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Spellbound #2
The Project Manager's Guide to Overworked Associates
Louis has spent his entire life proving people wrong. If becoming a successful research engineer means long hours, missed weekends, and surviving on far too little sleep, so be it.
Unfortunately, Arthur disagrees.
As a project manager, Arthur believes in things like breaks, healthy boundaries, and not working yourself into the ground. So when he notices a brilliant human researcher running on caffeine and stubbornness, he takes it upon himself to intervene.
Louis just wants to work. Arthur just keeps showing up.
What begins as professional concern quickly becomes something more as Arthur finds himself drawn to the fiercely independent researcher. And despite all his protests, Louis is starting to rely on Arthur’s steady presence, warm purrs, and unwavering support more than he’d like to admit.
Now Arthur has a new project: keep Louis from sneaking into the lab after hours, teach him the meaning of work-life balance, and somehow avoid falling for him in the process.
Unfortunately, Arthur disagrees.
As a project manager, Arthur believes in things like breaks, healthy boundaries, and not working yourself into the ground. So when he notices a brilliant human researcher running on caffeine and stubbornness, he takes it upon himself to intervene.
Louis just wants to work. Arthur just keeps showing up.
What begins as professional concern quickly becomes something more as Arthur finds himself drawn to the fiercely independent researcher. And despite all his protests, Louis is starting to rely on Arthur’s steady presence, warm purrs, and unwavering support more than he’d like to admit.
Now Arthur has a new project: keep Louis from sneaking into the lab after hours, teach him the meaning of work-life balance, and somehow avoid falling for him in the process.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from Author
The Project Manager's Guide to Overworked Associates is the second book in The Spellbound Series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Louis a human and Arthur a lion shifter. I loved watching these two work through their issues to build a relationship. I have loved every book about Spellbound Industries. This was a wonderful addition to the series. I loved the characters and world building that went into this series. I loved seeing some of the other characters I have missed. The plot and characters kept me reading and wanting more. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
I do love me a trip to Spellbound HQ!
Louis, the single minded/absent minded human engineer meets Arthur, a caretaking project manager lion shifter with a dash of D/s energy. It's a very sweet, heart warming story. The way Arthur takes care of Louis, as he struggles with both his scientific research, work/life balance, and the soul deep wound that drives him to prove himself OVER any other need (water, food, sleep) was well paced.
I found the plot balance between their connection, the office politics, and Louis's own struggles was done well. Made it a very engaging read! Didn't want to put it down! So I didn't!
*ARC reader. Thoughts and opinions my own*
Louis, the single minded/absent minded human engineer meets Arthur, a caretaking project manager lion shifter with a dash of D/s energy. It's a very sweet, heart warming story. The way Arthur takes care of Louis, as he struggles with both his scientific research, work/life balance, and the soul deep wound that drives him to prove himself OVER any other need (water, food, sleep) was well paced.
I found the plot balance between their connection, the office politics, and Louis's own struggles was done well. Made it a very engaging read! Didn't want to put it down! So I didn't!
*ARC reader. Thoughts and opinions my own*
November 8, 2026
Workaholic human meets serial carer
Arthur and Louis' story was another welcome trip back to Spellbound. Lion shifter Arthur had such a mother hen vibe, caring about his staff, encouraging them and bringing out the best in them. Louis was driven to prove himself to all and sundry, fighting to show everyone who said he'd never amount to anything in a world where humans were in the minority and seen as lesser by many.
Louis' stubbornness and lack of care for himself was frustrating but, as the story revealed why he was so driven, I did begin to feel for him more. Arthur's compulsion to help the man take better care of himself was admirable but the task was challenging, even for a man who didn't seem to have many boundaries when it came to the welfare of his staff. Watching Louis as he realised just how much he'd missed, not just at Spellbound but over many years of total dedication to his work, was very satisfying, especially when his best friend gave it to him straight.
As always, familiar faces make all these books better. Taron is a favourite and never ceases to make me laugh, and Wash's gruff bluntness was exactly what was needed here. Elijah, Alistair, Ozen and Avery all appear too, and a very brief cameo from Peri made me smile.
Arthur and Louis' story was another welcome trip back to Spellbound. Lion shifter Arthur had such a mother hen vibe, caring about his staff, encouraging them and bringing out the best in them. Louis was driven to prove himself to all and sundry, fighting to show everyone who said he'd never amount to anything in a world where humans were in the minority and seen as lesser by many.
Louis' stubbornness and lack of care for himself was frustrating but, as the story revealed why he was so driven, I did begin to feel for him more. Arthur's compulsion to help the man take better care of himself was admirable but the task was challenging, even for a man who didn't seem to have many boundaries when it came to the welfare of his staff. Watching Louis as he realised just how much he'd missed, not just at Spellbound but over many years of total dedication to his work, was very satisfying, especially when his best friend gave it to him straight.
As always, familiar faces make all these books better. Taron is a favourite and never ceases to make me laugh, and Wash's gruff bluntness was exactly what was needed here. Elijah, Alistair, Ozen and Avery all appear too, and a very brief cameo from Peri made me smile.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gah! I love the characters and the vibe of this whole universe so much. I have devoured every book related to Spellbound Industries. Arthur and Louis’s tale was no exception. And bonus! Getting to see some familiar and much loved faces. Louis has been one so determined to succeed all in his own, that he is working himself to death and doesn’t see it. He is afraid that he will not be accepted without pushing himself right to the brink. All it takes is one stubborn lion shifter determined to make him take care of himself to break down those walls. Arthur won’t take No for an answer. He sees what Louis is doing to himself and makes it his job to be there. It may take Louis some time, but he eventually sees he can do even more with friends and allowing them to help him be even better. Amazing book and now I have to go read the first one in this series because I can’t believe I missed it! I am a little irked with myself.
November 5, 2026
This book is frustrating because I love the world, the characters were good and it was a breath of fresh air to be back with this writing. However. However, this series lacks the comradery that the series that shares this world has. Its supposed to be about a shared living situation but theres barely any of that. When the MC in the shared house does start to interact its off pages and in the epilogue of the book. Then theres just how overbearing one of the MCs is - it's supposed to be cute and romantic that he wants to help the other MC but he just tries to change everything about the other MC all at once and without allowing any negotiation and ignoring the word No. It's all just hand waved away under the guise that its fine and the love interest actually wanted it that way. Overall this book left me frustrated.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So good to be back at Spellbound. I love it there and it was great to catch up with some old friends. We're in the Medical Research Department where Louis, a human is struggling, not only with his project, but his work life balance. I adored Louis, he was so grumpy when pulled away from his projects. I loved how focused he was, but also completely clueless about what was happening around him. It made him such a great character. Arthur, one of the Project Managers on the floor was the sweetest, kindest 'supe' yet. His instincts to both nurture and protect Louis, whilst bullying him into eating, sleeping, relaxing and exercising him were awesome and I really enjoyed his cajoling, sometimes bribing Louis into becoming a fully functional human being. They were an amazing couple who complimented each other perfectly.
October 26, 2026
Louis needed a special someone to really step in and take care of him and Arthur as just the right lion to do that.
These two had quite an interesting start but somewhere along the way, things changed between them. I have to admit, Louis was exhausting to watch and I have no idea how Arthur managed to sort out a manageable routine for him. I was exhausted just watching these two sometimes.
Arthur had the patience of a saint and he definitely needed with a stubborn person like Louis.
The moments were Louis made the effort for Arthur warmed my heart. Arthur went above and beyond for Louis so it was only right that Louis gave him the same courtesy.
Fantastic book and I really enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
These two had quite an interesting start but somewhere along the way, things changed between them. I have to admit, Louis was exhausting to watch and I have no idea how Arthur managed to sort out a manageable routine for him. I was exhausted just watching these two sometimes.
Arthur had the patience of a saint and he definitely needed with a stubborn person like Louis.
The moments were Louis made the effort for Arthur warmed my heart. Arthur went above and beyond for Louis so it was only right that Louis gave him the same courtesy.
Fantastic book and I really enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
November 4, 2026
This book was every bit as good as I was hoping it would be! After meeting Louis in the previous book I was so excited to read his story and see someone keep him from burning out. I think Arthur’s protectiveness is exactly what Louis needs and I loved seeing Louis be railroaded into resting and taking care of himself. Louis is so focused on his work and it made me so sad that he felt like he had to prove himself but I also love how much he loves his work and how he wants to make the world a better place for everyone. Louis is absolutely brilliant and a little too focused on working which makes me glad Arthur found him when he did. Arthur is very much the mother hen everyone accuses him of being but even more so when it comes to Louis. I love how Arthur had to force Louis to sleep using his “growl” and it was adorable seeing Louis actually enjoy sleeping next to Arthur. I loved Arthur’s protective instincts and seeing them go haywire over Louis overworking himself and when things went wrong with Louis. Arthur’s protectiveness was phenomenal and I would not have wanted to be on the other end of it. But the one thing I love about Spellbound is how far everyone went to protect Louis and his project. I loved getting to see past characters and see them all do everything they can to protect Louis and to prevent any discrimination in the company.
All the higher ups in the company are so lovely and it’s great seeing how much they care about all their employees. I was very happy with Taron’s meddling and it was funny seeing Louis get Arthur as a babysitter because no one believed he could take care of himself on his own. But I especially loved how even when Louis was complaining about Arthur preventing him from work he was also enjoying it and he did do what Arthur wanted him to even if it was just because he knew he wouldn’t win against the protective shifter. I loved seeing these two actually grow their relationship and see Louis realize he was attracted to Arthur and wanted him around even if that meant he wouldn’t be able to overwork himself. I loved seeing Arthur bribe Louis to stop working and they were adorable as a couple. I was so happy to see Louis realize that he had so much love and support and also take the time to reflect on all the help that he had to get where he was. I definitely teared up during it but it was such a lovely moment and once he realized he really stepped up to make sure that the people in his life knew he was thankful for them. I also loved seeing him take care of Arthur in return and how much stronger their relationship got by the end of the book. This is such an amazing series so far and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
All the higher ups in the company are so lovely and it’s great seeing how much they care about all their employees. I was very happy with Taron’s meddling and it was funny seeing Louis get Arthur as a babysitter because no one believed he could take care of himself on his own. But I especially loved how even when Louis was complaining about Arthur preventing him from work he was also enjoying it and he did do what Arthur wanted him to even if it was just because he knew he wouldn’t win against the protective shifter. I loved seeing these two actually grow their relationship and see Louis realize he was attracted to Arthur and wanted him around even if that meant he wouldn’t be able to overwork himself. I loved seeing Arthur bribe Louis to stop working and they were adorable as a couple. I was so happy to see Louis realize that he had so much love and support and also take the time to reflect on all the help that he had to get where he was. I definitely teared up during it but it was such a lovely moment and once he realized he really stepped up to make sure that the people in his life knew he was thankful for them. I also loved seeing him take care of Arthur in return and how much stronger their relationship got by the end of the book. This is such an amazing series so far and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
November 6, 2026
Here's Amy Padilla's latest: "The Project Manager's Guide to Overworked Associates." This is the second novel in her Spellbound series, which is a spin-off from her Charmed Away Temp Agency series.
["Louis has spent his entire life proving people wrong. If becoming a successful research engineer means long hours, missed weekends, and surviving on far too little sleep, so be it.
Unfortunately, Arthur disagrees.
As a project manager, Arthur believes in things like breaks, healthy boundaries, and not working yourself into the ground. So when he notices a brilliant human researcher running on caffeine and stubbornness, he takes it upon himself to intervene.
Louis just wants to work. Arthur just keeps showing up.
What begins as professional concern quickly becomes something more as Arthur finds himself drawn to the fiercely independent researcher. And despite all his protests, Louis is starting to rely on Arthur’s steady presence, warm purrs, and unwavering support more than he’d like to admit."]
This book was glorious. Granted, I wasn't sure about Louis at first. He wasn't an antagonist per-say in the previous book, but he wasn't necessarily an all around super star (then again, that was a very biased POV on Louis). Louis was still hectic as fuck, but his grumpiness and stubbornness quickly grew on me.
So did Arthur. He was a little pushy, but he meant well (all of the well). And he only pushed people towards being better and none of it was selfish.
Well some of Arthur's feelings for Louis were selfish, but can you blame him? I mean, it did take Arthur a bit to figure out why he was being selfish towards Louis. But wow. These two were adorable. A little angsty, a little spicy, and sooo much fluff.
#theresearchersguidetounexpectedmates #theprojectmanagersguidetooverworkedassociates #spellbound #spellboundseries #charmedawaytempagency #charmedawaytempagencyseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Louis has spent his entire life proving people wrong. If becoming a successful research engineer means long hours, missed weekends, and surviving on far too little sleep, so be it.
Unfortunately, Arthur disagrees.
As a project manager, Arthur believes in things like breaks, healthy boundaries, and not working yourself into the ground. So when he notices a brilliant human researcher running on caffeine and stubbornness, he takes it upon himself to intervene.
Louis just wants to work. Arthur just keeps showing up.
What begins as professional concern quickly becomes something more as Arthur finds himself drawn to the fiercely independent researcher. And despite all his protests, Louis is starting to rely on Arthur’s steady presence, warm purrs, and unwavering support more than he’d like to admit."]
This book was glorious. Granted, I wasn't sure about Louis at first. He wasn't an antagonist per-say in the previous book, but he wasn't necessarily an all around super star (then again, that was a very biased POV on Louis). Louis was still hectic as fuck, but his grumpiness and stubbornness quickly grew on me.
So did Arthur. He was a little pushy, but he meant well (all of the well). And he only pushed people towards being better and none of it was selfish.
Well some of Arthur's feelings for Louis were selfish, but can you blame him? I mean, it did take Arthur a bit to figure out why he was being selfish towards Louis. But wow. These two were adorable. A little angsty, a little spicy, and sooo much fluff.
#theresearchersguidetounexpectedmates #theprojectmanagersguidetooverworkedassociates #spellbound #spellboundseries #charmedawaytempagency #charmedawaytempagencyseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
November 7, 2026
Another fun visit to Spellbound Inc!
I do love getting to visit this world and I'm really enjoying this new spin-off. Louis and Arthur were an interesting pair - we got to see a bit of them in the first book and it became very clear, very quickly that Louis was on a path of self-destruction (no matter that it wasn't entirely intentional). My heart broke for him the way he clearly thought that his only value in the world came from what he could do and not from him as a person. The way he deprived himself of even the most basic necessities because his needs were least important was so awful. He desperately needed someone in his corner and Arthur was definitely that person. I will admit, I chafed a bit at some of Arthur's high-handedness (though I acknowledge that's a bit of a sore point for me as I struggle with being told what to do lol). Sometimes I just wished Arthur would talk to Louis a bit more first instead of kind of rolling in and changing things but, and it's a big but, I honestly also could see that that might not have actually gotten them anywhere. Louis was in such a desperate place that I don't think talking it out would necessarily have worked. It would have been nice to see the attempt though I guess. Still, I really liked that Louis had someone who forced him to care for himself and acknowledge that he was worth that care. The flat sharing that was a large part of the first book wasn't as present in this book which was a pity but I'm also not sure that it really had room in the book without feeling forced. Being present in a way that meant meaningful interaction wasn't really something Louis could logically do until things had gotten a lot better. I'm hoping in the next book though we'll get to see him engage more with his flatmates and see them interact more as a whole.
I do love getting to visit this world and I'm really enjoying this new spin-off. Louis and Arthur were an interesting pair - we got to see a bit of them in the first book and it became very clear, very quickly that Louis was on a path of self-destruction (no matter that it wasn't entirely intentional). My heart broke for him the way he clearly thought that his only value in the world came from what he could do and not from him as a person. The way he deprived himself of even the most basic necessities because his needs were least important was so awful. He desperately needed someone in his corner and Arthur was definitely that person. I will admit, I chafed a bit at some of Arthur's high-handedness (though I acknowledge that's a bit of a sore point for me as I struggle with being told what to do lol). Sometimes I just wished Arthur would talk to Louis a bit more first instead of kind of rolling in and changing things but, and it's a big but, I honestly also could see that that might not have actually gotten them anywhere. Louis was in such a desperate place that I don't think talking it out would necessarily have worked. It would have been nice to see the attempt though I guess. Still, I really liked that Louis had someone who forced him to care for himself and acknowledge that he was worth that care. The flat sharing that was a large part of the first book wasn't as present in this book which was a pity but I'm also not sure that it really had room in the book without feeling forced. Being present in a way that meant meaningful interaction wasn't really something Louis could logically do until things had gotten a lot better. I'm hoping in the next book though we'll get to see him engage more with his flatmates and see them interact more as a whole.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Project Manager’s Guide to Overworked Associates
The Spellbound Series, Book 2
By Amy Padilla
I am a huge fan of Amy Padilla. I absolutely loved the Charmed Away Temp Agency series. The Spellbound Series is a spin off that not only brings back beloved characters it introduces us to new ones.
Reading this book, once again makes me think Taron has to be my favorite character from the original series. He is just a wonderful person and he brings so much flavor to each new story. He thinks Louis needs help creating a better work life balance. He enlists Arthur, a caring project manager, to help him with this project. Arthur is completely lovable in a mother hen sort of way. He is a lion shifter that takes care of others because it is a part of him and makes him happy. Louis is a human, an engineer, that wants to prove himself worthy of his position at Spellbound.
This story is so much fun! I love that Louis is a part of Taron’s residential pilot program. It is such a cool way to bring coworkers together. They are all so different and new to the company and making friends as an adult is tough. I think that’s why I enjoyed Arthur’s character so much. He really tried to get Louis out of his head and into real life. Louis is all grit and determination to make something of himself. Even being oblivious to his own life, he still had kindness in his heart to help his roommates when he can and to care for Arthur when he needs it. Book two is a hit for this reader, now who’s up next? I’m always here for Amy Padilla!
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. *
The Spellbound Series, Book 2
By Amy Padilla
I am a huge fan of Amy Padilla. I absolutely loved the Charmed Away Temp Agency series. The Spellbound Series is a spin off that not only brings back beloved characters it introduces us to new ones.
Reading this book, once again makes me think Taron has to be my favorite character from the original series. He is just a wonderful person and he brings so much flavor to each new story. He thinks Louis needs help creating a better work life balance. He enlists Arthur, a caring project manager, to help him with this project. Arthur is completely lovable in a mother hen sort of way. He is a lion shifter that takes care of others because it is a part of him and makes him happy. Louis is a human, an engineer, that wants to prove himself worthy of his position at Spellbound.
This story is so much fun! I love that Louis is a part of Taron’s residential pilot program. It is such a cool way to bring coworkers together. They are all so different and new to the company and making friends as an adult is tough. I think that’s why I enjoyed Arthur’s character so much. He really tried to get Louis out of his head and into real life. Louis is all grit and determination to make something of himself. Even being oblivious to his own life, he still had kindness in his heart to help his roommates when he can and to care for Arthur when he needs it. Book two is a hit for this reader, now who’s up next? I’m always here for Amy Padilla!
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. *
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Received from Author for Honest Review
Amy Padilla might actually own a piece of my soul somewhere. Every single book she writes I love, and I feel so fortunate for receiving this prior to publishing because what a joy it was!
We’re jumping into book two of the spin-off series from her Charmed Away Temp Agency books. I really enjoyed the first one after its release, and I adore that we’re getting new characters in a pre-established world that has so much character and color.
In this one, we follow a human, Louis, who gets hired onto the research team at Spellbound. The problem? He overworks himself to the point of exhaustion and remains wholly oblivious to the world around him. Spellbound’s solution? A lion-shifting project manager named Arthur who supports nothing less than a comfortable work-life balance. Add in corporate sabotage, a colorful cast of characters, mating bite marks, and the discovery that sometimes being who we are is perfectly enough, and you have a phenomenal addition to a world that forces you to have a wonderful time.
The original Spellbound series is easily one of my favorites every written, and I’ve worked my way through everything Padilla has to offer minus the Barbarians spin-off, so I know exactly what I’m getting into when I read her stories. And I love them every single time.
So grateful for a chance to read this one early, and my TikTok review is to come :D
Amy Padilla might actually own a piece of my soul somewhere. Every single book she writes I love, and I feel so fortunate for receiving this prior to publishing because what a joy it was!
We’re jumping into book two of the spin-off series from her Charmed Away Temp Agency books. I really enjoyed the first one after its release, and I adore that we’re getting new characters in a pre-established world that has so much character and color.
In this one, we follow a human, Louis, who gets hired onto the research team at Spellbound. The problem? He overworks himself to the point of exhaustion and remains wholly oblivious to the world around him. Spellbound’s solution? A lion-shifting project manager named Arthur who supports nothing less than a comfortable work-life balance. Add in corporate sabotage, a colorful cast of characters, mating bite marks, and the discovery that sometimes being who we are is perfectly enough, and you have a phenomenal addition to a world that forces you to have a wonderful time.
The original Spellbound series is easily one of my favorites every written, and I’ve worked my way through everything Padilla has to offer minus the Barbarians spin-off, so I know exactly what I’m getting into when I read her stories. And I love them every single time.
So grateful for a chance to read this one early, and my TikTok review is to come :D
November 4, 2026
"The Project Manager's Guide to Overworked Associates' is the second book in Amy Padilla's The Spellbound Series. Louis is
human, an engineering genius in a world which is unfair to non-supes. He earns a coveted position at Spellbound Industries and spends the next six months nearly killing himself, working himself into a state of complete exhaustion. A project manager on another Spellbound team, Arthur sees it and brings his concern to Talon. Louis is volunteered/strongarmed by the boss for Spellbound Corp’s Residential Pilot Program. And finds himself with Arthur, a lion shifter, as a caretaker.
Arthur finds the grumpy human adorable and bullies him into self care. Which made for a fantastic story. I loved how his growling (lions do NOT purr) calmed Louis. Their chemistry was incredibly hot and sweet. Louis runs out in the rain to buy an umbrella for his rain hating mate. When they cooked together... ohhh.... swoon worthy.
Every time a new book comes out in the Charmed Away universe, there's a new couple to fall in love with. (Yes, Arthur and Louis is my new favorite). The worldbuild is fantastic. Reading about old friends was lovely. Talon is such a fun pain in the butt.
I cannot recommend this series enough.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
human, an engineering genius in a world which is unfair to non-supes. He earns a coveted position at Spellbound Industries and spends the next six months nearly killing himself, working himself into a state of complete exhaustion. A project manager on another Spellbound team, Arthur sees it and brings his concern to Talon. Louis is volunteered/strongarmed by the boss for Spellbound Corp’s Residential Pilot Program. And finds himself with Arthur, a lion shifter, as a caretaker.
Arthur finds the grumpy human adorable and bullies him into self care. Which made for a fantastic story. I loved how his growling (lions do NOT purr) calmed Louis. Their chemistry was incredibly hot and sweet. Louis runs out in the rain to buy an umbrella for his rain hating mate. When they cooked together... ohhh.... swoon worthy.
Every time a new book comes out in the Charmed Away universe, there's a new couple to fall in love with. (Yes, Arthur and Louis is my new favorite). The worldbuild is fantastic. Reading about old friends was lovely. Talon is such a fun pain in the butt.
I cannot recommend this series enough.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
November 4, 2026
Such a good Amy Padilla story!
First off, I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first book in the series, and that's part of what I love about Amy Padilla's books: they aren't all the same thing despite being in the same world.
There are some structural similarities in that it's the same world, and it's always a human MC with a supe MC, but the actual stories all happen in individual ways.
In this one, there is some OCDesque and anxiety rep from the human MC (Louis), which was nice to see, and it worked well with the caretaking tendencies of the lion shifter MC (Arthur).
I loved how this story came together, and I already can't wait for the next one in the series. I'm so glad that even though Amy has moved away from the Charmed Away series, we still get to see the characters from that series since they are in a shared world. It makes my heart happy. 😊
Anyway, highly recommend if you enjoy paranormal romance and some fluff. The angst is medium, and the spice takes a while to happen, but it's really good once you get there.
First off, I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first book in the series, and that's part of what I love about Amy Padilla's books: they aren't all the same thing despite being in the same world.
There are some structural similarities in that it's the same world, and it's always a human MC with a supe MC, but the actual stories all happen in individual ways.
In this one, there is some OCDesque and anxiety rep from the human MC (Louis), which was nice to see, and it worked well with the caretaking tendencies of the lion shifter MC (Arthur).
I loved how this story came together, and I already can't wait for the next one in the series. I'm so glad that even though Amy has moved away from the Charmed Away series, we still get to see the characters from that series since they are in a shared world. It makes my heart happy. 😊
Anyway, highly recommend if you enjoy paranormal romance and some fluff. The angst is medium, and the spice takes a while to happen, but it's really good once you get there.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh it's so lovely to be back at Spellbound! This new tale has all the old favourites and some new characters. This is Arthur and Louis' tale. Louis is one of Taron's protégé and has a room at the condo. Louis fits in well with all the Spellbound workers, as he doesn't seem to know when to switch off! Enter Arthur, who has his own team to manage but still makes time for Louis.
Louis is working on a special project, but his team manager, Basil, doesn't seem to be that interested in helping him, or giving him time. When an intern sabotages Louis' desk, even Wash gets involved.
It's a lovely story of finding your place, accepting help and growth. Louis thinks he's done it all on his own and quarrels with Arthur, but a telephone call to his oldest friend soon abases him of that idea and he and Arthur get their HEA.
I love all the Spellbound people, the way they work together and look forward to reading more in the future.
Louis is working on a special project, but his team manager, Basil, doesn't seem to be that interested in helping him, or giving him time. When an intern sabotages Louis' desk, even Wash gets involved.
It's a lovely story of finding your place, accepting help and growth. Louis thinks he's done it all on his own and quarrels with Arthur, but a telephone call to his oldest friend soon abases him of that idea and he and Arthur get their HEA.
I love all the Spellbound people, the way they work together and look forward to reading more in the future.
November 6, 2026
Louis feels like he has to prove something and his health is starting to be affected. He isn't sleeping enough. He isn't eating properly. He isn't taking care of himself. All he does is work and sleep very few hours. His roommates and friends are trying to take care of him.
Arthur is a lion shifter and has decided that he's going to take care of Louis, since he isn't taking care of himself. Sometimes it's a very frustrating job but he isn't giving up.
These two slowly form a bond but I didn't feel they had a lot of chemistry. I was bored with the Louis parts until later in the book. I felt like the book spent too much time on Louis's workaholic behavior. It wasn't that interesting to me. I loved Arthur's caring nature. Arthur was interesting to me. I enjoyed the continuation of the series.
Arthur is a lion shifter and has decided that he's going to take care of Louis, since he isn't taking care of himself. Sometimes it's a very frustrating job but he isn't giving up.
These two slowly form a bond but I didn't feel they had a lot of chemistry. I was bored with the Louis parts until later in the book. I felt like the book spent too much time on Louis's workaholic behavior. It wasn't that interesting to me. I loved Arthur's caring nature. Arthur was interesting to me. I enjoyed the continuation of the series.
October 30, 2026
This was such a cute, cozy, feel-good, fun read, packed with fantasy, all the supes you could possibly think of, and one very overachieving human.
One of those supes is Arthur, a bossy, overprotective lion shifter with the sweetest heart of gold.
Arthur is given the task of keeping an eye on Louis, who’s been working himself into the ground trying to develop a prototype for the company they both work for, Spellbound. And let’s just say Arthur takes his new responsibility VERY seriously. Between making sure Louis eats, sleeps, and actually takes a break, his protective instincts really kick in. Watching this big, bossy lion shifter fuss over Louis is just the sweetest thing.
There’s plenty of push and pull, sass, and a little mystery surrounding who’s trying to sabotage Louis’s work, which kept things interesting.
I loved everything about this book! I especially loved watching Arthur and Louis’s relationship develop, but what I adored most was Louis’s character growth. Seeing that journey unfold was such a highlight for me.
Another absolute gem from Amy Padilla! I’m having WAY too much fun with this series.
ARC review
One of those supes is Arthur, a bossy, overprotective lion shifter with the sweetest heart of gold.
Arthur is given the task of keeping an eye on Louis, who’s been working himself into the ground trying to develop a prototype for the company they both work for, Spellbound. And let’s just say Arthur takes his new responsibility VERY seriously. Between making sure Louis eats, sleeps, and actually takes a break, his protective instincts really kick in. Watching this big, bossy lion shifter fuss over Louis is just the sweetest thing.
There’s plenty of push and pull, sass, and a little mystery surrounding who’s trying to sabotage Louis’s work, which kept things interesting.
I loved everything about this book! I especially loved watching Arthur and Louis’s relationship develop, but what I adored most was Louis’s character growth. Seeing that journey unfold was such a highlight for me.
Another absolute gem from Amy Padilla! I’m having WAY too much fun with this series.
ARC review
November 3, 2026
I have read some, but not all, of the author's books set at Spellbound. I love the premise, of an organisation that employees all different species, so all types come together, and occasionally people meet their fated mates. This story, of human Louis who is a chronic over-worker who feels he has to prove himself (with some good reason) and lion shifter Arthur, didn't quite do it for me. Louis is totally oblivious to everything outside of work so his good friends basically end up caring for him as he doesn't bother to do it himself. That gets frustrating after a while. He does learn the error of his ways to an extent though. Worth a read if you're invested in the whole series.
I received an ARC.
I received an ARC.
November 3, 2026
This book is part of a series set in the same world than the Charmed Away Temp Agency, so we will see some old characters, but you don't need to read any other book to fully enjoy this one.
I haven't find a book by Amy Padilla I didn't like, but I thoroughly enjoyed this. It has two great characters, Arthur is a caretaker lion shifter that finds himself falling for a wiokalcoholic human with something to prove.
The love story is well developed in between the investigation and getting Louis to have something of a live outside work.
Well written, It made me laugh, I picked It and couldn't put It down till I finished.
I heartily recommend It!
I haven't find a book by Amy Padilla I didn't like, but I thoroughly enjoyed this. It has two great characters, Arthur is a caretaker lion shifter that finds himself falling for a wiokalcoholic human with something to prove.
The love story is well developed in between the investigation and getting Louis to have something of a live outside work.
Well written, It made me laugh, I picked It and couldn't put It down till I finished.
I heartily recommend It!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Louis and Arthur were so sweet and adorable together with their insecurities, struggles, and sometimes cluelessness that created interesting circumstances.
I adored the care, possessiveness, and special brand of teasing between them, as well as their moments together that leaded to discovering their true feelings.
I liked seeing old characters and their contributions to their happiness, as well as how the danger was resolved.
I liked the story and I’m wondering who the next couple would be for the future adventure.
I adored the care, possessiveness, and special brand of teasing between them, as well as their moments together that leaded to discovering their true feelings.
I liked seeing old characters and their contributions to their happiness, as well as how the danger was resolved.
I liked the story and I’m wondering who the next couple would be for the future adventure.
November 4, 2026
Louis & Arthur
Louis is human and works as a engineer for Spellbound, he’s trying to prove he can make it without help, but doesn’t realise he has friends that are helping him. Arthur is a lion shifter, he is one of the managers for scientists at Spellbound. He gets to know Louis, because Louis doesn’t take proper care of himself, overworks and goes without sleeping etc. He soon realises that Louis is his mate and him wanting to take care of himself isn’t just his lion instincts.
I loved this book.
Louis is human and works as a engineer for Spellbound, he’s trying to prove he can make it without help, but doesn’t realise he has friends that are helping him. Arthur is a lion shifter, he is one of the managers for scientists at Spellbound. He gets to know Louis, because Louis doesn’t take proper care of himself, overworks and goes without sleeping etc. He soon realises that Louis is his mate and him wanting to take care of himself isn’t just his lion instincts.
I loved this book.
November 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! Taron was incredibly toned down, which is a positive for the series in my opinion 😂 and both Louis and Arthur were fun and a good pairing. The lack of consent with Arthur's heavy-handed caretaking threw me off just a little in the beginning - not because I minded it at all, but because it just felt out of character for this author and this series. 🤷 The story was definitely one of the better ones in this ongoing universe, though, and I'm thrilled that she's keeping it going with this spin-off series. ☺️
November 10, 2026
🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵
This is a paranormal mm romance, the second book in a spin-off series that I think should be read in order for best enjoyment! You have an oblivious researcher who is working himself to his own detriment and a mother-hen project manager who steps in to bring the former back into health. This story starts out a little slow so you have to have read the first book in this series. However, once everything picks up, it moves fast and I especially enjoy the latter half of the book; it’s worth the wait!
This is a paranormal mm romance, the second book in a spin-off series that I think should be read in order for best enjoyment! You have an oblivious researcher who is working himself to his own detriment and a mother-hen project manager who steps in to bring the former back into health. This story starts out a little slow so you have to have read the first book in this series. However, once everything picks up, it moves fast and I especially enjoy the latter half of the book; it’s worth the wait!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Louis and Arthur have an interesting dynamic, and I really enjoyed seeing how the author brings them together. Arthur attempts to give Louis a work / life balance which creates a lot of banter and arguing. They each have an eye-opening moment that changes how they view their relationship. Overall, it is sweet, well written, and we get cameos of prior couples.
I noted maybe 6 or 7 proofreading issues in the ARC.
I noted maybe 6 or 7 proofreading issues in the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun read, as always in this universe. Poor Louis has worked so hard to get where he is, and still faces prejudice in the workplace. He's lucky he's had such awesome friends supporting him over the years! Arthur gives off serious service dom vibes and I am here for it. Love this world.
November 4, 2026
Padilla perfection. All the magic, romance, humor, and lightheartedness I hope for in a Charmed Away book. There were no secrets or miscommunication, most of the drama was workplace intrigue. The MCs dynamic was similar to hurt/comfort but it was self-neglect/caretaking, and it was full of banter and grumpiness. Sweet as pie and a total page turner.
November 5, 2026
loved it
I loved this book. 5 stars for rating, 3 for spice. Louis was such a space case about anything other than his work, and it was well portrayed. I enjoyed Arthur’s bossiness. These two just worked so well together. And the phone call Louis had with his best friend was so good. I want a bonus story with all of Arthur and Louis’s future huge family!
I loved this book. 5 stars for rating, 3 for spice. Louis was such a space case about anything other than his work, and it was well portrayed. I enjoyed Arthur’s bossiness. These two just worked so well together. And the phone call Louis had with his best friend was so good. I want a bonus story with all of Arthur and Louis’s future huge family!
November 8, 2026
another great visit to Spellbound!
Just like all of her stories about Spellbound, this was a great escape and a sweet story. I love how well the author describes interactions and emotions, her style of writing is easy to read. I think the first book in this world, Charmed Away Temp Agency, is still my favorite in her worlds!
Just like all of her stories about Spellbound, this was a great escape and a sweet story. I love how well the author describes interactions and emotions, her style of writing is easy to read. I think the first book in this world, Charmed Away Temp Agency, is still my favorite in her worlds!
November 9, 2026
Top story right here
I came across this author just a couple of months ago and they have moved up to one of my favorites in just one read. I enjoy the characters and their stories. This one especially since you have a stubborn workaholic who doesn't think they are good enough and a lion who knows they are.
I came across this author just a couple of months ago and they have moved up to one of my favorites in just one read. I enjoy the characters and their stories. This one especially since you have a stubborn workaholic who doesn't think they are good enough and a lion who knows they are.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely love this Spellbound spin-off series. Louis and Arthur were so much fun to read. Get so many different supernaturals throughout both the Charmed Away and this spin-off. We got a little more of some of the OG characters in this story. So excited for any other books in this world.
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