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To Drown a Witch
A criminal and a royal guard are drawn into the hunt for a dangerous witch—and an unexpected romance—in this YA enemies-to-lovers romantasy, perfect for fans of Heartless Hunter.
In Orlonea, the Witch is feared above all else. Reborn into each generation, she is the only person with magic running innately through her veins, able to wield magic with a single thought.
So when guards across the city begin to drop dead, gruesomely murdered by violent and vicious magic, everyone knows the Witch has returned—and no one will be safe until she’s killed.
Toran is the Prince’s Crown, the most highly skilled fighter in the King’s Guard. Tasked with the responsibility of leading the hunt for the Witch, Toran tries to focus on his assignment to forget the ghosts of his past. And after he learns of Nes, a thief with an uncanny ability to sniff out magic, he forcibly recruits her into joining his hunt.
As the two face deadly magic and otherworldly threats, their mutual dislike soon turns to something more electric, and they find themselves drawn to each other in ways they’d never imagined. But the Witch is always a step ahead of them, and with bodies piling up, secrets threaten to come to light—secrets that could destroy everything from the fragile trust between them to the very city of Orlonea itself.
In Orlonea, the Witch is feared above all else. Reborn into each generation, she is the only person with magic running innately through her veins, able to wield magic with a single thought.
So when guards across the city begin to drop dead, gruesomely murdered by violent and vicious magic, everyone knows the Witch has returned—and no one will be safe until she’s killed.
Toran is the Prince’s Crown, the most highly skilled fighter in the King’s Guard. Tasked with the responsibility of leading the hunt for the Witch, Toran tries to focus on his assignment to forget the ghosts of his past. And after he learns of Nes, a thief with an uncanny ability to sniff out magic, he forcibly recruits her into joining his hunt.
As the two face deadly magic and otherworldly threats, their mutual dislike soon turns to something more electric, and they find themselves drawn to each other in ways they’d never imagined. But the Witch is always a step ahead of them, and with bodies piling up, secrets threaten to come to light—secrets that could destroy everything from the fragile trust between them to the very city of Orlonea itself.
359 pages, Hardcover
First published July 14, 2026
About the author
Lindsey Olsson
2 books113 followersLindsey Olsson has been dreaming up stories since she first learned to write. After studying creative writing at Elon University, she went on to receive a MFA in writing for children and young adults from Hamline University. When she isn’t covering the walls of her home with book ideas, she can be found skiing and snowboarding, climbing rock walls, or adventuring alongside her husband. She has yet to say no when offered a doughnut . . . or a dozen. To Drown a Witch is her debut novel.
Find her online at LindseyOlsson.com or follow her on Instagram @LindseyOlssonAuthor.
Find her online at LindseyOlsson.com or follow her on Instagram @LindseyOlssonAuthor.
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Did Not Finish
August 18, 2026firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
unfortunately, dnf @48ish%
edit 8/24: lol not me literally getting my fairyloot edition (i forgot it was selected for august YA…) and it’s actually rather pretty🫠
lindsey olsson's to drown a witch is apparently perfect for readers that enjoyed the crimson moth, and i did absolutely love the first book in the series, so i was hoping to enjoy this novel. unfortunately, i could not tell you anything about any of the main characters or the plot, outside of the the description.
in to drown a witch, a criminal and a royal guard are drawn into the hunt for a dangerous witch who is reborn into each new generation; this witch is the only human to have magic running through her veins and at her fingertips with a single thought. this plot had so much potential, but unfortunately i just did not connect with the characters or writing at all, even with the assistance of the audiobook.
i wish it lived up to the hype i felt through the blurb, because it had so much potential, but it just wasn’t for me.
unfortunately, dnf @48ish%
edit 8/24: lol not me literally getting my fairyloot edition (i forgot it was selected for august YA…) and it’s actually rather pretty🫠
lindsey olsson's to drown a witch is apparently perfect for readers that enjoyed the crimson moth, and i did absolutely love the first book in the series, so i was hoping to enjoy this novel. unfortunately, i could not tell you anything about any of the main characters or the plot, outside of the the description.
in to drown a witch, a criminal and a royal guard are drawn into the hunt for a dangerous witch who is reborn into each new generation; this witch is the only human to have magic running through her veins and at her fingertips with a single thought. this plot had so much potential, but unfortunately i just did not connect with the characters or writing at all, even with the assistance of the audiobook.
i wish it lived up to the hype i felt through the blurb, because it had so much potential, but it just wasn’t for me.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
— 2.5 ☆ .ᐟ ⌗ 🌹 spoiler free + mini review
⤷ hmm it was going good but i didnt care enough
⋆˚࿔ 60th review of the year
arc review
⌗ ꒰ my thoughts ꒱🧹
⤷ ugh i SO wanted to love this but 🥲 it wasn't a bad book per say, it was just really hard to connect with anybody, and it was also super predictable. honestly a rip off heartless hunter 🙏 the first 200 pages were really fun, but the more i continued to read i just did not care. i knew what would happen and the writing wasn't my favorite either
overall i'd love to see what others think of this! also kind of disappointing to market this to 9th graders when it literally says for 'steamy romantasy fans'?? HELLO. please market your books right lol. overall, worth a shot but ehh. curious to see what the next book will be like!
----------------
𐔌 ♯┆6.12.26
⤷ AHH a fantasy for june 🙈 i can't wait to try this!! *for fans of heartless hunter* OKAY WELL SIGN ME UP HELLO?? thank you to the publishers for a physical arc! this is out in july 🫂
⤷ hmm it was going good but i didnt care enough
⋆˚࿔ 60th review of the year
arc review
⌗ ꒰ my thoughts ꒱🧹
⤷ ugh i SO wanted to love this but 🥲 it wasn't a bad book per say, it was just really hard to connect with anybody, and it was also super predictable. honestly a rip off heartless hunter 🙏 the first 200 pages were really fun, but the more i continued to read i just did not care. i knew what would happen and the writing wasn't my favorite either
overall i'd love to see what others think of this! also kind of disappointing to market this to 9th graders when it literally says for 'steamy romantasy fans'?? HELLO. please market your books right lol. overall, worth a shot but ehh. curious to see what the next book will be like!
again, thank you to the publishers for an arc copy. all ratings and opinions are my own.
----------------
🌹 — pre-read .ᐟ ⌗
𐔌 ♯┆6.12.26
⤷ AHH a fantasy for june 🙈 i can't wait to try this!! *for fans of heartless hunter* OKAY WELL SIGN ME UP HELLO?? thank you to the publishers for a physical arc! this is out in july 🫂
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mixed feelings with this one!
There is a lot to like here: the grisly murders and the witch hunt gripped me and were honestly the best part.
But the romance felt super rushed. They meet 25% into the book, and 25% later their interest is pretty clear. They’re enemies on paper only, and get along quite well almost immediately. The ‘enemies’ part does get better closer to the end because of all the twists, but it honestly made me hate them both even more… do with that what you will. I think Heartless Hunter did the romance way better.
Thankfully the mystery kept me entertained enough. Once the clues started coming together and the plot twists hit, I flew through the rest pretty fast. Some were pretty obvious, others not as much. I think there will always be at least one thing you won’t see coming.
The ending was super frustrating though, and ends on a confusing, open-ended cliffhanger. It made me bump down my rating from 3 to 2.5 stars.
─ ✦ ────
✎ᝰ.┊pre-read: You had me at enemies-to-lovers 🤭 I’m so excited to start this!!!
⬫ ⬪ ⬫
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
There is a lot to like here: the grisly murders and the witch hunt gripped me and were honestly the best part.
But the romance felt super rushed. They meet 25% into the book, and 25% later their interest is pretty clear. They’re enemies on paper only, and get along quite well almost immediately. The ‘enemies’ part does get better closer to the end because of all the twists, but it honestly made me hate them both even more… do with that what you will. I think Heartless Hunter did the romance way better.
Thankfully the mystery kept me entertained enough. Once the clues started coming together and the plot twists hit, I flew through the rest pretty fast. Some were pretty obvious, others not as much. I think there will always be at least one thing you won’t see coming.
The ending was super frustrating though, and ends on a confusing, open-ended cliffhanger. It made me bump down my rating from 3 to 2.5 stars.
─ ✦ ────
✎ᝰ.┊pre-read: You had me at enemies-to-lovers 🤭 I’m so excited to start this!!!
⬫ ⬪ ⬫
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
September 3, 2026
I decided to read this book solely because of how beautiful my FairyLoot edition was, and I’m so glad I did! It definitely gave me *Heartless Hunter* vibes, which immediately pulled me in.
The plot was intriguing, and the magic system really grabbed my attention. The romance was more of a subplot and didn’t completely capture me the way I hoped it would, but I have some theories about why and I can’t wait for Book 2 to see if I’m right!
My advice: be patient with this one. It’s the first book in a duology, so there are still MANY unanswered questions. The last few chapters, especially the ending, completely grabbed my attention and left me needing the next book immediately. Sorry guys, I cant say more without spoiling it!
Great banter, betrayal, heartbreak, longing, and plenty of plot twists some I saw coming and others that shocked me. I really can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
The plot was intriguing, and the magic system really grabbed my attention. The romance was more of a subplot and didn’t completely capture me the way I hoped it would, but I have some theories about why and I can’t wait for Book 2 to see if I’m right!
My advice: be patient with this one. It’s the first book in a duology, so there are still MANY unanswered questions. The last few chapters, especially the ending, completely grabbed my attention and left me needing the next book immediately. Sorry guys, I cant say more without spoiling it!
Great banter, betrayal, heartbreak, longing, and plenty of plot twists some I saw coming and others that shocked me. I really can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
August 6, 2026
1⭐️
ARC Review
Publication Date: 07/14/26
It might be time to resign myself to the fact that witch hunt storylines are not my type of books…
I really wish that authors and/or publishers would stop using popular books to promote new/up and coming content. It is starting to become a turnoff and, most times, feels like false advertising. To Drown A Witch is one of those examples.
According to the tagline to promote this book, Heartless Hunter has been used to entice readers, who loved that series, to give To Drown A Witch a chance. As someone who both loves the Heartless Hunter series and has just finished this book, I can confirm that these two books ARE NOT the same. Just a few examples:
(1) Where Heartless Hunter is a straightforward witch versus witch hunter story, To Drown A Witch tries to hide who the witch is (it doesn’t take long for a reader to figure out who the witch is.)
(2) Where Heartless Hunter is fast-paced and full of chemistry between the FMC and MMC, To Drown A Witch is very slow-paced, confusing, and there isn’t an ounce of chemistry between the FMC and the MMC.
(3) Where Heartless Hunter is capable of drawing readers in from the very first chapter, To Drown A Witch is capable of drawing readers in for the first few chapter, but just as a quickly makes readers become disinterested by Chapter 7.
I could sit here and list several more differences between Heartless Hunter and To Drown A Witch, but that is not what I want my review to focus on. My point, though, is that anyone who picks this up in hopes to find a Heartless Hunter similarly will walk away very disappointed. I say this because I am one of those readers. And yes, I am very unhappy and annoyed by this fact.
To Drown A Witch reads like a novel with a witch versus witch hunter storyline, but it is slightly misleading. It contains a somewhat murder mystery element mixed with magic is illegal troupe and a Royal Kingdom. As I mentioned previously, this book tries to make the identity of the witch all mysterious, but if you read this with its audiobook companion (like I did), you will figure out who she is in the prologue. Nothing too mysterious about that.
My reasons for rating To Drown A Witch a One Star read are as follows:
(1) The FMC, Nes, is very plain Jane. Her main features are her red hair, blue eyes, and her million and one freckles. There is just nothing special or remarkable about her.
(2) The MMC, Toran, is even worse. Like every other male character, he is supposed be strong jawed, beautiful eyes, and a part of the all mighty Royal Court. In reality, Toran is a butt hole who drinks a lot and lies for no reason. Sometime later in the story, he claims to have known who the witch was this whole time and when his conclusions are listed, all a reader can do is roll their eyes.
(3) Altogether, To Drown A Witch is written in a way that is difficult to follow (literally a time up happens and a reader doesn't figure it out until the middle of said chapter), none of the twists truly stick, and I got bored too quickly. I wanted to DNF is by Chapter 10.
There is a huge possibility that I will forget everything about this book two-three months from now. If this turns out to be a duology, I have no intention of rereading this just so I can read Book #2. However, I might find myself picking up Book #2 just to skim it and see how everything comes to a conclusion. While I am planning to make To Drown A Witch my last witch/witch hunter novel, I do think that this book will find its audience. There are a number of other readers who have DNF’d this book (and their reasons are very valid), but anyone who decides to pick this up and read it then they should. Just because this didn’t work for me doesn’t mean it won’t work for someone else.
I want to wish Lindsey Olsson all the best on her future endeavors, especially her writing career.
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for granting my request for an Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
ARC Review
Publication Date: 07/14/26
It might be time to resign myself to the fact that witch hunt storylines are not my type of books…
I really wish that authors and/or publishers would stop using popular books to promote new/up and coming content. It is starting to become a turnoff and, most times, feels like false advertising. To Drown A Witch is one of those examples.
According to the tagline to promote this book, Heartless Hunter has been used to entice readers, who loved that series, to give To Drown A Witch a chance. As someone who both loves the Heartless Hunter series and has just finished this book, I can confirm that these two books ARE NOT the same. Just a few examples:
(1) Where Heartless Hunter is a straightforward witch versus witch hunter story, To Drown A Witch tries to hide who the witch is (it doesn’t take long for a reader to figure out who the witch is.)
(2) Where Heartless Hunter is fast-paced and full of chemistry between the FMC and MMC, To Drown A Witch is very slow-paced, confusing, and there isn’t an ounce of chemistry between the FMC and the MMC.
(3) Where Heartless Hunter is capable of drawing readers in from the very first chapter, To Drown A Witch is capable of drawing readers in for the first few chapter, but just as a quickly makes readers become disinterested by Chapter 7.
I could sit here and list several more differences between Heartless Hunter and To Drown A Witch, but that is not what I want my review to focus on. My point, though, is that anyone who picks this up in hopes to find a Heartless Hunter similarly will walk away very disappointed. I say this because I am one of those readers. And yes, I am very unhappy and annoyed by this fact.
To Drown A Witch reads like a novel with a witch versus witch hunter storyline, but it is slightly misleading. It contains a somewhat murder mystery element mixed with magic is illegal troupe and a Royal Kingdom. As I mentioned previously, this book tries to make the identity of the witch all mysterious, but if you read this with its audiobook companion (like I did), you will figure out who she is in the prologue. Nothing too mysterious about that.
My reasons for rating To Drown A Witch a One Star read are as follows:
(1) The FMC, Nes, is very plain Jane. Her main features are her red hair, blue eyes, and her million and one freckles. There is just nothing special or remarkable about her.
(2) The MMC, Toran, is even worse. Like every other male character, he is supposed be strong jawed, beautiful eyes, and a part of the all mighty Royal Court. In reality, Toran is a butt hole who drinks a lot and lies for no reason. Sometime later in the story, he claims to have known who the witch was this whole time and when his conclusions are listed, all a reader can do is roll their eyes.
(3) Altogether, To Drown A Witch is written in a way that is difficult to follow (literally a time up happens and a reader doesn't figure it out until the middle of said chapter), none of the twists truly stick, and I got bored too quickly. I wanted to DNF is by Chapter 10.
There is a huge possibility that I will forget everything about this book two-three months from now. If this turns out to be a duology, I have no intention of rereading this just so I can read Book #2. However, I might find myself picking up Book #2 just to skim it and see how everything comes to a conclusion. While I am planning to make To Drown A Witch my last witch/witch hunter novel, I do think that this book will find its audience. There are a number of other readers who have DNF’d this book (and their reasons are very valid), but anyone who decides to pick this up and read it then they should. Just because this didn’t work for me doesn’t mean it won’t work for someone else.
I want to wish Lindsey Olsson all the best on her future endeavors, especially her writing career.
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for granting my request for an Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
July 26, 2026
Lindsey Olsson, how fucking dare you!?
When the publishers for this story sent me this book I instantly fell in love with the cover. Then I started reading, and my GOD I fell in love with the characters too. We have to two flawed main characters, one who wants to save her Dad from imprisonment, the other who wants to find “the witch”. I thought I was getting a standard witch x witch hunter story but BOY WAS I WRONG!
THAT ENDING?!
I’m pretty sure I should be put in a c-collar for the levels of whiplash I experienced during those final few chapters. Olsson is a master of plot twists and I will be anxiously awaiting book 2!
When the publishers for this story sent me this book I instantly fell in love with the cover. Then I started reading, and my GOD I fell in love with the characters too. We have to two flawed main characters, one who wants to save her Dad from imprisonment, the other who wants to find “the witch”. I thought I was getting a standard witch x witch hunter story but BOY WAS I WRONG!
THAT ENDING?!
I’m pretty sure I should be put in a c-collar for the levels of whiplash I experienced during those final few chapters. Olsson is a master of plot twists and I will be anxiously awaiting book 2!
November 5, 2025
Two Words: THE BANTER.
November 3, 2025
I love it, but then again, I'm biased.
September 2, 2026
i don't think this one was for me...
August 9, 2026
💚 Witch Hunt
🪄 Strong FMC
💚 Banter
🪄 Guard × Criminal
💚 YA Romantasy
I desperately wanted to love this. I think the concept is unique; I liked the characters—however, the execution and dialogue both feel... choppy.
•
Nes, a thief and criminal in Orlonea with the rare ability to smell magic, is desperately trying to get her father out of prison. Toran, the Prince's Crown and a champion fighter in the King's Guard, is hunting "The Witch"—a rare wielder of magic who is killing the King's Guard and putting the entire kingdom on edge. When Toran discovers Nes's rare ability, he manipulates her into joining the hunt, promising her her father's release in exchange for her services.
•
My biggest problem with this book is that the plot reveals feel either comically predictable or simply unhinged. I did love the concept overall and the banter between the MCs—I actually liked both MCs despite them feeling naive. Nes is a strong FMC, which I can always admire, but she also kind of has that "hey boys, I can spit on the ground too" vibe (IYKYK), which at times feels a little irritating. Sometimes the descriptions of her character (cunning, clever) don't line up with the naive choices she makes. For Toran—well, he is supposed to be one of the most skilled fighters in the kingdom, but he is as daft as a doorknob. The character titles do not line up with the energy they are giving.
One of the reasons they are so determined to find the witch of Orlonea is because the captain of the King's Guard keeps throwing innocent girls and women into the infamous "Witch's Well," where the witch will be drowned, ending her reign of terror. The Witch's Well exists because every time a witch dies, a new one is born and the witch can only be killed by drowning. There are a lot of plot inconsistencies with this. First of all, I feel that murdering innocent girls and women should lead to, I don't know, more political outrage? They are dropping an innocent girl down this well every day, claiming she is "the witch," and the reaction to this is kind of just like, "oh well" (I, Kaitie, am queen of puns FYI). Toran and Nes both obviously are outraged about the drowned girls, but it just doesn't seem like anyone else in the kingdom cares? It's a very passive plotline.
The writing also feels incredibly juvenile. While the descriptions and scene setting aren't bad, the dialogue and overall plot development feel poorly stitched together. It didn't work for me.
Despite my personal issues with the story, it was still entertaining. It had plenty of great moments; however, it feels like it should have had more fine-tuning to make the plot and characters come alive. I'm giving it three stars based on the entertaining banter and good story foundation—even though, unfortunately, it missed the mark for me overall.
•
Thank you to Penguin Young Readers Group for the ARC of this book. All thoughts and feedback in this review are my own.
🪄 Strong FMC
💚 Banter
🪄 Guard × Criminal
💚 YA Romantasy
I desperately wanted to love this. I think the concept is unique; I liked the characters—however, the execution and dialogue both feel... choppy.
•
Nes, a thief and criminal in Orlonea with the rare ability to smell magic, is desperately trying to get her father out of prison. Toran, the Prince's Crown and a champion fighter in the King's Guard, is hunting "The Witch"—a rare wielder of magic who is killing the King's Guard and putting the entire kingdom on edge. When Toran discovers Nes's rare ability, he manipulates her into joining the hunt, promising her her father's release in exchange for her services.
•
My biggest problem with this book is that the plot reveals feel either comically predictable or simply unhinged. I did love the concept overall and the banter between the MCs—I actually liked both MCs despite them feeling naive. Nes is a strong FMC, which I can always admire, but she also kind of has that "hey boys, I can spit on the ground too" vibe (IYKYK), which at times feels a little irritating. Sometimes the descriptions of her character (cunning, clever) don't line up with the naive choices she makes. For Toran—well, he is supposed to be one of the most skilled fighters in the kingdom, but he is as daft as a doorknob. The character titles do not line up with the energy they are giving.
One of the reasons they are so determined to find the witch of Orlonea is because the captain of the King's Guard keeps throwing innocent girls and women into the infamous "Witch's Well," where the witch will be drowned, ending her reign of terror. The Witch's Well exists because every time a witch dies, a new one is born and the witch can only be killed by drowning. There are a lot of plot inconsistencies with this. First of all, I feel that murdering innocent girls and women should lead to, I don't know, more political outrage? They are dropping an innocent girl down this well every day, claiming she is "the witch," and the reaction to this is kind of just like, "oh well" (I, Kaitie, am queen of puns FYI). Toran and Nes both obviously are outraged about the drowned girls, but it just doesn't seem like anyone else in the kingdom cares? It's a very passive plotline.
The writing also feels incredibly juvenile. While the descriptions and scene setting aren't bad, the dialogue and overall plot development feel poorly stitched together. It didn't work for me.
Despite my personal issues with the story, it was still entertaining. It had plenty of great moments; however, it feels like it should have had more fine-tuning to make the plot and characters come alive. I'm giving it three stars based on the entertaining banter and good story foundation—even though, unfortunately, it missed the mark for me overall.
•
Thank you to Penguin Young Readers Group for the ARC of this book. All thoughts and feedback in this review are my own.
Did Not Finish
June 14, 2026After finishing Part 1, I decided not to continue with this book.
I felt the author had plenty of time to establish a solid plot and give readers a better understanding of Toran's and Nes's motivations, making us invested in their journey. Unfortunately, that never happened for me within the first 28% of To Drown a Witch. The story lacked a firm sense of direction, both in its plot and worldbuilding. Even after reaching that point, I still didn't understand why resolving succession issues through a duel between the Prince and the Crown was considered a reasonable solution.
The writing style also didn't work for me. It often felt overly busy, especially during scenes that called for a stronger sense of urgency or action. While I can appreciate descriptive prose, here it frequently clashed with the pacing of the story.
I think the comparison to The Crimson Moth raised my expectations too high. Both books share certain elements, but in my opinion To Drown a Witch executes them less effectively, which made the similarities highlight the book's weaknesses rather than its strengths.
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group | G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I felt the author had plenty of time to establish a solid plot and give readers a better understanding of Toran's and Nes's motivations, making us invested in their journey. Unfortunately, that never happened for me within the first 28% of To Drown a Witch. The story lacked a firm sense of direction, both in its plot and worldbuilding. Even after reaching that point, I still didn't understand why resolving succession issues through a duel between the Prince and the Crown was considered a reasonable solution.
The writing style also didn't work for me. It often felt overly busy, especially during scenes that called for a stronger sense of urgency or action. While I can appreciate descriptive prose, here it frequently clashed with the pacing of the story.
I think the comparison to The Crimson Moth raised my expectations too high. Both books share certain elements, but in my opinion To Drown a Witch executes them less effectively, which made the similarities highlight the book's weaknesses rather than its strengths.
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group | G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to Read
May 30, 2026🖤🔮 To Drown a Witch by Lindsey Olsson 🔮🖤
💭 Bookish Thoughts
I'll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
✨What to Expect
• Enemies to Lovers
• Royal Guard MMC
• Thief FMC
• Witch Hunt
• Forced Proximity
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to Penguin Young Readers Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
💭 Bookish Thoughts
I'll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.
✨What to Expect
• Enemies to Lovers
• Royal Guard MMC
• Thief FMC
• Witch Hunt
• Forced Proximity
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to Penguin Young Readers Group and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Did Not Finish
March 18, 2026I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me a read.
I liked the idea of this book, the execution of it ... well, it could use some work.
It's held up with this very flimsy tale of a witch who is out for revenge, muddled and mixed in a story about a prince and his alternate vying for the throne. The alternate is a captain of the guards and well, he has some emotional baggage when it comes to witches since a previous expedition to kill one caused his wife to die in a ship sinking.
He is paired up with a female who is spunky, but kind of has that hots for him (60% in and both of them have the hots for one another but it's not quite clear on how strong the hate is for one or the other). The female has a talent of seeking out other magical users in a world where witches exist, and people can leach magic from trees in a forest.
The world building is flimsy, the thing is billed as a romantasy so expect a lot of focus on how both parties can't stop thinking about the other (which is confusing since we saw the male lead trying to drink his sorrows away from what happened to his wife previously). She is anti-cop / government / guard because they kill a lot of witches by drowning them in a well. It just doesn't make sense but because, well, ROMANTASY, it will happen!
I really think that there could be a story here, but at 60% in I was getting too annoyed with it because it was all talk but no substance.
Out of respect, choosing not to rate due to not finishing.
I liked the idea of this book, the execution of it ... well, it could use some work.
It's held up with this very flimsy tale of a witch who is out for revenge, muddled and mixed in a story about a prince and his alternate vying for the throne. The alternate is a captain of the guards and well, he has some emotional baggage when it comes to witches since a previous expedition to kill one caused his wife to die in a ship sinking.
He is paired up with a female who is spunky, but kind of has that hots for him (60% in and both of them have the hots for one another but it's not quite clear on how strong the hate is for one or the other). The female has a talent of seeking out other magical users in a world where witches exist, and people can leach magic from trees in a forest.
The world building is flimsy, the thing is billed as a romantasy so expect a lot of focus on how both parties can't stop thinking about the other (which is confusing since we saw the male lead trying to drink his sorrows away from what happened to his wife previously). She is anti-cop / government / guard because they kill a lot of witches by drowning them in a well. It just doesn't make sense but because, well, ROMANTASY, it will happen!
I really think that there could be a story here, but at 60% in I was getting too annoyed with it because it was all talk but no substance.
Out of respect, choosing not to rate due to not finishing.
October 18, 2026
[audio 🎧]
Alors, j’ai eu un peu de mal au début parce que je ne comprenais pas tout, mais après, ça a été de mieux en mieux et j’ai réellement apprécié mon écoute. C’est une belle lecture, avec quand même pas mal d’informations, de personnages et de codes au niveau de l’histoire, mais une fois que l’on s’y fait, ça va tout seul.
Je ne connaissais pas du tout et j’ai été agréablement surprise. Tout est décrit avec justesse, sans que ce soit lourd, et c’est vraiment fort appréciable. J’avais l’impression de vivre là-bas avec eux et je me suis laissée transporter.
Et honnêtement, je m’attendais à avoir un tome 2… mais ça laisse la possibilité d’une suite ou d’une fin ouverte.
Alors, j’ai eu un peu de mal au début parce que je ne comprenais pas tout, mais après, ça a été de mieux en mieux et j’ai réellement apprécié mon écoute. C’est une belle lecture, avec quand même pas mal d’informations, de personnages et de codes au niveau de l’histoire, mais une fois que l’on s’y fait, ça va tout seul.
Je ne connaissais pas du tout et j’ai été agréablement surprise. Tout est décrit avec justesse, sans que ce soit lourd, et c’est vraiment fort appréciable. J’avais l’impression de vivre là-bas avec eux et je me suis laissée transporter.
Et honnêtement, je m’attendais à avoir un tome 2… mais ça laisse la possibilité d’une suite ou d’une fin ouverte.
July 17, 2026
3.25 ⭐️ - I love a Witch/Witch-Hunter story, so when I saw To Drown a Witch was being compared to Heartless Hunter, I had to pick it up. Though there are definitely overlaps between the two books, I don't think To Drown a Witch does the plot, mystery, or the romance as well. But overall, I found this to be an entertaining, fast read despite a few issues.
Part of the reason it's such a fast read is that there's pretty minimal worldbuilding. You get a few short explanations on the magic here and there, and the setting is kept vague. I did wish the world and magic system were more built out, but the lack of detail meant we jumped straight into the plot.
I really loved our main characters and their banter. Nes is witty, confident, and competent. Our MMC Toran is coping with grief and dealing with alcohol dependency, which is a heads-up if that's a sensitivity for you. Beyond the grief, he doesn't have many other personality traits. I liked their dynamic together. I'd say the the romance is closer to reluctant allies to lovers to maybe enemies, which I always enjoy.
So, lots to like here, but there were also a few glaring issues that kept pulling me out of the book.
A lot of the things that happen don't make sense. Some are minor details like our FMC is on the run from her old boss, but goes home every night to her apartment which is in the same building as his business. Others are bigger, like throughout the mystery, we leap from clue to a really convenient solution that isn't explained, so I found myself having to fill in the gaps. The ending twists are the biggest example because this book is dual POV, so the last 15% or so only works if neither character ever once thinks about what they're planning to do. All these issues stacked on top of each other made the book a little incoherent and hard to wrap my mind around. If you're the kind of reader who holds onto details (like me 🙋🏽♀️), these issues may frustrate you. If you're not, you'll probably have a good time.
The ending encapsulates how I feel about this book. It didn't make a ton of sense, but it was so entertaining and shocking that I'm definitely going to read the next one. If you're looking for a well built out world and a coherent plot, I would avoid this one. If you want a fast and twisty Witch vs. Witch Hunter story, this one is worth a look.
✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the ARC!
Burner Kindle Book Blog
Part of the reason it's such a fast read is that there's pretty minimal worldbuilding. You get a few short explanations on the magic here and there, and the setting is kept vague. I did wish the world and magic system were more built out, but the lack of detail meant we jumped straight into the plot.
I really loved our main characters and their banter. Nes is witty, confident, and competent. Our MMC Toran is coping with grief and dealing with alcohol dependency, which is a heads-up if that's a sensitivity for you. Beyond the grief, he doesn't have many other personality traits. I liked their dynamic together. I'd say the the romance is closer to reluctant allies to lovers to maybe enemies, which I always enjoy.
So, lots to like here, but there were also a few glaring issues that kept pulling me out of the book.
A lot of the things that happen don't make sense. Some are minor details like our FMC is on the run from her old boss, but goes home every night to her apartment which is in the same building as his business. Others are bigger, like throughout the mystery, we leap from clue to a really convenient solution that isn't explained, so I found myself having to fill in the gaps. The ending twists are the biggest example because this book is dual POV, so the last 15% or so only works if neither character ever once thinks about what they're planning to do. All these issues stacked on top of each other made the book a little incoherent and hard to wrap my mind around. If you're the kind of reader who holds onto details (like me 🙋🏽♀️), these issues may frustrate you. If you're not, you'll probably have a good time.
The ending encapsulates how I feel about this book. It didn't make a ton of sense, but it was so entertaining and shocking that I'm definitely going to read the next one. If you're looking for a well built out world and a coherent plot, I would avoid this one. If you want a fast and twisty Witch vs. Witch Hunter story, this one is worth a look.
✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the ARC!
Burner Kindle Book Blog
October 14, 2026
It was really good, I absolutely loved it!! Anything to do with witches I will read 😂😂! Loved the characters and that plot was amazing!! So many twists that I didn’t even see that left me with tons of questions!! 😭😂
I can’t wait for the second one!! Would definitely recommend!!! ❤️
I can’t wait for the second one!! Would definitely recommend!!! ❤️
August 5, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up!
I can't pinpoint it exactly, but this ultimately wasn't my favorite. I found both main characters to be unlikable, and the twists were either predictable, or strayed too far on the edge of ridiculousness that it didn't make sense for the story, feeling forced. This also lacked elements I really enjoy in YA fantasy stories. I was missing the found family vibes, the angst I love in enemies to lovers, and all the strategic scheming. I do think it's fair to market this as similar to Heartless Hunter (that is what actually made me request this), but I just think, unfortunately, it pales in comparison. All the being said, it held my interest enough for me to keep reading, and the ending captured me enough that I not only felt it fair to bump up my rating, but I think I'll pick up the sequel too.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! All opinions are my own.
I can't pinpoint it exactly, but this ultimately wasn't my favorite. I found both main characters to be unlikable, and the twists were either predictable, or strayed too far on the edge of ridiculousness that it didn't make sense for the story, feeling forced. This also lacked elements I really enjoy in YA fantasy stories. I was missing the found family vibes, the angst I love in enemies to lovers, and all the strategic scheming. I do think it's fair to market this as similar to Heartless Hunter (that is what actually made me request this), but I just think, unfortunately, it pales in comparison. All the being said, it held my interest enough for me to keep reading, and the ending captured me enough that I not only felt it fair to bump up my rating, but I think I'll pick up the sequel too.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! All opinions are my own.
May 31, 2026
Thank you to HarperCollins and Netgalley for the chance to read this arc.
To Drown a Witch was ok. Nothing outstanding or memorable really. The book was fast paced but confusing a lot of the time. Im still not 100% sure how magic works. The final 15% of the book was very chaotic and I struggled to wrap my head around certain bits. I didn’t see the ending coming anyways so it definitely wasn’t a predictable read. What I did love was the chemistry and banter between Nes and Toran.
I’m assuming after that cliffhanger ending there will be a sequel but i’m unsure whether I’ll pick it up or not.
To Drown a Witch was ok. Nothing outstanding or memorable really. The book was fast paced but confusing a lot of the time. Im still not 100% sure how magic works. The final 15% of the book was very chaotic and I struggled to wrap my head around certain bits. I didn’t see the ending coming anyways so it definitely wasn’t a predictable read. What I did love was the chemistry and banter between Nes and Toran.
I’m assuming after that cliffhanger ending there will be a sequel but i’m unsure whether I’ll pick it up or not.
September 25, 2026
"Try to leash me, and you'll find I bite."
In Gadore, the Witch torments the land. Every time she is killed, she is reborn, and the only person with magic running through their veins. Guards and men are viciously killed by the Witch each day, and countless women are drowned in hopes they'll be the witch they seek. When thief Nes, who has an ability to sniff out magic, teams up with royal guard Toran on a mission to find the elusive witch, the two quickly become quite the pair. But the Witch is always one step ahead, and secrets and feelings begin to fester between them.
This was a quick and easy read that I was entertained with the entire way through. I think if you've read any fantasy book ever, the witch's identity is pretty obvious, but from the annotated chapters (exclusive to the Fairyloot edition) that seemed to be the author's intent.
When I was 50% through this book, I was having a good time, but I figured this would be a book I'd immediately unhaul once it was over, as I just wasn't interested enough in the series to continue. Toran and Nes had a weirdly paced romance that I wasn't a fan of. When they first team up, Toran is still grieving and actively looking for his dead fiancé. I found it odd that he was professing to Nes how much he desires her, and they even have a sex scene in the latter half???? By that point, I was kind of okay with where their romance went because he hadn't mentioned his fiancé. The last 25%, though, PHEW. It was wild! Immediately, I understood why it was paced as such, and this has me so locked in for the sequel! If Fairyloot releases an edition, I'll pick it up, but if not, I guess I'll never know where it leads!
This book reminded me of the reading experience of a lot of YA authors I love: Rachel Griffin, Kristen Ciccarelli, Erin A. Craig, and even a bit of Shea Ernshaw! If you're into a more misty witch novel and are into a slightly more mature YA, I'd recommend!
July 17, 2026
J’avais vraiment envie d’aimer ce livre et il possède des éléments qui m’ont beaucoup plu. L’ambiance est sombre, les meurtres sont macabres et la chasse aux sorcières est captivante.
En revanche, la romance m'a laissée sur ma faim. Elle m'a semblé trop rapide pour être crédible. Les deux protagonistes se rencontrent et très vite l'attirance est actée. Ils cessent d'être de véritables adversaires. Même si les nombreux rebondissements de la fin viennent compliquer leur relation, je ne me suis pas attachée aux personnages.
Et comment ne pas penser à Heartless Hunter ? Lui est membre de la Garde Royale, elle est une voleuse. Ils doivent collaborer pour retrouver la Sorcière. Ils ont leurs secrets et se méfient l’un de l’autre. La dynamique fait donc penser à Gideon et Rune, sans égaler la tension et l'interdit de leur relation. Et puis l'alchimie entre Nes et Toran reste moins addictive.
L’enquête reste cependant entraînante, avec de nombreux indices pour prévoir ce qui va arriver et d'autres qui surprennent vraiment. Attention, la fin est ouverte (une suite est attendue). De plus, c'est parfois à la limite du YA avec des condamnations et des meurtres violents. Le héros est aussi présenté comme alcoolique. Et puis l'ambiance à Gadore est bien glauque.
Bref, c'est différent de ce que j'avais imaginé (oubliez la vibe Heartless Hunter). Je conseillerais davantage ce livre comme un conte noir teinté de fantasy que comme une véritable romance.
En revanche, la romance m'a laissée sur ma faim. Elle m'a semblé trop rapide pour être crédible. Les deux protagonistes se rencontrent et très vite l'attirance est actée. Ils cessent d'être de véritables adversaires. Même si les nombreux rebondissements de la fin viennent compliquer leur relation, je ne me suis pas attachée aux personnages.
Et comment ne pas penser à Heartless Hunter ? Lui est membre de la Garde Royale, elle est une voleuse. Ils doivent collaborer pour retrouver la Sorcière. Ils ont leurs secrets et se méfient l’un de l’autre. La dynamique fait donc penser à Gideon et Rune, sans égaler la tension et l'interdit de leur relation. Et puis l'alchimie entre Nes et Toran reste moins addictive.
L’enquête reste cependant entraînante, avec de nombreux indices pour prévoir ce qui va arriver et d'autres qui surprennent vraiment. Attention, la fin est ouverte (une suite est attendue). De plus, c'est parfois à la limite du YA avec des condamnations et des meurtres violents. Le héros est aussi présenté comme alcoolique. Et puis l'ambiance à Gadore est bien glauque.
Bref, c'est différent de ce que j'avais imaginé (oubliez la vibe Heartless Hunter). Je conseillerais davantage ce livre comme un conte noir teinté de fantasy que comme une véritable romance.
October 3, 2026
2.75 ⭐️
age rating: 17+ (sexual content, violence, drowning, drunkenness, addiction)
spice: 🌶️.5 (quick open door scene)
language: 2/5
closed door modifications: skip end of ch 29
for the first 100 pages, i was seriously thinking i had at least a four star read in my hands. this was fairyloot’s YA pick for august, and i admit—it was the gorgeous fanart that really drew me in and convinced me to pick it up.
however,☝🏼i soon discovered that despite the captivating writing, the pacing was slowly driving me insane and i was finding more and more issues with the characters. now, i do love a dual pov romantasy, but do you really expect me to believe that after a major plot twist, certain characters actually “just knew” the entire time?? did we just have false narration for the entire book?? toran’s drinking problem could’ve also been handled better.
there’s a scene where the two mcs share a bed unclothed to retain body heat. okay, fine. but WHY are we later hint hinting at the mmc’s physical reactions and then having the characters crack jokes about it—in a book marketed to young teenagers. i feel like i don’t talk about this as much as i should, but it really infuriates me what publishers are pushing nowadays towards younger audiences. both protagonists in this are in their late teens/early twenties AND there is an intimate scene and multiple references throughout. in what world does an 8th grader need to be reading this.
overall, there was some decent banter, and i was a fan of the atmosphere and setting. i would have milder feelings about all the content i listed off if this was simply marketed as a NA/adult novel. but no. 😀😀 as for strictly the storyline, i struggled to understand the magic and political systems, and felt that the ending was messy. readers are left behind on a major cliffhanger, and i’m unsure whether or not i was SUPPOSED to understand what i was left with.
🎵: who i thought i knew - freya skye
silver lining - laufey
no time to die - billie eilish
age rating: 17+ (sexual content, violence, drowning, drunkenness, addiction)
spice: 🌶️.5 (quick open door scene)
language: 2/5
closed door modifications: skip end of ch 29
for the first 100 pages, i was seriously thinking i had at least a four star read in my hands. this was fairyloot’s YA pick for august, and i admit—it was the gorgeous fanart that really drew me in and convinced me to pick it up.
however,☝🏼i soon discovered that despite the captivating writing, the pacing was slowly driving me insane and i was finding more and more issues with the characters. now, i do love a dual pov romantasy, but do you really expect me to believe that after a major plot twist, certain characters actually “just knew” the entire time?? did we just have false narration for the entire book?? toran’s drinking problem could’ve also been handled better.
there’s a scene where the two mcs share a bed unclothed to retain body heat. okay, fine. but WHY are we later hint hinting at the mmc’s physical reactions and then having the characters crack jokes about it—in a book marketed to young teenagers. i feel like i don’t talk about this as much as i should, but it really infuriates me what publishers are pushing nowadays towards younger audiences. both protagonists in this are in their late teens/early twenties AND there is an intimate scene and multiple references throughout. in what world does an 8th grader need to be reading this.
overall, there was some decent banter, and i was a fan of the atmosphere and setting. i would have milder feelings about all the content i listed off if this was simply marketed as a NA/adult novel. but no. 😀😀 as for strictly the storyline, i struggled to understand the magic and political systems, and felt that the ending was messy. readers are left behind on a major cliffhanger, and i’m unsure whether or not i was SUPPOSED to understand what i was left with.
🎵: who i thought i knew - freya skye
silver lining - laufey
no time to die - billie eilish
May 5, 2026
NetGalley ARC Review:
I requested an ARC of To Drown a Witch because I was drawn to the premise of a single witch being born each generation and hunted by the rest of society. However, after reading, it feels like this concept was used more as set dressing for a rushed romance rather than as the foundation for a fully cohesive and developed story.
The story reads like a series of loosely connected ideas with limited focus on structure or pay-off. The writing itself is uneven. On a sentence level, there are moments where the prose is nonsensical, for example: “Her gut turned solid as her heart melted into it.” The dialogue between the two main characters leans heavily on awkward, juvenile “banter” that feels more suited to middle grade than YA, including jokes about seagull “poo” and the characters saying the other “sounds constipated.” This tone made it even more jarring when readers were subjected to an open door sex scene between the 18 year old protagonist and her love interest. It feels like the author never fully committed to the intended audience for this novel.
Adequate time was not taken to develop compelling characters or relationships. The central romance relies heavily on the insta-lust trope, with the male lead quickly filling the emotional void left by the imprisonment of the protagonist’s father after only a few days of physical attraction and “banter.” When someone known to the protagonist is accused of being the witch and executed, it carries little emotional weight and is barely acknowledged afterward. Altogether, the character work felt overwhelmingly shallow.
The world-building is similarly underdeveloped, offering scattered ideas rather than a fully realized setting. Even what seems to be intended as a central mystery -the identity of the witch- is handled in a way that feels obvious from the outset, making the final reveal lack any real impact.
Ultimately, this reads more like a draft than a finished novel. With significantly more time and effort, this could have been developed into something compelling; however, as it stands, the story lacks direction and substance. I do not plan on continuing this series.
I requested an ARC of To Drown a Witch because I was drawn to the premise of a single witch being born each generation and hunted by the rest of society. However, after reading, it feels like this concept was used more as set dressing for a rushed romance rather than as the foundation for a fully cohesive and developed story.
The story reads like a series of loosely connected ideas with limited focus on structure or pay-off. The writing itself is uneven. On a sentence level, there are moments where the prose is nonsensical, for example: “Her gut turned solid as her heart melted into it.” The dialogue between the two main characters leans heavily on awkward, juvenile “banter” that feels more suited to middle grade than YA, including jokes about seagull “poo” and the characters saying the other “sounds constipated.” This tone made it even more jarring when readers were subjected to an open door sex scene between the 18 year old protagonist and her love interest. It feels like the author never fully committed to the intended audience for this novel.
Adequate time was not taken to develop compelling characters or relationships. The central romance relies heavily on the insta-lust trope, with the male lead quickly filling the emotional void left by the imprisonment of the protagonist’s father after only a few days of physical attraction and “banter.” When someone known to the protagonist is accused of being the witch and executed, it carries little emotional weight and is barely acknowledged afterward. Altogether, the character work felt overwhelmingly shallow.
The world-building is similarly underdeveloped, offering scattered ideas rather than a fully realized setting. Even what seems to be intended as a central mystery -the identity of the witch- is handled in a way that feels obvious from the outset, making the final reveal lack any real impact.
Ultimately, this reads more like a draft than a finished novel. With significantly more time and effort, this could have been developed into something compelling; however, as it stands, the story lacks direction and substance. I do not plan on continuing this series.
July 27, 2026
I thought I had this story figured out. I was so confident in my predictions that my interest had actually started to wane around the 75% mark. Alas, I was committed, so I persevered.
I OWE THE AUTHOR AN APOLOGY. I could not have been more wrong. I am sorry for losing faith. I am sorry for doubting you. I am sorry for having an outrageously inflated opinion of my detective skills. You. Fucking. Got. Me.
The last quarter of this story is pure DRAMA. Now I need book two like yesterday. I am absolutely chomping at the bit to find out .
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Young Readers Group, and Lindsey Olsson for the advance reader copy and for keeping me on my toes. This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
I OWE THE AUTHOR AN APOLOGY. I could not have been more wrong. I am sorry for losing faith. I am sorry for doubting you. I am sorry for having an outrageously inflated opinion of my detective skills. You. Fucking. Got. Me.
The last quarter of this story is pure DRAMA. Now I need book two like yesterday. I am absolutely chomping at the bit to find out .
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Young Readers Group, and Lindsey Olsson for the advance reader copy and for keeping me on my toes. This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
October 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️ish 3 stars
+ I really liked the idea behind the book and what the author was trying to do with the story.
- Unfortunately, I figured out the twist fairly early on, so I wasn’t particularly surprised when it was revealed towards the end. I literally saw it coming.
~ The writing is sometimes overly metaphorical in a way that makes things feel almost too obvious (if that makes sense…)
~ Overall, it was an okay read, but not my favourite FairyLoot book.
+ I really liked the idea behind the book and what the author was trying to do with the story.
- Unfortunately, I figured out the twist fairly early on, so I wasn’t particularly surprised when it was revealed towards the end. I literally saw it coming.
~ The writing is sometimes overly metaphorical in a way that makes things feel almost too obvious (if that makes sense…)
~ Overall, it was an okay read, but not my favourite FairyLoot book.
September 21, 2026
this had a kind of interesting (but predictable) plot, and the world was decently interesting, but the romance was NOT it, it really put me off the whole book
July 11, 2026
Debut author Lindsey Olsson has hit it out of the park with To Drown a Witch, the first book in her To Drown a Witch duology. This story had everything I could want in a romantic fantasy and more.
Told from the dual POVs of Nes Deivana, a criminal who survives by snuffing out magic for Phineas Wraw, Gadore’s underlord, and Toran Roada, the young captain of the Orlonean King’s Guard and the Prince’s Crown, To Drown a Witch is an enemies-to-lovers romantic fantasy that combines found family, friendship, betrayal, and a cat-and-mouse mystery that will leave you shocked at the end.
When guards around Gadore start being horrifically killed, everyone knows the Witch has returned. King Harkett tasks Toran with locating the Witch and bringing her to justice. In order to accomplish his mission, Toran calls on Nes to assist him, with the promise of freeing her father from Walled Prison. Together, the two search for the Witch, all while another captain is bent on finding the Witch himself and killing her, just as he did the previous one. This means that innocent women are being killed without a trial. Very much reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials.
I immediately loved the characters of Nes and Toran. Their dislike/distrust of each other is very valid and deserved. Their fade-to-black romance was a slow burn in the best possible way. Nes and Toran are both battling their pasts and have secrets of their own. Hunting for the Witch changes them in some ways. The plot and story itself make To Drown a Witch good. But it is the twists and turns that put this story over the top. I don't even know what that ending was! Shocking is the first word that comes to mind. I just know that I need the next book immediately!
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Caring isn’t a weakness, it could be your greatest strength.”
“Everyone’s broken. It’s how you piece yourself together that matters.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a hardcover copy.**
Told from the dual POVs of Nes Deivana, a criminal who survives by snuffing out magic for Phineas Wraw, Gadore’s underlord, and Toran Roada, the young captain of the Orlonean King’s Guard and the Prince’s Crown, To Drown a Witch is an enemies-to-lovers romantic fantasy that combines found family, friendship, betrayal, and a cat-and-mouse mystery that will leave you shocked at the end.
When guards around Gadore start being horrifically killed, everyone knows the Witch has returned. King Harkett tasks Toran with locating the Witch and bringing her to justice. In order to accomplish his mission, Toran calls on Nes to assist him, with the promise of freeing her father from Walled Prison. Together, the two search for the Witch, all while another captain is bent on finding the Witch himself and killing her, just as he did the previous one. This means that innocent women are being killed without a trial. Very much reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials.
I immediately loved the characters of Nes and Toran. Their dislike/distrust of each other is very valid and deserved. Their fade-to-black romance was a slow burn in the best possible way. Nes and Toran are both battling their pasts and have secrets of their own. Hunting for the Witch changes them in some ways. The plot and story itself make To Drown a Witch good. But it is the twists and turns that put this story over the top. I don't even know what that ending was! Shocking is the first word that comes to mind. I just know that I need the next book immediately!
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Caring isn’t a weakness, it could be your greatest strength.”
“Everyone’s broken. It’s how you piece yourself together that matters.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a hardcover copy.**
July 16, 2026
Well... this book was a bit of a hot mess.
And somehow... I still had fun with it.
The premise immediately grabbed my attention. In Orlonea, the Witch is the most feared person in the kingdom. Reborn every generation, she's the only one who can wield magic naturally, and when guards across the city begin dying in gruesome ways, everyone is convinced she's returned. Cue the witch hunt.
Toran, the King's most skilled guards, is tasked with finding the Witch, and along the way he's forced to team up with Nes, a thief with the unusual ability to sense magic. Their partnership quickly becomes the heart of the story as they investigate the murders and uncover long-buried secrets.
I really enjoyed the world-building and the mystery surrounding the Witch. There were plenty of twists, betrayals and revelations that kept me turning the pages, and I genuinely wanted to know what was really happening.
That said... the second half became incredibly chaotic. So many things happened in such a short amount of time that it sometimes felt a little unbalanced, and I found myself wishing some of those moments had been given more room to breathe.
And then there's Toran.
Let's just say... we are not on speaking terms right now.
I understood why he acted the way he did, but after everything that happened, I was left more frustrated with him than anything else. If this series is heading where I think it is, then Book Two had better deliver some serious groveling before I'm ready to even considering giving him some attention... tssk!
Overall, I still enjoyed the ride. The mystery kept me hooked, the fantasy elements were interesting, and despite my frustrations, I'm definitely curious enough to pick up the sequel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
And somehow... I still had fun with it.
The premise immediately grabbed my attention. In Orlonea, the Witch is the most feared person in the kingdom. Reborn every generation, she's the only one who can wield magic naturally, and when guards across the city begin dying in gruesome ways, everyone is convinced she's returned. Cue the witch hunt.
Toran, the King's most skilled guards, is tasked with finding the Witch, and along the way he's forced to team up with Nes, a thief with the unusual ability to sense magic. Their partnership quickly becomes the heart of the story as they investigate the murders and uncover long-buried secrets.
I really enjoyed the world-building and the mystery surrounding the Witch. There were plenty of twists, betrayals and revelations that kept me turning the pages, and I genuinely wanted to know what was really happening.
That said... the second half became incredibly chaotic. So many things happened in such a short amount of time that it sometimes felt a little unbalanced, and I found myself wishing some of those moments had been given more room to breathe.
And then there's Toran.
Let's just say... we are not on speaking terms right now.
I understood why he acted the way he did, but after everything that happened, I was left more frustrated with him than anything else. If this series is heading where I think it is, then Book Two had better deliver some serious groveling before I'm ready to even considering giving him some attention... tssk!
Overall, I still enjoyed the ride. The mystery kept me hooked, the fantasy elements were interesting, and despite my frustrations, I'm definitely curious enough to pick up the sequel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
July 22, 2026
To Drown a Witch avait tout pour me plaire. Le résumé promettait une quête captivante, une chasse à la sorcière et un duo improbable, le tout dans un univers de fantasy qui m’intriguait beaucoup.
Malheureusement, ma lecture m’a laissée un sentiment mitigé. J’ai trouvé que le début était très long à se mettre en place. L’univers et les personnages sont décrits avec beaucoup de détails, mais le rythme peine à décoller, ce qui a rendu les premières centaines de pages assez lentes.
À l’inverse, les 150 dernières pages concentrent presque toute l’action. Les événements s’enchaînent enfin et deviennent vraiment intéressants, mais j’ai eu l’impression que tout allait beaucoup trop vite. Certaines scènes auraient mérité d’être davantage développées pour laisser le temps aux émotions et aux révélations de prendre leur place.
C’est donc une lecture qui m’a laissée partagée : un univers prometteur et une fin riche en action, mais un déséquilibre dans le rythme qui m’a empêchée d’être totalement conquise.
Merci à @robertlaffont et @gleeph pour l’envoi ✨
Malheureusement, ma lecture m’a laissée un sentiment mitigé. J’ai trouvé que le début était très long à se mettre en place. L’univers et les personnages sont décrits avec beaucoup de détails, mais le rythme peine à décoller, ce qui a rendu les premières centaines de pages assez lentes.
À l’inverse, les 150 dernières pages concentrent presque toute l’action. Les événements s’enchaînent enfin et deviennent vraiment intéressants, mais j’ai eu l’impression que tout allait beaucoup trop vite. Certaines scènes auraient mérité d’être davantage développées pour laisser le temps aux émotions et aux révélations de prendre leur place.
C’est donc une lecture qui m’a laissée partagée : un univers prometteur et une fin riche en action, mais un déséquilibre dans le rythme qui m’a empêchée d’être totalement conquise.
Merci à @robertlaffont et @gleeph pour l’envoi ✨
May 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC copy of “To Drown a Witch”! This is my honest and completely voluntary review! 😊🖤
“To Drown a Witch” follows FMC Nes, a hired hand from “The Ditch”, and MMC Toran, the Prince’s Crown, an unlikely pair, that partner together to find the witch and bring her to the king. From there, the king will decide her fate. There are several bumps along the way but, the ride is well worth it!
The characters are intriguing and magnetic. The adventure that these characters go on is very interesting and compelling. The world is very well described and easy to picture. The story is beautifully written. There are several twists throughout that keep you on the edge of your seat. I read this book in one day, had it not been for having to work, I would have happily read it in a single sitting! The magic basis in this story is captivating. I went in blindly and so happy that I did! Jumping into this story was the absolute perfect way to spend an afternoon!
I absolutely cannot wait for the second book in the duology to continue this story! I will most definitely read from Lindsey Olsson again in the future. This book is well worth the read. I completely enjoyed my time with the characters and I wait for the conclusion of this tale with bated breath. Definitely recommend reading if you love fantasy! 😊🖤
5 🌟
“To Drown a Witch” follows FMC Nes, a hired hand from “The Ditch”, and MMC Toran, the Prince’s Crown, an unlikely pair, that partner together to find the witch and bring her to the king. From there, the king will decide her fate. There are several bumps along the way but, the ride is well worth it!
The characters are intriguing and magnetic. The adventure that these characters go on is very interesting and compelling. The world is very well described and easy to picture. The story is beautifully written. There are several twists throughout that keep you on the edge of your seat. I read this book in one day, had it not been for having to work, I would have happily read it in a single sitting! The magic basis in this story is captivating. I went in blindly and so happy that I did! Jumping into this story was the absolute perfect way to spend an afternoon!
I absolutely cannot wait for the second book in the duology to continue this story! I will most definitely read from Lindsey Olsson again in the future. This book is well worth the read. I completely enjoyed my time with the characters and I wait for the conclusion of this tale with bated breath. Definitely recommend reading if you love fantasy! 😊🖤
5 🌟
Did Not Finish
July 18, 202610%
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