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Witches Anonymous
Wren Fletcher just wants to survive her court-mandated support group without wrecking her life any further.
One drunken dive into a fountain, one brutal breakup and one bogus firing later, she arrives at her first compulsory meeting expecting stale biscuits and total anonymity. Instead, she finds a room full of women looking at her as though they know something she does not.
They do know something. Wren is a water witch—born into a hidden magical world she never knew existed, with powers she cannot control and a babysitter she definitely did not ask for.
Maisie Stonecroft is composed, infuriatingly capable and next in line to lead the country’s most powerful coven. She does not do chaos. Wren is chaos, armed with razor-sharp sarcasm and no patience for rules, magical or otherwise. They should not work.
But between disaster-prone lessons, dangerous coven politics and a spark threatening to become a wildfire, Wren begins to wonder whether she is ready to stop hiding—from magic, from Maisie and from life itself.
Funny, heartfelt and delightfully irreverent, Witches Anonymous is a slow-burn sapphic paranormal romcom about opposites attracting, magical found family and discovering that the best thing life can hex you with may be exactly what you need.
Human Authored™ Reg. No. 6018849 — The Authors Guild
One drunken dive into a fountain, one brutal breakup and one bogus firing later, she arrives at her first compulsory meeting expecting stale biscuits and total anonymity. Instead, she finds a room full of women looking at her as though they know something she does not.
They do know something. Wren is a water witch—born into a hidden magical world she never knew existed, with powers she cannot control and a babysitter she definitely did not ask for.
Maisie Stonecroft is composed, infuriatingly capable and next in line to lead the country’s most powerful coven. She does not do chaos. Wren is chaos, armed with razor-sharp sarcasm and no patience for rules, magical or otherwise. They should not work.
But between disaster-prone lessons, dangerous coven politics and a spark threatening to become a wildfire, Wren begins to wonder whether she is ready to stop hiding—from magic, from Maisie and from life itself.
Funny, heartfelt and delightfully irreverent, Witches Anonymous is a slow-burn sapphic paranormal romcom about opposites attracting, magical found family and discovering that the best thing life can hex you with may be exactly what you need.
Human Authored™ Reg. No. 6018849 — The Authors Guild
- GenresLesbian
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2026
About the author
Alyson Root
31 books272 followersAlyson was born and raised in the heart of England. She moved to Paris in 2015 when she met her wife. Together they moved to the west of France where they now live with their two dogs and pet bird. Alyson spends her time running a small campsite and holiday home. During her off time, she loves to read lesbian romance books, write and Scuba Dive.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a huge fan of her work, I was so thrilled for this one because I’ve really been missing Alyson’s fantasy stories lately, and this time we're trading vampires for witches, which I'm certainly not going to complain about! So when I saw that approval email, I jumped straight in. And while the initial setup had so much going for it, the way it all came together unfortunately didn't quite click with me.
I had a slightly rocky start with the leads at first, and Wren was the biggest reason why. She's very closed-off and grumpy by design, and it honestly took until the final stretch before I realized that she had genuinely started growing on me. For most of the novel, though, she tended to hide anything remotely vulnerable behind sarcastic comments. I could tell that was intentional, and I don't necessarily think it's a bad character trait, but I still had a hard time forming much of a connection with her for a large portion of the book.
Maisie was much easier for me to warm up to. She's basically a softer, quieter, more anxious version of a sunshine archetype, and I deeply enjoyed watching her become more confident in herself. She carries the burden of being the daughter of her coven's matriarch and spends so much time worrying about whether she'll ever measure up to her mother. What I liked was that she eventually realizes much of that pressure was coming from herself rather than being imposed by her mother, who was incredibly patient and understanding instead. However, I was hoping we'd see more scenes of Maisie doing the actual work to become independent, rather than just seeing her come to that conclusion. But who knows, maybe that's exactly what the sequel has in store for us.
The magic system was another area where I found myself wanting more. This was probably the element I was most eager about going in, but it ended up feeling more atmospheric than developed. We don't get a huge amount of explanation about its rules, limitations, or what really goes into mastering it beyond controlling your emotions. It worked well enough as a way to create tension and intimacy between the MCs, but I couldn't help wishing there was more substance behind it.
And speaking of Wren's magic, I noticed there were only a couple of brief moments where we actually see her learning to control it. One minute she's barely able to handle her powers, and then suddenly she's accessing them without needing to concentrate. Since so much of the suspense comes from her wild magic, I wish that growth hadn't mostly happened behind the scenes. It didn't completely ruin my reading experience, but it did make her sudden progress feel a little too convenient.
Now, when it comes to the love story... that’s where the book lost me a bit.
This was very much an insta-lust situation, and sadly, I never felt the deep connection between the MCs as strongly as I wanted to. Their interactions were heavily driven by attraction, and their relationship seemed to move forward at a speed that was simply too swift for my personal taste. I needed more time for them to fully get to know each other, build trust, and develop something beyond physical chemistry.
There was also this unspoken fate/bond element tied to their craft that made the whole thing feel even more fabricated, which didn't exactly help. By the time they were falling for each other, I was left wondering where the emotional foundation had ultimately been built. In the end, I just didn't feel like they truly earned that big romantic payoff.
BUT, and this is important, that's very much a personal preference rather than me saying the romance itself was objectively flawed. I know plenty of readers love that immediate, electric attraction between characters, and if that's your thing, I can absolutely see this dynamic working for you.
The found family aspect, though? That was definitely my favorite part. Debbie and Lillian brought so much warmth and humor to the plot, especially when things started getting tense, and even the scenes with Maisie's grandmother added to that comforting atmosphere. Honestly, it was the wonderful supporting cast that truly carried the story and made it so enjoyable.
Overall, Witches Anonymous delivers a cute, low-stakes fantasy romance featuring a fast-paced relationship, an easy-to-follow magic system, and tons of heartwarming found family dynamics. It didn't quite hit the high bar set by some of Alyson's other books I've loved, but it’s still a highly entertaining option for a cozy weekend read.
I had a slightly rocky start with the leads at first, and Wren was the biggest reason why. She's very closed-off and grumpy by design, and it honestly took until the final stretch before I realized that she had genuinely started growing on me. For most of the novel, though, she tended to hide anything remotely vulnerable behind sarcastic comments. I could tell that was intentional, and I don't necessarily think it's a bad character trait, but I still had a hard time forming much of a connection with her for a large portion of the book.
Maisie was much easier for me to warm up to. She's basically a softer, quieter, more anxious version of a sunshine archetype, and I deeply enjoyed watching her become more confident in herself. She carries the burden of being the daughter of her coven's matriarch and spends so much time worrying about whether she'll ever measure up to her mother. What I liked was that she eventually realizes much of that pressure was coming from herself rather than being imposed by her mother, who was incredibly patient and understanding instead. However, I was hoping we'd see more scenes of Maisie doing the actual work to become independent, rather than just seeing her come to that conclusion. But who knows, maybe that's exactly what the sequel has in store for us.
The magic system was another area where I found myself wanting more. This was probably the element I was most eager about going in, but it ended up feeling more atmospheric than developed. We don't get a huge amount of explanation about its rules, limitations, or what really goes into mastering it beyond controlling your emotions. It worked well enough as a way to create tension and intimacy between the MCs, but I couldn't help wishing there was more substance behind it.
And speaking of Wren's magic, I noticed there were only a couple of brief moments where we actually see her learning to control it. One minute she's barely able to handle her powers, and then suddenly she's accessing them without needing to concentrate. Since so much of the suspense comes from her wild magic, I wish that growth hadn't mostly happened behind the scenes. It didn't completely ruin my reading experience, but it did make her sudden progress feel a little too convenient.
Now, when it comes to the love story... that’s where the book lost me a bit.
This was very much an insta-lust situation, and sadly, I never felt the deep connection between the MCs as strongly as I wanted to. Their interactions were heavily driven by attraction, and their relationship seemed to move forward at a speed that was simply too swift for my personal taste. I needed more time for them to fully get to know each other, build trust, and develop something beyond physical chemistry.
There was also this unspoken fate/bond element tied to their craft that made the whole thing feel even more fabricated, which didn't exactly help. By the time they were falling for each other, I was left wondering where the emotional foundation had ultimately been built. In the end, I just didn't feel like they truly earned that big romantic payoff.
BUT, and this is important, that's very much a personal preference rather than me saying the romance itself was objectively flawed. I know plenty of readers love that immediate, electric attraction between characters, and if that's your thing, I can absolutely see this dynamic working for you.
The found family aspect, though? That was definitely my favorite part. Debbie and Lillian brought so much warmth and humor to the plot, especially when things started getting tense, and even the scenes with Maisie's grandmother added to that comforting atmosphere. Honestly, it was the wonderful supporting cast that truly carried the story and made it so enjoyable.
Overall, Witches Anonymous delivers a cute, low-stakes fantasy romance featuring a fast-paced relationship, an easy-to-follow magic system, and tons of heartwarming found family dynamics. It didn't quite hit the high bar set by some of Alyson's other books I've loved, but it’s still a highly entertaining option for a cozy weekend read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this might have just overtaken first place on my Favorite Alyson Root Books list.
October 17, 2026
I’m not a huge fan of fantasy books, BUT, I’m a huge fan of Alyson’s and LOVED her vampire trilogy, The Loch and Key series, so I was very excited about her bringing us some witchy goodness.
While this was a sweet and easy read, I think it would have benefited by being a duology as some things seemed to progress almost without explanation.
I really liked Maisie. She’s sweet and understanding, but she’s always prioritizing others before herself. I’d like to have seen more of her aside from tending to Wren. And, as always, the side characters are amazing! Lillian, Pepper and Debbie are all scene stealers, and honestly, as much as the Grandmother was talked about, we simply didn’t get to see enough of her to appreciate her eccentricity.
I’d recommend reading Witches Anonymous, especially if you’re looking for a light read with a touch of magic.
While this was a sweet and easy read, I think it would have benefited by being a duology as some things seemed to progress almost without explanation.
I really liked Maisie. She’s sweet and understanding, but she’s always prioritizing others before herself. I’d like to have seen more of her aside from tending to Wren. And, as always, the side characters are amazing! Lillian, Pepper and Debbie are all scene stealers, and honestly, as much as the Grandmother was talked about, we simply didn’t get to see enough of her to appreciate her eccentricity.
I’d recommend reading Witches Anonymous, especially if you’re looking for a light read with a touch of magic.
October 6, 2026
If you ask me do I want to read a book with witches in it my response is likely to be no thanks. However some of my favourite writers have done just that and my response has been Yes Please and thank you. This book by Alyson Root is another of those. Witches mmmmm. Synopsis? Ooooh that sounds good and practically from the opening sentence it was!
Roots trademark humour abounds. I think what worked so well for me, in a genre that's not my usual, was that one main is like me learning about witches unexpectedly and the other is learning a new role, all be it a destined role.
The laughs kept coming and so did the humanity. I was tickled ,any times by Roots turn of phrase. Another rom com winner….. at least I found it romantic and funny! 4.5 rounded up because I like a literal lol novel.
Roots trademark humour abounds. I think what worked so well for me, in a genre that's not my usual, was that one main is like me learning about witches unexpectedly and the other is learning a new role, all be it a destined role.
The laughs kept coming and so did the humanity. I was tickled ,any times by Roots turn of phrase. Another rom com winner….. at least I found it romantic and funny! 4.5 rounded up because I like a literal lol novel.
October 27, 2026
This was sadly a disappointment, as the only character I liked was Maisie and the poor thing got run over by literally everyone.
I HATED Debbie. Could not get on board with having this type of friend. You guys are nearly 40 and you act like children with no responsibilities. What?? Then the friend group finally arriving and also behaving like children? Why are you behaving like children in freaking public?
I don't remember how old Pepper was but I assumed she was close in age to Maisie, as she mentions they used to share everything with each other. No joke, this girl reads like a 13yo, when I assume she is probably meant to be late 20's.
Edwina was just awful. Oh why didn't you bring your concerns to me? Er, cuz your entire shtick is being constantly above everything and treating your child like a minion? Didn't feel a single ounce of motherly love there mate.
Wren. Idc about her. She reacts to everything like someone who has never experienced an emotion before. She constantly has to be handled by quite literally everyone around her, otherwise she's just going to implode. This is not specific to the new witch thing either, because its clear Debbie has experience of handling her through crises. She treats Maisie like garbage apart from when she has romance on her mind. We constantly get told she needs control. Okay, then control your freaking life instead behaving like a child?
Don't get me started on her being sent to AA and then being like, F it, ima day drink. Get your ass to AA cuz its very clear you use alcohol as a crutch. Good lord
Maisie. Poor woman is a doormat.
It may seem weird that I finished it, but I thought we were gonna get some actual personal growth and we just didn't.
I HATED Debbie. Could not get on board with having this type of friend. You guys are nearly 40 and you act like children with no responsibilities. What?? Then the friend group finally arriving and also behaving like children? Why are you behaving like children in freaking public?
I don't remember how old Pepper was but I assumed she was close in age to Maisie, as she mentions they used to share everything with each other. No joke, this girl reads like a 13yo, when I assume she is probably meant to be late 20's.
Edwina was just awful. Oh why didn't you bring your concerns to me? Er, cuz your entire shtick is being constantly above everything and treating your child like a minion? Didn't feel a single ounce of motherly love there mate.
Wren. Idc about her. She reacts to everything like someone who has never experienced an emotion before. She constantly has to be handled by quite literally everyone around her, otherwise she's just going to implode. This is not specific to the new witch thing either, because its clear Debbie has experience of handling her through crises. She treats Maisie like garbage apart from when she has romance on her mind. We constantly get told she needs control. Okay, then control your freaking life instead behaving like a child?
Don't get me started on her being sent to AA and then being like, F it, ima day drink. Get your ass to AA cuz its very clear you use alcohol as a crutch. Good lord
Maisie. Poor woman is a doormat.
It may seem weird that I finished it, but I thought we were gonna get some actual personal growth and we just didn't.
October 7, 2026
I’m a sucker for anything witchy, so when I saw the title and blurb for this book, I was instantly sold.
Starting off with the 2 main characters, Maisie and Wren.
Maisie was born an earth witch, and next in line for matriarch of the coven she lives in. She is the eldest daughter, and that is to be seen in the way she lived her life up until Wren came into her life. She lives her whole life focussing on being the next coven matriarch, and feels bad about the smallest acts of healthy selfishness.
Wren wasn’t born into a magic family, but some tragic events and an unlucky night lead to the discovery of her water magic. Wren is confident. She knows what she likes, and what she wants her life to look like, but she is also stubborn, especially when it comes to her feelings.
Then we have all the other characters. All of them added something to the story, they were there for the plot, not just for the fun of adding another character.
They all had their own stories, interlinking with the main storyline, and I really liked that.
The setting was incredible. I felt as if I was walking through the coven with all its cottages myself. It really added to the whole magical atmosphere going on.
The story itself was also really nice. I really liked what the author did with it, making it unique.
I also would have never guessed the ending, and that made me so happy.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you are a witch lover like me, or just looking for a nice, cozy, sapphic read.
I received a free copy of this book through the author and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Starting off with the 2 main characters, Maisie and Wren.
Maisie was born an earth witch, and next in line for matriarch of the coven she lives in. She is the eldest daughter, and that is to be seen in the way she lived her life up until Wren came into her life. She lives her whole life focussing on being the next coven matriarch, and feels bad about the smallest acts of healthy selfishness.
Wren wasn’t born into a magic family, but some tragic events and an unlucky night lead to the discovery of her water magic. Wren is confident. She knows what she likes, and what she wants her life to look like, but she is also stubborn, especially when it comes to her feelings.
Then we have all the other characters. All of them added something to the story, they were there for the plot, not just for the fun of adding another character.
They all had their own stories, interlinking with the main storyline, and I really liked that.
The setting was incredible. I felt as if I was walking through the coven with all its cottages myself. It really added to the whole magical atmosphere going on.
The story itself was also really nice. I really liked what the author did with it, making it unique.
I also would have never guessed the ending, and that made me so happy.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you are a witch lover like me, or just looking for a nice, cozy, sapphic read.
I received a free copy of this book through the author and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2026
ARC Review, these are my honest thoughts.
Witches Anonymous, another great read from Alyson Root. I believe it is a standalone novel unfortunately, I would gladly read many more novels about the different characters from this story. The side characters are hilarious and a joy to read. So much so that I flew through this novel. It’s not a spooky read for the season but still a great October read. Witches Anonymous, another fantastic read from Alyson Root. I believe it is a standalone novel unfortunately, I would gladly read many more novels about the different characters from this story. The side characters are hilarious and a joy to read. So much so that I flew through this novel. It’s not a spooky read for the season but still a great October read.
Quotes that made me laugh:
“Holy shit, Wren. You’ve got an everlasting bush!”
“Also, if I’m going to embarrass myself, I’d prefer it not be in front of a plant that regenerates.”
‘Suddenly it hits me and I jerk forwards, clutching at the blanket. “Oh my god, she’s my magic’s version of Viagra!” “You’re going to have to explain that right now!” Debbie says from my doorway, with wide eyes and a laugh already playing on her lips. Crap!’
Witches Anonymous, another great read from Alyson Root. I believe it is a standalone novel unfortunately, I would gladly read many more novels about the different characters from this story. The side characters are hilarious and a joy to read. So much so that I flew through this novel. It’s not a spooky read for the season but still a great October read. Witches Anonymous, another fantastic read from Alyson Root. I believe it is a standalone novel unfortunately, I would gladly read many more novels about the different characters from this story. The side characters are hilarious and a joy to read. So much so that I flew through this novel. It’s not a spooky read for the season but still a great October read.
Quotes that made me laugh:
“Holy shit, Wren. You’ve got an everlasting bush!”
“Also, if I’m going to embarrass myself, I’d prefer it not be in front of a plant that regenerates.”
‘Suddenly it hits me and I jerk forwards, clutching at the blanket. “Oh my god, she’s my magic’s version of Viagra!” “You’re going to have to explain that right now!” Debbie says from my doorway, with wide eyes and a laugh already playing on her lips. Crap!’
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thought this was a fun little witchy book! Perfect for the beginning of fall! Wren and Maisie are easy to like, and their blossoming romance was made even more interesting given their witchy connection. As always, the author really develops the secondary characters and makes them shine, and they just fill out the story so much! Such wonderful world building too! This is just a cool book to get lost in when you need a break from the real world. I love that there is so much women supporting women in this book, along with women claiming their independence and power. It’s a very empowering novel!
October 24, 2026
Unexpected
I am ordinarily a huge Alyson Root fan and what I appreciate about the artist writing is the variety. That being said this particular book was not for me. It’s not labeled as a YA book, but very much reads like one. I had to keep reminding myself how old the characters were supposed to be. I appreciated the friendship but they overwhelmed the romance completely. There was a level of immaturity to the characters that was unexpected and just made it hard for me to get deeply involved with the book. The witches and paranormal thing was OK, but it was also overwhelming too much of an extreme focus on it. Yeah, this one wasn’t my cup of tea, but that’s OK too.
I am ordinarily a huge Alyson Root fan and what I appreciate about the artist writing is the variety. That being said this particular book was not for me. It’s not labeled as a YA book, but very much reads like one. I had to keep reminding myself how old the characters were supposed to be. I appreciated the friendship but they overwhelmed the romance completely. There was a level of immaturity to the characters that was unexpected and just made it hard for me to get deeply involved with the book. The witches and paranormal thing was OK, but it was also overwhelming too much of an extreme focus on it. Yeah, this one wasn’t my cup of tea, but that’s OK too.
October 9, 2026
Alyson Root is one of the unofficial queens of romantasy. She has a way of making the existence of witches in a parallel world, separated from ours only by a magical veil, feel completely natural.
The characters are deep, complex, and genuinely funny. Debbie provides most of the comic relief, and I absolutely adore the friendship between her and Wren.
I got completely lost in this book and couldn’t put it down.
This is truly the perfect cosy, magical autumn read.
The characters are deep, complex, and genuinely funny. Debbie provides most of the comic relief, and I absolutely adore the friendship between her and Wren.
I got completely lost in this book and couldn’t put it down.
This is truly the perfect cosy, magical autumn read.
October 20, 2026
Pure Delight
Sometimes you pick up a book that sounds kinda fun and you hope it's good, well this one is a pure delight. The writing is terrific. The characters are awesome. The story is delightful.
Give this a try! It's a truly great escape for a few hours that will stick with you far longer.
Sometimes you pick up a book that sounds kinda fun and you hope it's good, well this one is a pure delight. The writing is terrific. The characters are awesome. The story is delightful.
Give this a try! It's a truly great escape for a few hours that will stick with you far longer.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Changing your life because you have to is difficult. And the fact that Wren struggles with it is only natural. The way Alyson Root writes about it, is great and relatable. It's with the necessary dose of humour which makes you laugh at time.
October 12, 2026
Great!
I enjoyed this book so much. It's well written with characters that draw you in wanting more. This author never disappoints and always leaves you wanting more. I hope this is not the end of these lovely witches as I do want more.
I enjoyed this book so much. It's well written with characters that draw you in wanting more. This author never disappoints and always leaves you wanting more. I hope this is not the end of these lovely witches as I do want more.
October 26, 2026
Wow phenomenal story
Wow phenomenal story, I loved the main characters their journey was written with so much depth making you feel apart of their world, their connection shined throughout their struggles were described perfectly a must-read congratulations
Wow phenomenal story, I loved the main characters their journey was written with so much depth making you feel apart of their world, their connection shined throughout their struggles were described perfectly a must-read congratulations
October 25, 2026
Very enjoyable
Actual laugh out loud moments
Truly enjoyed this
book with these characters and storyline.
I feel like a book 2 would go straight to my next read list
Actual laugh out loud moments
Truly enjoyed this
book with these characters and storyline.
I feel like a book 2 would go straight to my next read list
November 2, 2026
Not my usual genre but this was an engaging fun read with great characters and story.
November 4, 2026
Very fun book
I enjoyed every minute of this book! Great characters, whimsical storyline and a nice love story too your it all together.
I enjoyed every minute of this book! Great characters, whimsical storyline and a nice love story too your it all together.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews