationship throughout the story but I did think that it felt a little rushed as there were quite a few spicy scenes but not enough of them really getting to know each other which I would have liked to see more of.
I thought that this was only going to be a sweet romance novel but there was a surprising plot line that involved Roan and her secrets and it actually turned out to be quite sinister! I loved this mystery side plot which included more of Isabel's family, her brother Wes and her grandmother Quincy as they all work together to find answers and discover some terrible secrets.
Overall, this is a really enjoyable sapphic romance with lovable characters, an exciting spin on witchy magic and a dark mystery to go with it.
I really enjoyed this sapphic witchy romance novel! I loved the two main characters, Eliza and Isabel, and I liked the way the story alternated between their two POVs to keep the reader up to date with both characters which also let me see how they were both feeling, rather than one being left in the dark. Eliza had a very strict upbringing in a women's only compound that didn't allow much access to the outside world and the witches' believed everything their leader Roan told them and were scared to disobey her.
Eliza isn't as innocent as she makes out to be though because she regularly gets contraband from the local delivery boy Bailey and once she meets Isabel, all her beliefs and knowledge are thrown into question as some secrets are revealed and all she ever knew about the coven is turned upside down. I loved Eliza and Isabel's growing relationship throughout the story but I did think that it felt a little rushed as there were quite a few spicy scenes but not enough of them really getting to know each other which I would have liked to see more of.
I thought that this was only going to be a sweet romance novel but there was a surprising plot line that involved Roan and her secrets and it actually turned out to be quite sinister! I loved this mystery side plot which included more of Isabel's family, her brother Wes and her grandmother Quincy as they all work together to find answers and discover some terrible secrets.
Overall, this is a really enjoyable sapphic romance with lovable characters, an exciting spin on witchy magic and a dark mystery to go with it.
July 11, 2026
Review of advanced copy sent by the Author.
⭐⭐⭐.75 stars
What to expect:
🕯️Witches🖤forbidden romance✨ found family🌙opposites attract💫insta love 💕sapphic romance
This book was a nice easy read. I really enjoyed both the FMCs. Loved the witchy vibe.
This book takes place in the 90's, our FMC Eliza is a coven-born witch, she isn't allowed to fraternize with anyone outside her coven.
Eliza leaves the compound and stumbles across, our other FMC Isabel. Her family has just moved from LA. Her family has banned her from using her magic, for fear of repeating an incident that happened in LA causing them to flee.
Eliza wants nothing more than to explore the world outside the compound. She is a very curious and sheltered witch.
Isabel hates that she can't use her magic, she rebels by using little spells her and there. She is strong willed and defiant. She knows who she is. She doesn't want to hide.
Can these two overcome the obstacles keeping the apart or will differences of opinion ruin everything.
The chemistry between these two was crazy! Got some spice sprinkled in throughout the book. 🌶️
There are quite a few great side characters, I really enjoyed Jo and Bailey. Can't forget Noel 🐴😄
The plot was great, fast paced at times. The ending did have high stakes, and I was unsure what was going to happen and if everyone was going to make it.
Loved that Isabel was willing to risk it all to save Eliza.
Really didn't like Eliza's mum every time she was mentioned she got an eye roll from me 🙄
Loved the ending. Eliza and Isabel heading off to LA together 🤌🏽👏🏽
Thank you to the Author for sending me an arc of your book. 🩷
⭐⭐⭐.75 stars
What to expect:
🕯️Witches🖤forbidden romance✨ found family🌙opposites attract💫insta love 💕sapphic romance
This book was a nice easy read. I really enjoyed both the FMCs. Loved the witchy vibe.
This book takes place in the 90's, our FMC Eliza is a coven-born witch, she isn't allowed to fraternize with anyone outside her coven.
Eliza leaves the compound and stumbles across, our other FMC Isabel. Her family has just moved from LA. Her family has banned her from using her magic, for fear of repeating an incident that happened in LA causing them to flee.
Eliza wants nothing more than to explore the world outside the compound. She is a very curious and sheltered witch.
Isabel hates that she can't use her magic, she rebels by using little spells her and there. She is strong willed and defiant. She knows who she is. She doesn't want to hide.
Can these two overcome the obstacles keeping the apart or will differences of opinion ruin everything.
The chemistry between these two was crazy! Got some spice sprinkled in throughout the book. 🌶️
There are quite a few great side characters, I really enjoyed Jo and Bailey. Can't forget Noel 🐴😄
The plot was great, fast paced at times. The ending did have high stakes, and I was unsure what was going to happen and if everyone was going to make it.
Loved that Isabel was willing to risk it all to save Eliza.
Really didn't like Eliza's mum every time she was mentioned she got an eye roll from me 🙄
Loved the ending. Eliza and Isabel heading off to LA together 🤌🏽👏🏽
Thank you to the Author for sending me an arc of your book. 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Intriguing!! The plot kept me in suspense and at the edge of my seat for most of it. I really liked it. Plot execution was on point. The hypocrisy displayed by some of the characters was appalling cause tell me why you are doing the same things you didn't like done onto, onto there people? And the ultimate brainwashing, God! She really put in efforts, to get all the at witches where she wanted them.
I hate that Eliza had such a mother. Just like the book said not every nurturing person wants to be a parent and not every parent is nurturing. I am glad she recovered well enough though. Considering her upbringing she was a lot more open minded than I expected her to be. All thanks to Bailey and his contraband. I was really proud of her growth towards the end.
Isabel brought the wildness and recklessness, Eliza needed in her life. It really contributed a lot to Eliza's gradual awakening. She was so supportive and gentle with her approach. Yes, she lied but it was for a good cause. And God, she is a goner for Eliza but honestly I don't blame her.
Bailey was so adorable. Honestly, if not because of him, Eliza would have ended just like her mother. He introduced her to wider view on the world than what she was taught. It might 'just' be comics and music but to Eliza that was her personal escape.
It was amazing to see everyone come together to help. Isabel's family, Jo and Gwendolyn all came together.
This was so easy to read and the plot was witchy and mysterious. So if you like witches and mystery with romance, this is for you!
Intriguing!! The plot kept me in suspense and at the edge of my seat for most of it. I really liked it. Plot execution was on point. The hypocrisy displayed by some of the characters was appalling cause tell me why you are doing the same things you didn't like done onto, onto there people? And the ultimate brainwashing, God! She really put in efforts, to get all the at witches where she wanted them.
I hate that Eliza had such a mother. Just like the book said not every nurturing person wants to be a parent and not every parent is nurturing. I am glad she recovered well enough though. Considering her upbringing she was a lot more open minded than I expected her to be. All thanks to Bailey and his contraband. I was really proud of her growth towards the end.
Isabel brought the wildness and recklessness, Eliza needed in her life. It really contributed a lot to Eliza's gradual awakening. She was so supportive and gentle with her approach. Yes, she lied but it was for a good cause. And God, she is a goner for Eliza but honestly I don't blame her.
Bailey was so adorable. Honestly, if not because of him, Eliza would have ended just like her mother. He introduced her to wider view on the world than what she was taught. It might 'just' be comics and music but to Eliza that was her personal escape.
It was amazing to see everyone come together to help. Isabel's family, Jo and Gwendolyn all came together.
This was so easy to read and the plot was witchy and mysterious. So if you like witches and mystery with romance, this is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️
🌈LGBTQ+ literature
Firstly I would like to extend a huge thank you and message of appreciation to Sabrina Marley for the opportunity to be an ARC reader. It has been an absolute pleasure becoming acquainted with your work. Thank you 💜
Do you ever reach the final chapters of a book and have to slow yourself down because you don’t want it to end?! I found myself edging slowly through the final pages, I just needed a little bit more from both the the main female characters. But maybe that’s because I’m a bisexual in a (very happy) heterosexual marriage and I was just a bit too thirsty 😂
‘“Because don’t you see my love?” Her glasses started to slide down her nose, but Isabel put them back into place. “You are my whole world”’
Having said that, the story was beautifully written set in a time frame I am currently deeply nostalgic for! Eliza’s journey of self discovery goes far deeper than her sexuality. I feel like more of a back story for some coven members could have been provided, especially for Roan, Eliza’s Coven leader. But this in no way impacts enjoyment or the flow of the story and is more for my own curiosity and nosiness. Testament again to Sabrina and how she left me wanting more!
🪩Back to the 90’s
🧙Witches
🐴Horses
🩸Dark Magic
Not heavily spiced, sweetly seductive, first encounters. I do prefer more heavy on the spice but again this in no way reflects the authors capability to weave a gripping story. I still find myself sneaking in extra chapters way past bed time or the early hours before the rest of the house woke up.
🌶️
🌈LGBTQ+ literature
Firstly I would like to extend a huge thank you and message of appreciation to Sabrina Marley for the opportunity to be an ARC reader. It has been an absolute pleasure becoming acquainted with your work. Thank you 💜
Do you ever reach the final chapters of a book and have to slow yourself down because you don’t want it to end?! I found myself edging slowly through the final pages, I just needed a little bit more from both the the main female characters. But maybe that’s because I’m a bisexual in a (very happy) heterosexual marriage and I was just a bit too thirsty 😂
‘“Because don’t you see my love?” Her glasses started to slide down her nose, but Isabel put them back into place. “You are my whole world”’
Having said that, the story was beautifully written set in a time frame I am currently deeply nostalgic for! Eliza’s journey of self discovery goes far deeper than her sexuality. I feel like more of a back story for some coven members could have been provided, especially for Roan, Eliza’s Coven leader. But this in no way impacts enjoyment or the flow of the story and is more for my own curiosity and nosiness. Testament again to Sabrina and how she left me wanting more!
🪩Back to the 90’s
🧙Witches
🐴Horses
🩸Dark Magic
Not heavily spiced, sweetly seductive, first encounters. I do prefer more heavy on the spice but again this in no way reflects the authors capability to weave a gripping story. I still find myself sneaking in extra chapters way past bed time or the early hours before the rest of the house woke up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2026
rebellion in the veins. magic that refuses to obey. and a witch who is done being controlled.
A Witch’s Dissent is a powerful, emotionally charged fantasy that immediately establishes itself as a story about resistance, autonomy, and the cost of standing against systems built to suppress you. From the start, there’s a strong sense of pressure in the world—rules that feel suffocating, power that is tightly regulated, and consequences that are always waiting.
At the centre of it all is a witch who refuses to stay contained. Her journey is not just about learning magic, but about reclaiming agency in a world that has already decided what she should be. That tension between obedience and defiance drives the entire narrative and gives it a strong emotional backbone.
The magic system feels closely tied to identity and emotion, which makes every moment of growth feel personal rather than mechanical. As her power evolves, so does her understanding of herself, and that parallel progression gives the story real depth.
The tone balances urgency with reflection. There are moments of sharp action and confrontation, but also quieter scenes where the emotional weight of choice and consequence is fully felt. It never lets you forget what rebellion actually costs.
Relationships in the story are layered and often complicated by trust, fear, and differing beliefs about power. These dynamics add another level of tension, especially when characters are forced to choose between safety and truth.
A Witch’s Dissent is a powerful, emotionally charged fantasy that immediately establishes itself as a story about resistance, autonomy, and the cost of standing against systems built to suppress you. From the start, there’s a strong sense of pressure in the world—rules that feel suffocating, power that is tightly regulated, and consequences that are always waiting.
At the centre of it all is a witch who refuses to stay contained. Her journey is not just about learning magic, but about reclaiming agency in a world that has already decided what she should be. That tension between obedience and defiance drives the entire narrative and gives it a strong emotional backbone.
The magic system feels closely tied to identity and emotion, which makes every moment of growth feel personal rather than mechanical. As her power evolves, so does her understanding of herself, and that parallel progression gives the story real depth.
The tone balances urgency with reflection. There are moments of sharp action and confrontation, but also quieter scenes where the emotional weight of choice and consequence is fully felt. It never lets you forget what rebellion actually costs.
Relationships in the story are layered and often complicated by trust, fear, and differing beliefs about power. These dynamics add another level of tension, especially when characters are forced to choose between safety and truth.
July 12, 2026
The story of two witches of highly different backgrounds who practically fall all over themselves in their first encounter. It's attraction at first sight from both sides and the resulting chemistry is so hot it nearly burns it way out of the book. Isabel has escaped from LA to teeny tiny backwood Thorns Edge with her extended family after a dire incident (Left up in the air for maybe a sequel). Isabel's family are all witches of varying skills and power who form a close to normal dynamic while Eliza (our other witch) is a freshly minted woman who lives in a very restrictive coven situation working on finding ways to extend and enjoy her powers without being caught by her repressive mother or Roan (the coven/cult leader. The beginning of the book deals with the new feelings and sexual adventures of the girls all the while expanding the other secondary challenges of the situation. A very high paced and dangerous game develops with the coven leader and leads to extremely nasty consequences for the girls and a large part of the other witches. HEA for now prevails but not without life changes for both the girls and what is left of the coven. A very enthusiastic story that explores aspects of a sapphic relationship and the lives of witches in this setting. The banter is very involving and the sex is very hot. Hope to see more of this couple as they seem to be heading out to LA in the epilogue.
I received this ARC from the author and are thrilled to give an honest and true review voluntarily.
I received this ARC from the author and are thrilled to give an honest and true review voluntarily.
July 1, 2026
I want to preface this review by saying that I am not typically a fantasy anything reader, much less something on the witchy side. I typically lean more towards standard contemporary sapphic romance, so this was an experience in more than one way for me. That being said, I did get to the point that I was hooked and didn’t want to stop turning the pages.
We have a love story, two strong family sources (one biological and the other in the form of a coven) and some definite good vs evil storylines in play. Our two leading ladies, Eliza and Isabel, are from very different worlds in terms of life experience and upbringing, but have an irresistible connection that starts hot and burns hotter. I enjoyed their connection, but I didn’t feel like their relationship was the only main factor of the story. The relationship between the families and the coven leaders desire for power were very prominent story lines that were just as important as the love connection. I thought Sabrina did a great job building this world that someone with no background in the genre could step into and really experience. The use of time period music and other pop culture references were a great way to tie in the humanity of the story and show how sheltered the coven was. I appreciated the history type lessons throughout and how research oriented some of the scenes were. I will definitely read more by this author.
Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
We have a love story, two strong family sources (one biological and the other in the form of a coven) and some definite good vs evil storylines in play. Our two leading ladies, Eliza and Isabel, are from very different worlds in terms of life experience and upbringing, but have an irresistible connection that starts hot and burns hotter. I enjoyed their connection, but I didn’t feel like their relationship was the only main factor of the story. The relationship between the families and the coven leaders desire for power were very prominent story lines that were just as important as the love connection. I thought Sabrina did a great job building this world that someone with no background in the genre could step into and really experience. The use of time period music and other pop culture references were a great way to tie in the humanity of the story and show how sheltered the coven was. I appreciated the history type lessons throughout and how research oriented some of the scenes were. I will definitely read more by this author.
Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC review. Thank you to the author for an ARC of your book.**
This book is a very adorable, cozy sapphic romance with a strong plot and a strong cast of characters. On the flip side, this book is also very dark as it progresses. About 60-70% in the author really ratchets up the gore and violence so beware! (That’s my favorite part tho)
Eliza and Isabel are both witches and they are living in different realities: Eliza is a part of an insular coven while Isabel and her family are sort of… witches living in exile. The hows and why evolve through the story, but the central thread is the romance that kind of explodes (very much love at first sight) between Isabel and Eliza. I enjoyed the romance plot of this story. Their romance has a healthy dose of spice. Enjoy.
I felt this book really dives into horror a tad with a coven full of witches that will force other women to carry and have a child, going as far as controlling access to who each witch is able to befriend, and there are no boys or men allowed. There are sacrifices. Very dark lol. Wow.
I felt like there weren’t a lot of strong descriptions and visual cues to connect Isabel with any Honduran witchy practices though, which I felt was a loss.
Tropes: found family, forbidden love, witchy 💕
But also: horror, gore, evil mother lol
This book is a very adorable, cozy sapphic romance with a strong plot and a strong cast of characters. On the flip side, this book is also very dark as it progresses. About 60-70% in the author really ratchets up the gore and violence so beware! (That’s my favorite part tho)
Eliza and Isabel are both witches and they are living in different realities: Eliza is a part of an insular coven while Isabel and her family are sort of… witches living in exile. The hows and why evolve through the story, but the central thread is the romance that kind of explodes (very much love at first sight) between Isabel and Eliza. I enjoyed the romance plot of this story. Their romance has a healthy dose of spice. Enjoy.
I felt this book really dives into horror a tad with a coven full of witches that will force other women to carry and have a child, going as far as controlling access to who each witch is able to befriend, and there are no boys or men allowed. There are sacrifices. Very dark lol. Wow.
I felt like there weren’t a lot of strong descriptions and visual cues to connect Isabel with any Honduran witchy practices though, which I felt was a loss.
Tropes: found family, forbidden love, witchy 💕
But also: horror, gore, evil mother lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2026
Firstly, thank you to the author who allowed me to have an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I really had a good time reading this book. It's set in the 90s and the vibes are immediately there with the music references.
It's a sapphic romance between 2 witches, Isabel and Eliza. One has been raised within a coven that has been hidden away and the other has been raised in a normal family unit, until one day they bump into each other and their lives are changed forever.
There are many themes that are dealt with in this book ... betrayal, control, relationships, identity, community, power and domination but mostly love.
The first half was at a slightly slower pace but that was fine for me as we were getting introduced to the characters and the dynamics between them all. The second half packed a punch!! OMG ... that's were the craziness started. And it didn't disappoint!
I absolutely loved the romance between Eliza and Isabel. It was written so beautifully and you could just feel their compatibility coming off the page and the spicey scenes were handled very well!
Bailey was a hidden gem of a character for me too ... I can't say why as it's a potential spoiler so you'll have to read it to find out why!!
Overall ... if you like sapphic stories with added spice alongside characters with god complexes then this is the book for you!
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I really had a good time reading this book. It's set in the 90s and the vibes are immediately there with the music references.
It's a sapphic romance between 2 witches, Isabel and Eliza. One has been raised within a coven that has been hidden away and the other has been raised in a normal family unit, until one day they bump into each other and their lives are changed forever.
There are many themes that are dealt with in this book ... betrayal, control, relationships, identity, community, power and domination but mostly love.
The first half was at a slightly slower pace but that was fine for me as we were getting introduced to the characters and the dynamics between them all. The second half packed a punch!! OMG ... that's were the craziness started. And it didn't disappoint!
I absolutely loved the romance between Eliza and Isabel. It was written so beautifully and you could just feel their compatibility coming off the page and the spicey scenes were handled very well!
Bailey was a hidden gem of a character for me too ... I can't say why as it's a potential spoiler so you'll have to read it to find out why!!
Overall ... if you like sapphic stories with added spice alongside characters with god complexes then this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was really cute. I loved the vibes the whole time! I loved Eliza and her curiosity from the beginning, a week as her rebellion of authority despite being secluded in a secret witches coven. Her outlook and free thinking spirit was refreshing and cute, even when it did get her into trouble.
Isabel is such a badass amd I loved her attitude from the beginning. She's fiercely protective and loyal and I loved that about her.
The pacing of the story was perfect, not too fast and not too slow, with a couple plot twists thrown in that I wasn't expecting. There were a few darker elements which I enjoyed. It wasn't just a cutesy story, it had some cute moments but I found myself getting emotional in some parts because they were sad or deep or meaningful.
It was fairly spicy which I enjoyed, it was done well and tasteful and I feel like it did actually help move the plot along.
My favorite part was probably the found/ chosen family aspect, especially for Eliza. The characters all added depth and had an emotional impact.
I would definitely recommend this book if you love:
- Witches and secret covers
- sapphic romance
- Found family
- dark spells
- loveable side characters
Isabel is such a badass amd I loved her attitude from the beginning. She's fiercely protective and loyal and I loved that about her.
The pacing of the story was perfect, not too fast and not too slow, with a couple plot twists thrown in that I wasn't expecting. There were a few darker elements which I enjoyed. It wasn't just a cutesy story, it had some cute moments but I found myself getting emotional in some parts because they were sad or deep or meaningful.
It was fairly spicy which I enjoyed, it was done well and tasteful and I feel like it did actually help move the plot along.
My favorite part was probably the found/ chosen family aspect, especially for Eliza. The characters all added depth and had an emotional impact.
I would definitely recommend this book if you love:
- Witches and secret covers
- sapphic romance
- Found family
- dark spells
- loveable side characters
June 22, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader copy sent by author
3.7 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
a spicy sapphic romance for pride month was perfect! the chemistry between eliza and isabel was instant and palpable, with the very typical sapphic moving quickly which is relatable. i loved bailey he is a little sweetie and so so brave, especially at certain points in the book.
At the crux of it, this book is a lot about sisterhood, particularly between Eliza and Jo and the other coven members which I love, it has complicated relationships with certain characters being just plain evil and others more complicated.
I also enjoyed the normality of queerness in this book as sometimes it is nice to escape from the prejudice of the real world and be able to enjoy a beautiful romance without the fears that come with real life.
One thing I didn’t necessarily enjoy was the description of pansexual near the start of the book, it felt odd and I wasn’t sure what the joke was trying for but saying that, overall i enjoyed this book and i think that if you are after a sapphic romance with strong, feminine, unapologetic characters then this is the book for you!
3.7 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
a spicy sapphic romance for pride month was perfect! the chemistry between eliza and isabel was instant and palpable, with the very typical sapphic moving quickly which is relatable. i loved bailey he is a little sweetie and so so brave, especially at certain points in the book.
At the crux of it, this book is a lot about sisterhood, particularly between Eliza and Jo and the other coven members which I love, it has complicated relationships with certain characters being just plain evil and others more complicated.
I also enjoyed the normality of queerness in this book as sometimes it is nice to escape from the prejudice of the real world and be able to enjoy a beautiful romance without the fears that come with real life.
One thing I didn’t necessarily enjoy was the description of pansexual near the start of the book, it felt odd and I wasn’t sure what the joke was trying for but saying that, overall i enjoyed this book and i think that if you are after a sapphic romance with strong, feminine, unapologetic characters then this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has everything: an intriguing secretive coven, 90s punk rock references, and a steamy sapphic love story between two badass protagonists. One of them, Isabel, is a rebellious rocker with a soft spot for family. The other, Eliza, has had a seriously sequestered life, but she doesn’t let that flatten her curiosity and courage. I loved rooting for the two of them—their budding romance and their struggle against the truly wicked villain (no spoilers on that).
The dual POV of this book is so fun! It makes the romance and adventure so much juicier when you get to read it from each point of view—all the misunderstanding and lying and crushing! The writing is spot on: clear but also lyrical, hot as hell but not outright smutty.
This book is sexy and full of magical intrigue, but it also has serious things to say about family, community, and getting free in a world that wants you to conform. A perfect summer read for anyone who wants some diversion from this timeline but also some inspiration for fighting the good fight.
The dual POV of this book is so fun! It makes the romance and adventure so much juicier when you get to read it from each point of view—all the misunderstanding and lying and crushing! The writing is spot on: clear but also lyrical, hot as hell but not outright smutty.
This book is sexy and full of magical intrigue, but it also has serious things to say about family, community, and getting free in a world that wants you to conform. A perfect summer read for anyone who wants some diversion from this timeline but also some inspiration for fighting the good fight.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed A Witch’s Dissent and ended up reading the entire book in one sitting. Every time I thought I might set it down, something happened that pulled me right back in. There were several scenes that had me anxiously turning pages, and I found myself wholeheartedly rooting for the characters.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the found family dynamic. I loved watching these characters come together, support one another, and work as a team through everything they faced. Their loyalty, trust, and willingness to help each other made the relationships feel genuine and added a lot of heart to the story.
The emotional moments resonated with me as well, particularly aspects of the FMC’s relationship with her mother. Those scenes felt especially meaningful and struck a personal chord.
By the end, I was completely invested in both Eliza and Isabel and their outcome. I really hope I get to read more about them in future books! This was a fast-paced witchy fantasy filled with tension, heart, and characters worth cheering for, and I would definitely recommend it.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the found family dynamic. I loved watching these characters come together, support one another, and work as a team through everything they faced. Their loyalty, trust, and willingness to help each other made the relationships feel genuine and added a lot of heart to the story.
The emotional moments resonated with me as well, particularly aspects of the FMC’s relationship with her mother. Those scenes felt especially meaningful and struck a personal chord.
By the end, I was completely invested in both Eliza and Isabel and their outcome. I really hope I get to read more about them in future books! This was a fast-paced witchy fantasy filled with tension, heart, and characters worth cheering for, and I would definitely recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 stars!
I received an advance readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, this was definitely a great and fun read! It's kinda like if 'Wednesday', 'Weapons', and 'Midsommar' had a baby. But of course, make it sapphic! One thing I liked about this was the story and how it really kept me wanting to read more especially during the 2nd half of the book. I wasn't feeling it at first, but my mind was changed quite fast which is a really good thing. This book gets a lot right, but it also has its shortcomings at times. Absolutely nothing wrong on the authors part, just my own personal tastes! But still, this was such a cute, thrilling and fun read, and im glad it ended the way it had. I'd totally be down for more of this world because there are so many lovable characters in this story in which I'd be excited to have a look into their own personal worlds or past/futures. I definitely recommend this for my witchy sapphics!! 🩷
I received an advance readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, this was definitely a great and fun read! It's kinda like if 'Wednesday', 'Weapons', and 'Midsommar' had a baby. But of course, make it sapphic! One thing I liked about this was the story and how it really kept me wanting to read more especially during the 2nd half of the book. I wasn't feeling it at first, but my mind was changed quite fast which is a really good thing. This book gets a lot right, but it also has its shortcomings at times. Absolutely nothing wrong on the authors part, just my own personal tastes! But still, this was such a cute, thrilling and fun read, and im glad it ended the way it had. I'd totally be down for more of this world because there are so many lovable characters in this story in which I'd be excited to have a look into their own personal worlds or past/futures. I definitely recommend this for my witchy sapphics!! 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book! I really liked the sapphic romance and the spice scenes between the two women were great.
What I don't think I fully understood beforehand was how heavy some of the content was going to be. I don't want to give spoilers, but there was some stuff that hit at my personal triggers. I think maybe a content warning at the beginning of the book could be helpful or a link to one. I mistakenly thought this was going to be a cuter punk and witchy romance, but it leans more serious/fantasy/paranormal rather than strictly romance. Not the author's fault at all that I assumed! The book just had more serious family dynamics/consent issues than I expected.
Overall I really liked it and thought it was an interesting read. It has a different take on coven dynamics than some other books I've read.
What I don't think I fully understood beforehand was how heavy some of the content was going to be. I don't want to give spoilers, but there was some stuff that hit at my personal triggers. I think maybe a content warning at the beginning of the book could be helpful or a link to one. I mistakenly thought this was going to be a cuter punk and witchy romance, but it leans more serious/fantasy/paranormal rather than strictly romance. Not the author's fault at all that I assumed! The book just had more serious family dynamics/consent issues than I expected.
Overall I really liked it and thought it was an interesting read. It has a different take on coven dynamics than some other books I've read.
July 1, 2026
What a lovely story by a new to me author! I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eliza was well crafted, underestimated and very curious witch. She lives in a secret coven but has always been a bit a rebel with her contraband and free thinking.
Isabel and fam are fairly new to the town next to the coven (unbeknownst to the townspeople). She is also a witch but has had a very different upbringing than Eliza.
When the two meet, it is quite explosive for them both. Instant chemistry and connection that neither can ignore. Will they take the risk and explore there forbidden feelings? Is there something dark going on behind the hidden community?
There’s more than meets the eye throughout this story. Well done steamy times. Well paced development and execution of the story. Lovable characters with growth and emotion.
Recommend!
Eliza was well crafted, underestimated and very curious witch. She lives in a secret coven but has always been a bit a rebel with her contraband and free thinking.
Isabel and fam are fairly new to the town next to the coven (unbeknownst to the townspeople). She is also a witch but has had a very different upbringing than Eliza.
When the two meet, it is quite explosive for them both. Instant chemistry and connection that neither can ignore. Will they take the risk and explore there forbidden feelings? Is there something dark going on behind the hidden community?
There’s more than meets the eye throughout this story. Well done steamy times. Well paced development and execution of the story. Lovable characters with growth and emotion.
Recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sabrina has a fan for life. I love these stories filled with witchcraft and love. And I really enjoy how she sets them in different time periods. The 90’s setting with the culture references really spoke to me on a spiritual level lol
I could resonate with Eliza and her realization that someone she looked up to is not who they portrayed themselves to be. I feel like everyone has had a moment reflection like this. I also appreciated Eliza’s discovery of music through rebellion. It seems music and rebellion go hand in hand no matter what time period you’re from.
Isabel showed the struggle of being of Hispanic descent has spanned generations. The way her family had to move due to one person. That’s compounded by their family’s magical ability. She really experienced all kinds of oppression.
While Isabel and Eliza’s love story takes forefront, I really appreciate the background plots in Thorn’s Edge. Especially in the 90’s and the lack of the internet. I really enjoy these characters (don’t forget about Jo!) and I hope to keep returning to Thorn’s Edge and the Nightingale coven.
I could resonate with Eliza and her realization that someone she looked up to is not who they portrayed themselves to be. I feel like everyone has had a moment reflection like this. I also appreciated Eliza’s discovery of music through rebellion. It seems music and rebellion go hand in hand no matter what time period you’re from.
Isabel showed the struggle of being of Hispanic descent has spanned generations. The way her family had to move due to one person. That’s compounded by their family’s magical ability. She really experienced all kinds of oppression.
While Isabel and Eliza’s love story takes forefront, I really appreciate the background plots in Thorn’s Edge. Especially in the 90’s and the lack of the internet. I really enjoy these characters (don’t forget about Jo!) and I hope to keep returning to Thorn’s Edge and the Nightingale coven.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Eliza and Isobel are witches who live very different lives, one in a sheltered coven (read: cult) and the other out in the world. When they meet, they both have their eyes opened to some cruel realities of power and, of course, love. The plot was great and the characters have depth. I would not call this a cozy read as it is quite dark (trigger warnings for cults, psychological abuse, harm of children, and more) but the love story was nice, though far more sexually graphic on the page than is my personal preference (4/5 on the spice meter). Overall, a great book with some commentary on the human desire for power.
Eliza and Isobel are witches who live very different lives, one in a sheltered coven (read: cult) and the other out in the world. When they meet, they both have their eyes opened to some cruel realities of power and, of course, love. The plot was great and the characters have depth. I would not call this a cozy read as it is quite dark (trigger warnings for cults, psychological abuse, harm of children, and more) but the love story was nice, though far more sexually graphic on the page than is my personal preference (4/5 on the spice meter). Overall, a great book with some commentary on the human desire for power.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC given by author
This book is about two witches who meet and come from very different worlds. Isabel is a coven witch, while Eliza is a witch who moved from LA. Even though they have different upbringings, they fall for one another instantly.
I enjoyed reading Eliza and Isabel’s story and seeing how their relationship developed throughout the book. Isabel senses that Eliza’s coven leader should not be trusted, but Eliza is torn about what she grew up to know and what is the truth.
Overall, this book was filled with romance, magic, family bonding, and suspense, which kept me hooked. I really liked the flow of the story, and you will be surprised by the twist!
This book is about two witches who meet and come from very different worlds. Isabel is a coven witch, while Eliza is a witch who moved from LA. Even though they have different upbringings, they fall for one another instantly.
I enjoyed reading Eliza and Isabel’s story and seeing how their relationship developed throughout the book. Isabel senses that Eliza’s coven leader should not be trusted, but Eliza is torn about what she grew up to know and what is the truth.
Overall, this book was filled with romance, magic, family bonding, and suspense, which kept me hooked. I really liked the flow of the story, and you will be surprised by the twist!
July 2, 2026
back from the dead (2 days of napping) to catch up on reviews, starting with this arc i received last month! i was immediately drawn to this when i saw buffy included in the description, and although it didn’t really give buffy vibes in the way i expected (i think i thought a solo girl against evil with a backup team… my brain just wanted exactly buffy apparently), a witch’s dissent did a great job of giving readers a fun cast working together (think scooby gang) to defeat their own evil (this plot point felt much more like charmed and i loved it). i’m not typically a lover of insta-romance, but i did really like both of the girls and their journey together. i loved their love for music, and i kept wondering how i’d have fared in the 90s, especially with eliza’s background.
the author is releasing her prior trilogy soon with new artwork, and i’m excited to check them out as well!
the author is releasing her prior trilogy soon with new artwork, and i’m excited to check them out as well!
June 21, 2026
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this book. Here is my honest review:
I had so much fun with this world and these characters. I was 100% the target audience for this book. Sapphic witches? A coven that acts like a cult? Sign me the heck up.
I loved all of the characters, but especially Eliza and Isabel. Their relationship was adorable, and I loved how they chose to flirt even at the most inopportune times. I want to live in their world with them for just a little while longer.
Roan was such an interesting villain, and her magic was straight-up terrifying. The indoctrination and control she had over her coven was also! Frightening.
I loved the magic system, I thought it was so cool, and I loved the different kinds of witches.
If you like sapphic witches with creepy culty covens, this one is absolutely for you!
I had so much fun with this world and these characters. I was 100% the target audience for this book. Sapphic witches? A coven that acts like a cult? Sign me the heck up.
I loved all of the characters, but especially Eliza and Isabel. Their relationship was adorable, and I loved how they chose to flirt even at the most inopportune times. I want to live in their world with them for just a little while longer.
Roan was such an interesting villain, and her magic was straight-up terrifying. The indoctrination and control she had over her coven was also! Frightening.
I loved the magic system, I thought it was so cool, and I loved the different kinds of witches.
If you like sapphic witches with creepy culty covens, this one is absolutely for you!
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